Gavin Posey
  • Associate in Arts
  • Class of 2020
  • Paducah, KY

Gavin Posey of Paducah Named WKCTC's Student of the Year.

2018 Jan 2

Paducah's Gavin Posey has been named West Kentucky Community and Technical College's 2017 Student of the Year, college officials announced today.

"I'm proud to represent myself, my family, my school, and my community as the 2017 WKCTC Student of the Year, said 20-year old Posey, a 2016 McCracken County High School graduate and Community Scholarship recipient at WKCTC. "This recognition wouldn't be possible without the support and guidance of those around me. My hope is that I can continue to be an example to others as time goes on."

Posey was one of five previous Student of the Month winners nominated for the award. Student of the Month winners were selected between February and November 2017 with Posey winning in November.

"Looking at the previous Student of the Month and Student of the Year winners, it is evident we have ongoing success stories here at WKCTC," Posey said. "I'll enjoy my recognition as Student of the Year of 2017, and look forward to seeing our student leaders of the future."

Selection of the Student of the Year is based on continuous academic performance, active participation in various student organizational activities and community service, while exhibiting a positive and encouraging attitude. Students had to maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.7 or higher and must have held and been successful in a significant leadership role on campus or within the community.

Posey serves as the Student Government Association (SGA) president, vice president of Phi Theta Kappa-Iota Eta Chapter and vice president of the film club. A student ambassador, he is also a graduate of the Paducah Youth L.E.A.D. program. He is also one of two students elected by their SGA peers to serve on the Kentucky Community and Technical College System's (KCTCS) Board of Regents, representing over 80,000 students across the state. Posey and Gateway Community and Technical College's student Ric Smith are currently serving a one-year terms on the board and as student body co-presidents through August 2018.

"Gavin is one of the most responsible and patient students I have met in my 11 years of higher education service," said Amy Elmore, WKCTC coordinator of student development and activities. "He works hard at everything he does...and is truly a remarkable young man. Gavin is going to achieve great success in life and I believe he is more than deserving of the honor of Student of the Year."

During WKCTC's December 11 commencement, Posey got the chance to share how the college's SGA represents the student body of WKCTC and advocates for student success. Posey said getting involved on campus is important and invited anyone in the audience who would like to attend WKCTC to come talk to him personally.

"I can testify getting involved in extracurricular activities has been one of the best decisions I've made since beginning my higher education at WKCTC," Posey said. "As President of the SGA, I've noticed one of the hardest things for students to do is to take that first step: whether in the classroom or in extracurricular activities. I'd like to say to any potential students in the audience to keep in mind the opportunities you have at hand by attending WKCTC."

Pursuing both an associate in science and an associate in arts degree at WKCTC, Posey expects to graduate in May 2018. He plans to continue his education majoring in either community and leadership development or organizational communications.

"I will miss being a part of WKCTC after I complete my associate degrees. However, I know the future is in good hands. Maybe one day you'll see me back here at WKCTC as an employee," he said.

As Student of the Year, Posey received $200 and an award of excellence.