Greenup County Area Technology Center’s Cheryl Wellman awarded ACTC Pathfinder of the Year Award
Published on May 5, 2026
Ashland Community and Technical College (ACTC) is proud to announce this year’s ACTC Pathfinder of the Year award winner is Cheryl Wellman, business instructor at Greenup County Area Technology Center.
The Pathfinder Award celebrates local high school teachers or counselors who support ACTC, assists students with identifying post-secondary pathways, and provides mentorship to their students.
“Receiving the ACTC Pathfinder Award is a tremendous honor, and I am truly humbled to be nominated,” Wellman said. “Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of partnering with ACTC to connect my students with opportunities that help jumpstart their postsecondary education, which is an experience that makes my work incredibly rewarding.”
Wellman has taught Administrative Support and Business/Entrepreneurship courses at Greenup County ATC for over twenty years.
“Mrs. Wellman intentionally and relentlessly invests in her students every period of every day,” says Stacey Thompson, principal at Greenup County ATC. “She is an expert in her field, builds strong, meaningful relationships with our students, and equips them with certifications and college credit making them life ready.
She added, “Mrs. Wellman's work is not confined to the classroom as she leads our FBLA with passion and purpose allowing our young people opportunities to compete and lead across Kentucky. We are truly blessed to have Mrs. Wellman at Greenup ATC. She makes everyone around her better.”
Wellman was one of many nominees for the award, but her recommendation from ACTC Medical Information Technology program coordinator, Janet Thompson, showed just how valuable her relationship is with the college.
“Cheryl’s dedication to student success and career readiness makes her an exceptional candidate for this award, said Thompson. “Through her active leadership on the ACTC MIT program advisory board and her work in dual credit education she consistently connects students with meaningful opportunities and clear pathways to postsecondary success. ACTC is grateful to have so many supportive educational partners and individuals who truly believe in the value of education.”
Vicki McGinnis, who serves as Dual Credit Coordinator at ACTC shared the same sentiments.
“Mrs. Wellman consistently teaches foundational business skills through her courses, then enhances student learning with hands on opportunities to develop leadership and real business experience,” she said. “Often her students earn certifications beyond the minimums required in their course. Mrs. Wellman is a valued member of our adjunct faculty.”
Each of the 16 KCTCS college’s local winners will be considered for a statewide Pathfinder of the Year award.
For more information about the Pathfinder of the Year award, visit https://kctcs.edu/landing/pathfinder-award.aspx
