Applegate recognized with MCTC Pathfinder Award

Published on Mar 13, 2024

Mason County High’s band director, Kendrick Applegate was announced as the Maysville Community and Technical College 2024 KCTCS High School Teacher/Counselor Pathfinder Award recipient last week. 

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. 

“As we present this award, let us acknowledge the incredible power that all educators possess…the power to inspire, guide, and shape the futures of those they teach. To our Pathfinder awardee, Mr. Kendrick Applegate, your impact is immeasurable, and we are honored to recognize your exceptional contribution to education,” said Dr. Laura McCullough, MCTC President and CEO. 

Mason County High School Principal Seth Faulkner agreed.

“At Mason County High School, we prioritize developing positive relationships with our students while providing them with academic and extra-curricular activities that drive their passion or spark their interest,” he said. “Mr. Kendrick Applegate excels in this mission. He is more than a band director. He is a mentor, a role model, a leader, and an inspirer. He blends content knowledge and delivery of instruction with accountability and genuine care for others to help all students reach their full potential.  We are extremely thankful for Mr. Kendrick Applegate and appreciate the time, energy, and expertise he pours into the band students at Mason County High School.”

Applegate described being selected as the Pathfinder Award recipient as an honor and a shock.

“MCTC is truly a great higher education institution that prepares their students for phenomenal careers. My wife is a proud alum of the nursing program. I encourage all of my students to explore MCTC to see how they can benefit from this remarkable institution,” he said. “My students always know that I am available to give advice and help them with whatever they need after they graduate. We have to work together as a team.”

Any high school teacher or counselor can be eligible for the Pathfinder Award and must be nominated by a KCTCS student or faculty/staff member. Winners were selected based on the following criteria: (1) encouraged student(s) to attend a KCTCS college; (2) assisted student(s) in identifying a career and postsecondary path; (3) provided mentorship; (4) and/or maintained contact with student(s).

In addition to Applegate, the Pathfinder Award was given to one teacher or counselor from each of the other 15 KCTCS colleges. For more information on the Pathfinder of the Year Awards, please visit KCTCS Pathfinder Award Contest.