Somerset, KY – Somerset Community College (SCC) is proud to announce that Amy Walters, a dedicated guidance counselor at Somerset High School, has been awarded the SCC High School Teacher/Counselor Pathfinder Award.
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.
Amy Walters has been a driving force in the lives of countless students, emphasizing the importance of future planning. “I think future planning is very important. Most students coming in as freshmen can’t see beyond graduation when the reality is, high school only lasts four years and they will be working for essentially the rest of their lives,” Walters explains.
Under her guidance, students have the opportunity to explore their options and opportunities throughout their high school years. “The first two years of high school should be about exploring their options and opportunities around them,” Walters states, highlighting her commitment to fostering a broad understanding of post-high school pathways, including two- and four-year colleges, military service, and vocational programs.
“Our students know that SCC is here, but they don’t realize the wide variety of options that are offered including obtaining a four-year degree through the University Center of Southern Kentucky,” Walters said.
“Walters is dedicated to ensuring SHS students have the support they need for a smooth transition to college.” SCC Admissions Counselor Amy Caldwell said, “By collaborating with families and providing resources, she empowers them to make informed decisions about their education and future while working with us at SCC to inform her students effectively and accurately.”
Walters believes in building strong, personal relationships with her students, an approach that spans all four years of high school. “I think it’s very important to make the students understand that ‘college’ doesn’t just mean going away to a four-year institution. There is an abundance of good paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree,” she emphasizes. “We want them to know what’s available to them.”
The strong relationships Walters has built extends beyond high school, as she takes pride in supporting students as they transition to postsecondary education. “One of the best things about this job is running into students after they have graduated and finding out where they are and what they are doing,” she adds.
In recognition of her tireless work and dedication, Walters expressed her gratitude for receiving the SCC Pathfinder Award: “I was very surprised and touched by the honor. I think everyone wants their work to be important and meaningful. Receiving recognition kind of helps to validate that for you. I appreciate everyone who made this possible for me.”
KCTCS students, faculty, and staff made nominations for the SCC High School Teacher/Counselor Pathfinder Award. 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.
- Maintained contact with students.
“The Pathfinder Award is a testament to Walters’s unwavering passion for her students and her commitment to their success as they embark on their future paths,” SCC President Dr. Carey Castle said. “The entire SCC community congratulates Amy on this well-deserved recognition.”
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