OCTC Announces Peer Awards for 2023

by Bernie Hale

Owensboro, KY (01/11/2024) — Owensboro Community & Technical College's (OCTC) annual employee awards program was held on December 1, 2023.

The OCTC Pillar Awards are part of the OCTC Peer Awards program. The nominations are solicited from the campus community and are based on the founding pillars of the institution: student advocacy, fostering an approachable learning environment, workforce readiness, and community service. These awards include a $750 stipend for professional development.

Pillar Award for Fostering an Encouraging & Approachable Learning Environment, Dr. Lori Donahoo

Dr. Lori Donahoo was named as the director of OCTC's Associate Degree Nursing program in 2021. Dr. Donahoo is a graduate OCTC's nursing program and returned to OCTC after serving as program coordinator at Henderson Community College for three years.

Dr. Donahoo earned an Associate in Applied Science degree in Nursing from OCTC. Dr. Donahoo earned a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, a Master's of Science in Nursing degree (MSN) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Western Kentucky University. She is also a Certified Nurse Educator (CNE), confirmed by the National League for Nursing (NLN).

Donahoo's nomination noted that she leads by example, creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. That she recognizes the strengths of others in her department and actively encourages the unique contributions of her department. She perfectly balances high expectations and a positive atmosphere, fostering a student-centered approach within the academic division. With a calm yet firm demeanor, she encourages advocacy for our students. Under her leadership, we work together to build a program our community can be truly proud of.

Pillar Award: Student Advocacy, Stacey Bertke

Stacey Bertke has worked full-time in Academic Affairs at OCTC since 1995. In addition, she teaches Administrative Office Systems and Computer Information Technology online. Bertke, a lifelong learner, is an OCTC alumnus who earned an Associate in Applied Science in Office Administration degree in 1993 and an Associate in Applied Sciences degree in Business Technology Information: Information Systems in 2002.

Bertke's nomination described her as having outstanding qualities that have consistently set her apart. That she is not only a student advocate but a people advocate. She excels in every aspect essential to her role, demonstrating remarkable attributes such as an unwavering work ethic, problem-solving skills, and a flair for creativity, all of which are essential in promoting the success of our students. She is always willing to pitch in and advocates on behalf of students in all that she does. She also teaches online, embraces technology, and is always willing to assist anyone who needs help.

Pillar Award: Workforce Education & Readiness, Andrew Austin

Andrew Austin is OCTC's Workforce Development liaison who teaches in the Tech X program. Austin holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Advanced Manufacturing with a minor in Industrial Sciences from Western Kentucky University (WKU) and a Master's degree in Engineering Technology Management from WKU. He is also a Certified Welding Inspector through the American Welding Society. Austin is an active community volunteer with Saint Anthony's Catholic Church and Habitat for Humanity in Owensboro.

Austin's nomination acknowledged his exceptional work ethic and pursuit of perfection. His daily contributions make working with Andrew a true pleasure, and his countless achievements speak volumes. His dedication to students and the college serves as an inspiration to others. He is known for offering words of encouragement and praise, and their impact extends beyond the academic realm. Austin also stands out as a proactive individual who is always ready to lend a helping hand to others. In addition, he actively volunteers in the community while encouraging students to get involved. The commitment to academic success, personal success, and the importance of giving back make a positive impact far beyond academia.

Pillar Award: Community Service, Casey Hamilton

Casey Hamilton serves as the Teacher Education Coordinator at OCTC. She is a graduate of Brescia University and earned her Master's in Education through Western Kentucky University. Casey is currently a member of Impact 100 and the Women's Guild. She has volunteered as an office worker at Daviess County High School and in the classroom at Deer Park Elementary School. She is a parent representative on the Site Based Council at Daviess County High School. Hamilton is currently active in fundraising events and preparing the building for My Sister's Keeper Women's & Children's Shelter. She also volunteers for Christmas Wish and Cinderella's Closet.

Hamilton's nomination included that she not only excels in academic pursuits but also stands out as a beacon in the community. Her commitment to the college and community is evident in her active involvement in various OCTC recruitment events, noting that she epitomizes the college's values and selects volunteer work that strengthens and enhances our region.

Quiet Hero, Craig Miller

The Quiet Hero Award is a part of the Peer Awards program and was created as a way to acknowledge those behind the scenes who work tirelessly and diligently to ensure student and college success. This award includes a professional development stipend of $750.

Craig Miller was named as the 2023 Quiet Hero. He has been at OCTC since 1986 and in a full-time capacity since 1987. He is the Project Manager for Information Technology. Miller holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Advertising and Sociology from Western Kentucky University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude, and an Associate in Applied Science degree in Data Processing Technology from OCTC, where he graduated with High Distinction. He was in the first graduating class at what was then known as Owensboro Community College.

Miller's nomination acknowledged that over the many years he has been a consistent, hardworking presence behind the scenes making sure the computers, phones, and data are where they need to be, and doing what they need to do. That so many people have relied on Craig for what might seem like just a file, or a query, or a technical answer - but these things are crucial support to the operation of both administrative and academic departments. His humble demeanor, daily routine, and attention to detail have made Craig a respected and valued member of the IT and overall college team.

The OCTC Scholarship Award recognizes faculty members who have academic pursuits beyond the classroom. This honor includes a $750 stipend award for professional development.

Scholarship Award, Dr. Tim Dick

Dr. Tim Dick has been at OCTC since 1986; he is one of the founding members of the faculty. He has led OCTC's award-winning Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Chapter and the International Honor's Society for 2-year colleges and also leads research on polycystic kidney disease. He has been recognized as the top advisor for PTK numerous times. Dick co-authored a textbook with Kendall Hunt Publishing Company, Medical Ethics: The 16 Week Case Consult, an interactive workbook designed to teach students the basics of critical thinking and ethical reasoning and how both skills apply to the field of medicine.

Dick received his Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky in Policy, Ethics, and Biology, holds a Master's degree in Cellular Biology from the University of Evansville, and a Master's in Behavioral Biology from the University of Evansville. Dick earned a Bachelor's of Science degree in Biology from the University of Southern Indiana (USI).

Dick's experience includes an internship in Clinical Chemistry at Deaconess, graduate work in molecular biology at Indiana University and graduate work in Medical Ethics at USI. He serves on several ethics boards in the community.

Dr. Dick's nomination outlined his vast career-long pursuit of research, his career-long work with Phi Theta Kappa and his devotion to students. The nomination recognized Dr. Dick's commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and critical thinking among OCTC students as remarkable. Noting he consistently challenges students to think critically, encouraging them to explore new ideas, take on leadership roles, and engage in meaningful community projects. The nomination highlighted that his impact extends beyond his work with students and that he also demonstrates exceptional mentorship to fellow faculty members at OCTC. Readily sharing his expertise, offering constructive feedback, and encouraging professional growth among his peers, embodying the qualities of a true mentor.

The OCTC President's Awards for Teaching and Adjunct Teaching were created to honor excellence in the classroom and include a $1,500 stipend for professional development.

President's Award for Teaching, Kaye Brown

Professor Kaye Brown earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas at El Paso and a Master of Arts degree from Western Kentucky University. Brown has taught at OCTC since 1993, beginning as an adjunct and joining the full-time faculty in 2006.

She serves as the Co-chair for the OCTC Common Reading program, celebrating its 20th Anniversary in 2024, and also serves as the National Endowment for the Humanities chair. Many authors, including Sherman Alexie, Wendell Berry, Dave Eggers, National Poet Laureate Ada Limon, and several Kentucky Poet Laureates, like Crystal Wilkinson and Silas House, have visited OCTC in conjunction with the Common Reading program, nationally recognized for its rigor.

Since 2018, Brown has been spearheading the OCTC Study Abroad program and shepherded students, faculty, staff, and community members "across the pond," to locales such as Germany, the Czech Republic, Ireland, England, Scotland, and Poland.

Brown loves to teach and especially values her Introduction to Holocaust Literature and Film and Introduction to Native American Literature classes.

Her nomination described her as an excellent teacher who works tirelessly to support OCTC students. Although they have taught for many years, their classes are thoughtfully constructed, and careful consideration is given to the impact instruction has on the students. If a student is struggling, this faculty member will not hesitate to stay late to meet with them face-to-face or online. They will also not hesitate to assist colleagues; if there is a need on campus, they can be counted on to help. It also noted her dedication to the campus community and to creating experiences for students through her efforts in the Common Reading and Study Abroad programs. Crediting her for making the campus community a better place for all.

President's Award for Adjunct Teaching, Lou O'Leary

Lou O'Leary has been teaching as an adjunct at OCTC since 2011. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in Painting/Drawing and Photography from the University of Alabama and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting and Drawing from the University of Southern Mississippi. At OCTC, O'Leary teaches 2D Design, Drawing 1 & 2, and Ceramics 1 & 2. She has been featured in numerous one and two-person exhibitions and earned many honors and awards in competitive art exhibitions. Her work has been featured in both private and corporate collections across the United States, Canada, Europe, and Mexico.

Her nomination noted that she exemplifies the qualities and criteria that underscore a commitment to masterful teaching. She has an exceptional devotion to student learning, innovative teaching methods, and a genuine passion for improving student success through excellent instruction. O'Leary's dedication to her students is nothing short of extraordinary. She invests boundless time and effort to ensure that each student under her guidance has the opportunity to flourish. Her commitment goes far beyond the classroom; she is always willing to provide additional support, guidance, and mentorship to students seeking to explore the arts community. Her devotion to student success is not just a professional obligation but a deep-rooted commitment to fostering the growth of her students.

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