HCTC re-entry program graduation highlights college’s efforts to help people overcome incarceration challenges
The program assists individuals in preparation for careers, leading to positive outcomes in their lives
Hazard Community & Technical College (HCTC) hosted a graduation ceremony on May 30 at its Technical Campus for graduates of its re-entry training program, which provides educational opportunities to incarcerated populations.
HCTC launched its re-entry training program in 2023, recognizing a need for the program. This semester's graduating class, the college's second-ever, includes 11 students, all of whom completed at least one carpentry certificate.
These students are, in alphabetical order by last name and including the certificates they earned:
- David Feltner — basic carpenter and residential site layout assistant;
- Corey Givens — basic carpenter and residential site layout assistant;
- Michael Grigsby — carpenter helper, construction forms helper and residential site layout assistant;
- Charles Hamblin — basic carpenter;
- Johnny Miller — basic carpenter and residential site layout assistant;
- Stephen Miller — carpenter helper, construction forms helper and residential site layout assistant;
- Ronnie Neace — basic carpenter and residential site layout assistant;
- Cody Patton — carpenter helper, construction forms helper and residential site layout assistant;
- Daniel Ramey — basic carpenter and residential site layout assistant;
- Kevin Sellars — basic carpenter; and
- Scott Thompson — carpenter helper, construction forms helper and residential site layout assistant.
"We do this work to help individuals who deserve care and support, recognizing that we can help them get on a path to a better life," Dr. Jennifer Lindon, HCTC president and chief executive officer, said. "So many of our students face challenges, as some are single parents, in recovery, incarcerated — but like our region, they're strong and they persevere."
The college provides various support services to assist students, including general educational development diploma courses for those who did not complete high school, hands-on training in construction and related high-demand job fields and more.
"We know that with the right support and determination, all learners can achieve great things," Dr. Lindon said. "We'll continue serving as an institution that helps our region overcome its challenges, including drug addiction, intergenerational poverty and related issues."
The re-entry program is a collaborative effort between HCTC and multiple partner organizations, including Kentucky River Regional Jail, Perry County Fiscal Court and other agencies.
A gallery of photos from the event are available via the 05.30.2024 Re-entry Training Graduation Flickr album.
