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Owsley County Counselor Receives Pathfinder Award

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Vanessa Johnson receiving an award at Owsley County High School

News Summary

Vanessa Johnson, a school counselor at Owsley County High School, has been awarded the 2024-25 KCTCS Pathfinder Award, recognizing her dedication to guiding students in their educational pursuits. With 31 years of experience, Johnson empowers students to explore postsecondary options and supports their career paths. Esteemed colleagues commend her positive impact on education within the community.

Owsley County, Kentucky – Vanessa Johnson, a dedicated school counselor at Owsley County High School, was honored with the prestigious 2024-25 Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) Pathfinder Award on May 22, 2025, during a ceremony held at the school. This award recognizes outstanding K-12 employees who inspire students to pursue postsecondary education opportunities, particularly through enrollment at KCTCS colleges.

The KCTCS Pathfinder Award honors one recipient from each of the system’s 16 colleges, highlighting the efforts of educators who go above and beyond to facilitate students’ educational journeys. The criteria for the award include encouraging students to attend KCTCS colleges, assisting them in identifying their career paths and postsecondary options, providing mentorship, and maintaining communication with the students throughout their educational experience.

With 31 years of experience in education, Johnson has spent 17 years as a school counselor at Owsley County High School. Her extensive career has allowed her to deeply impact her students and the community by empowering them with the knowledge and resources necessary for their future success. Johnson’s work is characterized by her commitment to not just academic success but also personal growth, as she provides guidance tailored to each student’s unique aspirations.

Johnson was nominated for the Pathfinder Award by multiple sources, including Lincoln Spence, the principal of Owsley County High School. Spence described her as an invaluable asset to the school system and praised her knowledge of educational pathways and her positive influence on the student body. In addition to Spence, Gary Cornett, the superintendent of Owsley County Schools, affirmed Johnson’s exceptional counseling skills, referring to her as the best counselor in the Commonwealth. Cornett highlighted her in-depth understanding of both students’ schedules and their career goals, showcasing her dedication to each student’s individual needs.

Jama Griffie, the director of dual credit at Hazard Community and Technical College (HCTC), spoke to Johnson’s mentorship abilities, noting her commitment to guiding students through each step of their academic journeys. Dr. Jennifer Lindon, president and CEO of HCTC, also acknowledged the critical role of partnerships between K-12 institutions and community colleges, emphasizing how Johnson’s dedication has established pathways for students to attain success. Lindon further recognized the impactful legacy Johnson is creating in the lives of her students through early college opportunities.

Johnson’s contributions have significantly influenced the community and educational landscape in Owsley County. Through her dedication to her role, she has enabled countless students to dream big and achieve their goals by ensuring they have access to relevant educational resources and career counseling. The Pathfinder Award is not just a recognition of her accomplishments; it also serves as a testament to the importance of supportive educators in shaping the futures of young individuals.

As education continues to evolve, the recognition of individuals like Vanessa Johnson underscores the critical need for counseling professionals who are committed to fostering student success and guiding the next generation towards a bright future. Johnson’s achievement adds to the legacy of educational excellence at Owsley County High School and serves as an inspiration for both current and future educators.

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Owsley County Counselor Receives Pathfinder Award

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