Congratulations Spring 2013 Graduates
Big Sandy Community and Technical College (BSCTC) awarded degrees, diplomas or certificates
to 309 graduates on May 11. There were two commencement programs held at The Mountain
Arts Center in Prestonsburg.
Beginning with the 10:00 a.m. ceremony for the Allied Health Programs and the Dental
Hygiene Program. There were four Nursing Excellence Awards presented to Marsha Kidd,
Kathy Nichols, Santana Thompson, and Jennifer West. The Dental Hygiene awards included
the Colgate STAR Award and the Kentucky Dental Hygiene Award was presented to Michelle
Canterberry. Brandy Parsley and Michelle Canterberry also received the Golden Scaler
Award.
Dr. George D. Edwards, BSCTC president, welcomed the graduates, " Saying you can be
proud of your success." " This year the College is experiencing a unique year in our
history. In 2013, we celebrate 10 years of existence as Big Sandy Community and Technical
College, but we also celebrate the 50th year anniversary of Prestonsburg Community
College and the 75th year anniversary of Mayo Technical College".
Avram McCarty, 2013 graduate and president of Student Government Association, delivered
the student address encouraging the graduates to fulfill their dreams.
Eastern Kentucky native and distinguished BSCTC alumnus Gregory D. Stumbo, and Speaker
for the Kentucky House of Representatives delivered the 2:00p.m. commencement address.
Four individuals were recognized as outstanding alumni for 2013.
Jennifer O'Bryan graduated from Prestonsburg Community College in 1999 and is a valued
member of the profession of dental hygiene. She demonstrates a strong desire to help
her patients achieve better oral care. She is a former adjunct clinical instructor
and advisory board member of the Dental Hygiene Program at Big Sandy Community amp;
Technical College.
Terri Lynn Hall graduated from Prestonsburg Community College in 1983; she went on
to Marshall University to complete her Bachelors of Science in Nursing then to the
University of Kentucky to complete her Masters. She went back to school in 2009 to
receive her Post Graduate as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked for Highlands
Regional Medical Center for nearly 29 years and is currently working for King's Daughter
Medical Center in
Cathy Goble Gullett enrolled at PCC in 1967 and immediately became active in any and
all activities on campus. After graduating from PCC, she transferred to the University
of Kentucky where she received her BA in English with a minor in Sociology. She later
earned a Master's in Education from Morehead State University. Cathy taught school
in the Johnson County School System for 33 years.
Tony Skaggs graduated from Prestonsburg Community College in 1987 and he went on to
get his Bachelor of Science Degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then his Masters
from Morehead State University. He has a genuine compassion for the students of eastern
Kentucky and is a true advocate for education. He has held the role as Principal of
Magoffin County High School for the past 7 years.
Of the 309 graduates there were a total of 773 credentials earned with 88 Associate
in Arts degrees, 55 Associate in Science degrees, 119 Associate in Applied Science
degrees, with 425 certificates and 85 diplomas. A very diverse class representing
this year's graduates.
Professor Toufic Saad was recognized with this year's Great Teacher Award.
Special music was provided by Clayton Case, Chesi Spriggs, and Rachael Hayes of the
Big Sandy Singers.
BSCTC commencement program was held at the Mountain Arts Center on Saturday, May 11,
2013
