Branham to add security presence to MCTC-Licking Valley Campus

October 9, 2023
by Megan Smedley

City of Cynthiana Mayor James Smith, Dr. Harry Burchett, Harrison County Schools Superintendent, and Cynthiana Police Department (CPD) Chief Eric Kendall joined Dr. Laura McCullough, President/CEO of Maysville Community and Technical College (MCTC) on Monday to sign a memorandum of agreement to improve the safety and security of faculty, staff, and students on the Licking Valley campus.

As a part of the agreement, CPD Officer Mark Branham will be an active presence at the college, spending 20 hours a week on the Licking Valley campus.

Branham also serves as a resource officer for the elementary schools in Harrison County.

“We are so excited to have the support of the police department to provide an even safer environment for our faculty, staff, and students,” said McCullough. “This is a great day for the college, the school system, the police department, and the city.”

Burchett added, “This partnership is just another example of how this community works together to meet the needs of the community. Student, staff, and community safety is enhanced through this important collaboration. Together, we can help to provide a safe learning environment for all stakeholders.”

Branham’s first day on campus was October 2.

“To be a part of this partnership is an excellent opportunity. It basically gives the college’s faculty, staff, and students an added safety benefit as well as a relationship with the police department,” said Branham. “I am thrilled with the opportunity.”

Branham served on the Falmouth Police Department for 17 years and retired in 2021. He returned to the Cynthiana Police Department in April. His tenure also includes service to the Alexandria Police Department and the Maysville Police Department.

“I think this is great for the college, the school system, and the city,” said Mayor Smith. “Whenever students are here on campus, whether they are from town or a surrounding area, they are a part of the city of Cynthiana. We are excited about this partnership and providing this service to the college.”

Branham will be at the Licking Valley campus most days from 9AM to 2PM. He can be contacted by calling the college at (859) 234-8626.