Dickie Hagans HCTC Super Sunday Hall of Fame

When Dickie Hagans was growing up, a college education wasn t discussed as an option. Her parents saw her getting married or getting a low-wage job. However, she took part in a Displaced Homemaker program in which she enjoyed having her self-esteem built up, being told she could do anything, and learning about career choices.

She credits that program for enabling her to graduate from Hazard Community and Technical College in May 2000 with a nursing degree. That education led to her employment at St. Joseph Hospital that summer of 2000 where she worked as a staff nurse for three years, five years as a charge nurse, and then being promoted to Clinical Manager, a position which involved scheduling nurses, nurse assignments, and being an advocate for nurses and patients. She served in that role for five years.

Because of family responsibilities and changes at St. Joseph Hospital, Mrs. Hagans has returned to Hazard and has been working as a Nurse Manager for Hazard ARH since April 2014. She is thankful for her education because her nursing career has led to a wonderful life for her and her family.

I always wanted to be a nurse, even when I was a young child, Dickie said. She fondly remembers taking care of her grandparents and she enjoyed that.

I really encourage anyone I know to go back to school. I know with this society; things are changing. If you don t have a college degree, you are really going to struggle, she said.

Dickie Hagans was chosen as HCTC s Super Sunday Hall of Fame recipient. Other African Americans interested in becoming a success story are invited to the Super Sunday event on Feb. 28 at Consolidated Baptist Church. Everyone is invited to the 11 a.m. church service, followed by information about enrolling in college. HCTC personnel will be on hand to answer questions and provide tips on obtaining financial aid, academic programs, and other student services.