Amanda Jerome, college and career readiness coordinator for Daviess County Public Schools, was recently honored for her efforts with helping students get into and prepare for postsecondary education. Jerome was named the recipient of the inaugural Pathfinder of the Year Award by Owensboro Community & Technical College.
Established by the Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS), the Pathfinder Award recognizes high school teachers and counselors “for their outstanding efforts in assisting students with their college-going plans,” according to a release.
“I am honored to receive this award. I truly love what I do, and I am thankful to get to do it with such amazing partners,” Jerome said. “I can’t say enough good things about the OCTC faculty and staff. They are all so supportive and always willing to help any student out. I truly feel like a part of the team and am honored to be recognized by the institution I love so much.”
OCTC President Dr. Scott Williams, surprised Jerome at a faculty meeting at DCHS on Wednesday to present the award.
“All our high school teachers and counselors are working tirelessly to ensure our young people can succeed in the classroom, workplace, and community,” Williams said. “It is our honor to be able to salute their efforts and recognize someone annually for all they do to ensure students excel. The Pathfinder Award recognizes those who go above and beyond to empower the next generation.”
Jerome’s nomination cited the thousands of students she has worked with over her 22 years of service in the public school system. Over the last 8 years as the DCPS college and career readiness coordinator, Jerome has facilitated many dual credit programs and pathways for high school students under the EmpowerU umbrella, partnering with OCTC for students to explore pathways to a career and college credit. In this program, students earn their associate degree while in high school — and as of May 2023, will total 323 associate degree graduates with a 97% pass rate.
Jerome has also helped develop career-based opportunities through her many connections with employers across the region.
Nominations for the OCTC Pathfinder Award were made by KCTCS students, faculty and staff. Winners were selected based on the following criteria: encouraged student(s) to attend a KCTCS college; assisted students in identifying a career and postsecondary path; provided mentorship; and/or maintained contact with students.
