HCTC honors Owsley County's Vanessa Johnson with 2024-25 Pathfinder of the Year Award

Published on May 23, 2025

Hazard Community & Technical College (HCTC) honored Vanessa Johnson, school counselor at Owsley County High School, with the 2024-25 Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS) Pathfinder Award during a ceremony on May 22 at the school.

Johnson began working as an educator 31 years ago and has been the school counselor at Owsley County High School for the past 17 years.

 The Pathfinder Award honors one recipient from 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.

 Johnson received numerous nominations, including one from Lincoln Spence, principal at Owsley County High School.

 "It has been a blessing for Owsley County students to have Mrs. Johnson as a teacher or as a guidance counselor. She has proven to be such a valuable member within our school system," Spence said. "She has always had an unbelievable knowledge of the counselor position and duties, and a detailed knowledge of our students' goals, plans and learning paths.  As our school's principal, it has been a privilege for me to get the opportunity to work with her, and her example has made me a better educator."

Gary Cornett, superintendent of Owsley County Schools, said Johnson is one of the district's greatest assets.

"I have always said that Mrs. Johnson is the best counselor in the Commonwealth. While I was principal, she made my job much easier," Cornett said. "She knew every student, their schedule and career goals. She is truly one of the greatest assets to Owsley County Schools."

During the awards ceremony, Jama Griffie, HCTC's director of dual credit, discussed the importance of HCTC's partnership with local districts and schools.

"The KCTCS Pathfinder of the Year Award celebrates those who guide students to college, help them explore careers, mentor them along the way, and stay connected as they grow. No one fits that description more than Mrs. Vanessa Johnson," Griffie said. "Since I started working with our dual credit students, Mrs. Johnson has been a source of encouragement and steady support. Her work doesn't stop at the school counselor's door; she walks with her students through every step, helping them see their potential and pursue it with confidence."

Dr. Jennifer Lindon, HCTC's president and chief executive officer, said the college's mission begins before students set foot on campus.

"Our partnerships with K-12 schools, especially through programs like dual credit, are essential in creating pathways to college and career success. Vanessa Johnson has been a steadfast supporter of these efforts," Dr. Lindon said. "Mrs. Johnson understands the importance of early college opportunities, and her dedication has made a lasting impact on the lives of countless students. We are proud to recognize her and to continue working closely with our K-12 partners to open doors for the next generation."

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