Women's History Month | BCTC

Women's History Month

a group of women stand together

Celebrate Women in March

Each day this March, in honor of Women’s History Month, 31 women at BCTC – faculty, staff and students – will be highlighted here and recognized across all BCTC campuses.

Join us in celebrating these remarkable BCTC women, as well as so many women from our past, who dared to break down barriers, shatter stereotypes, and pave the way for us.  We owe these daring women, and so many others like them, a great debt.

Why do we celebrate women in March?

Why do we celebrate women in March?  Women lobbied for national recognition of their historical achievements, and in 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued a presidential proclamation declaring National Women’s History Week during the week of March 8th , the official date of International Women’s Day.  National Women’s History Week served as platform to honor the amazing accomplishments of women in art, activism, science, and politics.

But one week was not enough to honor the important contributions of women.

In 1987, after the movement gained momentum, with the help of states and women’s organizations across the country, the National Women's History Project successfully lobbied Congress to expand the week-long celebration into a month-long observance, leading to the establishment of Women's History Month. Since then, Women's History Month has been officially recognized and celebrated nationwide every March.

Women's History Month brings us together to honor and to celebrate the remarkable achievements and vital contributions of women in history, many of whom did not live long enough to see change come.  In honor of their sacrifices, we remember women’s struggles and celebrate women’s triumphs during the month of March; we also advocate for gender equality to empower all women each day of the year.

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31 Women at BCTC

31 Women at BCTC – faculty, staff and students – will be highlighted here and recognized across all BCTC campuses. Sponsored by the Office of Culture and Engagement.


alycia tidrick Alycia Tidrick
BCTC Lawrenceburg Campus Director

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in? 
Lawrenceburg Campus

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
I love (and think it's amazing!) that BCTC offers something for everyone. Whether you're working to complete your GED, taking classes as a high school student, working towards a credential or degree, pursuing a career change, upskilling in a current job, or taking a class just for fun, we can help!

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
I love to read, especially thriller/suspense novels. I try to read at least one book per week.

What are you most passionate about? 
This is perhaps an unusual response, but I love being a working mom. I find so much joy and fulfillment in being a mom to my two kiddos (8 and 3 years old,) and I also feel a strong sense of purpose and enthusiasm about my work. Neither role is easy, and it's challenging to balance both, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
Another thing that I really love about my job (and BCTC in general) is the community partnerships. I think that access to educational opportunities is such an important component of strong communities. I love when we get to partner with local schools, businesses, and community organizations to create new opportunities and bring new programs to life to serve our community members.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
When nothing is sure, everything is possible.

danni quintos

Danni Quintos
Assistant Professor - Humanities
Faculty Liaison for Multicultural & Global Learning Center

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in? 
Humanities / English

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
The students are wonderful.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Knitting.

What are you most passionate about? 
Poetry, gender equality, body autonomy, Asian American identity and culture.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I am a member of the Affrilachian Poets.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
Support other women and invest in your friendships.

shanise edwards Shanise Edwards
African American Outreach Coordinator

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in? 
I currently serve as the African American Outreach Coordinator in the Office of Admissions.

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
I favor many things about BCTC but the students of BCTC rank highest for me. BCTC has a budding array of students who along with faculty and staff weave a beautiful tapestry of community at BCTC. I delight in the opportunity to serve the students of BCTC and thrive in the tapestry of the community they help to create as they share their customs, beliefs, struggles, ideas, triumphs, stories, and talents.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
The COVID-19 Pandemic taught me the importance of slowing down and relaxing the mind and body. During the pandemic, I developed a love for candle-making that aided in self relaxation. While candle-making is my go-to when I need to decompress nothing tops sharing laughter and a great meal with the people I love most. Laughter like food, enriches us!

What are you most passionate about? 
In addition to my family I am most passionate about helping others unlock their full potential and fostering a more inclusive, kind, and supportive community for myself and others to thrive in. I am blessed with a job that allows me to operate in my passion.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?

My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.

- Maya Angelou

regina shank Regina Shank
Student Accessibility Services previously Student Activities
Alumni of BCTC/LCC/UK in AAS Business Management

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in? 
Currently: Student Accessibility Services previously Student Activities
Alumni of BCTC/LCC/UK in AAS Business Mgmt.

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
I have been both employee and student, and been around these campuses for more than 1/2 my life. Mind blowing all that I have seen and been a part of this for since 1994-1999 as student then employed since graduation 1999. I have my GED too and love that we have that on our campuses now too. All the resources we share with and give to students.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Laughing, share times with friends/coworkers/family, being in nature (I live and commute from Powel Co.) and serving others.

What are you most passionate about? 
God, serving and showing love to others.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I once was very shy, timid and had no idea going to college was possible for me: GED, teenage mother, first generation and very, very poor. My first exam at LCC, I studied 22 hours at the college library and received an A after being out of school for over 5 years.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
You do not know if you can, until you try. Even then, it may lead you to another path or joy. Also, Mother Teresa's quote/motto: Do small things with great love.

Antonia Nupia-Avellaneda Antonia Nupia-Avellaneda
Associate in Science

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in? 
Associate in Science

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
The Global Learning Center (GLC) and the caring people.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Dancing or writing.

What are you most passionate about? 
Psychology and animals.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I’m learning how to love and receive love.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
You can't win if you don't play.

Evangeline Cash Evangeline Cash
Nutritionist with a specialty in biochemistry Nutrition, and LGBTQIA+ Services

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in? 
Nutritionist with a specialty in biochemistry Nutrition, and LGBTQIA+ Services

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
The diversity and the communities. The way that so many people, from so many walks of life can come together and create a community at college. Building connections that last, relationships with peers that raise us to be greater then we are. The sense of community that so many different individuals care for in order to make BCTC a home away for home for those who may not have close family connections and for that may. BCTC has strengthened my character and pushes me daily to bring my own authentic style of open communication and fun to those around me. 

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
My favorite way to unwind is either going to the gym and pushing my stresses away, while pulling my focus back to neutral to let me take on the next day. Back-ing myself with my core strengths and squatting the day away to to music from the ages. Orrrr cuddling into a warm blanket and turning the fire on while turning on a original gothic horror or psychological horror.

What are you most passionate about? 
Health and fitness, inclusivity, and bringing various cultures and communities together. Creating a safe space for everyone to feel accepted and like there is somewhere they belong.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I would like to be able to make a safe space for individuals that don't fall into the stereotypes of society. A place where everyone can improve their physical and mental health. Using nutrition to close the divide within ourselves for embracing love and loving ourselves.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
"May it be a light to you in dark places, when all other lights go out."

jenny jones Jenny Jones
Professor of Psychology, CHLSS Division
Program Coordinator for Human Services and Social Work

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Professor of Psychology, CHLSS Division
Program Coordinator for Human Services and Social Work

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
I love that our mission focuses on transforming one student at a time; our mission is personal and I appreciate being a part of providing an opportunity to change lives for the better. 

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Spending time with my grandsons and my family. They keep me young and tired!!

What are you most passionate about? 
I am passionate about the helping field and making people feel accepted, wanted, appreciated, and included. 

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
Like many of our students, I was a non-traditional, first generation college student. When I began college at age 28, I was divorced with a 5 year old daughter. I absolutely fell in love with learning and teaching. People have asked why I do not teach at a university. My answer is simple, my passion and where I feel at home is at the community college where we help change one life at a time.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
"It's okay to not be okay, but it is not okay to stay that way." - Jenny Jones

dr erin tipton Dr. Erin Tipton
Vice President for Workforce and Economic Development

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Workforce and Economic Development 

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
I absolutely love the impact we make on the communities we serve. BCTC is uniquely positioned to meet students where they are and be a part of their career journey while simultaneously serving our community partners and employers to build and develop their organizations. 

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
I enjoy spending time with my family, taking my dog on long walks, gardening, I and spending time with friends. 

What are you most passionate about? 
I am most passionate about helping people find purpose in and pathways to their career aspirations. I was fortunate to have mentors guide me along my career journey and I want to provide that investment to others.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
The beach is my happy place. 

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
“A brave man (woman) acknowledges the strength of others”. - Veronica Roth

lauren campbell Lauren Campbell
Associate Professor of Business Administration and Assistant Dean of Business, Computers and Information Systems

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Associate Professor of Business Administration and Assistant Dean of Business, Computers and Information Systems

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
I love our students! We are blessed to have a very dedicated team of faculty and staff that work very hard to help our students succeed. 

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
I unwind by listening to everything from rock and pop to musical soundtracks from The Beatles to The Weeknd. 

What are you most passionate about? 
I love to travel--exploring new places, understanding different cultures, and learning new languages.   Traveling helps us better understand the world and changes us in ways we never expect.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I went to BCTC when it was Lexington Community College. While I was a student, I was elected Student Government Association President and was a member of Phi Theta Kappa and International Student Association. I was also on a team that voted on our name change to BCTC! I loved my time here so much that I wanted to come back and teach. I love our College!

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
"Hardship often prepares an ordinary person for an extraordinary destiny." C.S. Lewis

katie reams Katie Reams
Student Development Specialist at our Winchester/Clark County Campus

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
I work at our Winchester/Clark County Campus as the Student Development Specialist. 

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
My favorite thing about BCTC is how welcoming everyone is. I was terrified moving cities and jobs all at the same time when I started at BCTC. Since day one I was welcomed with open arms and everyone has always been willing to help!

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
My favorite way to relax and unwind is to play video games with my boyfriend. I also like to read and listen to music. 

What are you most passionate about? 
I am most passionate about pursuing what you want in life and becoming the best possible version of yourself.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I am an animal lover! My fur babies are Athena, who is a three year old German Shepard, and two cats, Tigger and Zeus. Morehead State University is my alma mater where I earned a bachelor's and master's degree. 

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts."
- Winston Churchill

alonna allen Alonna Allen
Associate in Arts and student worker in African American Student Initiatives

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
My major is Associate in Arts. I work in the office of African American Student Initiatives.

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
My favorite thing about BCTC is allowing students to have the opportunity to be involved. I am one of Ms. Kauai Thurman’s student workers, I was blessed with the opportunity of Studying Abroad in South Africa, and I am the president of Black Student Union. 

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
My favorite way to relax and unwind is listening to music. 

What are you most passionate about? 
I am passionate about caring for others. 

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
BCTC has opened many doors for me in so many unexpected ways. 

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
“There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise.”

marly earlywine Marly Earlywine
Assistant Dean, Advanced Manufacturing 

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Advanced Manufacturing

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
The support we strive to provide our students.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Go shopping.

What are you most passionate about? 
Helping others.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I have a husband and a 11-month-old son named Archie.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
"You must be the change you wish to see in the world." - Mahatma Gandi

teresa willett Teresa Willett
Vice President of IT at Lexmark

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Graduated from BCTC, now VP of IT at Lexmark 

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
The start of my career

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Yard work - projects around the house

What are you most passionate about? 
At Lexmark - in my role as VP of IT - Motivating people - Empower & Energize

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
My journey that BCTC helped me get started

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
Words Matter - Actions Matter

melissa masters Melissa Masters
Assistant Custodial Supervisor

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
I'm an assistant custodial supervisor. 

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
The comradery between faculty, staff and students.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Sitting outside and enjoying nature with a cup of coffee.

What are you most passionate about? 
Animals.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I enjoy dancing.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
Do unto others how you want to be treated.

allison maupin Allison Maupin
Information Technology Specialist

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
I work in the IT department of BCTC as an Information Technology Specialist. 

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
I love the community we have and the way we work together to support each other and our students.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
In my free time I like to relax by watching TV, gaming, reading, as well as knitting and crocheting. 

What are you most passionate about? 
Tacos are the first answer that comes to mind. However, I also do find helping others and solving problems very rewarding. Solving an issue or showing someone an easier way to accomplish what they need can make their jobs and lives a little easier. 

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I am a graduate of BCTC and when I started here, I wasn't sure what career I was interested in until taking Introduction to Computers. I've been with the college's IT department ever since starting as a work-study student to my current full-time role.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
Have you tried turning it off and on again?

sara toori

Sara Toori
Computer Engineering Technology student
Assistant in the Refugee Career Pathway Program

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
I am majoring in Computer Engineering Technology. I am working as an Assistant in the Refugee Career Pathway Program at BCTC. 

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
Diversity and people's willingness to help students and each other. BCTC is my second home and the people here are my BCTC family. 

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
I pray. 
I take a walk with deep breaths.
I take a nap.
I drink some water.

What are you most passionate about?
I am passionate about nature, adventure, movies, and books. I am passionate about learning new things. I am also passionate to learn about myself and to improve my skills and habits. I am passionate about seeing the people around me achieve what they identify as success, peace and happiness in their lives. 

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I am a refugee from Afghanistan. I started my life here in the U.S. two years ago. I am multilingual. I speak Dari-Farsi, Pashto, and English. 

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
“Do not let your difficulties fill you with anxiety. It is only in the darkest nights that the stars shine more brilliantly”. (Ali RA)

dixie kendall Dixie Kendall
Program Coordinator and Associate Professor of the Equine Program

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Program Coordinator / Associate Professor - Equine Program

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
My favorite thing about BCTC is the practical approach to education that is offered to students. Students receive the training and education they need to succeed in their career pathways without the expense associated with universities because we provide credentials that focus the majority, if not all, of the required credits in the subject areas applicable to the student's program. I think of it as "education with purpose".

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
My favorite way to relax and unwind is to ride my horse. 

What are you most passionate about? 
My initial reason for pursuing a career in education was my passion for animal welfare. Through education, I felt I could benefit the equine industry by teaching the next generation of the workforce. I found quickly after starting my career as an instructor at BCTC that I am also very passionate about the well-being and success of my graduates. 

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
The Equine program at BCTC has become my life's work. I hope to make a lasting impact on the equine industry that will not only benefit the welfare of the horses but also the people in the industry. 

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
Be accountable for every aspect of your life. Earn your opportunities. 

pandora smith Pandora Smith
Administrative Assistant for Veterans Education Benefits

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
I am currently working on a bachelor's degree in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Human Resources. I work in the Veterans Education Benefits department at Leestown campus.

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
My favorite thing about BCTC is the commitment to helping our current students, prospective students and their parents. The Leestown campus' team culture, allows our guests to feel welcome and safe in our Student Services suite which includes the Veteran Services, Personal Counseling, Advising, Family Scholar House, and CEVSS. Together, with marketing, we meet the daily needs of our students. For example, we are mindful of food insecurity at our campus and strive to help any student in need

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, gardening and watching historical movies. I also enjoy volunteering at my church and community.

What are you most passionate about? 
I am most passionate about helping families in need. 

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I have a terrific sense of humor. I am loyal, dependable, trustworthy, and a fierce advocate for those in need.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
Be careful who you allow to sit on the front row of your life. (Anonymous)

cathy hart Cathy Hart
Associate Director of Financial Aid

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Financial Aid

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
BCTC gives so many the opportunity to begin their next chapter in life. We are open to all who want to try and we are here to help them succeed. Our wide array of programs give our students and community opportunity to begin their education, change their careers or receive further training in their current careers. Our college has a mission that we all strive to accomplish and that is to help each and every student.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Spending time with family and friends. Watching old movies with my husband. Traveling to see new places. Gardening and taking walks.

What are you most passionate about? 
First, faith in God, family, kindness and making things beautiful. For my work at BCTC working in Financial Aid and with our students is somewhat of a calling. I love to give, but am not a wealthy person, so helping students and families find the means to afford college is an outlet. College can be expensive and scary for some folks. I have always loved helping students and parents understand the process and easing the burden of how can they afford their college expenses.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I love flowers, gardening and decorating. I love my personal family and my BCTC work family. My husband and I are the proud parents of two wonderful grown sons. We have one grand-daughter. In our home we now have two dogs and three cats.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
“Love is like wildflowers; it’s often found in the most unlikely places.”– Ralph Waldo Emerson

janet red holland Janet "Red' Holland
Custodian

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Custodial Services

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
There is a lot of nice people. 

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
I enjoy playing Bingo. 

What are you most passionate about? 
I am passionate about doing a working hard and keeping things clean. 

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I am fun and crazy. I enjoy having fun! 

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
If you don't care of yourself, you won't make it. Take care of yourself. 

jade liebenberg Jade Liebenberg
BCTC Digital Media Communication and Journalism student

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Digital media communication and journalism

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
My favourite thing about BCTC is the openness between students & faculty and staff. The way staff & faculty does all they can to ensure student has their best experience.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
I unwind and relax by running a bath, lighting candles and having relaxing sounds in the background.

What are you most passionate about? 
I am most passionate about people and their mental health. I would always advocate and bring across the importance of mental health in people because life takes a strain on their mental health and I feel there is not enough light shed on the topic so i would always remind people to be kind to themselves as well as other people because a simple conversation could keep someone to face their battle and that is enough to spark my passion.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I am a ambivert. I tend to make a lot impulsive decision based on what i know and want. On days when i am not introverted I am extremely on what i want to say as well raise my point of view on a matter presented at hand.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
"Your struggles does not define who you are and who you are meant to be"

dolores meaux Dolores Meaux
Coordinator For Alternate Text Conversion in Student Accessibility Services

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
BS and MS Degrees in Business Education & Office Administration
Rank I - Vocational and General Education
Certification - 30+ Hours in Counseling

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
When I was a Counselor at Lafayette High School, I met Tania Crawford and Shelbie Hugle. They both were very professional and they worked well with our students in their programs. This made me want to join BCTC when I retired from Fayette Co. Schools.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Reading Books and Listening to Music.

What are you most passionate about? 
Being active in Church and working with youth in an educational setting.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.

I am a Fayette County Counselor|Teacher of 32 years. I am the Coordinator For Alternate Text Conversion for the SAS Department. My work experience includes being actively involved in an educational setting.

I have been recognized as a "Crystal DOVE" (50 years member) in the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. I am a Legacy Member in Zeta Phi Beta which includes my Sister and Daughter.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
Life can be Awesome by Being a Good Listener, Showing Kindness and most of all Being open to Change.

liz wareham Liz Wareham
BCTC Social Work and Associate in Arts student

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
My major is Social Work/ Associates in the Arts 

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
I love the way BCTC puts students first and strives for a safe and inclusive atmosphere for students to learn in. 

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
My favorite way to relax is reading and listening to music. I also like be outside and travel.  

What are you most passionate about? 
I am most passionate about helping People. I believe everyone has their own story and that they deserve to be included and heard no matter their start in life.  

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I have 3 children who I hope will see that they can do anything. 
I also have a coffee addiction and a love of plants and sparkly rocks.  

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?

“In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer. And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger – something better, pushing right back.”

— Albert Camus

Featured in: Summer Quotes

lisa bell Lisa G. Bell
Vice President, Finance and Operations/IT

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Finance and Operations/IT

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
The people.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Travel - let's go!

What are you most passionate about? 
My faith.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I am humbled and honored to be featured during women's history month. I'm also an introvert so having a spotlight on me stretches me beyond my comfort zone. However, this is a perfect example of one of the many reasons why I love working for BCTC. BCTC provides me opportunities to learn, to grow personally and professionally, to overcome challenges, to engage, and to help change lives.   

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
Be kind, be compassionate, work hard, forgive, and remember that you are who God says you are.

marissa smith Marissa Smith
Educational Advisor for TRIO Student Support Services

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
TRIO Student Support Services 

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
I love being apart of a community that serves students from all walks of life. BCTC being an open access institution makes it so that anyone can achieve the dream of attaining a college degree.  

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
I love to travel and hike. Nature is my therapy! Hope to visit all 50 states and all 7 continents. 

What are you most passionate about?
Helping others become knowledgeable. Being a resource to serve in all capacities. 

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
It is an honor and privilege to help serve the community in which I care so much for.  

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
You are not defined by your best or worst moment. You are unconditionally loved! 

Ruth González Jiménez Ruth González Jiménez
Latinx Initiatives and Services Office

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Latinx Initiatives and Services Office

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
The people! Since my arrival at BCTC six months ago (feels like forever, though!), I have felt welcome and like I can be my genuine self, all while developing as a young professional and person! I have received love and mentorship from both students and staff/faculty alike. Bluegrass has quickly become home.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
My favorite way to celebrate myself (I.e., relax and unwind) is with amazing music blasting (my Pit bull terrier sleeps through it) and migraine-friendly low lights. I enjoy taking care of my plants and propagating them to share . Yearround, I love cooking traditional Mexican food, eating and when in the best spirits, dancing like no one is watching. 

What are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about education and creating a pathway to education for historically marginalized students (Immigrant, BIPOC, LGBTQ/QTPOC). 

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I am a proud previously Undocumented American from Mexico, an avid football fan, that loves cooking, music, her pitbull, and being a higher education professional!

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?

In Lak'Ech 
You are my other me.
If I do harm to you,
I do harm to myself.
If I love and respect you,
I love and respect myself.

Tú eres mi otro yo. 
Si te hago daño a ti,
Me hago daño a mi mismo. 
Si te amo y respeto,
Me amo y respeto yo.

Luis Valdez

esther nonsiima Esther Nonsiima
BCTC Computer Science Student

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
I major in computer science.

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
Being able to socialize and make connections with other students and faculty members. It creates a sense of community and support that enhances my overall college experience.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
I find that spending time outdoors, surrounded by trees and fresh air, helps me clear my mind and rejuvenate my spirit. Additionally, listening to music allows me to escape into a different world and find peace in the melodies.

What are you most passionate about?
I am passionate about modeling my future to become a place where I can make a positive impact on others and inspire change. I am also passionate about continuous learning and personal growth to reach my full potential.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I like dancing. It's a way for me to express myself and let loose. I also enjoy trying new types of dance styles to challenge myself and keep things interesting.

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
"Be the change you wish to see in the world." by Mahatma Gandhi. Take action and lead by example, inspiring others to make a positive difference in their own lives and communities.

dr landrea miriti

Dr. Landrea Miriti
Mathematics & Statistics Professor

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
I teach students mathematics particularly transitional mathematics and Contemporary Math ( MA111U).  

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
My favorite thing about BCTC is that it gives me an opportunity teach and connect with a diverse  group of students. 

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Binge watching  episodes of  "Grey's Anatomy" , "This is Us "  "Station 19" , "Abbot Elementary" and other series with my youngest daughter.  

What are you most passionate about?
Teaching math and mothering my children.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
My first job when I moved to Lexington was delivering newspapers for the Herald Leader. 

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
" You have to wear this world like a loosely fitting garment" 

emily swiney Emily Swiney
Advisor at BCTC Danville Campus

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Advising | Danville Campus

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
While there are numerous aspects of BCTC that I deeply appreciate, the students are my favorite. Forming genuine connections with them and witnessing their growth and success is incredibly rewarding and lies at the heart of our work. Additionally, I love the wide array of support and opportunities that BCTC provides to individuals from various backgrounds and interests. It's truly remarkable how there's something for everyone.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
It varies! I enjoy snuggling with my cats, taking a day trip with my husband, trying new recipes to cook or bake, and birdwatching. I recently bought two birdfeeders for our backyard (as simple as it sounds) it has been such a joy. So far, we've seen doves, robins, cardinals, woodpeckers, sparrows, and finches. I'm excited to see what other feathered friends visit this spring!

What are you most passionate about? 
My greatest passions revolve around my family, my friends, and helping others on their educational journeys!

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle." -Plato

stephanie trusty Stephanie Trusty
Advanced Manufacturing

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Advanced Manufacturing  

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
That tuition is affordable.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Watching The Office. 

What are you most passionate about?
My career.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I have a cat named Dude. 

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
Work hard, don’t give up and enjoy the journey. 

shelbie hugle Shelbie Hugle
Associate Vice President of Public Relations, Marketing, and Admissions

What is your major or what area of the college do you work in?
Public Relations, Marketing and Admissions

What is your favorite thing about BCTC?
I love that I have the opportunity to be at the forefront of prospective students and families deciding that BCTC is their College of choice. I love our mission and how we serve students.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
Laying on my heating pad and watching my favorite reality shows!

What are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about creating experiences for people and making them feel special.

Tell us anything else about yourself that you want folks to know.
I want people to know that I love what I do and the people I work with. This career has been very rewarding and it has been an honor to know that I have helped someone reach their educational goals. Oh, and also that I have met Sidney Poitier, Magic Johnson and Dolly Parton. I'm hoping that Magic or Dolly will donate a large sum of money to BCTC!

What is a quote or piece of wisdom you would share?
You can show them better than you can tell them! A "Shortyism"!

Women in Science

five women stand together smiling

Women in Science is an initiative led by BCTC Natural Sciences to celebrate women's contributions to the fields of science, specifically in Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Physics. During Women's History Month, a series of posters showcase an individual woman scientist's key contributions, accomplishments, awards, education, and more. 

We encourage you to print out these posters to hang in your schools, offices, or other locations to highlight these women's contributions to science! The links below will take you to Flickr where you can download the image files. To print the highest quality of the posters, we recommend a PDF file (the posters are 11"x17"). 

If you'd like a PDF version of the posters, please contact Tammy Liles at tammy.liles@kctcs.edu.

2024 Women in Science Posters

Science Field Women in Science
Biotechnology Barbara McClintock
Chemistry Clarice E. Phelps
Environmental Science Xiaoyuan Ren
Biology Catalina Vélez-Ortega
Physics Priyamvada Natarajan

2023 Women in Science Posters

The links below will take you to Flickr where you can download the image files. To print the highest quality of the posters, we recommend a PDF file (the posters are 11"x17").

Science Field Women in Science
Biology Jane Goodall
Biotechnology Cagney Coomer
Chemistry Geraldine Richmond
Environmental Science Wangari Maathai
Physics Andrea Ghez

Women in Science on Flickr

See photos of previous posters and events on Flickr (new window).

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Mes de la Mujer

graphic with text that says feliz mes de la mujer

During Women's History Month, it's also important to acknowledge the contributions of Latina women around the world. 

graphic with a list of latina women to learn about

graphic with a list of latina women to learn about

#LatinasToLookUp

Sylvia Rivera | Activist | STAR
The Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries with Marsha P. Johnson

Gloria Anzaldua | Author Feminist
Author of Borderlands: La Nueva Mestiza

Frida Kahlo | Artist and Feminist | World famous for her self-portraits

Cherrie Moraga | Playwright Poet Activist

Rose Troche | Director for Film and Television

Laura Esquivel | Activist Co-founder of LLEGO
(Latino/a Lesbian and Gay Organization) Nicknamed ‘La Madre’

Jennicet Gutiérrez | Trans Rights Activist
Against Mistreatment of Trans immigrants at the US Border

Alexandra Ocasio Cortez | Representative (NY) | Activist

Dolores Huerta | Activist
UFW United Farm Workers' Rights

Ellen Ochoa | First Hispanic Woman in Space

Sylvia Mendez | Mendez Vs Westminster
Historic Icon Court case desegregated California schools and set precedent for Brown VS Board of Education to desegregate American schools

Maria Hinojosa | Award Winning Journalist (CNN, NPR, PBS) | Radio Host

Ana Mendieta | Cuban American Refugee | Feminist Artist

Lleana Ros-Lehtinen | First Latina in (FL) Senate, US House of Representatives and the FIRST Cuban American Congresswoman, AND the First woman to be chair of a committee of the House

Sophie Cruz | 5 Year old turned Activist
Advocated for support from the Vatican and the Pope to uplift Immigrants like her parents

Daphne Frias | Activist and Advocate for Accessibility for students with disabilities
Founder of Box the Ballot

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Women's History Month Events

Event Date Event Title Link/More Information

Thursday
March 7
11:30 am

Say What? The Unique Sound Waves of my Scientific Journey

BCTC's Natural Science Department presents "Say What? The Unique Sound Waves of my Scientific Journey" with Dr. Catalina Vélez-Ortega.

Thursday
March 7
6:00 pm

4th Annual WGS Virtual Film-fest: A Small Section of the World

BCTC students and employees are invited to take part in the WGS Film-fest as we gather virtually to watch the film A Small Section of the World

 

Friday
March 8
All Day

International Women's Day 2024: 'Invest in women: Accelerate Progress'

Learn more about this initiative led by UN Women.

Learn About the Initiative

Need help? Contact:

Savannah Sipple-McGraw
Coordinator of Academic Diversity and Inclusion
(859) 246-6957
savannah.sipplemcgraw@kctcs.edu

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