A new perspective: Professor uses Harry Potter series to teach sociology

September 14, 2016, 3:37 pm

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Lady setting at her desk talking to her students

Bertena Varney, instructs her sociology class, which is based
on the Harry Potter series, Thursday, Sept. 8, 2016, at
Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College.
Photo by Miranda Pederson/Daily News

How do you relate death, hunger and mentally and physically disabled people to author J.K. Rowling's wildly popular Harry Potter series?

Students do it with those and other topics each Tuesday and Thursday in Bertena Varney's "Inequality in Society" class at Southern Kentucky Community and Technological College, where Varney is an associate professor of sociology.

"We've incorporated pop culture in class," she said. "It's the first immersion class at this community college."

Students are sorted into houses, just as they are in the book at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The houses are Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin.

"Each day a house has to lead the course and relate it to national and international issues," Varney said. "It's more of a laid-back class. We let the students do it because they're more invested."

The students are graded on quizzes, discussions and projects. They earn house points by coming dressed in Harry Potter attire, helping out in class and with social media, tutoring, attending campus events and doing community service, Varney said. The houses compete to see who can win the house cup and 50 bonus points.

"Once you get them thinking about other people besides themselves, they take off. It teaches them a lot of social skills and problem solving," she said.

It's easier for students to find out "how they can work together to make the world a better place," Varney said of her class.

On Thursday, students from Hufflepuff talked about "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" chapters 5-10. They discussed how Nearly Headless Nick, the ghost of Gryffindor tower, may have become a ghost because he feared death. They related that to how people celebrate death in events such as the Mexican holiday Dia de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, and the elaborate and expensive funerals in Ghana, West Africa.

For hunger, they discussed how there was always food available at Hogwarts, but when Harry was with his family, the Durselys, they withheld food from him, making him small and malnourished. This was related to how there are children in the United Kingdom who are hungry because parents in England may be too proud to ask for help.

In reference to the disabled and mentally challenged, the class discussed how people in the books who were born in the nonmagical or "muggle" world and squibs, who were born in the magical world but could not do magic, were looked down upon. Sometimes mentally and physically disabled people are looked at as less than normal.

The discussions were animated as Varney and the students asked questions and gave their opinions. Many thought the class didn't feel like one.

"I wasn't required to take this class," said Makayla Monday, a sophomore from Tomkinsville. "It fits in as an elective. It's my favorite class to come to."

Monday, who was sorted into the Gryffindor house, said she loves the Harry Potter aspect of the class and enjoys having Varney as a teacher.

"It's not hard to learn in her class," she said. "She puts it in terms that you really understand."

She has learned a lot in class.

"I wasn't aware that there were more cases of death from hunger than malaria and tuberculosis," she said. "I like being able to have that knowledge about the world I live in."

Kaylee Sturm, a sophomore sociology major from Bowling Green, likes how the Harry Potter series relates to inequalities in society and creating solutions.

"It's a fun way to learn," she said. "We do community service and campaign for the Harry Potter Alliance."

Sturm, who was sorted into Slytherin house, saw a lot of issues that might be overlooked.

"I never knew there were so many things going on," she said. "It gives you a new perspective on the books."
— Follow features reporter Alyssa Harvey on Twitter @bgdnfeatures or visit bgdailynews.com.

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Bowling Green man wins $1,000 IRA contribution

September 15, 2016, 6:18 am

≫ Next: SKYCTC event in Barren County presents info to students on local career opportunities

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Taken from the Lane Report

DASH for the STASH contest organized by Dept. of Financial Institutions, Investor Protection Institute

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 13, 2016) — From a pool of 64 people submitting completed responses in Kentucky, a Bowling Green man was selected to receive a $1,000 IRA contribution.

Eddie Zoeller won DASH for the STASH playing from the South Central Kentucky Community and Technical College in Bowling Green.

“I haven’t always done things right when saving for retirement,” said Zoeller. “However, the information I received at DASH for the STASH made some complex ideas clear and easy to understand.”

A total of 33 public libraries and community colleges in Kentucky participated in the 2016 DASH for the STASH investor education and protection program and contest conducted by the Investor Protection Institute (IPI) and the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).

“We applaud Kentucky’s winner – and all the participants – for taking the opportunity to learn more about smart investing and fraud protection,” said Shonita Bossier, Director of Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions’ Securities Division. “We take seriously our mission to protect the public, and we were enthusiastic about presenting this investor education information in a different way that is fun and engaging.”

The unique, scavenger hunt-like contest attracted an estimated 3,200 individuals nationwide at 308 participating locations in 12 states and jurisdictions. Participants learned from educational posters and then were quizzed about key investing topics: financial fraud, building a nest egg, selecting financial advisers and the cost of investment fees. From the total pool of more than 800 people submitting completed responses, 12 individuals providing correct answers – one in each participating jurisdiction – were randomly selected to receive $1,000 IRA contributions.

“Staying true to our mission of educating individuals to be wise and safe investors, the DASH for the STASH program has proven to be an effective way in Kentucky and elsewhere to engage communities in multiple jurisdictions and provide an opportunity for them to learn and share information in trusted environments such as public libraries, educational institutions, community organizations and workplaces where they have access to additional resources,” said Don Blandin, IPI President and CEO. “We look forward to being an educational resource for all of the DASH participants in the future.”

The 2016 DASH for the STASH campaign expanded on the original, one-state pilot program in 2014 in Iowa. The 2016 DASH for the STASH effort doubled the six states and jurisdictions that participated in 2015. There also was a significant increase this year nationwide in the number of completed entries, from fewer than 500 in 2015 to more than 800 in 2016. In another important step forward, some of the DASH for the STASH locations in Kentucky offered the posters in Spanish and Chinese in addition to English as part of the IPI’s partnership with Consumer Action (http://www.consumer-action.org).

The list of Kentucky libraries and community colleges that participated in the DASH for the STASH includes: Bath County Memorial Library, Calloway County Public Library***, Casey County Public Library*, Clark County Public Library, Clinton County Public Library*, Cumberland County Public Library, Elizabethtown Community and Technical College, Estill County Public Library*, Gallatin County Public Library*, Garrard County Public Library, Hardin County Public Library*, Kentucky Community and Technical College System, Lincoln County Public Library*, Louisville Free Public Library*, Madison County Public Library***, Mason County Public Library*, Maysville Community and Technical College, McLean County Public Library*, Meade County Public Library, Muhlenberg County Public Libraries, Nelson County Public Library*, Paris-Bourbon County Library*, Paul Sawyier Public Library (Frankfort), Pineville-Bell County Public Library, South Central Kentucky Community and Technical College, Spencer County Public Library, Taylor County Public Library, Trimble County Public Library*, Warren County Public Library*, Webster County Public Library*, West Kentucky Community and Technical College, Woodford County Library*. (One asterisk behind a location name indicates that they offered the program in Spanish, two asterisks indicate that the location offered the program in Chinese, and three asterisks indicate that the location offered the program in both Spanish and Chinese. All locations offered the posters in English.)

ABOUT THE INVESTOR PROTECTION INSTITUTE

The Investor Protection Institute (http://www.iInvest.org) is an independent nonprofit organization that advances investor protection by conducting and supporting unbiased research and groundbreaking education programs. IPI serves as an independent source of unbiased and non-commercial investor education and protection materials.

ABOUT THE KENTUCKY DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

The Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions (http://www.kfi.ky.gov) is the Kentucky state agency responsible for the supervision of the financial services industry and for chartering, licensing and registering various financial institutions, securities firms and professionals operating in Kentucky. In order to accomplish its mission, DFI conducts examinations on state-regulated financial industries through its Division of Depository Institutions, Division of Nondepository Institutions and Division of Securities. Consumers can check with DFI before investing to verify if the investment opportunity is registered and if the seller is licensed, by calling 800-223-2579.

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SKYCTC event in Barren County presents info to students on local career opportunities

September 19, 2016, 5:36 am

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Eveningwith Industry card with scenes from SKYCTC

Written by Jackson French - Bowling Green Daily News

GLASGOW — Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College will provide area students with a chance Tuesday to learn more about the work and educational opportunities in and around Barren County.
An Evening with Industry starts at 5:30 p.m. Attendance is free.

According to Amy Irwin, Barren County Schools' College & Career Development coordinator, the event will begin at Barren County High School's auditorium but take place largely in the school's Area Technology Center.

She said the district has invited middle school students to the event for the first time this year.
"I feel like there's an increased effort as kids approach high school to show them our programs and how they tie into the industry," she said.

Students can learn about potential career opportunities at booths manned by representatives from SKyCTC and various companies in the area, Irwin said.

The event is a boon for students planning to enter the workforce shortly after graduation because it provides them with knowledge about what opportunities are out there and what skills the companies require of applicants, she said.

"It makes them see the connection between our curriculum and the industry and how that ties in with their success in the job market," she said.

Mark Powell, coordinator of administrative services at SKyCTC, said the college, local industries and Barren County's schools have united through this event.

"For the majority of these industries, we've trained probably 30 to 40 percent of their industrial employees," he said. "Industry supports us and we support them. We partner with them any chance we get."
About a dozen companies will be present at the event to tell students about the opportunities they offer and the qualifications students need to work there, including Span Tech LLC, Kingsford Manufacturing Company in Metcalfe County, which will provide and grill the event's dinner, and T.J. Samson Community Hospital, Powell said.

The event, held yearly since 2007, began when the now-defunct Barren River Adult Vocational Education Consortium coordinated with SKyCTC about helping expand the local business employment base, Powell said.
"They wanted to get the young interested in industry because their employment base was dwindling," he said.
This year, SKyCTC is expecting a record turnout of 350 to 400, compared with an average turnout of 200 or so, Powell said, adding that the high school has advertised the event more than in previous years.

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Author to visit SKYCTC to talk about Banned Book Week

September 19, 2016, 5:50 am

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Author Molly Harper, a Western Kentucky University graduate who lives in Paducah, will be at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday in Building F conference room at the main campus at 1845 Loop Ave.

Harper will talk about the dangers of censorship and the freedom to read to commemorate Banned Book Week, which is Sept. 26 through Oct. 1. The discussion will be part of SKYCTC Sociology Department Coordinator Bertena Varney's mass media class, but the public is invited. Admission is free.

Harper will sign copies of her book provided for sale by Barnes & Noble Booksellers.

"I met her at a book signing and I fell in love with her. She describes herself as snarky. She's hilarious. I love every one of her series," Varney said. "Some of them are about vampires. Some of them are about ghosts. Some of them are about Kentucky romance. They're all based in Kentucky. They're really funny. They're not scary."

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Author talks about banned books, censorship

September 22, 2016, 9:09 am

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≪ Previous: Author to visit SKYCTC to talk about Banned Book Week

• By Alyssa Harvey – BG Daily News Author Molly Harper speaking to students

Vampires live in Kentucky – at least they do in author Molly Harper’s “Nice Girls” series.

“It’s very autobiographical,” she said of the first book. “If people look at the book too hard I will get sued.”
The Western Kentucky University graduate spoke about censorship and banned books to about 115 people Tuesday at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College. The event was part of the college’s activities for Banned Book Week, which is Sunday through Oct. 1.

Harper talked about some of the books that have been banned, including “Matilda,” “I Am Jazz,” “The Holy Bible” and “Two Boys Kissing.”

“I cannot remember my parents banning books for me to read,” she said. “Most of them are young adult novels. Tell a juvenile not to read something and they’ll read it.”

While none of Harper’s books has been banned, she would be prepared.

“Having a book banned doesn’t mean the end of your career,” she said.

Author Molly Harper signing her books

The Paducah native also talked about how she started writing. She worked at her hometown newspaper, The Paducah Sun, as an education beat reporter. She also had a humor column where she developed her voice.
Harper used to be a church secretary.

“After my child went to bed, I would write a book,” she said.

Eventually, she landed with the Simon & Schuster publishing company.

“I worked full time with the first 10 books. Then I was able to retire a couple of years ago,” she said. “I write every single day whether I feel like it or not.”

Harper’s books are translated into other languages including Turkish, German, French and Thai. She said she has a large following in Australia for the three books a year she writes.

“It took me a year for the first one,” she said. “It takes about three months to write now.”

Out of all her books, Harper wishes “Better Homes and Hauntings” would be turned into a movie. The book came out of her frustration that the monsters in “Scooby Doo” were always real people.

“I wrote the mother of all monsters,” she said.

Harper told budding writers that they should have a voice to keep readers engaged.

“Write like you are having a conversation with a friend,” she said. “If you’re writing in the third person don’t forget to have thoughts in their head.”

Elizabeth Hancock of Munfordville, who is in her last semester at SKYCTC, is one of those potential writers. She came to the discussion because she loves Harper’s writing.

“I wanted to get her point of view as well as listen to her talk about her books,” she said.

Hancock likes to write paranormal romances because “vampires are awesome.” She also likes drama.

“I haven’t had a book published, but I hope to someday and be recognized for it,” she said. “It’s a lot of work to become a published author.”

The most helpful advice Hancock took from Harper is to find her voice.

“That really stuck out to me,” she said. “I really want to keep going.”

Sociology Department coordinator Bertena Varney said she has been a fan of Harper since 2010.
Harper’s appearance was part of a discussion Varney has been having with her mass media students about banned books and censorship in the publishing and writing process.

“I think students don’t personalize books,” she said. “Authors encourage them to want to write, that it’s possible.”

– Follow features reporter Alyssa Harvey on Twitter@bgdnfeatures or visit bgdailynews.com.

Bertena Varney introducing speaker Molly Harper

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Welding a future: 'An evening with Industry'

September 22, 2016, 10:10 am

≫ Next: Many Kentucky adults enrolling in higher education after getting GED diploma

≪ Previous: Author talks about banned books, censorship

By Will Perkins – Glasgow Daily Times SKYCTC President speaking at podium

GLASGOW – Roxanne Mitchell, an eighth-grader at Barren County Middle School, concentrated on making the perfect weld Tuesday evening at the Barren County Area Technology Center, but she was in no danger of hurting herself or others.

Mitchell, 13, was using a welding simulator toward the end of Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College's “An Evening With Industry.”

“It was fun and cool to use,” Mitchell said. “A little bit difficult at first, but it was really fun.”
As far as her previous experience with welding, Mitchell said she has “done a little, but not much.”
“It would help me learn how to work better on cars,” she said.

Steve Hatcher, professor of welding at SKYCTC in Bowling Green, said the simulator is a great way for students to learn how to weld.

“It gives a student an opportunity to learn basic skills and technology related to different welding processes before entering the lab,” Hatcher said, adding that students can learn things like the travel speed of welding, work angles, push angles and the distance the gun or the electrode has to be held away from the weld joint.
“We teach them all these kinds of things in a classroom setting where it's safe,” he said. “And we're not using any kind of consumables, so we're not having all that cost of steel, electrodes and gases and stuff like that.”
Hatcher said once the students get comfortable with virtual welding, they can move on to the real process.
Prior to gathering in the ATC, there were several speakers in the Barren County High School auditorium. A general theme of the evening was for students to not blindly go to college because that is what they are supposed to do, but to get the education they need for the career they want, whether that education is in the form of college or an apprenticeship.

“Higher-ed is not the destination folks,” said Phillip Neal, president and CEO of SKYCTC. “It's a bridge to something better. The destination is the career.

“Don't lose focus of what the goal is here, and that is to establish that career that will support the lifestyle that you want.”

Young boy looking at electrical device with lit lightbulb

Derrick Ramsey, secretary of the Kentucky Labor Cabinet, said getting a diploma is not the only way to success. He said that apprenticeships can lead to fruitful careers.

“We're not saying, 'Don't go to college,'” he said. “What we're talking about are opportunities.”
Ramsey said students who take the apprenticeship path do not have to rule out college because many companies will offer opportunities for employees to further their education.

Barren County Schools Superintendent Bo Matthews said the ATC and its future additions provide local students the opportunity to thrive.

“Our intention is to expand and to modernize and better equip our existing ATC,” he said. “And we have other districts that want to access programming that we offer and other locations do not.

“Whether it's Glasgow Independent, Barren County Schools, Hart County Schools, Caverna Schools, Metcalfe County Schools, Allen County Schools, people recognize what is taking place right here, right now this evening, because of the work, because of the partnerships, because of the passion of the people that believe this is key to young people's future.”

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Many Kentucky adults enrolling in higher education after getting GED diploma

September 23, 2016, 7:44 am

≫ Next: Senator Rand Paul's visit highlights SKYCTC's technical facilities, programs

≪ Previous: Welding a future: 'An evening with Industry'

Group of people listing to speaker in a classroom

by Jackson French – BG Daily News
A new study suggests the number of Kentucky adults receiving GED diplomas who later enroll in universities is on the rise.

The rates at which adults with GED diplomas are going to college in four local counties are varied, according to Brian Becker, director of Adult Education at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College, though a trend of growth is being seen in the area.

SKYCTC's Adult Education program oversees GED instruction and testing in Warren, Barren, Metcalfe and Simpson counties. In these counties, according to Becker's statistics, adults earning GED diplomas have been on the rise.

According to the Kentucky Center for Education and Workforce Statistics, of 282 adults earning GED diplomas between fiscal years 2009 and 2014 in Barren County, 89 enrolled in institutes of higher learning, as did 184 of the 410 GED earners in Warren, 31 of 107 in Metcalfe and 30 out of 130 in Simpson.

GED attainment declined in the area prior to the GED Testing Service's January decision to lower the minimum passing score for its high school equivalency exam from 150 points to 145 out of 200, though the number of people getting their GED diplomas has been creeping up since then, he said.

"For a lot of students, that put it in reach," he said. "There must have been a lot of students getting hung up in that range."

Part of this increase is due to the lower minimum score – meaning fewer people need to retake the test – and an increase in local employers requiring employees to have GED diplomas, Becker said.

"We've had an increase in GED attainment. I think we'll continue to see the trend go up," he said. "It seems like students are motivated to go to college."

A news release from the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education said that 37 percent of Kentucky's 22,942 GED recipients from fiscal years 2009 to 2011 enrolled in postsecondary education.

“We are pleased that a substantial number of GED graduates are pursuing postsecondary education to earn certificates, associate or bachelor’s degrees,” Reecie Stagnolia, vice president of Adult Education, which the Council on Postsecondary Education runs, said in the release. “However, we are focused on increasing that number since it is essential in today’s economy to have some postsecondary education to earn family-sustaining wages.”

The release also said that four out of every five adults receiving a GED diploma going on to college enrolled in schools in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, a trend Becker said he's seen locally.
Because SKYCTC's Adult Education handles the GED process in four counties, all of which except Metcalfe have a SKYCTC campus, many find moving on to college curriculum at SKYCTC a natural transition, he said.
"There's some familiarity there already," he said.

Stagnolia, when reached by the Daily News, said many people are using the GED diploma as a stepping stone to higher education rather than as a destination. "The GED is simply not enough to succeed in today's economy," he said.

By 2020, more than 60 percent of jobs in Kentucky will require some level of higher education, he said.
— Follow Daily News reporter Jackson French on Twitter @Jackson_French or visit bgdailynews.com.

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Senator Rand Paul's visit highlights SKYCTC's technical facilities, programs

September 26, 2016, 10:50 am

≫ Next: SKYCTC launches IT security program

≪ Previous: Many Kentucky adults enrolling in higher education after getting GED diploma

Senator Rand Paul and SKYCTC President Phillip Neal

By Aaron Mudd- BG Daily News

As older workers retire from jobs in the skilled trades, officials at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College made the case for vocational education to U.S. Sen. Rand Paul, R-Bowling Green, during a campus tour on Monday.

"America has changed so much in just the last generation," SKYCTC President Phillip Neal said. "With so many people retiring and fewer people entering the workforce amongst our youth ... I think it's important that we have high quality training programs to train the folks that are seeking these skills sets so that they can replace the wealth of talent that we're losing in our retiree generation."

Politicians need to understand how to serve their working constituents, he said.

"From a political standpoint, they need to understand the infrastructure that we have in place to support the education and training needs of this new generation coming into the workforce and how important it is that we emphasis to our youth the career possibilities that exist in our society," he said.

Paul seemed receptive to that message while he toured the college's admissions office, culinary and automotive centers and classes on respiratory care and radiography. He asked several questions about available programs and was particularly interested in the college's welding education.

Paul told officials that his travels around Kentucky have taught him many people aren't willing to work for a starting wage of $13 an hour.

"It's not that there's not enough jobs," Paul said during the tour. "There's not enough workers."
During the tour, welding professor Steve Hatcher showed off a piece of welding equipment to Paul and explained the college's welding program.

"We try to teach all aspects of welding," he told Paul.
Senator Rand Paul listing to man demonstrating Welding

Senator Rand Paul listing to man demonstrating Welding

Neal added that students often have trouble finishing the program because employers want to snatch them up to fill positions.

"So many employers are seeking individuals," Hatcher agreed.

When Paul checked out SKYCTC's automotive shop, he was given a signed photograph of students posing next to a Chevrolet Camaro they restored for the On Track Camaro competition against the Warren County Area Technology Center.

Senator Rand Paul being presented with photo and shirt

After the tour, Paul said he's done a lot of traveling around the state, visiting 20 or 30 businesses, he said.
"Every company has told me they need more workers and they need skilled workers," Paul said, adding it's important to draw attention to the skilled trades. "I think one thing that's important for kids to know is that you can succeed, you can do really well with a skill. If you're an electrician you can make a very good living ... . If you get a skill, I promise you there is a place out there for you to succeed."

Paul added it's important to have a range of education options open for different learning styles.
"It's important to have people who can fix and repair engines, people who can make engines, people who can work in our skilled trades," he said. "I think in some ways we may have deemphasized or not emphasized that enough in the last couple of decades. I mean a lot of kids go into college for, you know, general business degrees when in reality they might have been better off with a skilled technical degree."

Paul said he appreciated seeing how SKYCTC replicates work environments students will see on the job, such as robotic welder equipment and busy automotive body shops.

"They really are, I think, able to simulate what goes on in industry," he said.

— Follow education reporter Aaron Mudd on Twitter @BGDN_edbeat or visit bgdailynews.com

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SKYCTC launches IT security program

October 5, 2016, 12:41 pm

≫ Next: SKYCTC TO HOST 5TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP SCRAMBLE

≪ Previous: Senator Rand Paul's visit highlights SKYCTC's technical facilities, programs

By AARON MUDD
amudd@bgdailynews.com
As high-profile data security breaches continue to expose consumers and rock companies, information technology professionals are struggling to fend off future attacks from hackers.

Christopher Royse, an assistant professor of computer and information technologies at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College, said the problem stems from a shortage of professionals who are up to the task.

“We have a lot of people that are good IT people, but they don’t know the fundamentals of information security,” Royse said.

To combat that, SKYCTC launched a two-year Information Security program this fall modeled around education standards set by the United States National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security.
Students practice hacking techniques and how to counter within a secure computer lab to simulate problems they might encounter on the job and courses focus on computer networking, digital forensics and network defense. It’s part of a broader effort to “train people for in demand, high wage jobs,” Royse said.

“We need people in the pipeline quicker,” he said. “The instances of cyber warfare and crime have only increased.”

Art McFadden, chief technology officer with the digital forensics firm Millstone Labs, agreed that only a small portion of IT professionals focus on security.

“With my experience in cyber crimes it became obvious that we need more security trained personnel in the industry to help prevent these types of crimes to begin with,” he said.

McFadden is teaching courses in the program along with Mike Lemon, the owner of Millstone Labs.
“It’s think it’s very diverse they have a very good overview of real world problems,” Lemon said of the program. Lemon said the program’s teachers are able to pull from their current work in the field and translate principles into practical experience for securing sensitive information.

“Securing that information is pretty vital to not only the security of your business but also the security of your person,” he said.

That was the case for about 50 Western Kentucky University employees in February 2015, who found fraudulent tax returns filed in their names after insurance plan provider Anthem reported a data breach earlier that month. The breach actually involved millions of then-current and past Anthem customers.

“We will be dealing with that for years. That is not over yet,” said McFadden, predicting more identity thefts in the future.

When it comes to maintaining security, individual users are the weakest link, meaning IT professionals can only do so much. McFadden said IT professionals need to lead a mindset of collective responsibility within their organizations and educate users and employees on how to navigate a perilous security landscape.

Royse agreed, adding that even internet-connected thermostats, lightbulbs and other devices can be weak points for attackers.

“The devices are designed for convenience and often times not with security in mind,” he said.

One of the biggest threats facing companies, Royse said, is a malicious software known as ransomware. The software can cripple businesses by encrypting valuable information, effectively locking it away until a sum of money is paid to the attacker.

“With modern encryption, you can’t take it to Geek Squad,” Royse said.

The problem isn’t easily fixed, but it can be prevented. Trained technicians can set up security systems, create backups and, above all, set policies and educate users.

“That’s really the most important thing,” Royse said.

— Follow education reporter Aaron Mudd on Twitter @BGDN_edbeat or visit bgdailynews.com

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SKYCTC TO HOST 5TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP SCRAMBLE

October 6, 2016, 7:52 am

≫ Next: KCTCS/SKYCTC RECOGNIZES BENEFACTORS

≪ Previous: SKYCTC launches IT security program

Golfers getting into their golf carts Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) will host its fifth annual “Golf Scramble for Student Scholarships” on Friday, October 14, 2016 at Crosswinds Golf Course in Bowling Green.

The tournament consists of a full round of golf. The cost is $75 per person ($300 for a 4 person teams). Check-in for the event is 7:00 AM and a shotgun start will begin at 8:00 AM.

For golfers, the $75 per player fee includes breakfast provided by Bojangles, lunch provided by Steamer Seafood, cart, green fees, and a gift for each player. Team prizes will be awarded for 1st and 2nd and 3rd place finishers. Prizes will also be awarded for closet to the pin and longest drive.

The SKYCTC Scholarship Program supports education and workforce development in south central Kentucky.

Those interested in supporting educational opportunities in our community can register for the SKYCTC Golf Scramble by going online to: http://southcentral.kctcs.edu/scholarshipscramble, printing the registration form and sending it to the address listed on the form, or pay the day of the event..

For more information, contact: Heather Rogers at 270-901-1116.

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KCTCS/SKYCTC RECOGNIZES BENEFACTORS

October 6, 2016, 9:02 am

≫ Next: MRS. KENTUCKY 2016 VISITS SKYCTC

≪ Previous: SKYCTC TO HOST 5TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP SCRAMBLE

Versailles, Ky.– The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) honored college benefactors at a Celebration of Philanthropy Awards dinner Saturday, Oct. 1 in Louisville. Hundreds of business people and dignitaries from across the Commonwealth attended the event, which provides an opportunity for KCTCS to honor leading individuals, business and foundations for their generous philanthropic and voluntary support to KCTCS.

Honored by Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) were Trace Die Cast, represented by HR Manager, Brenda Polley and Warren County Fiscal Court, represented by Deputy Judge Executive, Marie Smith.

This is the sixteenth year for this celebration that has honored 699 Kentuckians who, since 1998, have invested in the future by investing in KCTCS students. Since KCTCS was established, private giving has totaled $190 million. Over the same period, the endowment has grown from $12 million to nearly $52 million.

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MRS. KENTUCKY 2016 VISITS SKYCTC

October 26, 2016, 2:20 pm

≫ Next: SKYCTC ADULT EDUCATION TO HOST COLLEGE DAY

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Jackie Luttrell-Greenwalt, the raining Mrs. Kentucky 2016, spoke to students of Southcentral Kentucky Mrs Kentucky 2016 speaking Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) on Tuesday, October 25th sharing her experiences as Mrs. Kentucky and challenging the students to develop a “Spirit of Excellence” is preparation for their future.

Jackie calls Edmonson County home, where she grew up on her parents’ cattle farm learning the values of hard work, humility and what ‘Help Thy Neighbor’ really meant. Jackie is a self-proclaimed tomboy, who at the age of 13 “was literally taken out of the barn yard, cleaned up and put on a pageant stage at the county fair.” She was hooked on pageantry from that moment, and that passion has led Jackie to pursuing her dream of representing her beloved state on a national stage.

Following her meeting with SKYCTC students, Jackie also met with Chamber Athena Award winners and approximately 50 middle school girls who the Athena Award recipients are mentoring, for a luncheon discussing the importance of preparing for their future by the choices they make in their lives today.

Mrs Kentucky 2016 standing with middle school girls

“Always keep in mind that the things you post on social media and the friends you hang around today will affect your success in years to come,” Jackie said. She urged the young ladies to get rid of the negative influences in their lives from people who are discouraging the hopes and dreams of their tomorrows.

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SKYCTC ADULT EDUCATION TO HOST COLLEGE DAY

October 28, 2016, 11:52 am

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The Adult Education Program of Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) will host their annual event they call Adult Education College Day on Tuesday, November 1^st beginning at 9:00 a.m. The event is for current Warren County Adult Education students as well as graduates of the program.

Students earning their GED or learning English will be able to explore taking the next step in the educational journey, earning a college degree. A tour of the campus and program areas, as well as information about the programs and stories from current students, will all be part of the event.

“Our students in the Adult Education Center come for many reasons,” says Brian Becker, Director of Adult Education at SKYCTC. “Some come to learn English or earn a GED, and some of them come to study for their college exam so they can enroll in SKYCTC.”

“A high school education is very important, but it is predicted that by the year 2020, 56% of all jobs in KY will require some amount of college in addition to a high school degree,” says Becker. “All of us at Adult Education are here to help our students expand their opportunities and go to college, and we want them to know that they are never too old to pursue college! We all believe in the power of education,” Becker said.

The event will begin on the College’s main campus on Loop Drive in Bowling Green in the building F Conference Room. The event is free and open to the public.

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SOUTHERN KENTUCKY ANTIQUE AUTOMOBILE CLUB ESTABLISHES SCHOLARSHIPS AT SKYCTC

October 28, 2016, 1:41 pm

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The Southern Kentucky Region Antique Automobile Club of America presented a check for $5,000 to the SKYCTC Foundation to establish a scholarship for students in both the Collision Repair and Automotive Technology programs at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College. The first scholarships will be awarded for the 2017-18 school year to one student in each program in the amount of $500 each.

The scholarship is open to SKYCTC students enrolled in the Automotive Technology and Collision Repair programs. Students must be a Kentucky resident and enrolled full-time (at least 12 credit hours) and maintain a 2.5 GPA overall. Priority will be given for financial need.

“Our students and our faculty are appreciative of the opportunities this scholarship provides,” said Jon Hunt, Associate Professor of Collision Repair at SKYCTC. “This scholarship will give many of our students the opportunity to complete their educational studies and graduate debt free,” said Hunt.

Man resenting scholarship check to collision repair students

Man presenting scholarship to automotive students

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SKYCTC ADULT EDUCATION STUDENTS EXPLORE THE COLLEGE DEGREE OPTION AFTER GRADUATION

November 2, 2016, 8:46 am

≫ Next: SKYCTC STUDENTS GET EXPERT ADVICE ON CULTIVATING THEIR CAREERS

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Bowling Green, Ky. – The Adult Education Program of Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) hosted a bi-annual event they call College Day for all of their students on Tuesday, November 1^st.

Students earning their GED or learning English had the opportunity to explore taking the next step in the educational journey, earning a college degree. A tour of the campus and program areas, as well as information about the programs and stories from current students, were all part of the event.

“Each year about thirty percent of our students’ transition to higher education,” says Brian Becker, Director of Adult Education at SKYCTC. “Many of our students have been out of high school for several years or did not go to high school in the U.S. to get exposed to college programs. We want to set aside time each semester to give them an opportunity to experience a college tour and hear about the application process.”

Seventy students from eighteen different countries were in attendance to hear comments from SKYCTC President Dr. Phillip Neal, inviting them to be a part of the SKYCTC family and earn their degree. Admissions Advisor Addi Hernandez spoke to the students about the advantages of the College and what it has to offer in building a successful career and a better way of life for their families.

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SKYCTC STUDENTS GET EXPERT ADVICE ON CULTIVATING THEIR CAREERS

November 7, 2016, 6:03 am

≫ Next: SKYCTC Express Enrollment Events

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ladies at table takling to students Bowling Green, Ky. – What skills do I need to get a good paying job? What are employers looking for when they are trying to fill openings? These are the type of questions students at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) asked a panel of Human Resource Experts at the Cultivating Your Career event held October 27^th at the College’s Main Campus.

The event hosted by the SKYCTC Business Department and sponsored by Houchens Industries, Hensley & Throneberry, Certified Public Accountants, Consolidated Electrical Distributors, Country Oven Bakery and Little Caesars Pizza, allowed over 100 students to ask questions related to their future careers and employment after graduation.

The panel of experts consisted of: Ms. Kimberly Pfefferkorn, and Hilary Mishler of Hensley & Throneberry, Certified Public Accountants; Ms. Stacey Biggs, Chief Marketing Officer at WKU; Ms. Robin Amonett, HR Manager of Stewart Richey Construction; Ms. Wadette Bradford, General Manager of Martin Automotive Group; and Ms. Tabbatha Lottes, Assistant Manager of HR at KIRIU USA Corporation.

In response to students’ questions about how to get a job, Stacy Biggs said, “I can teach you how to do the job, but I want you to want to do the job.” Kimberly Pfefferkorn suggested that the students surround themselves with people who are excelling at the job they are wanting to do and learn from them.

In response to overcoming obstacles or past mistakes in their lives, Wanette Bradford said, “Look at everything that has happened in your life as an opportunity to learn and grow.”

Man behind podium talking to group of students

In addition to the skills that SKYCTC graduates possess when they leave the college, the panel was also appreciative of the workplace ethics built into the curriculum of each program area.

The panel encouraged the students to get every ounce of knowledge they can from their instructors at SKYCTC and carry that on to their chosen career.

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SKYCTC Express Enrollment Events

November 10, 2016, 7:18 am

≫ Next: On Track car in Year 2; Holley sees new applicants

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SKYCTC OFFERING EXPRESS ENROLLMENT EVENTS

Bowling Green, Ky. – Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC)] is offering students a one-stop enrollment opportunity November 15th – 17th. Express Enrollment week is an event to help students with one-on-one advising regarding enrollment, financial aid, scheduling and other items that prospective students need to complete for the Spring 2017 semester. Additionally, if a student has not taken the required placement test, that can be completed as well.

The goal is to make the enrollment process as simple and fast as possible. Students who submit all necessary admissions documents will be able to complete the process in one day.

“Many of our prospective students are anxious about college, and Express Enrollment is one way to relieve that anxiety,” said SKYCTC President Dr. Phillip Neal. “Making enrolling as easy as possible is just one way to help students feel welcome and a part of the college as soon as they step on campus.”

SKYCTC will host Express Enrollment Sessions at:
SKYCTC Franklin-Simpson Center, 175 Davis Drive, Franklin, KY

Tuesday, November 15 – 10:00 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. (Orientation begins at 1:30 p.m.)

SKYCTC Main Campus, 1845 Loop Drive, Bowling Green, KY

Wednesday, November 16 – 10:00 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. (Orientation begins at 5:30 p.m.)

Thursday, November 17 – 10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (Orientation begins at 1:30 p.m.)

Anyone interested in applying and enrolling for the Spring semester may schedule an appointment by registering at Kctcs.edu/express.

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On Track car in Year 2; Holley sees new applicants

November 15, 2016, 1:49 pm

≫ Next: SKYCTC INVESTING IN A BRIGHTER FUTURE

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Chuck Mason – BG Daily News fourty students standing by car built by SKYCTC students

Locally trained students in the science, technology, engineering and math-based motor sports disciplines are now knocking at Bill Tichenor's door at Holley Performance Products of Bowling Green.

"We've wanted an opportunity to show we are more than just a carburetor company," the Holley director of marketing said Monday of his company's first-year involvement in the On Track car rebuild program. It culminated in the 2016 LS Fest car competition earlier this year.

On Track Year 2 was announced Monday at the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. Tichenor said Holley in the first year made car parts for the rebuilds, students installed state-of-the-art engine power plants from Holley. Holley fuel injection systems are used in NASCAR and NHRA competition-ready vehicles, he said.

"They are already sending workers to us," Tichenor said of the local educational institutions teaching students science, technology, engineering and math.

The kick-off of the On Track motor sports initiative at the Warren County Area Technology Center and Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College for the 2016-17 school year contains a new wrinkle: the Warren East Engineering Academy.

The machine tool program through Warren East High School will create parts for the 1980 Chevrolet Corvette coupe that high school students at the WCATC are rebuilding. The car was donated by the National Corvette Museum.

New instructor Mark Hawks is teaching WCATC students machine tool technology.

SKYCTC students are rebuilding a 1994 Chevrolet Camaro, which was donated by the late Ken Stirn of Scottsville.

Chris Cumens of SKYCTC said On Track can spur conversations between parents and students about local motor sports industry careers.

A $70,000 grant from Lightweight Innovations for Tomorrow (LIFT) will help finance engine performance and vehicle weight aspects as the students work on the cars.

About 500 area high school and college students participated in Year 1, and a Camaro rebuilt by WCATC won the "Dominator" trophy at Holley's LS Fest. The SKYCTC Camaro, which broke a car frame part prior to the driving competition, received the President's Award at the Fest.

More students will be impacted by On Track this school year as the first-year rebuilt Camaros will be viewed by hundreds of elementary school and middle school students during opportunities to discuss STEM careers.

Ron Bunch, president and chief executive officer of the chamber, said the first-year cars will eventually be sold at auction and the proceeds poured back into the program. The program model could be marketed nationally and is expected to expand to regional schools in southcentral Kentucky in Year 3.

The car rebuilds are already underway, said WCATC Principal Eric Keeling, pointing to pictures showing work at both sites.

"The kids have already pulled the frame and said, 'What's next?' " Keeling said.

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SKYCTC INVESTING IN A BRIGHTER FUTURE

November 23, 2016, 6:42 am

≫ Next: MCKENNEY APPOINTED TO KENTUCKY BOARD OF RESPIRATORY CARE

≪ Previous: On Track car in Year 2; Holley sees new applicants

Artist rendering of proposed new building at SKYCTC. In labs, board rooms, hospitals, restaurants and manufacturing facilities across our region, Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College is at work in our community. Our alumni legacy has been one of productive careers and ensuring the economic development fabric supports a strong industrial and service foundation.

The paramount challenge facing SKYCTC is meeting the demands for a complex, well-trained workforce with limited space. Of the College’s six campuses, the largest and fastest growing student population is located on the Main Campus, 1845 Loop Drive in Bowling Green.

In order to ensure the College’s continuing legacy of learning, it was critical for SKYCTC to address the need for a new state-of-the-art instructional complex focused on science and medicine. In response, the College launched the BuildSmart campaign to raise $5.5 million in community support toward the project. This statewide initiative requires that 25 percent of the total scope of the project be raised by the local college before agency bonds are issued for the remaining 75 percent. The total scope of the SKYCTC Main Campus project is $22 million.

“This is an opportunity that we have as businesses, as a community, to make this college a showpiece”, says Trace Die Cast founder and BuildSmart Campaign Chairman, Lowell Guthrie. “ As a result we will have better workers, a better community, and everyone will benefit”.

The new 72,000 square foot complex will house nursing and health science classrooms, and engineering and chemistry labs that will utilize the latest technology and flexibility to create a learning environment that meets the demands of students today and in the future. A café, patio and outdoor courtyard, in addition to a new Welcome Center, Career and Academic Planning Center, library and learning commons, will enrich the campus experience for students and open up a number of possibilities for the community. The project is designed by Stengel Hill Architects and constructed by Codell. The structure will feature products aimed at saving energy, conserving resources and reducing environmental impact.

The BuildSmart campaign is nearing 50 percent of its goal with lead gifts pledged by The Medical Center, Franklin Bank & Trust Company, the Laura Goad Turner Charitable Foundation, Warren County Fiscal Court and a number of other donors. Faculty, staff, students, retirees and board members have also pledged their support to help make this project a reality.

Ground was broken for the new building in June this year with plans for the grand opening in late 2017. Students will begin the spring 2018 school semester in the new instructional complex.

For 75 years, SKYCTC’s faculty and staff have challenged students to change their lives and our community for the better. Now, the College is challenging the community to do the same. With several opportunities to invest in the BuildSmart initiative, individuals, businesses, foundations and organizations can be permanently associated with the College’s important work. Whether through a named giving opportunity or purchasing an engraved brick in the new courtyard, everyone has a chance to provide a meaningful, lasting tribute of support that will impact students for years to come.

For more information on supporting the new complex, contact SKYCTC Foundation Executive Director, Heather Rogers at 270/901-1116 or heather.rogers@kctcs.edu .

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MCKENNEY APPOINTED TO KENTUCKY BOARD OF RESPIRATORY CARE

December 5, 2016, 11:27 am

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Picture of Ken McKenney Ken DeLane McKenney, has been appointed by Governor Matt Bevin to the Kentucky Board of Respiratory Care. McKenney of Bowling Green, is the Respiratory Care Director of Clinical Education and an associate professor at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College. McKenney shall serve for a term expiring Oct. 31, 2019

The Kentucky Board of Respiratory Care is a government agency that regulates respiratory care practitioners and their services. The KBRC was established in 1990 to protect the citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky from unsafe practitioners and practices.

The KBRC Board is self-supporting and receives no KY general fund tax appropriation. It is funded through fees assessed for licensing its professionals.

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DASH for the STASH contest organized by Dept. of Financial Institutions, Investor Protection Institute

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