HCTC takes its mission on the road

transfer event at its Lees College Campus

Students and community members explored new educational opportunities at Hazard Community & Technical College’s (HCTC) annual roadshow and transfer event on March 21.

 “I’m here today to help my peers with accessing services,” PeerForward Mentor Mason Franklin, an HCTC student, said. “It’s really inspiring to have the opportunity to reach out to so many people and help them.”

 This year’s event took place in the Van Meter Gymnasium, located at the Lees College Campus in Jackson. The venue was transformed into a space where attendees could learn about HCTC programs and transfer partnerships.

 Programs from across the college’s academic divisions showcased their offerings by traveling to the event. These ranged from advanced manufacturing to business and information technologies to construction and healthcare. Many of the programs offer degrees and diplomas at the Lees College Campus.

 “Today has been a success. We’ve had a lot of students visit us who have an interest in our programs, and I’m excited about the opportunities we provide for our community,” Rhona Creech, assistant professor of communications, said. “We offer a lot of programs for an affordable price. You can’t beat it.”

 The event also featured prominent transfer partnerships between HCTC’s University Center of the Mountains (UCM) and regional higher education institutions. UCM partners with 11 institutions to offer baccalaureate and graduate-level courses at HCTC’s Highway 15 Campus in Hazard. Representatives from Eastern Kentucky University, Kentucky State University and Morehead State University were among the partners present.

 “Any time we can get our transfer partners here, where we can interact with them, and students can interact with them, it helps us grow and strengthen our work together,” HCTC’s UCM Director Tammy Duff said. “Today, students had a unique opportunity to learn more about the many options available close to home to continue their education after completing a credential at HCTC.”

 Students connected with faculty and peers and learned more about support resources, including accessibility services, career services, tutoring, veterans’ services and more. Academic advisors assisted students with registering early for Summer and Fall 2025 courses.

 “We appreciate opportunities to connect with our institutional community, including those who may be interested in our program offerings or partnerships,” Dr. Jennifer Lindon, HCTC president and chief executive officer, said. “This event is an excellent example of our work to increase educational access and support our students. We work tirelessly to prepare graduates equipped with the connections and skills they need to succeed in our region.”  

 To learn more about HCTC’s UCM, visit the University Center of the Mountains webpage. To learn more about HCTC’s student support offerings, visit the Success Zone webpage. To register for courses, contact HCTC by phone at (606) 487-3293 or email HCTC-Admissions@kctcs.edu.