MCC Spirit – A Message from our president
As we started our new academic year here at MCC I encouraged our faculty and staff to always take the time to capture the moments around them We went into our new year with intentionality We would look for the good around us and make a difference where we can From my experience here at the college, I knew this would not be a hard task for our folks In good and challenging times, they seem to always step up and lean in I’ve come to think of it as the MCC Spirit
Let’s fast forward to Thursday, September 26 At 11:10 pm on that day, Hurricane Helene made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida Over the next couple of days, the storm would bring devastation to states in its path W N h C
h h d d tremendous losses were suffered on that day As I watched the scenes unfold hoping they would be wrapped in comfort during this most difficult time Wh helicopter pilots, Sean-Michael Horn, and Anthony Velazquez, along with flig hardest hit areas to provide rotary wing support The team left with a few hou began flying small helicopters into affected areas to quickly bring relief to tho providing food, water, oxygen, and insulin They were also involved with the e team that helped deliver over 40,000 pounds of supplies to affected areas reach stranded people on the sides of mountains where roads were complete
Here in western Kentucky, we have experienced what it is like to learn in a single night that friends, loved ones, property, and entire communities have been lost because of natural disasters We also learned that amongst the sadness and destruction, there are good people everywhere who want to help bring comfort and relief I am proud to know that like those who came to bring aid to our home county, our pilots and our student gave their time to go to North Carolina and be the helpers They willingly went into an area of devastation to help others find some comfort and relief
As I look around, I see good every day, but today I want to capture the moment A moment in which three people from an aviation program, in a small college, in a small town in western Kentucky, flew into an unknown situation because they knew that others needed help Sean-Michael, Anthony, and Matt, thank you for your service and for making a difference
The MCC Spirit shines on
Dr Cynthia S Kelley
Welcome Week – Student Life Events Kick off Fall 2024
The college is thrilled to anticipate an increase in enrollment for the fall 2024 semester, bringing more activity to campus In August, several student life events successfully welcomed new students, helping them connect with both the college and the community Highlights included Orientation sessions on the north and Muhlenberg campuses, Welcome Week, Donuts and Directions, games and a food truck in the quad, Back-to-School Bingo, and Spirit Day
Lowe’s Gable Grant – One Year Later Careers in Construction Month
October is Careers in Construction Month, and the college is excited to share progress with updating technical programming
Nearly one year after receiving a Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grant, MCC has made significant investments in technical labs and equipment on campus to improve student learning The college was in the initial cohort of recipients, receiving $450,000 to implement a curriculum lattice program integrating elements of the HVAC and electrical programs
A credential lattice is created when students can complete coursework in such a way that they earn credentials from multiple related disciplines In this project, students can complete associate degrees in both electrical technology and HVAC in 5 or 6 semesters, as opposed to 8, accelerating their entrance into the workforce The program also potentially accelerates their progress toward state licensure in the field, as two years of educational experience can be used instead of required employment in the field under the supervision of an individual who holds a master's license
2024-2025 Student Government Association leadership
The college is excited to welcome our new slate of Student Government Association (SGA) leaders for the 2024-2025 academic year SGA promotes student engagement on campus with fun activities and cocurricular learning opportunities Throughout the year, SGA does community service projects, with volunteers from the student body, to help those in need on campus and in our community Our SGA President, Abby Sweeney, will serve during the year on the college’s Board of Directors as the student representative
Labor market information and economic development studies indicate these career fields expect to see increased growth and opportunity in the coming years
The Lowe’s Foundation's investment in skilled trades training infrastructure through the Gable Grants program totaled nearly $8,000,000 nationwide To support workforce development, the Lowe’s Foundation is committing $50 million to prepare 50,000 people for skilled trades careers over the next 5 years through its Gable Grants program
Leaders of Promise
ected as a 2024 Coca-Cola Military Leaders of Promise 000 scholarship Givens is an Integrated Nursing major He will esident/North Campus for the 2024-2025 academic year He National Guard veteran, serving as a military photographer and ng at MCC, Josh was an award-winning newspaper journalist olunteers with several nonprofit boards promoting the of Muhlenberg County Josh resides in Central City with his
olarship, sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, nually – 25 earmarked for Society members who are active U S Military – for awards totaling $200,000 Scholars are ng academic achievement and demonstrated leadership s were selected by a panel of independent judges from nearly
w Phi Theta Kappa members in obtaining associate degrees and Promise Scholarship is more relevant than ever as colleges and ntial, an associate degree, or a certificate among college
EngageKY Grant Awarded to Promote Community Volunteerism
MCC has received a grant of over $15,000 through the EngageKY+ program to enhance student volunteerism opportunities This funding will support a new community initiative led by student affairs and strengthen existing programs, including the GLAD Summer Camp and the Male Mentoring Program The college aims to gather valuable data to better understand the needs of student volunteers, ultimately enhancing support for the surrounding communities
"We are thrilled to be awarded the EngageKY grant," said Dr Cindy Kelley, president of Madisonville Community College "Our commitment is to provide opportunities for students to volunteer in our support programs, helping both current and future students achieve their educational goals "
The EngageKY+ grant, sponsored by the Kentucky Campus Compact with funding from the AmeriCorps Volunteer Generation Fund, aims to increase the capacity of Kentucky secondary and postsecondary institutions and their community partners to implement effective volunteer management practices The program seeks to reduce barriers to volunteering, increase participation from underrepresented groups, and strengthen high-impact tutoring, mentoring, and other educational programs
Kentucky Campus Compact is a membership organization of Kentucky colleges and universities dedicated to supporting, promoting, and sourcing resources for community and civic engagement within Kentucky higher education
MCC Financial Aid Staff Overcomes Issues with FAFSA
Over the past year, the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) has made strides to simplify the financial aid process, but it has not been without challenges While the form has been streamlined, reducing the number of questions from 108 to just over 40, technical issues and delays in updates have caused frustration for many applicants Additionally, changes in the timeline have led to some confusion While the earlier availability of the FAFSA was meant to give students more time to plan, some delays in processing have slowed financial aid notifications, leaving students unsure of their aid status
At MCC, the Financial Aid Office, under the direction of Karen Miller, has worked tirelessly to communicate with our students and applicants during the process MCC financial aid counselors work with students at every step of the process and do their best to allay any family concerns
At any time, a student can walk into the Financial Aid office to get help or advice This one-on-one advising approach, aligned with timely updates, ensures that students stay informed and receive the aid they deserve
Jenny Bloom, National Advising Expert, Presents at College Kickoff
At the college’s annual fall 2024 faculty and staff kickoff, national appreciative advising expert and leader Jenny Bloom presented some key strategies to the college to build connections with students and to provide the support they need to be successful Dr Bloom is a co-founder of the Appreciative Advising and Appreciative Education movements She established the annual Appreciative Advising Summer Institute, the Appreciative Education Conference, an online Appreciative Advising course, the process for Certifying Appreciative Advisers, and other exciting initiatives related to Appreciative Advising and Appreciative Education
Appreciative advising is an educational framework and advising model that uses the principles of Appreciative Inquiry to help students realize their strengths and achieve their academic and personal goals It is a student-centered approach that emphasizes building strong relationships between advisors and students, encouraging positive interactions, and fostering a supportive environment for growth
In Appreciative Education, colleges emphasize that everything centers on the STUDENT If we aren't making decisions that prioritize the wellbeing of our students, then what is our purpose? Fostering campus environments where everyone students, faculty, staff, administrators, and stakeholders can harness their strengths and perform at their best is the goal
Student Spotlight – Jedidiah Plunkett
Jedidiah Plunkett, a 42-year-old student at Madisonville Community College, embodies resilience and transformation His journey to higher education was anything but typical After serving a five-year felony sentence, Jedidiah was determined to turn his life around for the sake of his son and himself
Upon his release in 2012, Jedidiah started from scratch with minimumwage jobs, eventually earning positions of trust and responsibility In 2020, he returned to school, balancing a full-time job, raising his son, and welcoming a new baby girl He graduated in December 2023 with a 4 0 GPA, crediting supportive advisors Lindsey Abel and Temesia Perdue and a memorable study abroad trip to Italy and Greece
In 2022, he successfully expunged his criminal record, regaining his rights as a citizen Looking ahead, Jedidiah plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in wildlife conservation, driven by his love for nature and the outdoors He also hopes to inspire others by speaking to inmates about his journey, showing that life goes on after a criminal record "If it helps only one person to see that there is hope, then it will be completely worth it," he says
Jedidiah's story is a testament to determination, hard work, and community support, with Madisonville Community College playing a key role in his transformation and promising future
Faculty Spotlight – Brooke Archila
Brooke Archila is the Honors Program Coordinator and a Professor of English at Madisonville Community College She has a Master of Arts in English and Literature from Murray State University In addition to her work at the college, she is also active in her community through various organizations, especially Business and Professional Women (BPW) and Friends of the Library She is a two-time recipient of the Frymire Award for Teaching Excellence at Madisonville Community College She loves spending time with her husband, their daughter, and their four rescued cats
1. Where are you from originally and where did you attend college? I'm originally from Central City in Muhlenberg County I received my Associate of Arts from Madisonville Community College and my Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts from Murray State University
2. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I went back and forth between veterinarian and teacher, but I consistently came back to teacher because I loved helping others. Volunteering as a tutor while I was a student solidified my passion to become a teacher
3. Who has been a major influence in your life?
My family has been and continues to be my biggest supporters and cheerleaders My parents encouraged me to be strong and independent and gave me the foundation to pursue my goals They did not get the opportunity to attend college, so I am proud to be a first-generation graduate My husband and my daughter keep me motivated to be the best version of myself
4. What hobbies do you pursue?
I'm an avid reader In my spare time, I'm reading books or listening to books My favorite genre is fantasy
5. If you were stranded on a deserted island, what one band or musician would help keep your sanity?
I would listen to Broadway Musicals a compilation of some of the best (Les Miserables, Hamilton, Wicked) would be my choice
6. If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I have to go with potatoes There's just so much you can do with potatoes!
7. If you could have dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be?
I would have dinner with my grandmother She passed away when I was 16 She was my mentor, and I miss her wisdom and adventurous spirit
8. What do you love about Madisonville Community College?
From the moment I walked into MCC as a nervous, anxious, and shy 18-year-old student to sign up for college classes, I was welcomed with smiles and friendly greetings I felt like I belonged That sense of community and belonging is what led me to come back to MCC to work and what drives me to help my students feel that same sense of belonging
MCC Recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month
Each September the college celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with presentations that highlight the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 This year ’ s presentation featured Patricia Fouse, a member of the mathematics faculty, who talked about the history and cultural significance of La Cumbia, a captivating Latin American dance with roots in Colombia Attendees participated in the dances and savored delicious Hispanic cuisine
MCC Revives Computerized Manufacturing and Machining Program
Looking to address a growing technical workforce need, MCC has relaunched its Computerized Manufacturing and Machining (CMM) program in response to the increasing demand for skilled labor in the region’s manufacturing sector According to the Kentucky Center for Statistics, the state's manufacturing sector employs over 250,000 workers, accounting for roughly 13% of total employment Specifically, the need for computer numerical controll (CNC) machinists, toolmakers, and operators continues to grow, with job growth projected at nearly 5% over the next decade Median wages for CNC machinists in Kentucky are approximately $50,000 annually, making the field an attractive option for those seeking high-paying, skilled employment without a four-year degree
The relaunch of the CMM program comes at a critical time As manufacturing technologies advance, Kentucky employers are seeking workers with specialized skills in areas such as precision machining, CNC programming, and automated production processes The program, designed to equip students with hands-on training in these advanced techniques, is expected to help bridge the gap between workforce demand and supply With a curriculum that blends classroom learning and practical experience, the college hopes to produce graduates ready to step into roles in Kentucky's thriving manufacturing industry, helping the state maintain its position as a leader in the region’s industrial economy
MCC and MSU launch electromechanical engineering program
Madisonville Community College is teaming up with Murray State University for a transfer agreement in the Electromechanical Engineering Technology program
The new 2+2 agreement will provide students with an Associate of Applied Science in Advanced Integrated Technology degree at MC a seamless transfer process into Murray State’s Bachelor of Scienc in Electromechanical Engineering Technology program The progr will be offered at Murray State University’s Madisonville Regional Campus beginning this semester
The agreement will allow graduates of the Associate of Applied Science in AIT to complete years three and four of the Murray Sta EMT degree in Madisonville’s flexible laboratory and will set studen up for high-wage careers in manufacturing and other key industrie
"Our partnership with Murray State and their Electromechanical Engineering Technology program not only enhances pathways for our students but also strengthens our region's economic development Our graduates will be well-equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in high-demand engineering roles, benefiting both the students and the local industry " , said Dr Cindy Kelley
Glema Center Opens Strong 2024-25 Season Under New Leadership
As a thrilling new season began, the Glema Mahr Center for the Arts announced exciting developments to its staff!
Toby Roberts took the stage as Director of Programs for the first time at the 2024-25 Season opener on August 23 after officially stepping into the role in July Although new to this title, Toby is well known to patrons due to his previous seven years in the box office, serving as Assistant Director of the center for part of that time
A Hopkins County native, Toby gained 15 years of Arts Administration experience in Louisville at the Kentucky Center for the Arts While there, he coordinated the nationally awardwinning Access Services department at the Kentucky Center, providing services for patrons with disabilities Before his career in the arts, he operated family businesses in the private sector in Hopkins County and Evansville, Indiana He earned a Bachelor of Music Education (Voice) at Murray State University and has been active in musical organizations throughout the region “I’m so happy for the opportunity to bring my experience in Arts Administration back to my hometown where I can be a part of the Glema Center’s history and continue the programming that Hopkins County has come to expect,” he said
Dawn Connerley joined the Glema Center team as Technical and Operations Coordinator in August, bringing with her more than 20 years of experience in tech i l di ti O i i ll f South Carolina, Dawn moved undergraduate degree to wor Lexington Children’s Theatre designed countless props, eve Director
Dawn worked at Berea Colleg graduate school at the Univer Hill, where she earned her M Direction Upon graduation, s Director for the Woodford Th she served for nine seasons A
Vicki Grimm joined the Glema Center team as Box Office Coordinator this summer Vicki has served the local community for more than 45 years, and she brings to the office her passion for caring for people and enriching the lives of those around her
Brad Downall is acting as Staff Advisor of the Glema Center Brad came to the center as its first Technical Director in 1991, then served as Executive Director from 1999 until his retirement in 2023 After a brief hiatus, Brad returned as Interim Director from February to July of this year
Even staff members without title changes have new opportunities, including Misti Hodges and Liz Schweizer Misti serves as hospitality manager and volunteer coordinator, while Liz focuses primarily on publicity and community engagement for the center The Glema Center’s 2024-25 Season lineup is poised to build on the momentum of recent years, and variety is key Since August, Glema Center audiences have reminisced with “TV Classics” performed by the Owensboro Symphony; focused on the meticulous musicianship of violinist Eunice Kim and pianist Xiaohui Yang; listened intently to pieces of the history of music in America and the melodies to accompany them as presented by “The American Songster” Dom Flemons; and laughed, clapped, and sung along with Larry, Steve, and Rudy – The Gatlin Brothers
And the season is just getting started! With multiple f till t i ch of the Glema’s seven distinct the community to enjoy View
Glema Mahr Center for the arts – upcoming shows
Jason Vieaux, guitar – Chamber Music Series
Monday, October 14, 2024, 7 P M
Iam Tongi – Center Stage Series
Saturday, October 19, 2024, 7 P M
Annie – A Hopkins County Schools Joint High School Production - Proud Partnership Series
Friday, November 15, 2024, 7 P M
Saturday, November 16, 2024, 2 & 7 P M
Small Time Napoleon – Coffeehouse Series
Friday, November 22, 2024, 7 P M
The Children’s Nutcracker presented by The Children’s Center for Dance Education – Family Series
Thursday, December 5, 2024, 6:30 P M
The MCC Singers Community Christmas – Special Event
Friday, December 13, 2024, 7 P M
Monte Skelton & Friends – Coffeehouse Series
Saturday, January 25, 2025, 7 P M
7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience – Center Stage Series
Saturday, February 1, 2025, 7 P M
Blithe Spirit by Noel Coward – Community Dinner Theatre
February 14, 15, & 16, 2025
Wynona Wang, piano – Chamber Music Series
Friday, February 21, 2025, 7 P M
Sons of Mystro – Center Stage Series
Thursday, February 27, 2025, 7 P M
Disney’s The Little Mermaid – A Hopkins County Schools Joint High School Production – Proud Partnership Series
Friday, March 21, 2025, 7 P M
Saturday, March 22, 2025, 2 & 7 P M
The Third Wheels – Coffeehouse Series
Saturday, March 29, 2025, 7 P M
Eykamp String Quartet – Chamber Music Series
Saturday, April 12, 2025, 7 P M
iLuminate – Family Series
Tuesday, April 15, 2025, 6:30 P M
Ozark Mountain Daredevils– Center Stage Series
Friday, April 25, 2025, 7 P M
The MCC Singers & MNHHS Choir present The Rutter Requiem – Special Event Friday, May 2, 2025, 7 P M
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music – Community Theatre
Friday, July 11 & Saturday, July 12, 2025, 7 P M
Sunday, July 13, 2025, 2 P M
Anne P. Baker Art Gallery – upcoming Exhibitions
Clothed in Beauty: The Art of Melanie Hofmann & Dawn Moore
September 28 – November 16, 2024
Glisten, Glitter, & Glow
December 2 – December 19, 2024
Reception: December 13, 2024, following MCC Singers Community Christmas Concert
Risk: The Art of David Gilkey, Jade Neihaus, & Julie Oakley
January 12 – February 21, 2025
Reception: January 12, 2025, 2:00-3:30 p m
Hopkins County Student Art Exhibit
March 3 – March 29, 2025
Gallery Preview Night: March 3, 2025, 4:30-6:30 p m
Carryin’ on the Tradition XIII: Traditional Quilts by the Piecemakers Quilt Club of Hopkins County
April 13 – July 15, 2025
Reception: April 13, 2025, 2:00-3:30 p m