Writer: SHARON K. HALL
Troublesome Creek Times, Hindman

Representatives from Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) and Knott County supporters of the college assembled January 19, 2006, at the Knott County School of Craft to inform the public of its initiatives.

Through means of a KCTCS documentary narrated by Walter Cronkite and several speakers at the event, Hazard Community and Technical College (HCTC) announced the $4 million "Fulfilling the Promise" campaign that is underway to raise money for initiatives including scholarships, equipment, to promote college preparedness through the Challenger Learning Center of Kentucky, and to enhance relationship and collaboration of teachers in school districts in the region, to invest in the arts, and an unrestricted fund so the college can be flexible in addressing unforeseen needs. The college plans to assist in enhancing the programs at the Knott County School of Craft and the Knott County Branch of HCTC.

Fred Brashear, Chair of the HCTC Board of Directors, and co-chair of the campaign said it was important to support these initiatives because education is so vitally important to the region's growth. "We can improve the quality of life in these mountains if education is improved," Brashear said.

HCTC President/CEO Jay K. Box commented on a vision for a better region,

"We want to enjoy a standard of living that meets or exceeds the national average; we want successful businesses that are globally competitive. We need investment and partnership with individuals, businesses, and foundations to achieve our dreams." Dr. Box noted that they have already raised over $3 million through college employees and individuals.

Dr. Box recognized people who donated to the campaign with a display of names of businesses, individuals, and employees of the Knott County Branch and Kentucky School of Craft. Knott County donors included the Bank of Hindman, Mr. and Mrs. Rick Bartley, Dr. and Mrs. Grady Stumbo, and Mr. and Mrs. Bill Weinberg.

Two of the recognized donors spoke at the fund-raising event. Attorney Bill Weinberg said that arts will have an economic development impact. Valerie Smith Bartley, Bank of Hindman president and a member of the college's foundation board explained, "I was a graduate here where Hindman High School was located. I am thankful to see these buildings utilized for education."

KCTCS was represented by Tim Burcham, vice-president. Burcham said the money raised is with a purpose to bring hope of opportunity for higher education. "We are changing lives of students for years to come," commented Burcham.

"Fulfilling the Promise" campaign was also announced at the Leslie County Center of HCTC January 19, and on the Hazard Community campus and Lee's College campus January 20.