HCTC's Delcie Combs is retiring, reflects on legacy at the institution

Published on Jun 23, 2025

Director of Marketing & Communications Delcie Combs is retiring from Hazard Community & Technical College (HCTC) after more than three decades of dedicated service to the institution.

"It seems like just yesterday my time at the college started. It's hard to believe I'm turning the page," Combs said. "I've been a part of building a meaningful legacy at the college. Seeing what I've worked so hard for come to life has made all of it worth it."

Combs began her employment at HCTC in 1987, helping program faculty as a typist. She earned her associate degree from the University of Kentucky at then-Hazard Community College in 1991. She then continued her education, ultimately earning her bachelor's degree from Morehead State University in 2008. 

During her time at the institution, Combs has served in numerous capacities. In 1991, Combs assisted the college in establishing its radiography program as a staff assistant. In 1995, then-President Dr. Ed Hughes welcomed her to the president's office as the assistant to the president for special projects. While serving in this capacity, she led government relations work and initiated the college's President's Student Ambassadors Program.

"There are people along your career journey who you never forget or thank enough for the difference they make in your life. The people who encourage you stick with you," Combs said of Dr. Hughes. "I'm grateful for what Dr. Hughes saw in me and his allowing me to lead a lot of great projects, and for the many presidents I've worked for since."

During her time in the president's office, Combs has led four presidential searches and worked with two interim presidents. She has also served as the liaison between the board of directors and the president's office.

"Working with so many incredible college presidents over the years has taught me how powerful servant leadership can be. Each one has brought their own vision and leadership style, and they've left the college with exactly what it needed for that season," she said. "I always saw part of my job as helping our presidents carry forward what worked while staying open to new ideas. That kind of trust takes time, and I'm grateful I earned it with each of them."

In 2007, Combs' duties shifted slightly to align with the college's goals, as she oversaw the development of the college's Document Production Center. She was named the college's first director of marketing and communications.

"When we started the Document Production Center, it was about promoting our college's brand, making sure our materials looked cohesive and trying to save money by printing internal materials," Combs said. "Since I began leading our marketing efforts, HCTC has won over 20 National Council for Marketing & Public Relations awards. Some of my proudest moments have come from helping others grow in their roles. I hope I've been the kind of leader who created space for people to feel seen, supported and valued."

Under Combs' leadership, HCTC has transformed its approach from traditional print-based outreach to a digital-forward marketing strategy.

"Over the years, I've seen a lot of change. From the rise of the internet to social media, artificial intelligence, I've had to adapt. We've all had to adapt," she said. "No matter the role I served in, I always believed in what this college stands for, and that's opening doors, creating opportunities and lifting our students."

According to Dr. Jennifer Lindon, president and chief executive officer, Combs' legacy will not soon be forgotten.

"Delcie has been a constant source of strength and wisdom throughout our years working together. Her steadfast dedication to the mission of this college has never wavered," Dr. Lindon said. "No matter the challenge, she always put our students, our team, and our community first. I am deeply grateful for the legacy she leaves behind, not only in the work she has done but in the culture she helped nurture. Delcie is truly woven into the heart of this college, and her impact will continue to be felt for years to come."

Throughout times of crisis, Combs has provided steady leadership for the college from leadership transitions and school safety incidents to natural disasters and pandemics.

As Combs retires, HCTC's Wallace Caleb Bates, who has served under her as the college's coordinator of public relations since January 2024, will begin his tenure as the institution's second-ever director of marketing and communications on July 1.