WKCTC's Mariah Davis of Wingo Named Student of the Month

2018 Feb 6

Wingo resident Mariah Davis has been named February Student of the Month at West Kentucky Community and Technical College.

Having overcome many obstacles in her life, Davis said she is proud to have been selected.

"I'm honored to be where I am now," said the 20- year-old Davis. "I'm honestly excited to be WKCTC's February Student of the Month. It is an honor to represent the best in students around campus."

Davis is the first in her family to go to college. She said despite the tough times, she knew she was destined for a better life. "I always had this sense about me to know that I was meant for greater things and that I was better than all of the hurt that I was constantly surrounded by throughout my crazy life," Davis said. "So despite the many obstacles which are too many to detail, I worked hard in my life... knowing that one day I would be able to reach my goals in some way or another."

A sophomore at WKCTC studying criminal justice, Davis said she realized she could begin achieving her goals when she began attending the college in fall 2016. "WKCTC being affordable was definitely my original reason for coming, but I can say that with the bonds I've formed and the things I've learned, WKCTC will always be one of the foundations for my success."

Serving as the Vice President of Alpha Epsilon Beta (AEB), WKCTC's criminal justice club, Davis also participates in the college's Student Government Association and Film Club organizations.

Davis praised her former third grade teacher, Denna Green, who is still a big part of her life, for being a wonderful role model, and for motivating her to never give up. She also credits WKCTC's AEB advisor Gary Reese for encouraging her to always strive for her best.

In addition to her dedication to success and excellent grades, Reese said Davis' personal attributes may be the most engaging. "She always has a very sweet disposition...," said Reese. "She makes friends easily, always has a pleasant and positive attitude, and she makes all those around her smile."

Set to graduate this May, Davis plans to transfer to Murray State University in fall 2018 to earn a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and broadcasting.To fellow and future WKCTC students, Davis said, "Always work hard and be yourself. Having good people put into your path is only half of the work! You have to also work hard to reach your goals."

The Student of the Month program is designed to recognize the accomplishments of students on campus. Individuals selected must be currently enrolled at WKCTC and have maintained a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher and are nominated on the basis of exceptional performance, personal attributes, academic excellence and active participation in various student organizational activities.

Student of the Month recipients receive $100, a certificate of excellence, recognition on the WKCTC Facebook page, campus announcements and Web site. Recipients are also recognized by Pepsi MidAmerica and receive one free month's supply of their favorite Pepsi product.

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West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) has been recognized as an Aspen Prize Top 10 Community College four times by the Aspen Institute and has twice been named a Finalist with Distinction for providing students with strong job training and continuing higher education opportunity, for achieving high completion and transfer rates, and for providing strong employment results for its graduates. For more information visit, westkentucky.kctcs.edu.