HCTC honors Jackson City's Sarah Trent with Pathfinder Award

Published on Apr 24, 2024

Hazard Community & Technical College (HCTC) honored Sarah Trent, college and career navigator at Jackson City School, with the 2023-24 Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS) Pathfinder Award during a ceremony on April 23 at the school.

“As an educator, I tend to operate behind the scenes,” Trent said. “This recognition truly means more than I could express. I show up for my students because I appreciate the opportunity to make a difference in their lives. My students are the reason why I do what I do.”

Trent began working as an educator over two decades ago. She now serves as a college and career navigator with Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) Kentucky, a federal grants-based initiative housed at the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education.

The Pathfinder Award honors one recipient for each of the system’s 16 colleges’ service regions. The award recognizes K-12 employees who encourage students to pursue postsecondary educational opportunities, including at KCTCS colleges.

Criteria for the Pathfinder award include:

• Encouraged students to attend a KCTCS college;
• Assisted students in identifying a career and postsecondary path;
• Provided mentorship;
• Maintained contact with the students.

Her nominator, Associate Professor of Nursing Rebekah Bingham, said Trent is student-oriented in her approaches and is a friend to HCTC's Lees College Campus.

“She encourages enrollment in dual-credit courses including nurse aide,” Fields said. “She supports community college for students wanting to get their basics for cost savings while remaining close to home with family.”

During the awards ceremony, Dr. Jennifer Lindon, HCTC president and chief executive officer, highlighted the importance of community collaboration in supporting students.

“We're honored to recognize Mrs. Trent for her work,” Dr. Lindon remarked. “HCTC is part of this community. We appreciate the opportunity to partner with districts and schools in our service region.”

For more information about the KCTCS Pathfinder Award, visit the Kentucky Community & Technical College System Pathfinder Award webpage.