HCTC's Stephanie Vergne retires, reflects on years of service

Stephanie Vergne began her career at HCTC nearly three decades ago. Now, she is looking forward to her Aug. 31 retirement.

 "I was one of the first employees hired under the Kentucky Community & Technical College System," Vergne said. "I've witnessed the vocational school evolve into the Technical Campus, as it currently exists. I've lived through a lot of change."

Early on in her career at the intersection of business administration, education and healthcare, Vergne anticipated the evolution of both fields. 

"Change is part of education and healthcare. For example, the curriculum is always adapting to meet business and industry needs," she stated. "It's important to keep an open mind and be flexible."

Her education goals resulted in flexibility early on. After completing one year of coursework at then-Hazard Community College, Vergne later graduated with a bachelor's degree in business administration and a master's degree in education, both from Morehead State University.

"My goal from the beginning was to have options with my career," Vergne said. "I decided I'd try a few different pathways out and figure out where I wanted to be. I made a good choice."

After earning her master's degree, Vergne continued her education at Georgia Health Science University, earning a post-graduate certificate in healthcare administration. Her goal was to learn so she could share knowledge effectively with her students.

"I'm most proud of my students. It's been such a blessing to watch them cross the graduation stage and achieve their goals," she said. "I've been able to help meet so many people's needs. I'll never forget the smiling faces of happy students and happy families."

Dr. Jennifer Lindon, HCTC president and chief executive officer, reflected on Vergne's contributions to the college and its community.

"We are deeply grateful for Stephanie's outstanding service to Hazard Community & Technical College. Through her leadership in her classrooms and beyond, she attracted student participation from around the globe," Dr. Lindon said. "Her passionate service has marked her time at HCTC. Stephanie's dedication to academic excellence and her commitment to preparing students for success in the healthcare field have left a lasting educational legacy that will benefit our college and community for years to come."

Vergne oversaw the accreditation and development of what was HCTC's health information technology program. The program allowed her to meet students from all over the country.

 "I got to know so many great people and students through our health information technology program. The program's national accreditation meant it drew students in globally," she said. "I worked with students who returned to our program after becoming nurses and occupational therapists, students from Honduras. My students have been from all walks of life."

 As she anticipates retirement, Vergne looks forward to spending quality time with her family. 

"I've spent a lot of time helping my students build their lives. I'm going to use my retirement to work on building mine," she said. "I plan on filling up my bucket and enjoying time with my family."

She gave credit to her parents for their contributions to her life.

"My parents are my greatest inspiration. They've inspired me, rooted for me, served as a sounding board, helped me make decisions," she said. "My dad passed away 12 years ago, but my mom and I still enjoy spending time with one another."

Her career at HCTC taught her many lessons.

"If I could share any advice, it'd be to reach for the stars and you'll never come up with a handful of dirt," she chuckled. "And short-term sacrifices lead to long-term benefits."