Ashland News & Events

ACTC Staff Conference June 1

Tue, 15 May 2012 10:20:00 -0400

ACTC’s 2012 Staff Conference is Friday, June 1, from 8 a.m. to noon.at the Technology Drive Campus. The conference, Common Cent$, includes a variety of session on how to stretch your personal dollars .

The featured presenter is Dr. Jennifer Hunter, a State Extension Agent for Family Financial Management and Assistant Professor in the University of Kentucky Department of Family Studies. Her topic is "Finding Our New Financial Normal: Recovering from Economic Recession."

Concurrent sessions will focus on making the most out of your food budget, saving energy and utility costs at home, personal budgeting and taking advantage of free library materials and services. The $25 conference fee includes a continental breakfast.

While the half-day conference is presented for college staff, the topics are appropriate for staff in any organization. The conference agenda and registration link are on the web at: ashland.kctcs.edu/slc. For more information, contact Sarah Diamond Burroway, Chair of the Staff Executive Council, 606-326-2106 or email: Sdiamondburrowa0001@kctcs.edu.

Dr. Flath Wins Gussler Award

Tue, 15 May 2012 10:17:00 -0400

Dr. Mary Catherine Flath, Professor of Anatomy & Physiology at Ashland Community and Technical College, has received the prestigious Gussler Family Endowed Chair in Science and Mathematics Award for the third time. The award was announced at ACTC’s Graduation Ceremony May 12.

Dr. C. Gordon Gussler and his wife Dixie Gussler established the endowment in 2007 to recognize full-time math and science faculty who foster in their students a desire to learn and reach their maximum potential.

A science or mathematics professor or associate professor is selected for the award each year, and each recipient receives a financial stipend, equal to two percent of the value of the endowment fund, for two years.

“I love my students and strive for the success of each,” Dr. Flath said. “I am honored and humbled to receive the Gussler Math and Science Endowed Chair Award, as it represents the appreciation of these wonderful students, who enrich my life and who I am blessed to serve.”

Recipients are nominated by students, fellow faculty or college staff. Award criteria include inspiring students to develop capabilities they did not realize they had, empowering students to succeed beyond their experiences, and instilling in students a love of learning.

Professor Flath was the first recipient of the award in 2008 and received it again in 2010.

“Once again, the nomination process provided clear evidence of the high regard for Dr. Mary Cat Flath from faculty, students, staff and alumni, “said Robert J. Maher, President of the Community and Technical College Foundation of Ashland, Inc. and Chair of the Gussler Award Selection Committee. “We congratulate her for receiving this award for the third time.”

An Indiana native, Dr. Flath received a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Biology in 1984 from St. Mary’s College at Notre Dame University and a Ph.D. in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine in 1991 from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC.

Dr. Flath joined joining Ashland Community and Technical College in 1994 as an Assistant Professor in Biology. She became an Associate Professor in 1998 and a full Professor in 2004.

At ACTC, she mentors junior and adjunct faculty, advises pre-professional students, serves on several committees and is faculty representative to the ACTC Board of Directors. She is on Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital’s Board of Directors, President of Epsilon Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma and a Paul G. Blazer High School Academic Team assistant.

Dr. Flath and her students promote numerous community service projects during the academic year, and she has published two cookbooks on “Mary Cat’s Cuisine” that benefit local charities. She lives in Catlettsburg, KY, with her husband Al and son Allen, a senior at Paul G. Blazer High School.

ACTC Honors Night Recognizes Student Achievement

Tue, 15 May 2012 10:12:00 -0400

The Ashland Community and Technical College Honors Night program May 10 recognized 95 students for their achievements in the 2011-2012 academic year. Some students received more than one award.

The 2012 All USA Community College Academic Team award went to Ashley B. Sartin of Louisa. Recipients of the 2012 KCTCS All-Academic Team Awards were Tony A. Arthur of Ashland and Chanie M. Kirk of Flatwoods.

The 2011-2012 Student Government Association Awards went to President Ashley D. Barada and Treasurer John N. Cannon, both from Ashland.

The 2012 Commencement Student Speaker recognition went to Ronald G. Parker of Ashland.

Other awards are listed below with the recipients’ names and cities of residence.

Academic Award: Phoebe C. Holbrook, Catlettsburg.

American Chemical Society Student Recognition: Tony A. Arthur, Ashland; Shauna Biggs, Ashland; William S. Bordelon, Ironton, OH ; Rickey L. Davidson, Catlettsburg; Ethan R. Gullett, Flatwoods; Shawn A. Hicks, Chesapeake, OH; Granville R. Litteral, Flatwoods; Jeremy R. Williams, Wurtland.

Applied Mathematics: Veronica R. Hale, Flatwoods.

Applied Physics: Rickey L. Davidson, Catlettsburg.

Excellence in Anatomy and Physiology: Mary J. Adkins, Sandy Hook; Regina L. Crum, Greenup; Lisa A. Cumpton, Ashland; Joyce D. Terry, Kenova, WV.

Excellence in Anatomy and Physiology Supplemental Instruction: Justin Angel, Argillite, Joanna C. Breeding, Ashland.

Excellence in Medical Microbiology: Debora L. Pauley, Louisa; Kathy R. Pike, Huntington.

Excellent Office Assistant: Anthony D. Flannery, Grayson.

General Chemistry Outstanding Performance: Chelsea D. Hale, South Shore; Desirae A. Hamlin, Ashland; Treena J. Hogan, Louisa.

Introduction to Biology: A llen R. Bellew, Grayson; Kyle G. Bias, Ashland; Amanda R. Clark, Flatwoods; David S. Conley, Ashland; Destiny M. Cordle, Catlettsburg; Jenna E. Lee, Ashland; Eric D Potter, Ashland; Sarah A. Prince, Louisa.

Leadership: Rudy Crockett, Fort Gay, WV.

Library Service: Greg G. Hannah, Ashland.

MAT065 Award: Frank A Donnelly, Ashland; Carrie S. Flynn, Louisa; Kaeli B. Hollingsworth, Prichard, WV; Mike A. Michael, Huntington, WV.

MATH 65 Pre-Algebra: Melanie S. Markins, Pedro, OH.

Member of Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society - Zeta Iota Chapter: Ashley D. Barada, Ashland; Leighanna M. Caudill-Lane, Raceland; Kimberly D. Church, Flatwoods; Teri R. Cornwell, Catlettsburg; Lisa A. Cumpton, Ashland; Angela D. Green, Ashland; Chanie M. Kirk, Flatwoods; Sarah K. Klein, Ashland; Brian P. Nolan, Worthington; James D. Slone, Flatwoods; Tonya L. Smith, Flatwoods; Jodi D. Winkler, Greenup.

Organic Chemistry Outstanding Performance: Candice M. Lewis, Kitts Hill, OH, Kevin D. MacDonald, Ironton, OH.

Outstanding Leadership as a Peer Mentor: Amanda R. Clark, Flatwoods; Deanna K. Isaac, Olive Hill; Terra E. McCarty, Huntington, WV; Samantha J. Smith, Argillite; Blake T. Walter, Ashland.

Outstanding Student in Criminal Justice: Karen J. Fraley, Webbville; Lacretia M. Hardin, Catlettsburg; Angela K. Rigsby, Raceland.

Phi Theta Kappa Hallmark Awards: Fellowship - Vanessa L. King, Ashland; Leadership - Cheryl A. Cook, Catlettsburg; Scholarship - Ashley B. Sartin, Louisa; Service - Tammy Montgomery, Flatwoods.

Statistics 210: Courtney D. Hammond, Ashland.

Supplemental Grant Aid Award from Student Support Services: Michelle N. Bilich, Grayson; Leighanna M. Caudill-Lane, Raceland; Angela D. Green, Ashland; Jason E. Mullins, Ashland; Wister J. Nolan, Catlettsburg; Crystal A. Parsley, Ashland; Regina L. Pennington, Webbville; Tonya L. Smith, Flatwoods.

Supplemental Instruction Leader: Justin R. Angel, Argillite; Nicole M. Biggs, Portsmouth, OH; Olivia K. Black, Russell; Joanna C. Breeding, Ashland; Jeff D. Bryan, Ashland; Whitney I. Bush, Catlettsburg; Courtney L. Butcher, Louisa; Kandice N. Damron, Ashland; Amanda J. Edwards, Huntington, WV; Treena J. Hogan, Louisa; Vanessa M. King, Ashland; Chanie M. Kirk, Flatwoods; Terra E. McCarty, Huntington, WV; Oreatha J Murray, Ashland; Samantha J Smith, Argillite.

Technical Algebra & Trigonometry: Dennis E. Lewis, Sandy Hook.

Technical Mathematics: Darren M. Slone, Ashland.

ACTC's 2012 Graduation Recognizes 554 Students

Tue, 15 May 2012 09:54:00 -0400

Ashland Community and Technical College recognized 554 students at the Graduation Ceremony May 12 at the Paramount Arts Center.

The students were August 2011 graduates, December 2011 graduates and May 2012 graduation candidates, and many had earned more than one degree, diploma or certificate. Graduates are listed below by their state and city of residence.

Graduates from Kentucky

From Argillite: Lisa D. Adkins, Kody M. Bond, Lisa A. Crum, Zachary D. Martin, Crystal L. McCallum, Michael D. Mineer, Curtis E. Nichols, Samantha J. Smith, Rebecca L. Stepp, Elizabeth A. Stone.

From Ashland: Linda C. Adkins, Holly S. Akers, Abby L. Arnett, Rhonda J. Arthur, Michelle D. Aspden, Kimberly J. Baer, Chelsea N. Bailey, Scott A. Ball, Sarah M. Barnett, Kimberly R. Bartram, Emily D. Black, Shane Blackburn, Steven M. Blair, Timothy G. Blake, Brandon S. Blanton, Todd J. Bovio, Joanna C. Breeding, Alisa A. Brown, Debra L. Brown, Jefferson D. Bryan, John N. Cannon, Jessica R. Cantrell, Michelle L. Carpenter, Denise N. Carter, Otho M. Cartwright, Jr., Misty A. Caudill, Danielle L. Chappelle, Erica L. Cleary, Lindsay L. Cleary, John M. Coburn, Ralph C. Compston.

Also from Ashland: Billie A. Conley, Steven A. Conley, Brittany N. Counts, Cynthia G. Cox, Terra N. Cox, Hollie M. Crank, Kandice N. Damron, Jacob L. Daniels, Angela L. Davis, Amber N. Dean, Jacob H. Delaney, Amber R. Dickerson, Charles G. Eaker, Megan R. Estep, Justin M. Filmore, Cody M. Fitchpatrick, Nicholas C. Gatrell, Brett L. Gehringer, Crystal D. Gilbert, Marisa L. Gillenwater, Jessica L. Griffith, Kimila L. Griffith, Sidney A. Groves, Garret D. Gullett, Rebecca J. Hale, Rebecca J. Hale, Lydia C. Hall. Pamela K. Hall, Jennifer S. Haney, Sarah E. Hanshaw, Angela D. Harrison.

Also from Ashland: Jessica N. Hawkey, Shanda L. Hennecke, Gatlin L. Hicks, Tonya D. Hicks, Ashleigh R. Hood, Brandi L. James, Hazel C. Jardine, Kimberly D. Jarvis, Jessica K. Jarvis, Travis K. Jenkins, Dennis R. Johnson, Heather Keeton, Jessica S. Kelley, Jenna B. Kelly, Justin L. Kersey, Vanessa L. King, Ashley R. Layne, Jeremy A. Lee, Robert Q. Litzenberger, Taylor B. Lyon, Jonathan L. Maggard, Sean M. McCarty, Sherry M. McConnell, Terry M. McDowell, Jeanna L. McDowell, Amy J. McGarey, Todd P. McKeon, Zachary J. Miller Jr., Alfred J. Moats, Jr., Julie D. Moore, Raymond L. Moore, Oreatha J. Murray.

Also from Ashland: Phillip E. Newman, Sarah L. Nibert, Shalah S. Nobles, John D. Page, Ronald G. Parker, Nathan E. Parks, Lisa S. Patrick, Amber L. Patrick, Lindsay R. Pemberton, Jessica L. Qualls, Lisa K. Raimondo, Cathy A. Ramey, Aaron E. Reck, Patricia L. Riley, Rebecca S. Roar, Amanda M. Roberts, Austin T. Robinson, Jeffrey A. Robinson, Melissa F. Rymer, Samantha D. Salyers, Amber N. Sammons, Jennifer N. Sanders, Brandon R. Sanders, Edward W. Seaton, II, Andrew R. Sexton, Jennifer O. Shea, George A. Shepherd, Megan L. Shoup, Alyssa M. Sims, Alyssa M. Sims, Ronnie D. Skaggs, Jr., Stephanie R. Smedley.

Also from Ashland: Robert N. Smith, Jennifer R. Smith, Katelin E. Smith, Debbrah K. Snodgrass, Natalie R. St Clair, William R. Stamper, Amber D. Stephens, Johnny Stone, Holly Suttles, Melissa D. Taylor, Sarah B. Thompson, Tami J. Todd, Matthew S. Traugott, Dylan S. VanHoose, Angela D. Vinson, Jennifer N. Wamsley, Samuel I. Webb, Corey L. Wellman, Sara B. Wellman, Kristina M. Wheeler, Lindsey B. Whisman, Gabriela White, Karl J. White, Carrie K. White, Brandon S. Williams, Stacy L. Wilson, Amanda Wilson, Nathan C. Wright, Katie K. Wurts, Cortney A. Wyatt, Filiberto J. Zendejas.

From Catlettsburg: Aaron T. Black, Candace S. Blakeley, Samantha A. Blakeley, Kristin Boggs, Cory A. Boggs, Melanie R. Bryan, Daniel A. Chaffin, Michael J. Cline, Linda Collins, Destiny M. Cordle, Misty D. Dunlap, Hannah B. Elliott, Ryan T. Faulkner, Joshua C. Fletcher, Tammy R. Gibson, Alicia A. Gonzales-hoose, Ross C. Gray, Tiffany D. Griffith, Lacretia M. Hardin, Phoebe C. Holbrook, Stephanie Huffman, Ulfa R. Inbody, Paula C. Keeton, Michael E. King, Jeffrey D. Meddings, Amanda D. Mulvaney, Rodney L. Opell, II, Johnathan M. Pack, Daniella N. Parent, Bethel D. Perry, James A. Phillips, Shawn M. Scherer, Sara Shumway, Brian K. Smith, Jared H. Spicer, Harold D. Sturgill, James A. Swinford, Jana-Sue M. VanHoose, Angelina D. Virgin, Jamie L. Waugh, John D. Waugh.\

From Flatwoods: Bradley K. Adams, Thomas F. Adams, Miranda L. Adkins, Brandyn M. Anderson, Zachary T. Arthur, Thaddius A. Barker, Anna M. Bartsch, Katrina L. Bayless, Bradley E. Bender, Christina L. Blackaby, Andrew B. Braden, Michael K. Bramblett, Jeremiah J. Brown, Joshton C. Brown, Christopher L. Brumfield, Brittany D. Burke, Kimberly D. Church, Hilary C. Conley, Jason R. Cutlip, Kristie D. Cyrus, Lauren A. Dawson, Stefanie L. Fosson, Veronica R. Hale, Jennifer N. Hammond, Benjamin T. Hawkey, Lanna L. Hawkey, Joseph M. Jenkins, Chanie M. Kirk, Tenisha L. Little, Michael P. Mabery, Frank A. McCoy, Courtney A. Molina, Tammy Montgomery, David S. Moore, David K. Moore, Rebecca S. Neal, Bobby J. Ross, James D. Slone, Kyle M. Smith, Tonya L. Smith, Matthew A. Sparks, Kevin N. Stith, Jennifer A. Swinford, Patricia D. Vance, Pheby M. Williams.

From Garrison: Nathan W. Brown, Ashley L. Hays, Jessica A. Jamison.

From Grayson: Jessica A. Bailey, Allen R. Bellew, Jawana Binion, Brittany L. Branham, Donal M. Brown, Maria Brown, Patrick R. Burton, Amanda Bush, Derek S. Conley, Justin W. Conley, Mindy D. Cornett, Alyshia M. Estepp, Kyle R. Evans, Jessica R. Evans, Susan K. Everman, Kristy L. Faulkner, Angela R. Felty, John R. Floyd, Joshua E. Griffith, Debra J. Hale, Ethan M. Hartsell, John W. Hedge, Warren D. Johnson, James R. Knipp, Benjamin L. Lester, Charles A. Litteral, Amanda J. McCall, Andrea R. McDavid, Thea K. McDavid, Leanna H. Mcguire, Tyler M. McGuire, Mary J. Miller, Courtney M. Minnehan, James N. Minor, Jerri R. Morris, Rebecca S. Neal, Teresa A. Obrien, Nietta L. Pelfrey, Amanda R. Pennington, Ashton L. Riggs, Nicholas R. Russell, Kyle M. Salsbury, Tresa L. Steele, Jeffery D. Stinnett, Eric D. Taylor, Laura E. Walker, Alissa M. Walker, Jessica L. Wells, Ricky L. Withrow, Samantha D. Yates.

From Greenup: Jason A. Blevins, Ashlee S. Bond, Jesse A. Carpenter, Cody J. Carter, Jennifer D. Clark, Larry W. Colegrove, Jr., Cassandra A. Fannin, Jonathon D. Fannin, Charles L. Frazier, Cassandra M. Greathouse, Larry M. Grubb, Carrie A. McDaniels, Kelsey N. Nichols, Samantha E. Riley, Kristie A. Russell, Lewis P. Shepherd, Andrew W. Swayne, Elizabeth A. Taylor, Jeffrey Tolliver, Richard H. Townsend, Jamae F. Troxler, Victoria A. Tucker, Lane A. Walters, Jody D. Winkler.

From Denton: Patricia L. Griffitts, Constance M. Hollingsworth.

From Hitchins: Zachary J. McGranahan, Misty L. Stewart.

From Lexington: Jaclyn C. Calvert, James Click.

From Louisa: Rachel R. Adams, Elizabeth E. Beckwith, Heather E. Boggs, Geneva Burton, Steven T. Carter, Alicia D. Cartmel, Megan A. Caudill, Sheena R. Cook, Donald K. Dixon, Kayla R. Dotson, Ellen N. Goble, Cody R. Hall, Justin T. Harper, Asia L. Hatfield, LaDonna J. Isaac, Cindy J. Keaton, Jessica N. Kirk, Jordon A. Little, Kayla R. Moore, Adam S. Parsons, Alysan J. Powell, Matthew R. Pridemore, Sarah A. Prince, Charles Robertson, Ashley B. Sartin, Jaime R. Stalvey, Lisa M. Stevens, Katlin E. Ward, Alicia J. West, Jennifer L. Workman, Stephanie N. Workman.

From Morehead: Heather S. Harper, Kyle W. Ledford, Aaron D. Moore.

From Olive Hill: Albert M. Alderson, Cathy J. Blair, Timothy Bond, Kimberly L. Brown, Nathan Carpenter, Katie N. Cooper, Tony L. Cutright, Joshua T. Garvin, Karina D. Gifford, Jeannie A. Greene, Richard C. Hale, Daniel L. Huff, Jay B. James, Jeremiah D. Lewis, Norah E. McGlone, Kayla N. Oney, Russell L. Pack, Angela D. Parker, April M. Psimer, Cathy M. Reynolds, Robin C. Reynolds, David A. Riggs, Sherri M. Smith, Brad K. Vanlandingham, Denita G. Warren.

From Raceland: Christina L. Baldridge, Jeffrey L. Bonzo, Barbara E. Bramblett, Aubrey R. Breeding, Megan E. Cook, Casey J. Gullett, Timothy M. Laney, Deanna Mertz, Lisa J. Smith, Bethany L. Wells, James D. Wells.

From Rush: Justin D. Gamble, Kristin R. Hall, David A. LeBrun, Andrea C. Moore, Christie L. Thomas, Chase A. Wilks.

From Russell: Sherry O. Barker, John M. Barker, Heath C. Behrens, Kirby D. Horton, Sage B. Lynch. Skye E. Lynch, Casey O. Mayo, Andrew G. Phillips, Jessica D. Renzi, Shawn S. Riggs, Gregory H. Stump.

From Sandy Hook: Terra B. Kidd, Zackary J. Kies, Charles D. Kouns, Lori D. Porter, Rebecca K. Ratliff. From South Shore: Mickey R. Dotson, lll, John L. Hannah, Brittany M. Royster, Timothy J. Speta.

From Vanceburg: Tina A. Buckler, Jordan A. Logan.

From Webbville: Regina L. Pennington, April G. Ratliff, Jason M. Sexton, Amiee E. Wilks.

From Worthington: Charis Artist, Melanie L. Calder, Joshua R. Coffee, Alana F. Hamm, Shannon W. McKenzie.

From Wurtland: Lori M. Craig, Jack L. Park, Tonya R. Salyers, Melissa N. Thomas.

Also from KY: Shelby J. Case, Virgie; Shellie K. Castle, Nicholasville; Natasha M. Culver, Worthville; Myra A. Howard, Salyersville; Cory T. Humphrey, Paintsville; Bobbie A. Litteral, Carter; Robert E. Johnson, II, Hazard; Donnie T. Keeton, Martha; Jamie L. Mattox, Cynthiana; Angela S. Miles, Whitehouse; Jeremy T. Moeller, Harrodsburg; Chimechefulam Onyenma, Staffordsville; Juanita F. Ratliff, Lowmansville; Dylan J. Sharpe, Allen; Dennis A. Smith, Richmond; Charleea M. Sparks, Beauty; Erica E. Thornsbury, Thelma; Anson C. Wells, Ulysses; Brittany N. Zornes, Emerson.

Graduates from Ohio

From Chesapeake: Pamela S. Cabell, Gregory L. Conn, Brandon A. Crawford.

From Coal Grove: Angela M. Dalton, Zach McCarty.

From Franklin Furnace: Shanna D. Keller, Tonya S. Young.

From Ironton: Eric A. Alexander, Alexander J. Bare, Warren D. Brown, Rickie L. Burton, John W. DeLong II, Ashley Gannon, Joshua L. Griffith, Teasha Gullett, Janice L. Jenkins, Shanna R. Stevens, Jami A. Triplett, Marcus D. Turner.

From Pedro: Angela D. Smith, Lindsey C. Webb.

From South Point: Jody B. Boggs, Charles A. Bolden, Vanessa D. Darby, Heather L. Ferguson, Christopher D. Foltz, Cade V Hale, Joseph D. VanWay.

Also from OH: Thomas P. Baldwin, Willow Wood; Rebecca M. Fouts, Kitts Hill; Elizabeth M. Malone, Minford; Joshua D. Phillips, Lucasville; Bartholomew Scott, Wheelersburg; Gregory S. Tackett, Portsmouth.

Graduates from West Virginia

From Ceredo: Jonathon L. Campioni, Timothy R. Willis.

From Fort Gay: Rudy Crockett, Andrew M. Delvecchio, Kimberly M. Endicott, Judy L. Hayes, Terry J. Moore, Adam R. Pertee, Carrie N. Thompson.

From Huntington: Cameron Adkins, Courtney A. Adkins, Elliott T. Curry, David L. Edgar, Gregory E. Evans, Lisa R. Greiner, Andrew M. Honaker, Christina L. Jeffers, Shawn Meredith, Christopher L. Napier, April L. Needham, Jaclyn M. Porter, Sean W. Porter.

From Kenova: Ryan M. Campbell, Russell C. Eastham Jr., Nicholas M. Elkins, Lenville C. Farley, Michael R. Pancake, David W. Sager, Glenna J. Shepard, Sara H. Shertzer.

From Lavalette: Joshua D. Adkins, Michelle L. Barnhart, David A. Blankenship, Megan A. Maynard, Robert L. Queen.

From Lesage: Maria J. Stowers, Deidre L. White.

From Prichard: Zachary L. McCallister, Traci L. Miller, Gary B. Thacker.

From Wayne: Ryan M. Elkins, Bradley K. Fry, Tonia J. Hearon.

Also from WV: Julie A. Carper, Ona; Karen S. Chaney, Barboursville; Nicholas A. Porter, West Hamlin; Becky L. Robinson, Crum; Garron A. Ross, Hurricane.

Also graduating was Jamie L. Eaker from Port Saint Lucie, FL.

Honors Night Is May 10

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:09:00 -0400

ACTC Honors Night on Thursday, May 10, will recognize students for their academic and service achievements in the 2011-2012 academic year. The public is invited to the free program at 7:00 p.m. in the J. B. Sowards Theatre at the College Drive Campus.

ACTC Will Host Perennial Exchange May 12

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:04:00 -0400

A free Perennial Exchange will be held Saturday, May 12, from 9:00 a.m. to noon in ACTC’s lower parking lot located off Oakview Road. Gardeners and plants lovers are invited to bring their extra flowering and landscape plants, including garden vegetable plants to exchange for new varieties.

ACTC Lifelong Learning, Boyd County Master Gardeners and the UK Cooperative Extension Service are hosting the exchange. For more information, contact Karen Coburn at ACTC, 606-326-2129, email: kcoburn0007@kctcs.edu.

ACTC Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society Wins Awards

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:01:00 -0400

The ACTC Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) honor society received its 16th consecutive Five Star rating at the Kentucky Regional Convention held concurrently with the International Convention on April 13 in Nashville, TN.

The Five Star rating, the highest rating possible, is based on completion of a variety of college and community service projects, honors topic activities, participation and leadership in regional activities, and entry in at least five international hallmark competitions.

The Alpha Omega Gamma Chapter received a Pinnacle Award for significant increase in membership during the year, a College Project Award for a project encouraging students to complete their college program, Distinguished Officer Team Award, Honors in Action Hallmark Award and Honors in Action Award.

Distinguished Chapter Officer Awards were received by President Cheryl A. Cook, a Catlettsburg resident, and Vice President for College Projects Ashley Sartin, a Louisa resident. Cook also received the Rising Star for Leadership Award.

Distinguished Chapter Advisor Awards went to John M. Davis, associate professor and Business Administrator Program coordinator; Ashley Skidmore, Developmental Studies instructor; and Dan Bailey, professor and coordinator of academic advising and transfer.

At the International Conference, Professor Bailey was elected for a second term as Advisor Representative to the PTK International Board of Directors. He served as a facilitator for the PTK Academy and was a presenter at an educational forum.

Special awards at the International Conference went to ACTC President/CEO Gregory Adkins and Dean of Student Services Willie McCullough. Dr. Adkins received the Michael Bennett Lifetime Achievement Award and McCullough received the Distinguished College Administrator Award.

Phi Theta Kappa, the international honors society for two year colleges, has more than 2 million members and 1,250 chapters. The Kentucky Region currently has 22 chapters.

ACTC Graduation Ceremony Is May 12

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 15:55:00 -0400

Ashland Community and Technical College will recognize a record number of 554 students at the Graduation Ceremony Saturday, May 12, at 10:00 a.m. in the Paramount Arts Center.

The students to be honored are August 2011 graduates, December 2011 graduates and May 2012 graduation candidates. Many have earned more than one degree, diploma or certificate, and a total of 1609 credentials will be awarded.

Dr. Michael McCall, President of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, will give a short address. The Commencement Speaker will be Dr. Gregory Adkins, ACTC President and CEO.

Dr. Akins will retire at the end of June after heading the college for 11 years. During his leadership, Ashland Community College and Ashland Technical College were consolidated into ACTC, enrollment grew from 3,400 to nearly 5,000 students and the $50 million Technology Drive Campus was funded and constructed.

Other achievements during his tenure include more than 50 new diploma, certificate and degree options, a new Cosmetology building, a new Child Care building under construction, completion of a $5 million fund raising campaign, numerous transfer agreements signed with area colleges and universities, and establishment of the foundation for an early college high school.

The Graduation Ceremony is free and open to the public.

Graduation Student Speaker

The student speaker will be Ronald G. Parker, an Ashland resident who is receiving an Associate in Arts Degree. He will transfer to Northern Kentucky University in the fall to work on a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership, and he plans to continue on for a Master’s Degree Human Resources/Public Relations.

“If it wasn't for the Student Support Services program at ACTC I do not believe that I would have been successful in obtaining this degree,” Parker said. “I recommend that anyone considering college should give ACTC a try, because if I can do it at the age of 47, many others can as well.”

Graduation Recognition Award

A Special Recognition Award will be presented to the Mansbach Foundation in recognition of exemplary contributions as a friend of Ashland Community and Technical College.

This February, the Mansbach Foundation added $250,000 to the Joseph and Sylvia Mansbach Scholarship Fund originally established in 1995. In 2000, the Foundation was honored by the college and KCTCS for its long-standing support of education.

Mansbach scholarships are awarded to students who have financial need and/or work part time. "We are pleased to invest these funds with ACTC's foundation to benefit local students getting a college education here in Ashland," Gerald Mansbach, Mansbach Foundation President, said in February.

Graduation Service Award

Distinguished Service Award will be presented to Mrs. Patricia Cline in recognition of exemplary service as a friends and supporter of the college.

In December 2011, Patricia C. Cline, widow of the late Allen D. “Al” Cline of Ashland, established an endowed scholarship fund in his memory. Cline was an ardent supporter of amateur theater and active in ACTC Theatre for several years.

The Allen D. Cline and Patricia C. Cline Scholarship Fund will help full-time students who are active in ACTC Theatre. “Allen and I loved the college, and he especially loved the college theatre program,” said Mrs. Cline said in December. “I know he would be pleased with establishing a scholarship fund in our name.”

ACT Prep Can Help College Bound Students

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:25:00 -0400

High school students can get ready for the ACT college entrance test in a 16-hour class designed to help overcome test anxiety and improve test-taking skills.

ACTC Preparation will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 15 to June 7, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at ACTC's College Drive Campus.

Participants will go over ACT type questions, learn test-taking tips, review English grammar and punctuation and practice working arithmetic and geometry problems. The ACTC instructors are Jason Shields, Information Systems Developer and David Pack, Adjunct English Instructor.

The fee is $95, and students will need to purchase Baron’s Preparation for the ACT, available in the ACTC bookstore and other area or online bookstores. Enroll through ACTC Lifelong Learning, 606-326-2072, 800-928-4256 or email: as_LLL@kctcs.edu.

ACTC Class Explores Voice-over Opportunities

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:17:00 -0400

Have you ever been told you have a great voice? ACTC is offering a workshop on Getting Paid to Talk—Making Money with Your Voice. The workshop will explore opportunities of voice-over work for television, film, radio, audio books, documentaries and the internet in the area.

A professional voice coach will cover the basics, including how to prepare the all-important demo, how to be successful, and how to earn good income in this field. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and to hear examples of demos recorded by professional voice actors.

Participants will also have a chance to record a commercial script. For more information on the class, go to http://www.voicecoaches.com/gptt. The workshop will meet Thursday, May 17, from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. at the College Drive Campus, and the fee is $35. Enroll through Lifelong Learning, 606-326-2072 or email: as_LLL@kctcs.edu.

Apply for ACTC Summer Sessions by May 7

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:14:00 -0400

It’s time to apply for summer classes at Ashland Community and Technical College. ACTC offers three choices for summer classes: a full summer term from May 14 to July 28, Summer Session I from May 14 to June 16, and Summer Session II from June 25 to July 28.

Summer Sessions offer advantages to new and continuing students alike. New students can get a head start on fall, continuing students can complete their college program in a shorter time, and working adults can take classes for job advancement.

Most summer classes are for three credits, and many are offered in the general education subjects that are required for associate and bachelor degrees. Instate Kentucky tuition for summer classes is $135 per credit hour, and residents of neighboring Ohio and West Virginia counties qualify for in-state tuition.

Application deadlines are May 7 for Summer I and the full summer term and June 18 for Summer II. Admission forms and class schedules are on the web at: ashland.kctcs.edu. For more information, call the Admissions Office, 606-326-2114 .

Financial Aid is available for summer classes. After filling out the ACTC admission form, new students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available online at: www.fafsa.ed.gov.

For help with the form or to predetermine your eligibility for a Federal Pell Grant or other aid, contact the Office of Financial Aid, 606-326-2198, for an appointment.

10,000 Tree Giveaway for Arbor Day

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 13:49:00 -0400

Ashland's annual Arbor Day "Plant a Tree Project" will take place in Central Park Friday, April 27, from 12:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. or until all tree seedlings are gone, whichever comes first. Any remaining seedlings will be distributed on Saturday beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Approximately 10,000 tree seedlings will be available, with a limit of 12 per person. School groups, garden clubs and beautification project volunteers may also pick up seedlings for their spring plantings.

Large trees available are White Pine, Black Walnut, White Oak, Pecan, Loblolly Pine, Black Cherry and Cypress, a species that likes water. Medium size trees suitable for most urban settings are Chinese Chestnut, Mulberry, Persimmon and Wild Plum. Small trees are Eastern Redbud and Flowering Dogwood, and shrub-size plants are Hazelnut and Silky Dogwood.

The free distribution is sponsored by the City of Ashland and the Kentucky Division of Forestry. The project is part of the city’s urban forestry program and a public service of the Ashland Tree Board consisting of Joyce Welch, Alice Bourne, Carrie Stambaugh, Jeff Tarbox and Marion Russell.

ACTC students, faculty and staff members assist in the distribution as a community service project. For more information, contact Dr. Ben Harmon at ACTC at 606-326-2146 or email: ben.harmon@kctcs.edu.

Supplemental Instruction Helps Students Succeed

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 12:02:00 -0400

Students helping other students learn is an idea that has become a reality at Ashland Community and Technical College.

The Supplemental Instruction (SI) program takes students who have successfully completed a course and puts them in charge of review sessions for students currently taking that course. The SI leaders go through training in teaching and learning methods, but their main strength as leaders comes from their personal experiences as a student.

“As an older student myself, I had a hard time retaining the material we had gone over in class, and I had to be consistent and study every day,” said Joanna Breeding, a student who has been a SI leader for math and biology classes. “I wanted to help other students who were having a difficult time and show them different study techniques that had helped me.”

Rather than targeting individual students who have academic difficulties, SI is designed for all students in historically difficult classes. Not only does this approach remove any stigma which might be attached to “remedial” instruction, it also recognizes that sometimes all students could benefit from some extra help.

Students attend out-of-class sessions, which are typically held right before or right after the class time. The free informal sessions are open to any students in a particular class section who want to review notes, discuss readings, develop organizational tools and prepare for exams.

“I was introduced to SI my first semester at ACTC” said Denita D. Amburgey, a pharmacy technology student from Flatwoods and one of the students helped by SI. “I had English/Writing 090-091 and the pace of the class was much quicker than I had expected. I am very proud to have participated and my grade improved from a B to an A almost immediately.”

“SI is not like an average class room setting,” said Amburgey. “We had worksheets, worked with board games and interacted with our classmates and we had fun while we were learning. SI helped me learn the material in new ways and kept me from having to study as often.”

SI Grant Approach

SI is funded by ACTC’s Title III grant, “Closing the Education Gap in Appalachian Kentucky,” now in its fourth year of a five-year funding cycle. The grant emphasis is to improve student retention and success.

The SI model was first developed in 1973 with the goal of identifying and supporting the most challenging courses for students. The goal is to help student’s master course content while developing effective learning, critical thinking and study strategies. Because of its proven success, SI has been adopted by over 1,500 colleges and universities in 29 countries.

“The whole goal of the program is to help our students be more successful and reach their educational goals,” said Professor Becky Gehringer, Title III Supplemental Instruction Specialist. “Although the focus is on students currently taking a difficult class, the program also helps the SI leaders with their own classwork.”

The grant specifies the courses in which SI will be piloted: Developmental Writing and Math in year two, Writing I and II in year three, College Algebra, Biology and Chemistry this year, and Psychology, Political Science and History next year.

Participation in SI is open to all students enrolled in the targeted classes, and they may attend as many sessions as they choose.

SI leaders attend the classes , take notes, do homework, read all assigned materials including supplemental readings, and conduct three study sessions per week.

The SI study sessions are informal seminars in which they review notes, discuss readings, develop organizational tools, prepare for exams and engage in active learning activities designed to enhance learning.

“The SI leaders are right in there with the students they are trying to help - attending class, working on assignments and taking notes,” Gehringer said.

“Most people don't know how to study math, and before SI, I was one of them,” said Kandice Damron, SI leader for math classes. “SI has taught me many strategies that I can use in my own courses, including the math ones, to help me better understand the materials.”

Damron, an Ashland resident, plans to become a middle school teacher. She will graduate in May with both AA and AS degrees and will transfer to Morehead State University next fall.

Students who study in a group learn two and one half times more than students who study alone. Statistics show that students who attend SI sessions make one half to one letter grade higher than students who do not attend. They also achieve higher test scores and learn skills that make them better students.

“In class, when the teacher asked questions, those who attended SI knew the subject and could answer questions on command,” said Amburgey. “Those who did not attend SI struggled with the material.”

In Fall 2010, SI was offered in eight different classes and 96 of 239 enrolled students participated in SI. The combined pass rate average for the SI participants earning a final letter grade of A, B, or C was 80% compared to 55% for the non-SI group.

In Spring 2011, 100 of 299 students enrolled in the eight different courses participated in SI. The combined pass rate average for SI participants earning an A, B, or C was 81% compared to 50% for the non-SI group.

“SI was a positive experience,” said Darius O. Burden, a business major from Ashland whose goal is to open his own business one day. “Students help each other and learn how they can better themselves. In addition to learning more about the subject, I’ve learned how to speak out in a group and could see what was involved in being a group leader. This will help me in my career.”

SI Leader Training

“The SI sessions are led by SI leaders, students who have previously and successfully completed the targeted course,” Gehringer said. “Generally, SI leaders are recommended by faculty. They must have passed the class with an A or high B and need a GPA above 2.0.”

SI leaders receive 12 hours of training before the beginning of the semester and have weekly in- service training throughout the semester. These training sessions include specific teaching/learning theories and strategies as well as topics for professional development. SI leaders learn skills that will benefit them now in the classroom and later in the workforce.

In addition to receiving a salary for nine hours of work a week, the leaders receive the benefits of learning to become a leader, deal with others and how to lead a discussion. Being an SI leader helps build self-confidence and responsibility, according to Gehringer.

“My students have commented that SI helped them develop good study habits, better understand the assignments through teamwork and get better grades on their quizzes,” said Breeding, an SI leader in Anatomy & Physiology. “I enjoy seeing the ‘light come on’ when they finally understand the material, and I’ve improved my own study skills.”

“My original goal when I started back to school was to get my Bachelor’s degree in nursing;” said Breeding. “After being an SI Leader for three semesters, I realized I wanted to go even further in college and go for my Master’s degree to teach nursing.”

She will graduate this May with both AA and AS degrees and will start the Associate Degree Nursing program in fall.

“Every success of the students attending SI, I count as one of my own as well. When they pass a test, I feel good, as if I myself had passed the test,” said Damron. “SI also provides me with the opportunity to experience how other people learn, which will help me in my teaching career in the future.”

“I like watching the SI leaders grow,” said Professor Gehringer. “Students look up to them as one of their own who cares enough to help other students succeed in class.”

For more information on Supplemental Instruction, contact Gehringer at 606-326-2023 or email: becky.gehringer@kctcs.edu. Information is also online at http://ashland.kctcs.edu/en/Academics/Title_III/Supplemental_Instruction.aspx.

It's Time for Class Evaluations

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 11:05:00 -0400

Let us know how we're doing and help us to improve. Your evaluations make a difference. Visit https://www.actc.info/student/, login using your student username and password then select "class evaluations."

It's Time for Class Evaluations

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 10:56:00 -0400

ACTC Holds Student Art Show

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:20:00 -0400

ACTC art students displayed their works Friday, April 6, in the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center in downtown Ashland. The sixth annual Student Art Show featured drawings by 19 students enrolled in classes taught last fall and this spring by Wendy Fosterwelsh, ACTC Assistant Professor of Art. Works include still life, portrait, figurative and conceptual drawings in pen, pencil and colored pencil. Exhibiting students from Ashland were Emily D. Clark, Christine C. Davis, Laura L. Geremia, Jessica K. Howard, Samatha A. Leach, Haven R. Martin and Filiberto J. Zendejas. Other exhibitors were Brittany L. Bellomy, Tessa B. Ellis and Ashley B. Sartin from Louisa; Allison L. Fannin and Hannah M. Jackson from Catlettsburg, Kenneth Casey Harbison and Michael T. McClure from Flatwoods; Keely N. Barney from Ironton, Sarah F. Brown from Prichard, WV, Amber N. Murphy from Greenup, Miranda C. Offill from Olive Hill and Meagan R. Porter from Denton, KY. The Art Show was held in conjunction with Ashland’s First Friday Art Walk, an event that features works by area artists, gallery exhibits and community entertainment.

ACTC Offers Motorcycle Basic Rider Course

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:15:00 -0400

A Basic Rider 1 Course for motorcyclists is being offered again this year by ACTC. The Basic course will be offered monthly through October, and the first class is April 27 to 29.

The twenty-hour course meets on Friday from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Friday class will meet at the Roberts Drive Campus, Room 220D. Saturday and Sunday classes will be in back parking lot of the KYOVA Mall on U.S. RT 60.

The weekend course is part of Kentucky’s Motorcycle Rider Education Program (KMA), which uses standards established by the national Motorcycle Safety Foundation. .

The course is for non-riders, new riders, or someone wanting a refresher course. No prior motorcycle experience is required. Those who successfully pass the course will get a waiver for the motorcycle license skills tests and may be eligible for reduced insurance rates.

Participants will learn to maneuver and operate a motorcycle in a course that includes about five hours of classroom instruction and 15 hours of riding exercises in a controlled environment.

All classes must be attended in order to complete course requirements. Kentucky circuit court clerks will accept only KMA course completion cards as a waiver for the license skills test. Ohio and West Virginia also recognize the KMA course completion cards..

The first night of classroom work includes information about riding gear, controls, braking procedures and street strategies for road safety. Saturday and Sunday class sessions focus on riding skills.

On the riding skills days, students must bring eye protection and wear over-the-ankle boots or shoes, long sturdy slacks, long sleeve shirt or jacket, and full fingered gloves with a vinyl or leather palm. Helmets and motorcycles are provided, though students may choose to bring their own DOT approved helmet to the class.

The Basic Rider I fee is $100 for KY residents and $185 for OH or WV residents. Pre-registration is required, and fees must be paid by the Wednesday before a course begins. To register or for more information, contact ACTC Lifelong Learning, 606-326-2072, 800-928-4256 ext. 62072 or email: as_LLL@kctcs.edu.

Fire/Rescue Open House April 17

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:04:00 -0400

Interested in ACTC's new Paramedic Technology Program? Come to a Fire/Rescue Science Program Open House Tuesday, April 17, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The Paramedic program starts next fall semester, and June 1 is the deadline to apply. Instructors will be available to answer questions about the program and application requirements. Paramedic students may earn either a certificate or Associate in Applied Science Degree, and graduates are eligible to take the National EMT-Paramedic (EMT-P) Registry Exam.

Staff instructors will also be on hand to talk about the Fire/Rescue Science Technology degree, Firefighter certificates, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training, and classes in CPR, First Aid and Automated External Defibrillator (AED). \

As the Kentucky Fire Rescue Training Site for Area 10, the Fire/Rescue Science Program provides a variety of additional services, including training for area Fire Departments in Boyd, Carter, Greenup and Lawrence County.

Hazmat training is available for all sectors of the emergency response spectrum, including fire departments, EMS services, rescue squads, emergency management, and public health, transportation, and community response agencies. Industrial training classes are offered to help businesses, industries and governmental agencies meet regulatory requirements to provide a safe and healthy workplace.

The Open House is at Fire/Rescue Science facilities in Building 5 at the Roberts Drive Campus. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information, call the Fire/Rescue Science Office at 606-326-2459.

Tri-State Job & Career Fair April 13

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 15:14:00 -0400

Job seekers are invited to the Tri-State Job and Career Fair Friday, April 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the KYOVA Tri-State Mall.

“There are jobs in the area, and this is a chance for people to find out what’s available,” said Nancy Menshouse, ACTC's coordinator of career, job placement and co-op.

To date, more than 20 businesses and organizations have reserved space at the fair. Ashland Day Treatment, Ashland Group Home, AT & T, Boyd Regional Juvenile Detention Center, Cole Automotive Group, Fifth Third Bank, Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA, Independent Place, Inc., Kings’ Daughters Medical Center, KDMC Child Development Center, Manpower, Oakmont Manor, Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital, Pathways, PNC Bank, Ramey-Estep, Smithfield Packaging, Thirty-One Gifts, Walmart – Riverhill, Walmart-Cannonsburg and Woodmen of the World.

ACTC Adult Education, Lindsey Wilson College and Morehead State University are also participating.

The free fair is cosponsored by Ashland Community and Technical College, KY Department of Employment and Training, Southwestern Community Action Council, TENCO One-Stop Career Centers and KYOVA Tri-State Mall.

For more information, contact Menshouse at 606-326-2199 or email:nancy.menshouse@kctcs.edu.

ACTC is holding a Go2College Fair in conjunction with the Job Fair to help people find educational programs to prepare for jobs of the future.

ACTC Go2College Fair Is April 13

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 15:10:00 -0400

ACTC will hold a Go2College Recruitment Fair Friday, April 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the KYOVA Mall.

The free fair is designed to show adults the educational and training programs that can help them prepare for a better job or new career. These programs are outlined below.

The Adult Education Program helps adults with reading and other basic skills, GED preparation, college preparation, test-taking strategies, English-as-a-Second Language, résumé writing, Internet job search and job readiness/interview techniques.

Workforce Solutions offers short-term certificate training programs for Kentucky Medication Aide, State Registered Nurse Aide and Phlebotomy as well as training workshops in computer, technical and business skills. CDL training is also available.

ACTC’s college credential programs prepare students for a job immediately after graduation or for transfer to a four-year college or university. Career programs offer a variety of associate degree, diploma, certificate options which can often be completed in two years or less.

Transfer programs offer associate in arts or associate in science degrees that prepare graduates to start as juniors at their transfer college or university. Special transfer agreements are available with all area universities.

The fair will include financial aid and admission representatives who have information on filling out financial aid applications and college admissions forms.

For more information, contact Cara Huff, ACTC Recruiting and Outreach Coordinator, 606-326-2193 or email: cara.huff@kctcs.edu.

The Go2College Fair is being held in conjunction with the Tri-State Job & Career Fair. This allows area residents to explore both job opportunities and education opportunities for better jobs.

ACTC Presents "From Broadway to Hollywood"

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 15:06:00 -0400

The Ashland Community and Technical College Drama Club will present From Broadway to Hollywood Saturday and Sunday, April 14 and 15 and Friday to Sunday, April 20 to 22, in the J.B. Sowards Theatre at the College Drive Campus. Friday and Saturday performances are at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday performances are at 2:30 p.m.

The musical is a showcase of college and high school student talent, and it features the best of musical theatre from Oklahoma! to the present.

Songs are presented through a series of vignettes showing a day in the lives of people affected by the entertainment industry. Leading characters include two young upcoming Broadway performers, an aging Hollywood actress, Broadway theatre critic, Hollywood movie star and a former Broadway chorus member now selling papers in Times Square.

The cast includes ACTC Theatre majors John Freeman and Michael Seagraves from Ashland and Aaron Pennington from Fort Gay, WV; Anna Baker, a Kentucky Christian University student from Catlettsburg; Alex Lewis and Aaron Lewis, Paul Blazer High School students from Ashland; and Chace McKenzie, a Morehead State University junior from Ashland.

The production was written in 1998 for ACTC Summer Musical Theatre presentations by Edward Figgins, ACTC Director of Theatre and Associate Professor of Theatre and Communications. He recently updated the musical to include medleys from Disney, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Frank Wilhorn productions.

Songs include “Popular” from Wicked, “Bless the Lord” from Godspell, “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Miserables, “Somewhere’ from West Side Story, “Circle of Life” from The Lion King, “With One Look” from Sunset Boulevard and “People” from Funny Girl.

Figgins is the director. Max Jackson, ACTC professor Emeritus, and Karen Curnutte, ACTC Children’s Theatre Director, are handling the music and vocals. Lynette Muncy is the production choreographer. Paula Krepsik, ACTC Theatre Costume Designer, is the costumer. Roger Hagley, ACTC interactive TV Facilitator, is the sound designer.

From Broadway to Hollywood is being produced by the Drama Club to give theatre students additional performance and backstage experience.

Tickets are $8 for adults; $5 for students, seniors and groups of 10 or more; and $2 for ACTC and MSU-Ashland students. Tickets may be reserved with major credit card through the College bookstore, 606-326-2014. Unsold tickets will be available at the door for payment by cash or check (with photo ID).

For more information, call the ACTC Theatre Office at 606-326-2073.

Book Drive for West Liberty

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:29:00 -0400

New and gently used books geared to K-5 students are being collected for the West Liberty Elementary School library.

In the aftermath of the tornado that devastated the city of West Liberty in Morgan County, Kentucky First Lady Jane Beshear spearheaded a book drive to rebuild the library. ACTC has arranged with the offices of Mrs. Beshear and the KY Commission on Women to become a book collection center in the Ashland area.

Monetary donations for books can be mailed to the KY Commission on Women, 700 Capitol Ave., Suite 146, Frankfort KY 40601.

ACTC Becomes IT Testing Center

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:19:00 -0400

Information Technology (IT) students and professionals in the Ashland area can now take many industry certification tests close to home.

ACTC has become an official Pearson Vue IT Testing Center and can administer exams in Cisco Systems, CompTIA, Certiport, Adobe, CIW and other systems and programs.

“We think Pearson Vue is a wonderful addition to our college testing services,” said David Childress, Associate Professor and IT Program Coordinator. “Local testing will help our students gain certifications, recognized by the IT industry, that they can put on their resumes when job hunting.”

Local testing can also benefit IT professionals who can gain additional certifications for skills learned on the job. Those seeking an exam can go to http://www9.pearsonvue.com/ and search under Test Centers to locate an IT exam they want to take.

Other tests offered through ACTC’s Workforce Solutions Assessment Center include a wide variety of pre-employment assessments, Microsoft Office Specialist exams, Bennett Mechanical Comprehension Tests, International Code Council Trade Certification Exams and Castle Worldwide certification exams and licensure testing in health care, engineering, business, transportation and other professional fields.

In addition, the Assessment Center is a great resource for business and industry’s customized testing needs. A complete list of certification testing is at ashland.kctcs.edu/Workforce_Solutions.

To schedule an exam or more information, contact Robin Harris at (606) 326-2252 or Robin.Harris@kctcs.edu.

West Liberty Book Donations

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 10:58:00 -0400

New or gently used books geared to K-5 students are being collected for the West Liberty Elementary School library.

Please bring books to the Ready to Work Office, Room 224, at the College Drive Campus by April 10. For more information, contact Ready to Work Coordinator Regina Twinam 606-326-2216 or email: regina.twinam@kctcs.edu. Monetary donations for books can be mailed to the KY Commission on Women, 700 Capitol Ave., Suite 146, Frankfort KY 40601.

ACTC Offers Youth 'Survival' Camp

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:03:00 -0400

Team Advanced Survival Course (T.A.S.C.) is a new summer camp at Ashland Community and Technical College to help youth ages 10 to 15 build critical thinking and survival skills. T.A.S.C. will be held July 16 to 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon will

Each day, students in the T.A.S.C. Force teams will face disaster scenarios in which they use problem solving and prioritizing skills to respond to ‘emergencies.” They will then learn the first aid, navigation, and basic survival skills needed for those emergencies.

T.A.S.C. Force instructors Carl and Carrie Stambaugh learned their outdoor survival skills while hiking the Appalachian Trail, and they are experienced Lifelong Learning teachers. The fee is $125.

To register or request a class schedule, contact ACTC Lifelong Learning, 606-326-2072 or 800-928-4256 ext. 62072, email: as_LLL@kctcs.edu.

ACTC College Camp is June 25-29

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:53:00 -0400

College Camp at Ashland Community and Technical College offers a variety of humanities, science and social science classes for youth ages six to 13. This summer's Camp will be held June 25 to 29 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

The one-hour afternoon classes provide hands-on learning in exciting subjects not offered during the regular school year. Classes are designed to meet the abilities of four age groups - six to seven, eight to nine, ten to eleven and twelve to thirteen. Each class includes activities to stimulate creativity while building personal and academic skills

New classes in science, technology, math and engineering include Building Bridges, Experimenting Einsteins, The Math of Art. Chemistry Alive and Sun & Slime

New classes in the arts and social sciences are Acting Up, Green Art, Craving the Hunger Games, Fantastic Voyages, Let’s Talk Twilight, Potter Maniacs, Sew Fun, So You Want to Be a Magician, The Truth About Science Fiction, That High Lonesome Sound, Whose Line Is It Anyways, What’s So Great About Britain and Young Philosophers Club.

Returning Favorites include Spanish Ole, Grossology, Intro to Theatre, Stage Makeup and Look What I Made.

Students may take from one to four classes, and each class is $35. Up until June 3, there is a $20 discount for students who take four classes. To register or request a class schedule, contact ACTC Lifelong Learning, 606-326-2072 or 800-928-4256 ext. 62072, email: as_LLL@kctcs.edu.

ACTC Offers Science & Math Summer Youth Camps

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:32:00 -0400

Science, engineering, technology and math are features of new summer youth camps at Ashland Community and Technical College.

Each one-week camp for elementary to middle school students provides activities that stimulate the imagination and encourage creativity while building essential skills for life in the 21st Century.

These camps are at the Roberts Drive Campus, and enrollment is limited on a first-come basis. To register or receive more information, contact ACTC Lifelong Learning, 606-326-2072 or 800-928-4256 ext. 62072, email: as_LLL@kctcs.edu.

Camp Invention

Camp Invention for children entering first through sixth grades will be held June 18 to 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

A nationally acclaimed program led by local educators, Camp Invention encourages children to discover the fun of science . This year’s Envisoion Program has four modules of daily activities.

Inventeureka™ encourages creativity and innovation as students take a fantasy trip through time to explore invention history and then build their own inventions. They will explore principles of flight and light as they adapt and modify their inventions.

The Magnetropolis™ module is an island adventure in which students design and engineer ships to search for an island, navigate to the island, rebuild the island and use magnetic force and electricity to light the island.

In the I Can Invent: Balloon Burst™ module, students invent fantastical machines by repurposing parts from broken machines. Younger students focus on building inventions that burst water balloons and then create a marketing campaign for their creation. Older students design and create multi-step, balloon bursting Rube Goldberg-type machines.

The Action and Adventure Games™ module combines physical activity and creativity. Students modify traditional games, using available materials and nontraditional approaches, to create completely new games. The students play approximately four fun games a day as they practice teamwork, cooperation, coordination and creative problem solving.

Camp Invention is a partnership between ACTC Lifelong Learning and Invent Now, a non-profit organization that encourages innovation and the creative spirit. The fee is $210, and registration is online at campinvention.org.

Robotics Camp

The Hyper Peppy Robotics Camp gives students ages six to 13 the chance to build robots, learning about technology and engineering through hands-on activities.

Students will learn about the mechanical drive system, circuit board, microphone and other elements of robotics. Each robot will have a sound activator, so that it starts moving with a clap of the hands, and a sensitive touch sensor to help it go around obstacles.

In addition to their building their own robots, students will build other robots as a part of a small group. They will also investigate the effects of robotic technology on our lives in the future.

Robotics Camp will be held July 9 to 13 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The $150 fee includes materials for the robot.

Science Projects Camp

Make It and Take It Home Science Projects, a new camp for youth ages six to 13, shows how much fun science can be. Students will complete wide assortment of projects designed to teach science concepts in a hands-on way.

Projects include growing a crystal tree, making an energy bead bracelet and watching the beads turn from white to a rainbow of colors, building a working electric motor, and making bubbling blobs silly putty, glowing goo and green flubber.

Make It Science Projects will be held July 9 to 13, from 12:45 to 3:45p.m. and the fee is $150.

Math Camp

Using math in real life situations can be fun, and math skills are important to learn. Math Camp on June 11 to 15 will take students in second to fifth grades from ‘Ho Hum’ to ‘Oh Wow.’

Students will decipher mystery messages, solve riddles and work on projects such as starting and running a business, planning a rescue mission to another planet, going on a scavenger hunt, taking the measurements needed to build a house and helping the tooth fairy plan a budget.

Math Camp is centered on national and state educational mathematics standards. Mathematic concepts to be covered include algebraic thinking, measurement, data collection and interpretation, numbers in base ten models and geometry.

Classes are 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. for second and third graders, and 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. for third and fourth graders. The fee is $15.

ACTC Hosts Regional FFA Day

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 14:10:00 -0400

The annual Regional Future Farmers of America (FFA) Day on March 13 brought 138 high school students to ACTC for competitions that demonstrated their knowledge and presentation skills.

Students from Boyd County, Greenup County, East Carter, West Carter and Johnson Central High Schools competed in impromptu speaking, prepared public speaking, extemporaneous public speaking, parliamentary procedure, record keeping, talent and American Institute of Cooperatives contests.

The Big Sandy River Region of FFA is one of the eleven regions in Kentucky that hold annual competitions on agricultural related topics ranging from aquaculture and small animal husbandry to nursery and landscape management. The regional winners will compete at the state competition later this spring.

High School Student Leaders Visit ACTC

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 13:50:00 -0400

Forty high school juniors in the Ashland Alliance’s Youth Leadership Program visited ACTC March 13 for an Education Day Program.

The program on “Where Do We Go from Here and How Do We Get There?” explored opportunities available within the education system for developing leadership skills. Presentations included financing a college education, choosing a career and getting through the freshman year successfully.

The students from seven high schools in Boyd and Greenup County were selected for the Youth Leadership Program through an application and essay process. They participate in monthly sessions on topics such as government, arts & culture, economic development, volunteerism and education.

Leadership Program students learn about community issues, economic developing, government, arts & culture, encourage mutual respect, instill in them the responsibility for their own lives and the lives of others, and developing leadership skills.

Apply Now for Fall 2012 Scholarships

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 13:45:00 -0400

April 1 is the priority application deadline for fall 2012 scholarships at Ashland Community and Technical College.

ACTC offers dozens of scholarships to help deserving area residents pay for their education. As a rule, scholarships are awarded to students seeking a degree, diploma or certificate who demonstrate the potential for academic success and financial need. Some scholarships have additional requirements such as county of residence or grade point average (GPA).

Applicants need to apply for admission to ACTC, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and fill out the general scholarship application form. The general scholarship application form is good for all scholarships listed below except the John T. Smith and Pre-Engineering Scholarships, which have separate applications.

Applications are on the web at ashland.kctcs.edu/finaid , and the FAFSA is at fafsa.ed.gov. For more information, call the ACTC Office of Financial Aid at 606-326-2198.

Local Scholarships

The following scholarships for new and/or continuing students have been funded by area businesses, organizations and individuals. The Scholarship Committee and Office of Financial Aid will match applicants to scholarship requirements, based on information from the general scholarship application form.

American Legion Post 76 of Ashland Scholarships are for students enrolled in the Associate Degree Nursing Program, with preference given to military veterans and family members of veterans.

Amy Denise Bruner Memorial Disabled Student Scholarships are for sophomores with a permanent disability who are pursuing a degree in medical field and who have a 3.0 GPA.

Agnes Burnette Johnson Scholarships are for Boyd County High School graduates.

Allen D. & Patricia C. Cline Scholarships are for full time students in good standing who are actively involved in ACTC Theatre studies.

The Anne Kouns Student Aid scholarships are for students demonstrating financial need and potential for academic success.

Ashland Kiwanis Club Scholarships are for Paul G. Blazer or Rose Hill Christian School graduates who demonstrate a commitment to civic activities. A second scholarship is awarded to a nontraditional student.

Barbara Seibert Student Aid Fund Scholarships are for students demonstrating financial need and potential for academic success.

Big Sandy Superstore Scholarships are for part-time and/or full-time undergraduate students who are full-time active employees, or children of full-time active employees, of Big Sandy Superstores.

Big Sandy / Robert Vanhoose Scholarships are for full-time business majors who are residents of Boyd, Carter, Greenup, or Lawrence County in Kentucky; Lawrence County, Ohio; or Cabell County, West Virginia.

The Bob & Pat Goodpaster Scholarships are for non-traditional students who have children and who are enrolled at least six credit hours per semester.

Boyd County Medical Alliance - Diane Gussler Lobach Memorial Scholarships are for victims of domestic violence and single mothers pursuing health care related careers.

Chellgren-Ashland Community & Technical College Fund scholarships give first preference to current or former residents of the Ramey-Estep Home of Boyd County.

Cooperative Program Scholarships are awarded to Paul Blazer High School graduates.

David N. Michalak Memorial Scholarships are for students with at least a 3.0 GPA who have completed a minimum of 24 semester hours at ACTC.

Donald J. & Clotine Leach Memorial Scholarships are for full time Kentucky residents who demonstrate potential for academic success and need financial assistance.

Edward L. Buchanan Scholarships are for students enrolled in the nursing program who demonstrate satisfactory academic progress.

Fifth Third Bank Scholarships are for students who indicate interest in a banking or business career.

The Fyffe Jones Group Accounting Scholarships are for full-time students who have completed the first year of accounting studies.

Galloway Trust Scholarships are for Boyd County or Greenup County high school graduates with a minimum 3.3 GPA who have the potential to pursue a baccalaureate degree program.

Goldie M. Wilson Scholarships are for students demonstrating the potential for academic success.

Griffith Delaney & Hillman & Company Scholarships are for students demonstrating potential for academic success, with first preference for those interested in an accounting career.

Herb and Alene Boggs Alban Scholarships are for students demonstrating interest in a business career.

Joseph and Sylvia Mansbach Scholarships are for students who show financial need and/or work at least 10 hours a week during the academic term(s) and who show potential for academic success.

Kaplan & Simons Scholarships are for non-traditional students who enroll at least six credit hours per semester. Recipients must maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA.

Kentucky Power Scholarships are for non-traditional students who are full-time, degree-seeking students from Kentucky.

Lincoln & Katherine Morgan Scott Scholarships are for graduates of Boyd and Lewis Counties.

Lou Eastham Scholarships are for Boyd County High School graduates.

Lysbeth Barnett Scholarships are for outstanding students majoring in business management who have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.

Robert B. Hilton Education Trust Scholarships are for Paul G. Blazer High School graduates who have resided in Boyd County for at least three years and are enrolled in a transfer curriculum.

Ruie Kennard Kelley Endowment Scholarships are for students demonstrating potential for academic success.

Spriggs Family Scholarship are for students demonstrating potential for academic success, with first priority for children of Boyd County firefighters and police officers who have been employed full time for at least two years.

Theodore C. & Bennie J. Shields Scholarships are for Boyd County High School graduates who maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Troy B. & Sophia Wheeler Memorial Scholarships are for students from Northeastern Kentucky who are enrolled in health science programs.

YWCA Scholarships are for female Boyd or Greenup County residents. Recipients must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA.

Pre-Engineering Scholarships

Tuition scholarships are available for pre-engineering students who plan to attend ACTC in fall 2012. Students can earn an Associate in Science Degree and then transfer to area universities for a bachelor's degree in chemical, civil, mechanical or other engineering fields.

ACT/SAT scores, GPA and financial need are considered in awarding scholarships. Pre-engineering scholarship applications are at: ashland.kctcs.edu/finaid. For more information on pre-engineering, contact Instructor Mark Riggs, 606-326-2161, email: mark.riggs@kctcs.edu.

John T. Smith Scholarships

John T. Smith Minority Scholarships recognize outstanding African-American residents of Kentucky. Grade point average, rank in class, ACT scores and extra-curricular activities are considered in awarding scholarships. John T. Smith Scholarship applications are at: ashland.kctcs.edu/finaid.

Recent Scholarship Donations

Scholarships are becoming increasing important to many students, and securing additional funding is an ongoing effort. Recent gifts to the College Foundation illustrate two reasons for establishing scholarships: as an enduring remembrance of a loved one and as a commitment to the education foundations of the community.

In December 2011, Patricia C. Cline, widow of the late Allen D. “Al” Cline of Ashland, established an endowed scholarship fund in his memory. The Allen D. Cline and Patricia C. Cline Scholarship Fund will help full-time students who are active in ACTC Theatre.

This February, the Mansbach Foundation added $250,000 to the Joseph and Sylvia Mansbach Scholarship Fund originally established in 1995. Mansbach scholarships are awarded to students who have financial need and/or work part time.

For more information on scholarship endowments, contact Frank Salisbury, ACTC Director of Advancement, 606-326-2092 or email: frank.salisbury@kctcs.edu .

Job Fair Friday, April 13

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:39:00 -0400

Area business and organizations are invited to participate in the Tri-State Career and Job Fair on Friday, April 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the KYOVA Tri-State Mall.

The purpose of the fair is to help employers and job seekers find each other, not only for jobs that are available now but for jobs that will become available as the economy improves. There is no charge to participating employers for set-up. Tables, chairs, limited access to electricity, and wireless Internet will be provided.

Cosponsors are Ashland Community and Technical College, Department of Employment and Training, Southwestern Community Action Council, TENCO One-Stop Career Centers and KYOVA Tri-State Mall.

For more information or to reserve a space, contact Nancy Menshouse, ACTC Career & Job Placement Coordinator, at 606-326-2199 or email: nancy.menshouse@kctcs.edu .

ACTC Hosts Regional SkillsUSA Competitions

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:32:00 -0400

Students from five area high schools participated in the annual SkillsUSA Kentucky competitions held March 9 at Ashland Community and Technical College.

The 122 contestants came from ACTC, Boyd County High School Career and Technical Center, Carter County High School Career and Technical Center, Elliott County High School; Greenup County High School Area Technical Center and Russell High School Area Technical Center.

Lawrence County High School was unable to participate this year because of the ongoing tornado cleanup.

SkillsUSA Kentucky, a chapter of the national SkillsUSA organization, serves high school and community and technical college students in trade, industrial, and technical fields.

“Skills USA enhances student awareness of the value of their technical skills,” said Gary Calhoun, Drafting Instructor at Greenup. “Students have the opportunity to develop the soft skills that employees want, such as teamwork, goal setting and time management, and they can become involved with community activities.

“Most employers in the area want employees with at least two-years of post-secondary education in drafting, and we encourage them to go on to college,” Calhoun said. The other Greenup SkillsUSA instructors were Julius Blair in Welding Technology, Randy Steele in Auto Technology and Clay Couch in Electrical Technology,

“In drafting for example, we expose drafting students to both construction drawing and mechanical drawing so that they are ready to go on and concentrate on either option in college.”

“Skills USA gives us the opportunity to be involved in a club activity, develop leadership skills and make friends,” said Greg Wellman, Greenup’s SkillsUSA club president. He was in the Governor’s Scholar program and says SkillsUSA helped him get there.

Like many area high schools in technical programs, Wellman has taken dual credit classes with ACTC to help him get a head start on college. He is an Eagle Scout with Troop 98 of South Shore and a volunteer firefighter in Maloneton.

A senior who has participated in both welding and drafting competitions, Wellman plans to transfer to Western Kentucky University in Construction Management. “SkillsUSA helped me find out what I wanted to do for a career,” he said.

SkillsUSA Kentucky is a partnership of students, teachers and industry representatives working together to encourage students to excel in career and technical programs.

“We help students develop soft skills they don’t get exposed to in the traditional classroom, and those skills help build their self-confidence,” said Shawn Parsons, SkillsUSA advisor and drafting instructor at Russell High School.

“With SkillsUSA, students can network not only with their peers in other schools but also with judges who are from the community,” Parsons said. “They also can tour the college and learn more about the programs available to them after graduation. “

“The most important thing I’ve learned is how to have healthy competition with others and being able to show off my skills,” said Shane Day, a Russell sophomore in drafting. He plans to continue in Skills USA, and he’s taking dual credit courses to help him in his future plans to join the Air Force in an engineering or design field.

The competitions are a teamwork effort between the schools in the SkillsUSA Northeast Region-District 10 and ACTC. The winners will compete at the state level later this spring.

Secondary Leadership Contests

Poster: First- Katelyn Potter, Greenup.

Debate: First- Savannah Lewis, Julia Duncan, Carter.

Job Interview: First- Adam Bus, Elliott; Second- Jonathan Hoffman, Russell; Third- Brady Miller, Elliott.

Job Skills Demonstration (A): First- Zack Waugh, Russell; Second- Kristie Dean, Carter; Third- Kaitlyn Savage, Carter. Job Skills Demonstration (O): First- Amber Conley, Russell; Second- Richard White, Russell.

Skills USA Quiz Bowl: First- Kansas Cox, Brandon Carey, Cody Fannin, Emmee Wolford and Mason Virgin, Carter. Second- Kenneth Potter, Brad Belt, Cody Anderson, Jayme Sparks and Holly Rhoden, Greenup. Third- Patricia McBrayer, Jessie Conn, Kyle Lee, Jaymi Porter and Brent Stegall, Carter.

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: First- Emily Baker, Vivian Littleton, Brennon Bush, Shannon Coleman, Emanuel Picazo, Tanner Tackett, and Jacob Waddell, Carter.

Welding Sculpture, all from Carter: First- Greg Wellman; Second- Alex Nunley; Third- Cody Branham.

Secondary Skills Contests

Architectural Drafting (CADD): First- Kenneth Potter, Greenup; Second- Cody Anderson, Greenup; Third- Heath Baker, Boyd.

Architectural Drafting (Board): First-Courtlyn Garvin, Carter; Second- Tanner Tackett, Carter; Third- Mike Evans, Boyd.

Technical Drafting (CADD): First- Kansas Cox, Carter; Second- Bradley Belt, Greenup; Third- Mary Crum, Carter. Technical Drafting (Board): First- Emily Baker, Carter; Second- Justin Reeder, Boyd; Third- Shane Day, Russell.

Auto Service Technology, all from Greenup: First- Brandon Wilbur; Second- Jared Liles; Third- Anthony Lawhun.

Construction Carpentry, all from Carter: First- Cole Jones; Second- Blake Flannery; Third- Calen Wallin.

Intro to Construction-Carpentry I, both from Carter: First- Josh Mullins; Second - Tyler Silvey.

Computer Maintenance Technology, all from Carter: First- Colt Swint; Second- Cody Hamm; Third- Justin Steele.

Technical Computer Applications, both from Carter: First- Sean Gillum; Second-Brennon Bush.

Telecommunications Cabling, both from Carter: First- Tyler Stewart; Second-Ashley Kouns.

Internetworking, both from Carter: First- Emanual Picazo; Second- Julia Duncan.

Electrical Construction Wiring: First- Jordan Finfrock, Russell; Second- Cole Redmond, Greenup; Third- Jace Kibbey, Russell.

Welding: First- Donovon Hayden, Greenup; Second- Drew Jones, Carter; Third-Zach Salyers, Carter.

Web Design, all from Carter: First- Dalton Riffe and Kelley Litteral; Second- Brent Steagall and Patricia McBrayer; Third- Latasha Butler.

Mobile Robotics (MRT), all from Carter: First- Josh Fields and John Johnson; Second-Brandon Carey and Cody Fannin; Third- Vivian Littleton and Kristen Kinney.

3-D Visualization and Animation (VA), all from Carter: First- Rachel Crum and Shannon Lykins; Second- Dakota Tackett and Jacob Waddell; Third- Kerrington Jarvis.

Post-Secondary Contests

ACTC student winners in SkillsUSA are listed below with their city of residence.

Auto Service Technology, all from Ashland: First- Alfred J. Moats, Jr.; Second- Steven M. Porter; Third- James Tyler Sparks.

Diesel Technology: First- Brandon M. Miller, Greenup; Second-Travis Pertuset, Lucasville, OH;; Third- Christopher Savage, Garrison.

A Night at the Apollo Rescheduled for March 16

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 13:48:00 -0500

Ashland’s "A Night at the Apollo" program has been rescheduled for Friday, March 16, at 7:00 p.m. in the Ashland Community and Technical College Theatre at the College Drive Campus.

Cancelled last week due to the threat of inclement weather, the talent revue will feature amateur Tri-state area performers who are completing for adult or youth prizes. The free program is cosponsored by ACTC and area organizations and individuals in commemoration of Black History Month.

For more information, contact the Highland Museum and Discover Center in Ashland, 606-329-8888.

Free GED and NCRC Tests Available

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 13:50:00 -0500

Free GED tests and assessments to earn a National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) are available to Kentuckians on a first-come, first-served basis through June 30 or until funds are expended.

The services are sponsored by Kentucky Adult Education and the Department of Workforce Investment, and they are available to area residents through the ACTC Adult learning Center at the Roberts Drive Campus.

GED Testing

The GED tests provide adults who did not finish high school with the opportunity to certify their attainment of high school-level academic knowledge and skills. Free testing in 2011 led to a 10 percent increase in the number of Kentuckians earning a GED. A total of 10,294 GEDs were earned in Kentucky in 2010-11.

Classes to help people prepare for the GED start March 19 at the ACTC Adult Education Center. The classes cover basic academic skills for reading, math and language enrichment / writing. Daytime and evening classes times are offered, and online/distance learning classes are also available.

Area residents interested in taking advantage of the free classes or the free GED testing should contact the Center at 606-326-2457.

NCRC Testing

The NCRC is a national certification that indicates work readiness by administering three WorkKeys assessment in applied mathematics, locating information and reading for information. These specific workplace skills are needed in 77 percent of all jobs profiled for WorkKeys testing.

Eligible individuals can obtain free NCRC testing through ACTC Adult Education Center. For an appointment, call 606-326-2457. This offer is time and space limited, so those interested should schedule testing early and should request a “free NCRC.”

New Paramedic Program Starts at ACTC Next Fall

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 13:44:00 -0500

Ashland Community and Technical College is starting a Paramedic Technology program fall 2012.

“The demand for healthcare professionals is expected to continue to grow well into the future, and many of our students seek careers that will provide them with a variety of employment opportunities. Partnering with the Kentucky Fire Commission is making it possible for us to expand our offerings in the emergency medical services area,” said Janie Kitchen, Dean of Academic Affairs.

For those who already have emergency medical technician training, Paramedic Technology is an opportunity to advance in the field. It is also a career pathway for those entering the health care for the first time.

What is a Paramedic?

A paramedic is a healthcare professional who provides pre-hospital care for medical emergencies and trauma. Care is delivered in ambulance, mobile advanced life support units, industrial on site units, fire departments and other sites.

Because they often work in the same type of emergency situations as emergency medical technicians (EMTS), there is often confusion about what paramedics and EMTs do. EMTs provide basic life support services such as performing CPR, administering oxygen, taking vital signs and providing spinal immobilizations and splinting.

Paramedic duties may include starting an IV, giving fluids, administering medications, defibrillating the heart, performing a surgical airway, inserting a breathing tube, decompressing a collapsed lung, managing cardiac monitors and interpreting EKGs..

EMT training takes from three to six months while paramedic training takes one and a half to two years, and people must be an EMT before beginning the paramedic course.

ACTC, in conjunction with State Fire Rescue Training - Area 10, has offered EMT training for over 20 years through the Fire/Rescue Service Program. Adding the Paramedic Technology program provides a path for advancement in the field.

Paramedic Courses

Students in the paramedic program at ACTC may earn either a certificate or Associate in Applied Science Degree. For both options, students take courses in anatomy & physiology, medical terminology, paramedic practice, clinical practical and management principles for healthcare. For the degree, students add general education courses in math, writing, communications, psychology and heritage/humanities subjects.

Credit toward the Associate in Applied Science degree may be awarded to currently practicing paramedics.

The program meets the standards of the U.S. Department of Transportation National Standard Curriculum for Paramedics and KCTCS – Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services. Graduates are eligible to take the Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (EMT-P) National Registry Examination.

Classes will be held at ACTC’s Roberts Drive Campus, located at the junction of Bob McCullough Drive and Roberts Drive in Ashland.

June 1 is the deadline to apply for the fall paramedic class. Enrollment is limited, and a selective admissions process is followed. Applicants must submit both a Paramedic Program and ACTC application. Applicants must also meet Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services application requirements and be certified EMTs upon acceptance into the program.

Paramedic applications are available at the State Fire Rescue Training - Area 10 Office on the Roberts Drive Campus, Building 5 Room 515, and the Admissions Offices at the College Drive and Technology Drive Campuses. College applications and class schedules are on the web: ashland.kctcs.edu.

For more information, contact the Paramedic Program at 606/326-2459 or email: cstewart0001@kctcs.edu or mjohnson0483@kctcs.edu .

Mansbach Foundation Gives $250,000 to Scholarship Fund

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 10:21:00 -0500

The Foundation of Ashland Community and Technical College has announced the receipt of a significant gift from the Mansbach Foundation for scholarships for students attending Ashland Community and Technical College.

The Mansbach Foundation has provided $250,000 in immediate funding to be added to their endowed scholarship fund, the Joseph & Sylvia Mansbach Scholarship Fund.

“The additional scholarship funds will provide scholarships to students enrolled in programs at Ashland Community and Technical College that contribute to workforce development in high-need areas and/or transfer of students into baccalaureate degree programs in areas of strategic benefit to the Commonwealth of Kentucky”, said Frank Salisbury, ACTC’s Director of Advancement.

“Additional Scholarship funding is vital to our students in this economic climate,” said Dr. Gregory D. Adkins, ACTC President and CEO. “We are very grateful for the confidence in our college as evidenced by this magnificent gift from the Mansbach Foundation. We will now take action to request this additional investment in the Mansbach Fund be matched by the KCTCS Endowment Trust.”

“The Mansbach family has a sound history of supporting education in this community, we are so pleased our Foundation can serve the Mansbach Foundation as a conduit for scholarships for students attending ACTC,” said Robert J. Maher, President of ACTC’s Foundation. “With the matching funds available from the KCTCS Endowment Trust, approximately $500,000 will be added to the existing endowment. That will really go a long way in providing scholarships for our students.”

Gerald Mansbach, President of the Mansbach Foundation said, “We are pleased to invest these funds with ACTC’s Foundation to benefit local students getting a college education here in Ashland. This corresponds with the philosophy of our parents, the late Joseph & Sylvia Mansbach. I believe they would especially appreciate the $1 per $1 match.”

ACTC Presents "A Night at the Apollo"

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 12:23:00 -0500

Are singers, dancers and poets will perform in "A Night at the Apollo” Friday, March 2, at 7:00 p.m. at Ashland Community and Technical College.

Based on Harlem’s amateur nights at the Apollo Theatre, the annual program gives amateur Tri-State performers a chance to share their talents in music, dance, and theatre.

The free program is a night of family entertainment for the audience and a talent contest for the performers. Prizes to be awarded are$200, $100 and $50 for adults and $75, $50 and $25 for youth up to age 12.

The program will be in the J.B. Sowards Theatre at ACTC’s College Drive Campus.

A Night at the Apollo is a community Black History Month program supported by ACTC, Boyd & Greenup County Branch of NAACP, City of Ashland Human Rights Commission, Highlands Museum & Discovery Center, Dr. William H. Boykin, Jr., Dr. James H. Martin, Jr., Dr. Charles M. Rhodes, Tri-State Digestive Disease Associates, PSC with Dr. Cheryl L. Bascom and Dr. Michael D. Canty, Tri-State Radiology, PSC.

For more information, contact Leighann Heineman at the Highlands Museum & Discovery Center, 606-329-8888.

Workforce Solutions Classes Range from Ebay to Green Energy

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 11:29:00 -0500

Classes in business and organization topics for March include grant writing, eBay, drug-free workplace policies and green energy. To sign up or receive more information, contact Workforce Solutions, email JLUCAS0013@kctcs.edu or call 606-326-2238.

Intro to Grant Writing

This class is ideally suited for nonprofit organizations. Participants will get an overview of the steps needed to submit a proposal, including identifying a problem or need, researching and selecting project solutions, locating potential grant funding, analyzing the Request for Proposals, writing a grant proposal and developing a project budget.

The class is March 15, from 10 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Roberts Drive Campus. The fee is $25.

Maintain a Drug and Alcohol Free Workplace

This free workshop is designed for supervisors, managers, human resource professionals and business owners. Participants will learn about the resources and skills needed to make effective and legal decisions and to maintain a safe, healthy, and productive workforce.

Instructor Mike Wirzfeld is the Coordinator of Occupational Medicine at Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital. He will cover the legal information that companies are required to include in drug and alcohol workplace policies, including pre-employment screening, random and reasonable cause testing procedures and how to handle test results. There will be time for questions and answers.

The workshop is Thursday, March 15, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Roberts Drive Campus.

Using eBay to Buy and Sell

Learn how to use the eBay marketplace to turn your extra items into income. An eBay training class will be held Tuesday and Wednesday, March 13 and 14, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. at ACTC’s Roberts Drive Campus

Topics include how to create an account, understand the basics of eBay’s format, open a seller account, do research and create listings, improve listings with better descriptions and photography, set pricing, open and use a PayPal account, monitor listings, ship items and complete transactions.

The instructor, Jessica Lucas, is ACTC’s Workforce Solutions Specialist. Seating is limited on a first-come basis, and the fee is $50.

Green Energy for Contractors

Are you a contractor, electrician, HVAC or trade professional interested in learning current sustainability trends? Learn about modern green energy practices in a free forum Tuesday, March 27, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. at the Technology Drive Campus.

ACTC Offers Personal Interest Classes in March

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 11:16:00 -0500

Ashland Community and Technical College offers short-term March classes in photography, Photoshop, sewing and Zumba for adults and ACT Prep for high shcool students. Enrollment is through ACTC Lifelong Learning, 606-326-2072 or email: as_LLL@kctcs.edu.

ACT Preparation

High school students can get ready for the ACT college entrance test in a 16-hour class designed to help overcome test anxiety and improve test-taking skills.

Participants will go over ACT type questions, learn test-taking tips, review English grammar and punctuation and practice working math problems. The ACTC instructors are Jason Shields, Information Systems Developer, and David Pack, adjunct English Instructor.

The class will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays, March 20 to Apr. 12, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the College Drive Campus. The fee is $95, and students will need to purchase Baron’s Preparation for the ACT .

Zumba Classes

ACTC is offering Zumba® Fitness classes that fuse Latin rhythms and easy to follow moves.

Zumba® participants can achieve long term health benefits while experiencing a fun, calorie-burning, body-energizing workout. The routines feature interval training sessions with fast and slow rhythms plus resistance training to tone and sculpt the body while burning fat.

The class will be taught by Jessica Lucas, an experienced Zumba instructor and ACTC’s Workforce Solutions Specialist. Classes meet Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at ACTC’s Roberts Drive Campus. The first class is March 5 to April 11, and the second class is April 16 to May 30. The fee is $25 for either class.

Basic Sewing Class

If you are new to sewing or want to improve your skills, this Basic Sewing class will help. Retired teacher and experienced seamstress Patti May will take participants through a variety of stitches and hemming techniques and different ways to make small repairs on garments.

The class will meet Tuesdays, March 20 to April 10, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at the College Drive Campus. The $35 fee includes materials.

Intro to Photography Part 2

If you have learned how to operate your camera in manual mode, get ready to kick your photography skills up a notch. This follow-up to the Intro to Photography class taught by wedding and portrait photographer J.Bird Cremeans will include homework assignments to help participants develop a more creative eye.

Participants will also learn how to set up a ‘home studio’ and how to pose individuals and groups in the studio setting. The class will be held Mondays, March 26 to April 30, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the College Drive Campus. The fee is $75, and participants are responsible for any film processing costs.

Photoshop Class

Photoshop can be a great tool for anyone interested in photography, graphic design, photo restoration or digital scrapbooking. This hands-on class is taught by J.Bird Cremeans, an artist and photographer who has been using Photoshop since 1999.

Participants will learn how to add special effects to photos, restore or enhance your keepsake photos, create designs for greeting cards and labels and add graphics to reports or letters.

The class meets Tuesdays, March 27 to May 1, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the College Drive Campus, and the fee is $75

Adult Education Offers New Career Advising Program

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 11:00:00 -0500

ACTC’s Adult Education Program is offering a new service to help people reach their personal goals of earning a GED, attending college or finding a job.

The Career Advising and Transition Services Program (CATS) is a comprehensive online program that provides a standardized method for career advising. Paired with the KY Postsecondary and Career Planning System, CATS helps individuals explore their career interests and skills, learn about postsecondary options and enter the world of work.

Services for those interested in college include career interest and skill inventories, college exploration and program information, financial aid information, help with college applications and scheduling of college placement tests.

Services for those seeking a job or better job include online job search, job placement assistance, help with job application, resume preparation and interview skills.

The Adult Learning Center is offering CATS classes at the Roberts Drive Campus on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. CATS can also be offered to individuals in conjunction with the One Stop Center.

All services are free of charge. Preregistration is required. To register or receive more information, call the Center at 606-326-2457.

CATS is a partnership among TENCO, WIA, One Stop Centers and Adult Education programs around the state. The participating Adult Education Programs were chosen by Kentucky Adult Education. Online activities are handled through the Kentucky Postsecondary and Career Planning Service.

ACTC Offers ServSafe Food Safety Training

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:46:00 -0500

ServSafe Food Safety Training and Certification Testing is offered by ACTC to help food service managers and employees protect their customers, employees and business.

The ServSafe Program has evolved to meet the most urgent food safety training challenges in the restaurant industry. It is a national certification program, sponsored by the National Restaurant Association, that provides training and certification in safe food handling and serving procedures.

ServSafe is for both managers and food handlers and is recommended by local health departments, according to Peggy Bradley, Associate Professor and Coordinator of ACTC’s Culinary Arts Program. Professor Bradley will be the instructor. Training topics will include basic food safety, personal hygiene, cross-contamination, time and temperature considerations, cleaning and sanitation.

The class will be held Friday and Saturday, March 9 and 10, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at ACTC’s Technology Drive Campus. The $240 fee includes training, lunch and certification testing. Enroll through Workforce Solutions, email: JLUCAS0013@kctcs.edu or 606-326-2238.

New ACTC & Collins Career Center Agreements

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:42:00 -0500

Area students have new career path options through agreements signed by Ashland Community and Technical College and Collins Career Center in Chesapeake OH.

The two institutions have signed articulation agreements that provide a smooth transfer path for graduates of the Collins Radiologic Technology and Cardiac Sonography Programs.

The agreements outline the credits that can articulate to ACTC as part of an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree. Credits from the Radiologic Technology Program are applied toward an AAS in Diagnostic Radiologic Technology. Credits from the Cardiac Sonography Program are applied toward an AAS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography: Cardiac Option.

"Cooperative articulation agreements such as these give students clearly defined opportunities to continue their education," said Dr. Janie Kitchen, ACTC Dean of Academic Affairs. "By partnering with other educational institutions, we are able to increase the educational and career options available to area residents."

"Collins Career Center feels very fortunate to have formal articulation agreements with such a fine institution like ACTC. I have worked with both President Greg Adkins and Dr. Janie Kitchen, and have found them to be student motivated and always interested in opportunities to help students,” said Stephen K. Dodgion, Collins Career Center Superintendent.

"The articulation agreement between Collins Career Center and ACTC is an excellent path for students to receive an Associate Degree in addition to a certificate of completion,” said Terri Williamson, Medical Imaging Director at Collins Career Center. “This allows students the opportunity to continue their education beyond the primary paths of Radiography and Cardiac Sonography."

For more information on transfer to ACTC, contact Professor Dan Bailey, 606-326-2028 or 800-928-4256, or email: danny.bailey@kctcs.edu.

For more information on the medical imaging programs at Collins Career Center, contact Terri Williamson, 740-867-6641 ext. 362 or email: williamsontl@collins-cc.edu.

ACTC Presents "A Night at the Apollo"

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:39:00 -0500

“A Night at the Apollo” will be held Friday, March 2, at 7:00 p.m. at Ashland Community and Technical College.

Based on Harlem’s amateur nights at the Apollo Theatre, the annual program gives amateur Tri-State performers a chance to share their talents in music, dance, and theatre.

The program will be in the J.B. Sowards Theatre at ACTC’s College Drive Campus.

For more information, contact Leighann Heineman at the Highlands Museum & Discovery Center, 606-329-8888.

ACTC Fall 2011 Dean's List Announced

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:33:00 -0500

Ashland Community and Technical College has named 393 students to the Dean's List for Fall Semester 2011. Dean’s List students must have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) on at least 12 credit hours in courses numbered 100 and above. The students are listed below by city of residence.

Kentucky Students

From Argillite: Zachary D. Martin, Curtis E. Nichols, Stephanie J. Poplin, Samantha J. Smith, Susan P. West.

From Ashland: Tony A. Arthur II, Paul A. Baker, Ashley D. Barada, Sarah M. Barnett, Joshua J. Becker, Kyle G. Bias, Jeremy D. Blair, James M. Boggs, Rajeana L. Bowen, Stephanie M. Bowling, Joanna C. Breeding, Erica Burton, Terrence E. Campbell, Jessica R. Cantrell, Steven L. Carey, Alexandra R. Carpenter, Rachel N. Carrico, Jeffrey A. Chambers, Aaron C. Chandler, Linda M. Chappell, Erica L. Cleary, Daryl E. Clester, David S. Conley, Cynthia G. Cox, Christopher M. Damron, Amanda S. Davis

Also from Ashland: Christine C. Davis, Nanci E. Davis, Amber N. Dean, Wesley D. Diamond, Amber R. Dickerson,Ryan M. Dixon, Kaitlin D. Duncan, Charles G. Eaker, Jason M. Edgington, Megan R. Estep, Nkechinyere N. Eze, Angela L. Farley, Christopher J. Gamble, Nicholas C. Gatrell, Brett L. Gehringer, Danny D. Glass, Alexandria B. Gould, Jessica L. Griffith, Joshua A. Griffith, Sidney A. Groves, Christinia S. Hall, Stephanie A. Hall Jennifer S. Haney, Kelly M. Hanshaw, Lee E. Harris, Cranston S. Hill.

Also from Ashland: Katie M. Hughes, Charles E. B. Hurst, Holly H. James, Jack D. Johnson, Joshua D. Johnson, Marshall T. King, Donald H. Lambert, Samatha A. Leach, Cameron L. Leaver, Amanda H. Lemaster John J. Lestina, Karah L. Long, Sherry M. Mcconnell, Rachel E. Mckenzie, Todd P. Mckeon, Ronnie E McQuay, Tabitha D. Miles, Zachary J. Miller, Candace J. Mollette, Raymond L. Moore, Oreatha J. Murray, Phillip E. Newman, Shalah S. Nobles, Dustin J. Nunley, Desirae M. Oney, Scarlett O. Parham.

Also from Ashland: Brett M. Parsons, Amber L. Patrick, Lisa S. Patrick, Brittany A. Persinger, Jordan R. Poplin, LIsa K. Raimondo, James S. Rakes, Careyray C. Ratcliff, Rachel H. Ratliff, Ashley N. Renfroe, Patricia L. Riley, Muhammad B. Rinaldi, Andrew S. Roach, Misti M. Robertson, Hunter D. Rockwell, Cloyd A. Rodkey, Steven T. Rogers, Christy R. Sallie, Brandon R. Sanders, Shelby J. Scior.

Also from Ashland: Jillienne A. Shannon, Megan L. Shoup, Marcia L. Simmons, Darren M. Slone, Stephanie R. Smedley, Amanda V. Spears, Clinton G. Spurlock, Billie J. Stanley, John W. Stephens, Patrick M. Stump, Melissa D. Taylor, David P. Thompson, Vanessa C. Thompson, Sara B. Wellman, Kyle W. Wessel, Kristina M. Wheeler, Carrie K. White, Allison R. Whitley, Julia C. Winans, Stephen A. Wray, Katie E. Wurts.

From Catlettsburg: Katie E. Black, Candace S. Blakeley, Megan L. Blevins, Douglas W. Bowling, Richard A. Caines, Daniel A. Chaffin, Rickey L. Davidson, Alexandra T. Day, Faith R. Ekers, Lacretia M. Hardin, Aaron K. Jenkins, Alexandria N. Marshall, Mark A. Mcclanahan, Kellie N. Mcclelland, Jeffrey D. Meddings, Lindsay Moore, Rodney L. Opell II, Ariel M. Patrick, Bethel D. Perry, Jeremy K. Phillips, Victoria L. Purinton Zachary K. Rankin, Michael D. Reed, Corey M. Vasvary, Adam T. Wellman.

From Flatwoods: Thomas F. Adams, Brandyn M. Anderson, Travis A. Bailey, Christina L. Blackaby, Micah G. Bowling, Andrew B. Braden, Erica M. Browning, Christopher L. Brumfield, David E. Conley, Alvin B. Cordle, Jordan M. Daniels, Lauren A. Dawson, Jason T. Freiberger, Zachary T. Hall, Joseph M. Jenkins, Anna B. Jones, Granville R. Litteral, Elizabeth L. Miller, Tammy Montgomery, Audrea D. Nowlin, Mariah S. Scott, Joseph L. Sizemore, James D. Slone, Krista N. Smith, Kyle L. Smith, Tonya L. Smith, Cody A. Stevens, Matthew A. Thompson, Megan Vacanti, Chasidy D. Watkins, Samuel A. Watkins, Katie D. Workman.

From Grayson: James N. Berry, Jayson L. Burton, Jeanne Cartwright, Tyler J. Clay, Derek S. Conley, Aaron L. Crank, Dalton K. Evans, Derek C. Flannery, Ashley N. Gollihue, David S. Harlow, Dena K. Harris, Ethan M. Hartsell, Daniel P. Hensley, Tiffani B. Hensley, Christopher K. Justice, Stephanie F. Kouns, Anna D. Lowe, Justin M. Lycans, Staci R. McDavid, Jennifer L. Mcglone, Miranda K. Mcgranahan, Timothy T. Messer, Joyleana S. Miller, Mary J. Miller, Miranda J. Mullins, Cristy D. Parsons, Ashton L. Riggs, Nicholas R. Russell, Courtney R. Shepherd, Mary L. Skaggs, Jetta N. Slone, Jeffery D. Stinnett, Lindsay E. Thompson, Timothy B. Tolliver, Laura E. Walker, Samantha D. Yates.

From Greenup: Jason A. Blevins, Carrie A. Brinegar, Jesse W. Cantrell, Cody J. Carter, Cassandra A. Fannin, Adam R. Foster, Alexander J. Mccoy, Bobby C. Mccoy, Melissa A. Miller, Lauren P. Quillen, Angela E. Reyna, Anthony W. Rhoden, James A. Robinson, Andrew W. Swayne, Donna Waggoner, Joseph L. Willis.

From Louisa: Jaime N. Bush, Fannie C. Cantrell, Shane R. Chaffin, Jessica C. Cordle, Donald K. Dixon, Sydney R. Evans, Jessica N. Fannin, Brittany N. Hall, Margaret A. Hall, Justin T. Harper, Kathy L. Harper, Autumn B. Hayes, Treena J. Hogan, Brooke A. Keesee, Jordan K. Lemaster, Aaron S. May, Katlyn M. Moore, Nancy P. Moore, Richard W. Moore, India D. O'brian, Michael A. Parker, Deborah L. Pauley, Benjamin S. Preston, Ashley B. Sartin, Crystal N. Spillman, Derek R. Spillman, Jeffrey A. Spillman, Walter K. Vanhoose, Stephanie N. Workman, Michele N. York.

From Olive Hill: Albert M. Alderson, Julie A. Bailey, Laura B. Barker,Samantha L. Carey, Racheal M. Carroll, Justin M. Caudill, Jay B. James, Anita L. Jones, Jeremiah D. Lewis, Timothy B. Lewis, Samuel H. Lowe, Norah E. McGlone, Samantha M. Rayburn, Vickie C. Rivers, Garry L. Steele, Donald R. Williams.

From Raceland: Terry L. Bailey, Jeffrey L. Bonzo, Autumn B. Fitch, Joseph W. Marcum Joshua M. Quillen, Angela K. Rigsby, Stephanie L. Wilson.

From Rush: Trina Burton, Amber N. Deerfield, Kristin R. Hall, Melissa S. Leake, David A. LeBrun, Amanda Quillen, Morgan B. Riffe, Owen J. Smith, Trisha S. Smith, Alisa D. Thompson.

From Russell: April N. Adkins, Skye E. Lynch, Shane A. McPeek, Jesse W. Rucker, Courtney N. Sloas, Haleigh M. Stevens, Kathryn P. Wollenhaupt.

From Sandy Hook: Chasity K. Pennington, Lori D. Porter,William E. Reed.

From South Shore: Stephanie R. Bear, Brandon M. Caudill, Eva M. Cooper, Gaylord Cooper, Sarah L. Cooper, Chelsea D. Hale, Daniel R. Leport, Ronnie J. Liles, Kyle L. Murray, Brittany M. Royster, Rachel A. Seelhorst, Brittany D. Wilburn.

From Webbville: Karen J. Fraley, Jason M. Sexton.

From Worthington: Charis M. Artist, Joshua R. Coffee, Brian P. Nolan.

From Wurtland: Jeffrey B. Duty, Tonya R. Salyers, Jeremy R. Williams.

Also from Kentucky: Candy L. Coomer, Denton; Natasha M. Culver, Worthville; Christopher W. Endicott, Inez; Jordan Q. Fannin, Isonville; Benjamin M. Gibson,Salyersville; Robert E. Johnson, Hazard; Kyle W. Ledford, Morehead; Mitchell R. McCoy, Ulysses; Kayla A. McKinney, Blaine; Jesse D. Morgan, Vanceburg; Emily A. Mullins, Louisville; Jarrett Z. Noble, Garrison;Dylan J. Sharpe, Allen; Charleea M. Sparks, Beauty.

Ohio Students

From Chesapeake: Clinton E. Baise, Shawn A. Hicks, Kayla N. Lucas, Ryan J. Williams.

From Ironton: Jonathan A. Brammer, William D. Bryant, Ashley Gannon, Carlos T. Orengo, Marcus D. Turner.

From Kitts Hill: Justin T. Bustetter, William J. Mays, Matthew D. Smith, Dallas M. Tibbs.

From Portsmouth: Joshua D. Biggs, Gregory S. Tackett.

From Proctorville: Brandon M. Black, Amber L. Triplett

From South Point: Zachariah N. Dickerson, Heather L. Ferguson, Christopher D. Foltz, Bethany C. Purdee, Kayla M. Skeens.

Also from Ohio: Thomas P. Baldwin, Willow Wood; Travis D. Pertuset, Lucasville; Lindsey C. Webb, Pedro.

West Virginia Students

From Barboursville: Rebecca L. Catalogna, Mark Stephens.

From Fort Gay: Angela S. Copley, Terry J. Moore.

From Huntington: Gregory E. Evans, Andrew M. Lucas, Christopher F. Mullen, Sean W. Porter.

From Kenova: Bethany G. Akers, Justin L. Booth, Lenville C. Farley, Dennie J. Ferguson, Jillian M. Pulley, Jessica L. Ross, Sara H. Shertzer, Katherine E. Tanner, Joyce D. Terry.

From Lavalette: Daniel R. Adkins, David A. Blankenship.

From Wayne: Johrden E. Adkins, Tonia J. Hearon, Lucinda J. Staley, Douglas S. Stephens.

Also from WV: Joshua D. Bryant, East Lynn; Nicholas A. Porter, West Hamlin; Garron A. Ross, Hurricane; Jennifer A. Swinford, Ceredo; Gary B. Thacker, Prichard.

Super Sunday College Fair February 12

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:52:00 -0500

A “Super Sunday” college fair on Sunday, Feb. 12, at 3:00 p.m. at Christ Temple Church in Ashland is free and open to area residents.

This is the second year that all colleges in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) are offering a Super Sunday event. The event is a partnership with African-American churches that is designed to reach out to parents and students to promote higher education. The purpose is to increase the college-going rate of African-American students.

ACTC representatives will share information about the college planning process, admissions, degree programs, financial aid, scholarships, university transfer and college life. For details, contact the ACTC Director of Cultural Diversity, 606-326-2422.

Black History Month Gospel Night is February 16

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:48:00 -0500

Gospel Night will be held Thursday, Feb. 16, at 7:00 p.m. at the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center in downtown Ashland.

The sound and spirit of gospel music has become a profound force in American culture, and Gospel Night is a way for those voices from the past to be heard and passed on to the future. The tentative lineup of Gospel Night choirs includes the Antioch Male Chorus from Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Huntington, Christ Temple Choir from Ashland and Kings Way Church from Ashland.

The free program and reception are open to the public. Gospel Night is a community Black History Month program cosponsored by ACTC and area organizations and residents. For more information, contact the Museum, 606-329-8888.

ACTC Children's Theatre Presents "Cinderella"

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:44:00 -0500

Ashland Community and Technical College will present the Children’s Theatre production of Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella February 17 to 19 in the J. B. Sowards Theater at the College Drive Campus.

From the original 1957 television presentation starring Julie Andrews to the 1965 remake starring Lesley Ann Warren to the 1997 remake starring Brandy, the musical has charmed young and old alike. This “Getting to Know” (G2K) version, adapted by the Rogers and Hammerstein Theatre library for youthful performers, has all the familiar songs and characters of the original.

The cast of 30 third to ninth grade students includes Sadie Morris,a ninth grader at Boyd County High School, as Cinderella; Molly Baldock, a seventh grader at Verity Middle School, as the Godmother; and Emma Imes, a ninth grader at Russell High School as the Stepmother.

Portraying the stepsisters are Julianna Rice, an eighth grader at Boyd County Middle School, and Karenanne Flouhouse, a ninth grader at Cabell Midland High School. Baron Hankins, an eighth grader at Holy Family School is the prince; Andrew Hall, a ninth grader at Boyd County High School is the King; and Peri Law, a ninth grader at Greenup County High School, is the Queen.

Karen J. Curnutte, ACTC musical theatre director, is the director and Max Jackson, ACTC Professor Emeritus of Music, is the musical accompanist. Paula Krepsik is the costume designer and coordinator, and Lynette Muncy is the choreographer. Edward Figgins, ACTC Associate Professor/Director of Theatre, is the producer.

Performances are February 17 and 18 at 8 p.m. and February 19 at 2:30 p.m. in the J. B. Sowards Theatre at the College Drive Campus. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students, seniors and groups of ten or more. Tickets can be reserved with a major credit card through the Bookstore, 606-326-2014. Unreserved tickets will be available at the door for each performance, for cash or check payment only.

Matinee performances for area school children will be held February 15 to 17 at noon. For matinee information, contact Theatre Director Edward Figgins at 606-326-2073 or email: edward.figgins@kctcs.edu.

Planning to Get a Bachelors Degree?

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:54:00 -0500

The ACTC Academic Advising Center has arranged visits to regional colleges and universities. At each school, you'll have the opportunity to see the campus, find out more about the programs they offer and see which of your classes will transfer. Whether you're planning to get a bachelors degree or just thinking about it, you'll want to join us. Register now, places are limited.

ACTC Honors Hall of Fame Alumnus

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:13:00 -0500

Ashland Community and Technical College is proud to honor Mrs. Zita Eley as the newest member of the Super Sunday Hall of Fame.

Super Sunday is an annual Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) statewide initiative intended to increase the college-going rate of students of color. As part of this initiative, a Super Sunday Hall of Fame has been established, highlighting outstanding African-American alumni.

Zita Eley, RN, BSN, WOCN, graduated from ACC, a predecessor of ACTC, with an Associate Degree in Nursing. She went on to Ohio University Southern for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. She is certified in wound care by the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN®).

A lifelong Ashland, KY resident, Eley has worked for over 20 years at the VA Medical Center in Huntington, WV, where she is currently Wound Care Coordinator. She is a member of the National WOCN Society and is active in Christ Temple Church in Ashland.

She is an advocate of higher education and encourages young people to make the most of their educational opportunities.

ACTC is partnering with Christ Temple Church, 2601 Lexington Ave., to present a Super Sunday information fair at 3:00 p.m. on February 12. The fair is free and open to any area residents who want to learn more about ACTC programs, admissions, financial aid and student services.

For more about Super Sunday, visit kctcs.edu .

Free Frederick Douglass Program

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:09:00 -0500

A free program on “The Spirit of Frederick Douglass” will be held Wednesday, Feb. 8, at 12 noon in the J. B. Sowards Theatre on ACTC’s College Drive Campus.

Frederick Douglass was a former slave who became one of the great American anti-slavery leaders of the 1800s.

Self-taught, Douglass gained fame as a speaker and writer, began his own anti-slavery publications and became a 'conductor' on the Underground Railroad. In later years, he became a personal friend of Abraham Lincoln and helped persuade Lincoln to issue the Emancipation Proclamation.

Known as the Lion of Washington, Douglass is often described as the founder of the American civil rights movement. He also was a strong supporter of women's rights. He believed that “what is possible for me is possible for you” and believed in the power of words to bring about positive change in individuals and society.

Presenter Michael E. Crutcher, Sr. is an actor and scholar. A retiree from the US Army and former assistant professor at University of Kentucky’s Lexington Community College, he has been in several television commercials, training videos and movies.

His interest in Frederick Douglass began when research into his family tree found connections between his family and the Douglass family. In his presentation, Crutcher demonstrates Douglass’ devotion to the principles of freedom, equality, religion and self-esteem.

For more information, contact Al Baker, ACTC Director of Cultural Diversity, 606-326-2422.