MAHEU ELECTED AS STUDENT GOVERNMENT PRESIDENT AT BSCTC

Taking the plunge and returning to college after 36 years took courage.

But Zane Maheu quickly realized attending Big Sandy Community and Technical College (BSCTC) was the perfect match.

Now, Maheu, 56, hopes to build on his experiences as the president of the colleges Student Government Association (SGA).

Im just excited about what the future holds, said Maheu, a native of Massachusetts. Our school has so much to offer our students as well as the community.

As president of SGA, Maheu will be a student representative to BSCTCs Board of Directors.

I look forward to developing a relationship with the administration of the college and the members of the board to better promote student success, said Maheu.

A second-year student, Maheu is finishing his prerequisites in hopes of being admitted to BSCTCs nursing program. He said the colleges personal approach and small class sizes promote success.

This has been a great experience from day one, he added. The faculty and staff here go above and beyond to make sure we have the tools to be successful.

Maheu is team captain of the colleges academic team, which finished second last year in the Kentucky Collegiate Quick Recall League. The teams coach, Jane Pixley, an instructor of psychology, has been one of Maheus biggest supporters.

Ms. Pixley is so student centered, said Maheu, who is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa and a tutor in the colleges Center for Enrichment Services. I learned quickly her desire to see her students succeed. Shes been by my side, and I am not sure I would be where I am today if it hadnt been for her encouragement.

Being a non-traditional student brings a unique perspective for Maheu. Im not sure I see the world that much more different than our traditional students, he said. I am going to school and following my dreams. I guess the difference is I have a little more life experience, but Im glad Im able to pursue my dream of being a nurse and helping people.