Health sciences suite named in honor of beloved nurse, MCTC faculty member

December 12, 2023
by Megan Smedley

The health sciences faculty suite at the Maysville Campus of Maysville Community & Technical College (MCTC) was dedicated in honor of former MCTC faculty member, Mrs. Debbie Nolder.

Nolder, who was a graduate of the first nursing class at Maysville Community College in 1974, spent over 20 years as a nurse.

She also began teaching as a member of the nursing faculty at MCTC in 1998 and later served as division chair for the health sciences department.

Nolder earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kentucky in 1996 and a master’s degree in nursing administration with an education focus from Northern Kentucky University in 2005.

A ceremony was held on campus Monday to recognize Nolder and her contributions to the college.

Dr. Laura McCullogh, MCTC President/CEO provided opening remarks and spoke to Nolder’s commitment to the education of future nurses.

“As we stand within these walls, we are reminded of the profound impact that Debbie has had on our lives and our community. Her commitment to the nursing profession and the education of future nurses has left a lasting mark, and it is only fitting that we come together to dedicate the Maysville campus’ health sciences faculty suite in her honor.”

She added, “The suite will stand as a testament to Debbie’s enduring influence and serve as a place of inspiration and reflection for all who enter its doors. It will be a constant reminder of the values and principles that she embodies and a beacon of hope for those who follow in her footsteps.”

Also providing remarks was Ginger Clarke, Associate Dean of Health Science and Nursing program administrator. Clarke shared fond memories of Nolder and how Nolder shaped her, not only as a nurse but as a nursing instructor.

“A lot of the nurses we have in this community were led to nursing by Debbie Nolder. I think that is such a huge testament to her love for nursing, her love of this community, and her love of this college. I am so honored to know her,” she said.

Nolder spoke to those in attendance about the difference the college made in her life, not only as an alumnus of the institution but while she was a member of the MCTC faculty.

“I totally give credit to Maysville Community and Technical College for changing my life for the better,” she said. “If it hadn’t been for MCTC, I would not be where I am now.”

She added, “Today, the college honored me for my dedication to the college, but MCTC deserves all the honor and praise for changing not just me, but our entire community for the better.”

Following the reveal of the plaque displayed in the health sciences suite, Cara Clarke, Director of Institutional Advancement, announced that the college would be holding a fundraising initiative in honor of Nolder and the nursing class of 1974.

Funds raised from the initiative will pay part or all of the fees associated with the licensure exam for the nursing class of 2024.

For more information about contributing to the fundraising campaign and supporting future nurses, email Clarke at cara.clarke@kctcs.edu.