WKCTC Faculty and Staff Honored at Annual Awards and Retirement Reception

by Justin Jones

Paducah, KY (04/29/2025) — Celebrating excellence in education, commitment, and outstanding contributions to the college and students, several West Kentucky Community and Technical College faculty and staff were honored during the annual Awards and Retirement Reception held last week in the college's Student Center.

Among those recognized for retirement were Tracy McDanel and Nichole Toon, whose combined years of service contributed significantly to WKCTC's growth. Their legacy, college officials said, will have a lasting impact on the WKCTC community.

"Over my 20 years at WKCTC in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program, I have been blessed with the absolute best family and coworkers", said Toon. "Without their support, I wouldn't have made it to where I am today. I am proud to have witnessed the transformation of over 200 sonographers, from the first day they stepped into the lab, until the day they stood on the graduation stage and accepted their degree. I know that through their skill and commitment to excellent patient care, our area communities and beyond have been positively impacted."

"I have enjoyed touching the lives of all the students I have come in contact with over the past 25 years", McDanel explained. "We have a wonderful program and college. I do look forward to the next chapter in my life."

The college also presented the WKCTC Award of Excellence in several categories, honoring employees selected by their peers for exceptional service and diligence.

Tracy McDanel received the 2025 Faculty Award of Excellence for her work behind the scenes to ensure program success, and for mentoring both students and colleagues.

Mary Beth Head was presented with the Administrative Staff Award of Excellence. A 12-year veteran of WKCTC, Head was honored for her expertise in event planning and her critical role on the college's marketing team.

Karen Lindsey was presented with the Support Staff Award of Excellence for her attention to detail, collaborative spirit and campus-wide support.

Jenny Asher, a nursing professional at Baptist Health Paducah, received the Adjunct Faculty Award of Excellence for her commitment to student success while balancing full-time healthcare work.

Gary Goodaker was awarded the prestigious Finis Sargent Phelps and Florence Grubbs Phelps Award for Excellence in Teaching. A professor of mathematics for 28 years, Goodaker is known for his clear, step-by-step instruction and strong student outreach.

Scott Hofer received the Paducah Junior College Board of Trustees Award for Excellence in Teaching, which honors tenacity and perseverance to technical education. Hofer is recognized in the community for his hands-on teaching approach and student support.

The Kentucky Community and Technical College System Faculty Excellence Award was given to Britton Shurley, Dean of Arts & Sciences and Professor of English.

The KCTCS Staff of the Year Award was given to Jessica West, Manager of Business Services.

WKCTC President Anton Reece commended all honorees for their dedication.

"Each of these individuals has made a meaningful impact on our college and our students," Reece said. "Their contributions continue to strengthen our mission and the WKCTC community."

Media Attachments