Owensboro Community & Technical College recently recognized a group of soon-to-be healthcare professionals during its 2026 Going Pro Healthcare Signing Day.
The event, held at the Industry Innovation Center, highlighted graduating students entering the workforce while also recognizing partnerships between OCTC and regional healthcare employers. Students from nursing, radiography, and veterinary technology programs were honored as they prepare to begin careers across the region following May graduation.
Several employers participated in the ceremony by recognizing incoming hires. Deaconess Health System honored nursing graduates Isai Amaya and Kelsey Hayes. Kentuckiana Animal Clinic recognized veterinary technology graduate Wes Smith. Ohio County Healthcare celebrated radiography graduates Briley Howard and Ashlee Diaz Garcia, with Radiology Manager Michelle Ball attending. Owensboro Health Regional Hospital welcomed nursing graduates Brittney R. Groves and Sondra Perez.
Additional radiography graduates recognized during the event included Roxy Cunningham, Jordan Fulton, Kinsley Goetz, Sarah Houston, Baylie Mitchell, Kiana Sandefur, Yereli Reyes Santamaria, Ansley Smith, and Leah Stewart.
College officials said the event also highlighted the personal challenges many students overcame while completing their programs, including balancing coursework, clinical rotations, jobs, and family responsibilities.
Students credited faculty, clinical partners, and support systems for helping them succeed, noting the role of instructors, advisors, coworkers, and family members in keeping them on track.
The Going Pro Healthcare Signing Day reflects OCTC’s focus on workforce development by aligning academic programs with employer needs, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and transition directly into high-demand careers.
“The Going Pro Healthcare event represents the very best of OCTC — students who have worked tirelessly to overcome challenges, develop their skills, and step into careers that truly make a difference,” said Dr. Scott Williams, president of OCTC. “Our partnerships with healthcare providers ensure that our graduates are not only job-ready but prepared to deliver compassionate, high-quality care to our communities. We are incredibly proud of each of these students and excited to see the impact they will have across our region.”
