“It is such a great honor to be selected the Student of the Month. I am so excited," said Itiav-Gar, a resident of McCracken County.
Coming from a family that placed a high priority on education, Itiav-Gar and her seven siblings have at least one college degree, some earning two or three degrees. Earning a Bachelor of Science degree in political science from the University of Jos, Nigeria, Itiav-Gar worked in her home country most of her life. She worked for the global logistics company DHL, International Nigeria, in the banking industry and for the Benue State Government. Itiav-Gar also owned her own retail store business.
When she decided to move to America in 2004, she knew earning a degree in the United States was in her future, and Itiav-Gar chose WKCTC to do that.
“I wanted to validate my level of education as required by the United States education system, and I also needed to refresh myself academically,” said Itiav-Gar. “I am convinced that education is a major stepping stone to reaching greater heights, and WKCTC is a great place to start because of the many resources it offers students and the friendly learning environment.
With choosing WKCTC, IIiav-Gar credits her brother, Joseph Gar, retired Professor of Biological Sciences and Biology Program Coordinator at WKCTC, who retired from the college in June 2016.
“I am so happy to be at WKCTC. I have taken advantage of the several opportunities provided by the college to get to where I am now. The financial opportunities as well as the tutoring services have being of great help to me,” said Itiav-Gar said. “TRIO (Student Support Services) in particular has been the pillar to my successes here in the college.”
TRIO Education Specialist Raymond Rogers said Itiav-Gar attacks each new challenge with a positive attitude and a commendable work ethic.
“She meets all challenges courteously and with a smile.”
Working toward an Associate in Applied Science degree in health science technology, Itiav-Gar is set to graduate in May 2018, and plans to continue her education in the future.
“I love to learn and I never plan to stop.”
The Student of the Month program is designed to recognize the accomplishments of students on campus. Individuals selected must be currently enrolled at WKCTC and have maintained a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher and are nominated on the basis of exceptional performance, personal attributes, academic excellence and active participation in various student organizational activities.
Itiav-Gar is a member of the college's Multicultural Awareness Club and Alpha Epsilon Beta, WKCTC’s Justice Club.
Student of the Month recipients receive $100, a certificate of excellence, recognition on the WKCTC Facebook page, campus announcements and Web site. Recipients are also recognized by Pepsi MidAmerica and receive one free month's supply of their favorite Pepsi product.