GO Chamber - Q4 2018 by Tanner Publishing

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

FROM THE CHAMBER Welcome to the first GO Chamber of 2019. This issue is devoted to covering education in our community and highlighting the impact of education as one of our most important tools in growing our economy.

CANDANCE CASTLEN BRAKE President & CEO

Our cover “College Town” was created to remind us here in Owensboro that we are in fact, just that. How many communities our size can boast of two first class faith-based liberal arts colleges? Brescia University, Kentucky Wesleyan College and Owensboro Community and Technical College foster and grow business leaders, elected officials and community activists. Graduates stay in Owensboro by choice. And they make our community better. The campuses create spaces in our community for which we can be proud. Just take a drive down Frederica or out to

BART DARRELL 2018 Board Chair President, Kentucky Wesleyan College

Owensboro has many strengths that make it a place attractive to business, industry, and talent. The key is effectively communicating those strengths with one community voice heard from all areas of Owensboro, Daviess County, and the region. One of the most important strengths is our strong education from pre-school through post secondary education. Again, it is so important that we have a community-wide understanding of the great educational institutions and systems we have here. That is one of the principal purposes of this issue of GO Chamber. Business and industry want to locate or expand in

New Hartford Road, and you will be astounded at what we locals tend to take for granted. We also spend a good deal of this issue considering the breadth of educational opportunities in our community. Ask anyone who lives here to name our community strengths and you will most likely hear about the quality of all our local schools. All of them. It is easy to be proud of our learning institutions here. They are all members of our Chamber and are constantly coming up with new ways to engage in the business community. To our educational partners, thank you for your dedication to building a Greater Owensboro. And to all of our membership, thank you for your investment in time, talent and treasure in making our Chamber vibrant and strong. We are so proud to serve with you.

places where there are strong schools systems— which we have...strong higher education opportunities—which we have...strong vocational and technical education—which we have...and strong continuing education choices—which we also have. Owensboro has so much in education to market to potential and current business “residents” in our great community. This issue of “GO Chamber” will highlight those and enable us to even better focus, invest and promote education as another compelling reason for business, industry, and talent to come and/or stay “home” in Owensboro.

ON THE COVER: Photo by Jamie Alexander CEARY THOMAS, Owensboro Community and Technical College ’17 Success Coach for the Advanced Manufacturing Programs at OCTC and current WKU student JORDAN COOPER-LIVERS, Brescia University ‘18 Admissions Counselor at Brescia University CHRIS GENDEK, Kentucky Wesleyan College ‘10 Visit Owensboro Destination Services Director and Kentucky Wesleyan College Alumni Association board member

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jason Tanner

FEATURES:

PUBLISHER Taylor West taylor@tannerpublishing.com

MANAGING EDITOR Benjamin Hoak ben@tannerpublishing.com

ADVERTISING SALES Brock Quinton brock@tannerpublishing.com

Robert Williams robert@tannerpublishing.com

COPY EDITOR Ashley Gleason

LAYOUT DESIGN Andrea Roberson

PHOTOGRAPHER Jamie Alexander

PRINTING Greenwell Chisholm Owensboro, Kentucky

CONTACT INFORMATION: Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce 200 E. 3rd St., Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-1860 chamber.owensboro.com

TANNER PUBLISHING CO.

4TH QUARTER 2018 8 15 18 20 22

THE CHAMBER REPORT

30 32 42 45

KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE MAKES OWENSBORO HOME

COLLEGE TOWN A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER COLLEGES DRAW INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS TO OWENSBORO NON-TRADITIONAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS ENSURE STUDENTSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; SUCCESS

PROFILES OF LOCAL ALUMNI Special Advertising Section

10 QUESTIONS Dr. Ade Oredein

THE FINAL ANALYSIS Jaclyn Graves

DID ? YOU

KNOW What local high school graduate is now the head of an international corporation that designs personal peripherals to help people enjoy a better experience with the digital world?

FIND OUT ON PAGE 45 7

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

THE CHAMBER REPORT

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY: 4 children, 6 grandchildren, multiple foster kids WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT YOUR JOBS? In one capacity or another, they are all serving people. I look at the community and what it has given to me, and I felt obligated to give back in some sort of way. I went to college, got an Associate’s degree and a Bachelor’s degree, and am enrolled in grad school. From where I started to where I am now has a great deal to do with me being in Owensboro.

the opportunity to have contact with other people outside my normal circle. I can get to know them and see new and interesting things people are starting and community service projects I otherwise wouldn’t know anything about. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE? The Color Purple WHO IS THE MOST FAMOUS PERSON YOU HAVE MET?

MEET THE NEW

2019 CHAMBER BOARD MEMBER

RHONDALYN RANDOLPH Pastor, Pleasant Point Baptist Church President, NAACP Teaching Assistant, Daviess County Public Schools

We have a lot of things we need to work on, and diversity is one of those things, but if a person really wants to make a change in their life, whatever you put your mind to, you can do it. All of the hats I wear are in service to people. I want to see the best out of people and want to see people succeed—if one person succeeds, we all succeed. WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO AS A CHAMBER BOARD MEMBER? Being able to broaden the people I interact with. I want to be able to have

Steve Harvey. I was a contestant on Family Feud about three years ago. He is the same person on TV as you meet in person—funny and wise. I was on the show with my sister and her family. WHAT’S AN UNUSUAL FACT ABOUT YOU? I’m a big basketball fan. I played from the time I was in grade school, and was part of a women’s team at Fayetteville State University. I haven’t played in a long time, but I can still shoot!

H A N D - P I C K E D Who was your favorite teacher and why? “My favorite teacher was Mr. Jon Boultinghouse, my 7th grade math teacher at Daviess County Middle School. He made math fun and easy to understand. Plus he showed us that math is something that you use every day, and he was right!”

-Laura Alexander

GENERAL MANAGER, OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER/OWENSBORO SPORTSCENTER

“My favorite teacher was Susan C. Bryant, my Kindergarten Teacher (and mother). My mother started a Kindergarten class for my friends in rural Kentucky when the school didn’t offer one. She and some other moms thought it was important for the community. Taught me a sense of commitment.”

-Malcolm Bryant

FOUNDER, MALCOLM BRYANT CORPORATION

“My favorite teacher was Mrs. Hastings. I had her for 1st and 2nd grade at Newton Parrish Elementary. The reason she was my favorite is the welcoming atmosphere she created in her classroom. Instead of feeling like you were going to school, you felt like you were going to your grandmother’s house. She was so caring, even enough to let you fail to teach you to work hard and never give up. I distinctly remember asking for help looking up words in a dictionary and her saying, ‘No David, you can do that on your own. You don’t need my help.’ ”

-Dave Kirk

DESTINATION MANAGEMENT, VISIT OWENSBORO

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

CHAMBER BEHIND THE SCENES:

Shop Owensboro, powered by Independence Bank, is a program that was designed to elevate the highly known American Express Small Business Saturday. Held on Small Business Saturday (November 24 this year), the event is a banner day for many local businesses as Owensboroans have adopted the mentality that shopping small is a big deal for the community. The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce and Independence Bank partnered to produce the all-day shopping event centered around the city’s booming boutique scene. They gave out 600 shopping bags to eager shoppers that included special offers, a map of participating stores and much more. The Chamber was proud to see Owensboro residents keep their money where their heart is as they shopped Owensboro!

“My favorite teacher was Mr. Rossi at Owensboro High School. He was so cool and he had a full beard, which made him standout in a crowd. Mr. Rossi was our advisor for the BSU, (Black Student Union). In the ‘70s there was a lot of controversy regarding race and equal rights. We were able to talk to him about our problems and he listened. Thank you, Mr. Rossi.”

-Olga McKissic

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, H.L. NEBLETT COMMUNITY CENTER, INC.

“I went to St. Joseph and Paul Elementary School. My favorite teacher was in the 3rd grade, Moretta Bosley! Mrs. Bosley was a young, enthusiastic, confident and “super cool” new teacher. After having strict and “kinda scary” nuns in first and second grades, it was fun to go to school every day! I remember her taking a group of us girls to her apartment as our Brownie leader and actually making brownies! She made me realize school could be fun and educational at the same time. She will never know what a positive, powerful influence she had by simply showing she cared!”

-Rosemary Conder

“My favorite teacher was Larry Belcher at Daviess County High School. He had a great sense of humor and made learning CAD (computer aided design) engaging and fun. He helped me land a drafting job right out of high school; I haven’t stopped drawing lines ever since.”

-Aaron Nacey

SR. PROJECT MANAGER, AXIOM ARCHITECTURE

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CASA OF OHIO VALLEY

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

THE CHAMBER REPORT

THE EDUCATED

READING

AUTHOR: TARA WESTOVER

LIST

Overview:

Tara Westover’s memoir, Educated, recounts the story of her upbringing living in an abusive survivalist family in Idaho. With no formal primary or secondary education, Westover coaches herself to pass college entrance exams in an effort to extricate herself from the only life she had known—a life free from doctors, birth certificates, vaccines, or even basic hygiene practices. Eventually, she not only earns an undergraduate degree, but a PhD.

The Takeaway:

REVIEWED BY: Kendra Bronsink

Daviess County Public Schools District Literacy Coach

HARRY POTTER SERIES AUTHOR: J.K. ROWLING

As a teacher and Literacy Instructional Coach, I spend my days observing classrooms, coaching teachers, and engaging in reflection with teachers and coaches on the ways in which we can plan and facilitate opportunities for students to engage in the learning process. We as educators continually wrestle with the siren voices that tell students what they can and cannot do based on the exceptional circumstances in their lives, be they physical, emotional, cognitive, or circumstantial. Reading Educated reminded me and reignited in me the belief that all of us have the capacity to learn when our purpose and mission is clear—even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Westover’s story is honest in its dark portrayal of living with a mentally unstable father and an abusive brother, but she never asks for sympathy. Instead, she reflects on her deep thirst for knowledge and her desire to extricate herself from the madness of her child hood as the impetus that propels her

Overview:

From its first publication, The Harry Potter series has remained wildly popular. And, in its 20 years of shelf life, it has taken its rightful place as a modern day classic of adolescent literature. Through the life of a young boy coming to age, its audience experiences the values of friendship, loyalty, and light overcoming darkness in a world of fantasy.

The Takeaway:

REVIEWED BY: Cortney Inklebarger Owensboro Public Schools Cravens Elementary School Principal

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

At the surface, the series is a fantastical tale of a young wizard boy and his quest to defeat the ultimate dark wizard. However, below the surface, the series emmerses readers in a complex world reaching far beyond a typical good vs. evil tale. In each of Rowling’s seven novels, characters are faced with unpopular choices that become increasingly more self-sacrificial. Throughout the story, readers see characters choose what is right versus what is easy—not only standing up to enemies, but standing up to friends as well. In this story there is unmatched loyalty in friendship. While revolving mainly around Harry Potter and his two most closely knit friends, Ron and Hermione, we see relationships develop between minor characters as well. The bonds formed throughout the story move friendship to family. And, within these bonds, we see characters not merely going along with status quo, but

grit and determination to succeed. While some readers may argue that Westover was born with a keen intellect, her success did not come without failures and disasters along the way. She possessed an incredible deficit of prior knowledge and she did not know the unspoken rules and routines of school. Much of her first year of college is a series of academic and social mishaps. As I read Educated, I returned to two ideas again and again. How many times do we lock others out of equitable opportunities to learn because they lack the foundational knowledge of their peers, or lack knowledge of the unspoken rules and vernacular of a particular job or institution? In addition, how many times do we try to tell others what to learn and how to learn it, when what they need is space to develop a clear mission and purpose, charting their own path to learning—one that may include failures along the way? Westover’s memoir renewed in me the belief that there is a grit that lies in all of us, waiting to be tapped.

challenging, and at times disagreeing with one another. The raw honesty in these relationships forces characters to reflect and grow in maturity and wisdom. As an elementary school principal, I want my students to display the traits woven throughout the Harry Potter series. I strive daily to educate, mentor, and advocate for young students as they develop strength of character and perseverance. My students face difficult decisions every day. I encourage them to take the road less traveled, and sometimes this means self-sacrifice and even standing up to those they love the most. The values I work to instill will help my students serve those around them with strength of character, courage of conviction, and an attitude of self-sacrifice. Through the world of Harry Potter, my students find not only entertainment, but also encouragement to seek friendships with those different from themselves and respond to challenges with courage—traits that will serve them well both now and in the future.

BY THE NUMBERS

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER 11,985

2,365

students

Just U Marketing

employees

New Career Creations

languages spoken

U.S. Small Business Administration Kentucky District Office

21 10,210 $157M

schools and programs

miles per day by school busses

Austin’s Affordable Detailing, LLC

operating budget

Kentucky Youth Chorale/Institute for Young Musicians Advanced Billing Partners Little Legends

PRE-SCHOOL - 8TH GRADE

195

students

940

employees

$76M

379

4,723

annual budgeted expenditures

schools

students

years in operation

employees

graduates in 26 8th grade classes

current students who are children of former students

Crossroads, Inc. Skillz VR, LLC In The Groove Engraving, LLC Special Inspection Services, LLC Wilson Furniture Signs By Gina Arete Strategics Owensboro Pickleball Association, Inc. Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers

(Whitesville)

216 students

State Farm Agency, Candace Crossan

(Whitesville)

PRE-SCHOOL - 8TH GRADE

9TH-12TH GRADE

employees

students

140

employees

years in operation (founded in 1879)

years in operation

Integrity Nursery & Outdoor Living Owensboro Peddlers Mall Owensboro Crossfit 2nd and Charles Legacy Salon, Spa, & Boutique L.A. Buford, Inc.

3,418 756 students

employees

Pamela Smith-Wright

schools

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

THE CHAMBER REPORT

EXECUTIVE ANSWERS BART DARRELL

FATHER LARRY HOSTETTER

DR. SCOTT WILLIAMS

How is running a college similar to the complexity of running a business?

PRESIDENT, KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE

There are certainly many business principles and models implemented in education as we would see in successful businesses. At Kentucky Wesleyan we, like Logitech in Silicon Valley where my brother, Bracken is President, or Smithfield Company in Virginia where my brother, Bob, is an executive, have a leadership team that concerns itself with everything from personnel, to budget, to marketing, to access, to housing, food services, etc. Like those companies which have a Board of Directors, we have a dedicated Board of Trustees that sets certain policies and provides broad vision. We have to provide a positive customer experience before, during and after students come to Wesleyan and be responsible stewards of resources so that future generations have the opportunity to share those experiences and earn a degree. Education and providing opportunities for careers with a calling is our business.

How does what you do every day affect the Owensboro community?

Our location alone provides a visibility factor that makes us hard to miss. Our students, faculty and staff are heavily involved and visible throughout the community. Students work for local business during their time at Wesleyan and often remain here post-graduation to contribute to the workforce and local economy. We also offer so many cultural and recreational opportunities for the Owensboro community in the forms of music, theater, speakers, and athletics. We also generate significant economic impact by virtue of our employees paying taxes, spending money in our community, and providing intellectual capital. We also know that when business and industry evaluates a community for a potential site location for that business or industry, one of the first things they consider is the K-12 and post secondary education opportunities. Our faculty and staff at our faithbased college are also members of local churches and community organizations, giving back selflessly and sharing “The Wesleyan Way” beyond the campus and the classroom.

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

PRESIDENT, BRESCIA UNIVERSITY

Running a university is very similar to the complexity of running a business. We have a very specific mission with multiple constituencies, including our students (the most important), faculty and staff, our Board of Trustees, alumni, our donors, and the wider community. We also have over 200 employees and have to make payroll, provide a safe working environment, and create HR policies that benefit the employees and the institution. We must make sufficient revenue to cover our expenses and make sure we are putting sufficient resources into the growing areas of our enterprise. We have to make sure that our marketing and public relations communicate our mission and attract additional students, and we have to stay current with the latest developments in our business (higher education). We also have investors like any business, but in our case they are called benefactors or donors. We are responsible to them for the good use of their gifts.

How does what you do every day affect the Owensboro community?

It is easy to see that Brescia has an important impact on the Owensboro community. We are one of the largest employers downtown, and many of these employees came to Owensboro because they had a job here; the same can be said for our students. We have students from all over the world. Many of them remain in Owensboro after graduating. They bring with them intellectual capital and a desire to make a positive difference on our community.

PRESIDENT, OWENSBORO COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE

Running a college is in essence identical in complexity to running any large business. Like any business we produce a product or service—in our case we educate and train students—and that requires the personnel and infrastructure to produce that service, procurement, human resources, billing, receivables, public relations, IT services and maintenance and operations. The leadership and organizational management principles and challenges to run a college are for all practical purposes the same. What does differ is the fact that the college’s overall goal is not to make a profit, but produce a public good. In turn, some of our organizational decisions are made based on a return of investment for the community rather than the college.

How does what you do every day affect the Owensboro community?

Every day Owensboro Community and Technical College has a single focus and that is to improve the global competitiveness and quality of life in our community by providing high quality, world class transfer and career technical education and business and industry training. Through this lens we are only successful if our students and community are successful in obtaining a greater quality of life and economic prosperity. Since our inception, we are proud to have touched more than 72,853 lives and add more than $173 million of income annually to our regional economy. No better impact can be seen than the fact that 91 percent of our educated students stay in our community and make up the backbone of our citizens.

ON THE RECORD MATT ROBBINS

DR. NICK BRAKE

ANN FLAHERTY

How is running a school system similar to the complexity of running a business?

SUPERINTENDENT, DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Many variables we manage are essentially the same, such as human resources, facilities, finance, operations, customer service and public relations. Every business must leverage their resources and opportunities to ensure they are producing the best product or service possible, while analyzing key metrics on a frequent basis that ensures you making forward progress. We are the third largest employer and run the region’s largest transportation network and food services network, so those areas are high volume and high energy spaces for us.

How does what you do every day affect the Owensboro community? The answer to this question is what attracted me to DCPS more than 23 years ago and what drives me every day—we have an enormous opportunity, daily, to make an incalculable difference in our student’s lives. We literally mold, shape, and develop tomorrow’s talent that our local employers will hire and the citizens that will be tomorrow’s leaders. We impact the lives of our community’s children and while some might view this as a daunting task, I see this as immense opportunity. It’s fun to see kids achieve success, and this creates an adrenaline like no other experience I have had in my career.

SUPERINTENDENT, OWENSBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

There are a lot of similarities in running a school system and a business. Both of our local school systems are pretty large operations and top employers in the county. We have a lot of personnel, but our unique core mission is teaching and learning. Within our school system we are also operating similar to businesses in food services, transportation and health care. Ultimately in private business you can make decisions based on profit, where we have to provide service at the core of what we do—we have to be accountable to the public and service our students.

How does what you do every day affect the Owensboro community? Obviously we affect the future of the Owensboro community. In a lot of ways we are trying to work in partner with all kinds of entities to prepare the future of our community. Our students will impact the community civically, economically and in so many other ways. In the short term, the school system is here to support students who are at a disadvantage and don’t have food or adequate health care—we provide them immediate service. It’s important we provide for the children now and focus on the future. We want to raise the children in our community, collectively, with the parents.

SUPERINTENDENT, OWENSBORO CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

Profit and non-profit institutions align in many ways. Our schools have an owner, Bishop Medley, a CEO, our Chancellor, a CFO, a controller, Human Resources and Communications team that all work in concert with our Catholic School’s Office and school administrators as a team. Our faculty and staff are our greatest gift bringing their education and expertise to the school and carrying the biggest financial load in regards to educating the children that attend our schools. Our parishes and parents contribute most of the rest of the cost of educating our children. Revenue comes not only from parents and parishes but also from donations and fundraising.

How does what you do every day affect the Owensboro community? The work that each faculty and staff member does each day in each of the seven Catholic schools in Daviess County has had an incredible impact on our awesome community. Having private, accredited schools in Daviess County to complement the choice of two other excellent school systems has no doubt brought industries and their personnel to this county. Providing lots of educational opportunities pre-kindergarten through college makes our county more marketable to those looking at building and growing their businesses here. We also see many of our Catholic school graduates leading and serving our city and county in many businesses and institutions. The ultimate impact of the work of these leaders is incalculable in regards to the progress our beloved county has achieved thus far.

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

THE CHAMBER REPORT

MEMBERS ON THE MOVE tourism leader,” said Hank Phillips,

Wesleyan and the Owensboro community”

OWENSBORO

President, Kentucky Travel Industry Association.

said Director of Athletics Rob Mallory.

HONORED

VISIT

“After a lengthy professional career,

WITH AWARDS Visit Owensboro, also known as the Owensboro Daviess County Convention and Visitors Bureau, received both a gold traverse award and silver traverse award at the Kentucky Travel Industry’s annual conference held in Owensboro Nov. 13-15. “Earning both a first place and second place award on the state stage is not only an honor, it’s validation that we are moving in the right direction with our marketing efforts,” said Mark Calitri, President and CEO Visit Owensboro. Visit Owensboro won gold for its ROMP campaign which was a marketing effort designed to get people to buy tickets for ROMP. ROMP sold out for the first time in its history. Visit Owensboro won silver for its video of why tourism matters featuring Kirk Kirkpatrick shown at Rooster Booster earlier this year and on several social media platforms.

WFIE AWARDED STATION OF THE YEAR

DIRECTOR DAVE KIRK WON KTIA EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR “Dave has come on strong but you’re the last person I have to tell that to. We’ve seen him in working on the conference.

ranks, and I am confident he is the right

Broadcasters Association conference

person to lead this program into a new era.”

WFIE was awarded station of the year. WFIE won based on breaking news and weather coverage as well its commitment to community involvement with Sunrise School Spirit, Peace of Mind Project, and the 2017 Solar Eclipse event.

“There is a tremendous opportunity to build an excellent football program at Kentucky Wesleyan and the fact that KWC is in my home state made this position more intriguing,” said Yeast. “Furthermore, after

Vice President and General Manager Jay

spending time with Athletic Director Rob

Hiett of WFIE had this to say, “I’m very

Mallory and understanding the vision he

fortunate to work alongside such amazing professionals. Our dedication to producing outstanding content across all of our platforms while severing our community and clients is unmatched.”

has for the culture of Wesleyan athletics gave me confirmation in believing a championship program can be built here. I love the Commonwealth of Kentucky so being handed the keys to the Panthers

With representatives from more than 250

Football Program is not something I take

broadcast radio and television stations in

lightly. I am very blessed, honored, and

attendance, the 2018 Indiana Broadcasters Conference brings together Hoosier broadcasters from across the state to learn, celebrate, and collaborate. CRAIG YEAST RETURNS TO HOME STATE TO COACH

extremely excited for this opportunity. I am familiar with Owensboro, but I have not been here since 1994. Much has changed so my family and I are looking forward to exploring and becoming a part of the Owensboro community.”

KENTUCKY WESLEYAN Craig Yeast has been named the Head Football Coach at Kentucky Wesleyan College Yeast, a former National Football

MOONLITE RELEASES NEW WINE Moonlite Bar-B-Q recently released a new red wine in partnership with Purple Toad Winery. Called Pit Master Reserve,

League (NFL) player and All-Southeastern

the sweet red wine is produced

Conference (SEC) wide receiver at the

and bottled in Kentucky. It is

His enthusiasm, his expertise, and there

University of Kentucky, will serve as the

are people who’ve won this award earlier

program’s 17th head coach in 58 seasons of

who are now no longer emerging leaders,

program history.

they are the leaders of the industry in this

dynamic and rising star in the coaching

On November 1st at the annual Indiana

FOOTBALL DESTINATION MANAGEMENT

Craig has quickly established himself as a

available in Owensboro at Moonlight Bar-B-Q and at J’s Liquors

state. He is primed to become and move

“I am excited to welcome Craig Yeast, his

West on Parrish

from emerging to top of the line Kentucky

wife Tori, and their family to Kentucky

Avenue.

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

COLLEGE TOWN “FOR MANY STUDENTS, BEING ON THEIR OWN FOR THEIR FIRST TIME IS WHEN MANY TRY NEW FOODS, BUY THEIR OWN CLOTHING, SHOP FOR DAILY NEEDS, GO TO A MUSICAL PERFORMANCE, OR SUPPORT A CHARITY. THE OWENSBORO COMMUNITY HAS SO MUCH TO OFFER WITHOUT AN OVERWHELMING, BIG-CITY FEELING.”

BY DANNY MAY

- Rachel Whelan INTERIM DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MARKETING AT BRESCIA UNIVERSITY

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

Maggie Riney, Marketing & Communications Manager at Kentucky Wesleyan College

Rachel Whelan, Interim Director of Public Relations and Marketing at Brescia University

id you know 91% of Owensboro Community

activities.

and Technical College graduates stay in Greater

Owensboro after they graduate? Public Relations

report by USA Today which named Owensboro one of

All those factors are reflected in an October ‘17

& Marketing Director Bernie Hale says that’s largely

the top 11 U.S. cities for millenial home buyers.

because 92% of OCTC students are from this area and

Rachel Whelan, Interim Director of Public

have close family and community ties. But Brescia

Relations and Marketing at Brescia University, says

University and Kentucky Wesleyan College also see a

students overwhelmingly reflect how much Brescia

similar trend of graduates choosing to stay in Owensboro

feels like home to them.

to start a career and raise their families.

“community-like, family-oriented atmosphere translates

The reasons are many: a robust economy with ample

into a desirable feeling of place and space that students

job growth and career opportunities, high quality of life,

enjoy and want to make their permanent home after

low cost of living, low crime, strong schools, a thriving

graduation.”

downtown scene with quality arts and entertainment

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

Whelan believes Brescia’s

Just down Frederica Street at Kentucky Wesleyan

“WHAT INCREASED ENROLLMENT AT TWO LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGES IN OUR COMMUNITY DOES FOR EMPLOYERS IN OWENSBORO IS ALL BUT GUARANTEE A POOL OF WELL-ROUNDED, ACADEMICALLY SOUND CANDIDATES ON WHICH FUTURE PLANS FOR GROWTH, DEVELOPMENT, AND EXPANSION MIGHT BE BUILT.” - Fr. Larry Hostetter, PRESIDENT, BRESCIA UNIVERSITY

“CHOOSING TO STAY IN OWENSBORO WAS EASY; NOT ONLY BECAUSE OF MY LOVE FOR BU BUT MY LOVE FOR THE TOWN. I ENJOY THE SIZE, CONVENIENCE AND THE GOOD PEOPLE OF OWENSBORO. OWENSBORO IS A GREAT PLACE TO RAISE A FAMILY AND BE WITH THE ONES YOU LOVE. I CONSIDER MYSELF TO BE VERY FORTUNATE TO LIVE IN OWENSBORO AND BE A PART OF THIS WONDERFUL COMMUNITY.” - Jason Cox BRESCIA UNIVERSITY CLASS OF ‘97 FROM LOUISVILLE, KY SOCIAL WORK/PSYCHOLOGY MAJOR

Bernie Hale, Public Relations & Marketing Director at Owensboro Community and Technical College

College, Marketing & Communications Manager Maggie Riney credits community connections for convincing Wesleyan students to stay in Owensboro. “With our mentor program, students get paired with alumni who are actively working in the same field our students are majoring in. With these connections, as well as real job experience, many of our students know what career path to choose even before walking across the stage and getting their diploma.”

Brescia and OCTC also offer students many opportunities

to partner with local businesses by participating in internships and other out-of-the-classroom opportunities to enhance their academic experience. “Local businesses provide job opportunities for students while enrolled at

“THERE ARE A VARIETY OF REASONS WHY I STAYED IN OWENSBORO AFTER COLLEGE, BUT THE MAIN REASON IS THE PEOPLE I MET HERE. GOING TO COLLEGE AT KENTUCKY WESLEYAN ALLOWED ME TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS IN THE COMMUNITY. LOOKING BACK, PEOPLE I MET AT SCHOOL REALLY HELPED ME WITH CAREER OPPORTUNITIES. IT WAS BECAUSE OF THOSE CONTACTS I MADE WHILE I WAS AT WESLEYAN THAT I GOT MY FIRST INTERVIEW AT A LOCAL BANK HERE IN OWENSBORO. A COUPLE YEARS LATER, I TOOK THIS JOB WITH INDEPENDENCE BANK, WHERE I’VE BEEN FOR TWENTY YEARS NOW.” -Steve Divine KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE, CLASS OF ‘90 FROM CENTRAL CITY, KY ACCOUNTING AND BUSINESS MAJOR

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

Brescia, making college life more affordable,” says

Whelan. “Our local business community in many

campuses are mirroring that growth. Brescia

ways supports our students as they harness, shape,

welcomed their largest freshman class in history and

and develop their own tastes, opinions, preferences,

Kentucky Wesleyan’s new student enrollment is up

and independence.”

Work and learn programs such as GO FAME

AMT are also reaping tremendous benefits at OCTC. “Stronger collaboration and partnerships between higher education and businesses have truly transformed higher education for the better,” Hale says. “We have built greater collaborations through our partnerships with GO-EDC, GO Chamber, local business and industry, [which] has included greater input from businesses on which skills are needed and greater support of students working

Owensboro is a city on the rise, and our college

39%. “As graduates find careers locally, Owensboro will continue to expand and prosper,” Riney says. “With students from around the globe attending Kentucky Wesleyan and graduating, Owensboro will get to enjoy fresh ideas and new cultures in the workplace.” As

community

partnerships

continue

strengthen our college campuses, local college campuses are in turn shaping a large contingent of the future of this community: future educators,

with businesses. In return, OCTC has been better

future medical professionals, future social workers,

able to prepare graduates with the skills businesses

future skilled trade workers, future board members.

need while accelerating the learning platform so

graduates enter the workforce sooner.”

teach today are our leaders of tomorrow.”

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

Or as Rachel Whelan put it, “The students we

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE FROM A TO Z IF

you had your annual physical today, consulted with an attorney,

game wardens, animal trainers and countless other career and graduate

attended a parent-teacher conference at your child’s school, met

opportunities, including animal research, veterinary medicine and other

with your CPA, were protected by law enforcement or had a tooth filled,

options.

you were probably served by a Kentucky Wesleyan College alumnus or

Graduates of the renowned biology and chemistry programs serve

alumna. Over 2,500 Wesleyan graduates live and work in Owensboro/

Owensboro and communities around the world in research positions and

Daviess County and contribute significantly to the high quality of life the

as physicians, dentists, nurses, chemists, physicals therapists, optometrists

region enjoys.

and other medical professions.

From accounting to zoology, every student at Wesleyan is offered

Wesleyan has innovative partnerships with the University of Kentucky

superior preparation for career success through a personalized journey that

including an Early Assurance Program with the College of Medicine

begins when they arrive on campus. They find support as they explore and

campus in Bowling Green and an accelerated 3+4 program with the College

find a major that fits their passion in a rigorous academic setting.

of Pharmacy. “These partnerships reflect the successes of our long-term

CPA Ryan Moore ’12 emphasized the value of the academic rigor and

relationship and of our many alumni who graduated from UK professional

the personal attention he received as an accounting major. “Professor (Raju)

programs,” shared Assistant Professor of Chemistry Dr. Kyle Watson.

Chenna was both challenging and encouraging,” remembered Moore. “He

According to Academic Dean Paula Dehn, the growth of fine arts

expected us to work hard, study and prepare, and he was always available

offers opportunities for majors and non-majors. “Our instrumental, vocal

when I had questions and needed extra guidance outside the classroom. He

and theatre programs give students the chance to learn and perform, and

is a very caring person.” Moore joined Riney Hancock CPAs in 2015.

enhance the community as well,” said Dr. Dehn. “The theatre program

According to Professor Chenna, accounting graduates consistently

collaborates with Brescia University, Owensboro Community and Technical

earn a high pass rate on the Certified Public Accountant exam and in 2014

College and the RiverPark Center to provide remarkable entertainment for

outscored every other college and university in Kentucky.

our region.”

“Our education program has an excellent reputation throughout the

Wesleyan offers 100 percent online degrees in business administration,

Commonwealth,” shared Associate Professor of Education Dr. Leah Hoover.

criminal justice and criminology, general studies, psychology, graphic

“Our students have jobs as soon as they graduate, and they are sought by

design and religion. The flexible, convenient and personalized online

school districts throughout Kentucky.” Service to local schools begins early

programs are designed for working adults and individuals on the fast track

in the program, and many students far exceed requirements in this valuable,

to success.

practical experience.

New online terms begin six times during the year, and the intensive

Wesleyan’s prestigious science programs offer preparation for various

seven-week format allows students to take classes 24/7 from anywhere.

career paths with many research and internship opportunities. The fall 2018

Students can complete their degrees in less than four years if they already

incoming class included 69 new biology and zoology majors and a new

have some college credit.

zoology professor begins in January to accommodate growth of the popular

“Wesleyan offers a strong liberal arts education for jobs that may not

program.

even exist today in the evolving marketplace,” remarked Dean Dehn, “and

The unique zoology curriculum and program, including exciting

we prepare our students to be competitive through real-world experiences

internships, prepares students for careers as zookeepers, park rangers,

in valuable internships.”

LEARN MORE ABOUT KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE AT KWC.EDU OR CALL 270-852-3120.

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

A D AY I N T H E L I F E

OF A HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER A

By Libby Johnson

s a teacher who focuses primarily on writing, I am embarrassed

So, what is it I do every day? Every day, I ask questions.

to say that I was stumped by the assignment to write a first-

These questions run the gamut from the mundane to deep and

person account of what it is I do every day. I have a very different

philosophical. What follows are some of the questions I have

job than most teachers, even within Owensboro High School –

asked today, and will probably ask again (and again and again) in

the place I have been lucky enough to work since the fall of 2005.

my job.

As the adviser of the newspaper and yearbook, I manage a

lot of project-based learning, which is currently a hot term in

How are you this morning?

education, as well as a concept that I believe has enormous value.

After dropping two thirds of my own children off at school,

As a teacher of very full introductory journalism classes, I try to

there’s nothing better than shrugging off the morning rush by

manage and engage students grades 9-12 of varying academic

reheating my coffee and sitting down in front of my computer to

levels and get them interested in a subject it’s highly likely they

read the news and wait on my homeroom kids to start trickling

ended up in simply by the magic of scheduling.

in. I make it a point, however, to try and greet each of them by

As the co-director of the Bluegrass Scholars Program, an

name and ask how they are doing. (I have always been haunted by

initiative that we are able to take part in due to OPS District of

a story my first principal at OHS, the inimitable Anita Burnette,

Innovation status, I assist students in finding internships and

told the faculty about a student who walked up to her at the end

guide them through deep readings and experiences that will

of a day and said, “No one talked to me today. Not one person.”) If

hopefully help them develop an awareness of the needs of the

you haven’t been around teenagers lately, you may have forgotten

world around them, and how they can use their talents and

that they are not exactly morning people. So, even if I know I’ll

abilities to improve the places they will live and work.

just get a cursory reply, I try my best to speak to each of them.

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

PHOTOS BY JULIA KIMBRELL

Who knows? Maybe it will rub off and

the form of a comment written on the

they will greet the customers, clients, or

rough draft of an article. It’s also the

patients at their job someday.

biggest lesson I want to pass on to all my

Where are my keys? I’d love to say this query is a result of me simply being a little scattered a lot of the time, but it isn’t just that. Unfortunately, one very real aspect of being a teacher in this day and age is the constant heightened awareness of

students. In this day and age, we must all be stop and think about where we are getting the information we read, hear, see, and pass on. It informs our hearts and minds, and thus affects our world through our thoughts and deeds.

safety. We keep our classroom doors

How can you/we/I do better?

locked at all times. I frequently test

Sometimes this question is aimed

the door to make sure it’s locked,

at a student who needs to improve

and I listen carefully each time I hear

their behavior. I ask them to consider

movement from the exterior door next

this one as it relates to our school, our

to my classroom. My students and I

community and our government.

have discussed “what if” situations over

Often, I ask it of myself. Couldn’t my

and over. What does this mean? Whether I’m trying to help students discern what a word or sentence means, or if we’re trying to break down a deep metaphor in literature, I hope to

lessons be more organized? Shouldn’t I have handled that a different way? Hopefully, it’s a question that I’m teaching my students to never stop asking. When

taught

History

and

model the discovery process for my

Appreciation of Art, I told my students

students. Sometimes when I ask them

my goal was not to make them

this question, I literally need them to

memorize the paintings of influential

explain part of their world to me. I need

artists. Instead, I told them, I hoped

to see where they are coming from to

that when they went out in the world,

continue to able to explain how what I

they would see or hear a piece of art and

am teaching really does relate to their

say, “I remember what that is about…

life. My students would tell you that I am not always the most open minded pupil, when it comes to slang, however. “Words mean things!” I say. No matter what kids say, “fire” is a noun—not an adjective.

that crazy teacher on the second floor of OHS told me about that.” In my current position, I am fortunate that the questions I ask are not usually ones with finite answers (though I do hope they remember what libel is.) I hope

What’s your source?

that I have modeled for my students

The nature of teaching journalism

how to be reflective and inquisitive and

and writing means that question is

to continue to seek growth in their lives

asked often and asked literally…as in

once they leave the halls of OHS. 21

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

Pablo Gallastegui, graduate of Brescia University

COLLEGES DRAW

INTERNATIONAL

STUDENTS TO OWENSBORO BY NICHOLAS HARDESTY

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

. PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

he story of how education drives the Owensboro economy

would

incomplete

without

mentioning the impact of international students. At Brescia University, 30 such students are currently enrolled, from as close as Canada and as far away as Serbia.

International students find a great education in

our city. But, according to Chris Houk, Vice President for Enrollment Management at Brescia University, they aren’t always able to find a home:

“Upon graduation, international students must

return home or apply for a temporary employment visa called OPT that permits them to work in the United States for just a year. Following that year period, they must apply for a work permit called an

H1-B, [but] there are very few of those permits issued each year in relation to the number of applications submitted.”

Pablo Gallastegui represents one of the lucky ones. Growing

up in Jujuy, Argentina, he was about as far removed from Western Kentucky as you can get. But, a desire for something new brought him to Owensboro.

Through a South American company, Pablo was able to

apply for scholarships in the US. The offer that rose to the top was from Brescia. “Owensboro seemed like a perfect fit,” he said. “Not a huge city, not a super small town. Brescia seemed to be a great fit for the same reasons.”

There was some culture shock at first. He surprised one

lady by greeting her with a kiss on the cheek – customary in Argentina, but foreign to most Kentuckians. And he could never quite find the kinds of food he grew up with. But, a thriving international community at Brescia meant he never felt out of place.

In 2006, Pablo graduated with a Computer Science degree

and quickly landed at Red Pixel, a local marketing and web design studio, where he is now a Senior Software Engineer.

But, coding and computers are not his only loves. He also

has a heart for the arts. “I love theatre,” Pablo said, “and Theatre Workshop of Owensboro opened its doors to me. I met a good portion of my current friends from there.”

Along the way Pablo also received his Legal Resident Alien

status (or “green card”), which allows him to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. His wife Claire, who he met at the Theatre, recently gave birth to their first child.

Owensboro has given Pablo a lot, and like most international

students, he tries to give back more than he has received. Pablo is still involved with the local theatre community. He’s been a member of various committees at the city level. He’s even taught some classes at Brescia.

Essentially, Owensboro has become his second home.

“Coming to Owensboro meant leaving home and family,” he said, “but now leaving Owensboro would feel that way. Some people are lucky to be able to call one place home and one group family. I am lucky enough to be able to do that in duplicate.”

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

NON-TRADITIONAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS ENSURE STUDENTS’ SUCCESS By Danny May - Photos by Jamie Alexander

Sometimes students don’t learn best in a typical classroom setting. When the traditional learning environment isn’t conducive for a particular student to be successful, non-traditional methods may be the answer. To meet those students’ needs in Greater Owensboro, both Owensboro Public Schools and Daviess County Schools have non-traditional school programs in place. DAVIE SS COUNT Y PUBLIC SCH O OL S

HERITAGE PARK HIGH SCHOOL

In the Daviess County Public School system, Heritage Park High School students are referred by guidance counselors at Daviess County or Apollo in response to a variety of reasons a student might be more successful in a smaller, more individualized learning environment. “Our 10th and 11th grade students attend a regular school day that includes a focus on

graduation. Seniors also prepare a “capstone project” about their educational journey, current goals and an action plan for their future. All students engage in community outreach projects in spring and fall to learn the importance of helping others and to see that their skills have value. In addition to providing a solid academic experience for students, Heritage Park High School focuses on leadership development, community service, community partnerships, and healthy living.

project-based learning to integrate the content in their classes each quarter,” says director Michelle Ruckdeschel. “During the junior year, students participate in three job shadow experiences to

OWENSBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

GATEWAY ACADEMY

observe and experience the inner workings of

“Our goal is to get students interested in an

chosen career fields. And at least one on-campus

area that will motivate them to become lifelong

trip to a local college.”

learners and develop a passion for a career,” Kevin

Students then take half-day classes during their

Thompson, Director of Alternative Schools for

senior year, in either the morning or afternoon

Owensboro Public Schools says about Gateway

session, and work a job or attend classes at OCTC

Academy. “Yes we want them to graduate with a

the other half of the day, allowing them to earn

diploma, but we also develop job skills so they can

college credit or an income while working toward

join the workforce as soon as possible; most of our

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

students pursue two year degrees.” To accomplish those goals, Gateway Academy offers individualized curriculum catered to each learner, which is one advantage of the smaller student population. Incorporating technology is a big part of the learning environment, but introducing the students to opportunities they may not otherwise have is another priority. One example is a discovery dive the students recently took with Blue Meridian Dive Center. Gateway Academy partners with OCTC to introduce students to available programs such as diesel mechanics, nursing, welding, computerized manufacturing, machining and other programs. Job shadowing at Owensboro Fire Department and volunteering at elementary schools are other examples of experiential learning. Back in the classroom, students learn life skills such as budgeting and financial literacy to help them make life decisions. “Ultimately, we want to help these kids find their confidence and become productive members of the community by exposing them to the jobs and careers available to them that they might enjoy,” Thompson explained. DAVIE SS COUNT Y PUBLIC SCH O OL S

VALLEY SCHOOL

Located within the River Valley Behavioral Health Hospital, Valley School is another a non-traditional education program that exists to meet the needs of students in kindergarten through twelfth grades who are receiving mental health

“OUR GOAL IS TO GET STUDENTS INTERESTED IN AN AREA THAT WILL MOTIVATE THEM TO BECOME LIFELONG LEARNERS AND DEVELOP A PASSION FOR A CAREER.” - Kevin Thompson, Director of Alternative Schools for Owensboro Public Schools

services. Administrator Lesa Hibbs says teachers work individually with students through a coaching process where students set goals for themselves and chart their own progress. “There is close collaboration between Valley School, hospital and treatment staff to ensure individual treatment plans will [meet] the needs of the whole child to ensure mental, physical, and emotional health; increase student achievement; foster positive communication and collaborative relationships; and ensure each child is successful in completing necessary treatment.”

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

TRAINING TOMORROW’S TECHNICIANS

WORK READY SKILLS GRANT By: Dr. Scott Williams, President, Owensboro Community & Technical College

n 2016, Governor Bevin outlined his vision to make Kentucky the nation’s

material handling robots with infrared (IR) vision capability for robotic

premier engineering and manufacturing center of excellence. One of the key

training that will augment our already existing material handling robots and

components was the Governor’s Work Ready Skills Initiative. This program

robotic welders; virtual welders to introduce basic welding techniques without

provided $100,000,000 in competitive funding for training agencies aimed at

the expense of using materials and consumable supplies; level, flow and

developing a highly trained workforce to meet the needs of employers, grow

temperature instrumentation trainers; and finally, vibration, thermal analysis,

Kentucky’s economy, and promote family sustaining incomes for Kentuckians.

and predictive maintenance trainers. In addition, software and hardware

In 2017, Owensboro Community and Technical College (OCTC) was one of

will be included to train workers on automated systems related to building

twenty-five projects funded in the first round.

environment operations such as heating, air conditioning, and lighting

In partnership with the Greater Owensboro Economic Development

systems. No other facility in the region will have the capability to train in these

Corporation, the Hancock County Industrial Foundation, Daviess County

emerging skill areas.

Public Schools, Hancock County Schools, Owensboro Public Schools, and the

The CIT Business Services innovation labs will contain the software and

Greater Owensboro FAME Chapter, OCTC received $2.85 million to establish

hardware for cyber security and networking which will also bridge over to the

and equip three innovation labs designed to enhance emerging skills in the

factory floor simulator and building automation systems, Building Information

Advanced Manufacturing and IT-Business Services sectors. Renovations are

Modeling (BIM), and other advanced software systems.

being completed on two labs at the Downtown Campus on Frederica Street

These newly completed, state of the art, innovation labs are a game changer

in Owensboro and one at the Hancock County Center in Lewisport. OCTC

for our college and region, providing the capability of emerging skills training

is purchasing state of the art advanced manufacturing training equipment to

never before seen in our area. They will allow us to train workers and educate

furnish those labs and plans to have them ready for instruction in early 2019.

students at the level of modern technology currently being utilized by our

Through this project OCTC will be one of the premier training centers for

regional business and industry. This project will also allow skills training in

advanced manufacturing in Kentucky and the epicenter for advanced training

areas not yet seen in our region, allowing us to stay ahead of the emerging

in western Kentucky. Some of the equipment in these labs will not be found

technologies.

anywhere else in the Commonwealth.

In short, this $2.85 million project is an investment in the workforce

So what kinds of training equipment will be available in these innovation

development infrastructure of our ever expanding manufacturing and service

labs?

industries and is yet another example of our commitment to develop and

At the centerpiece of this project is a Festo Cyber Physical (CP) Smart

train a world class workforce. We are excited about this opportunity and

Factory simulator.

This $750,000 smart factory simulator includes

applaud the Governor and General Assembly for making these investments to

integrated logistics, communication, mechatronics, robotic assembly, and

strengthen our economic prosperity. A skilled workforce is imperative to both

troubleshooting capabilities. It is fully networked and virtually integrated with

our economic strength and, more importantly, raising the quality of life in the

HMI (human-machine interface), PLCs, Data Acquisition, Collection and

Commonwealth.

Analysis (SCADA), and wireless connection networking. It will be the first

We invite you to attend an open house on January 23, 2018 from 3-5 p.m. at

Festo CP Smart Factory floor simulator of its kind in the state. Students and

our Downtown Campus to see a live demonstration of the smart factory floor.

incumbent workers will have access to training simulation that could only be

In addition, you can tour the newly renovated innovation labs to see exactly

found in an operational factory setting; thus preparing them with skill needed

how we might best serve you and your company. If you would like more

for today’s workforce.

information about this project please feel free to contact Mr. Mike Rodgers at

Furthermore, the manufacturing sector innovation labs will contain

mike.rodgers@kctcs.edu.

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

LEARNING BY INTERNING BY MELODY WALLACE - PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

or so many high school and college students, trying

employment.

to choose a career path for the rest of their lives can

While many might immediately think of student

be daunting, especially if they have no experience

teachers, the medical and dental fields, and law

in their desired field. According to U.S. News & World

practices, there are a variety of local businesses that

Report, nearly three-quarters of students enrolled in

cannot only offer students a better perspective of the

four-year colleges and universities take on at least one

skills necessary for their future career, but can benefit

internship during their school career. There are certain

the businesses as well.

career fields that lend themselves to student internships

One of those businesses is Riney Hancock Certified

as well as a variety of benefits for the intern. Internships

Public Accountants & Financial Advisors. J. Adam

can offer the student an opportunity to apply skills and

Hancock, the managing shareholder and president

strategies obtained in the classroom, a setting to meet

of the firm, who also serves as the director of the

and work with like-minded peers, and a real-world

consulting services division said the financial advising

view of the expectations their future employers in their

firm utilizes an internship program during tax season

profession might have, and, perhaps gain references or

and throughout the year as the workload demands.

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

“AN INTERNSHIP IS AN EXTREMELY VALUABLE EXPERIENCE FOR THE INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPATING, AND, FOR OUR FIRM.IT PROVIDES ADDITIONAL RESOURCES THAT ASSIST US IN MEETING THE VARIOUS DEMANDS OF OUR INDUSTRY. THE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM AT RINEY HANCOCK CPAS IS AN INTEGRAL PART OF OUR MISSION TO BE OUR CLIENTS MOST TRUSTED AND VALUED FINANCIAL ADVISORS.” -J. Adam Hancock

Riney Hancock offers paid internships that provide students with on-the-job training that can be useful in course work, as well as their future careers. He added that those internships also provide the firm with a constant pool of potential employees and can “quite often lead to offers of full-time employment with our firm.” Hancock said it is also important to recognize how beneficial these internships are, not only to the firm, but also to the community. Accounting students that have interned with Riney Hancock, or other accounting firms, obtain skills from working with and serving “real” customers on a day-to-day basis, an experience that would benefit them in helping others in the community once employed. “Even when we are unable to offer an intern a full-time position, our interns normally find employment in the private sector or another accounting firm, which benefits the community and fulfills the needs for accounting in the communities we serve,” Hancock said. 29

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

K E N T U C K Y W E S L E YA N C O L L E G E

MAKES OWENSBORO HOME WESLEYAN HONORS PAST, LO OKS FORWARD TO FUTURE BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON

ore than 160 years ago Kentucky Wesleyan College was founded by the Kentucky Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Today, the school is a local institution in Owensboro and home to more than 750

students.

What started in Millersburg and Winchester, Ky., moved to Owensboro in 1951.

The city of Owensboro, led by alumnus Talmage Hocker â&#x20AC;&#x2122;27, offered to raise $1 million for the school would move to Owensboro.

Hocker, who graduated from Wesleyan when it was still located in Winchester,

was instrumental in getting the college to Owensboro and was later named president of the Kentucky Wesleyan College Alumni Association. The current dining hall is also named in his memory.

After moving to downtown Owensboro in 1951, the school moved to its current

home in 1954, after purchasing farmland and constructing a new campus. 30

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

According to Wesleyanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website, construction continued through the 1960s

with additional dormitories and in the 1970s the first computers were installed. A

Above: A view of the Kentucky Wesleyan College campus about 1960. The intersection of Scherm Road and Mayfair is in the right foreground, with Reynolds Village immediately behind. Parking lots and sidewalks are in place, but no trees have yet been planted. Below: The aerial view shows the construction of Peeples Dorm and the appearance of the campus in 1966.

Photo courtesy of Kentucky Wesleyan College

new library was built in the 1970s and a decade later a new

Health and Recreation Center completed the quad.

being active participants in community events and supporting

While the college has gone through many changes, its

school pride has stayed the same.

Eddie Kenny, Interim Vice President of Advancement said

Owensboro is fortunate to have four post-secondary institutions

“Our students add to the vibrancy of the community by

local businesses,” he said.

Wesleyan offers 29 majors and 13 pre-professional

curriculums and has a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1. College

that are well-respected and recognized regionally and nationally.

Consensus recognized Wesleyan with the No. 2 ranking in the

“Our college attracts local students, but also welcomes

Best Colleges and Universities in Kentucky for 2018, while the

students from outside of Owensboro and the Commonwealth,”

Princeton Review named the College “Best in the Southeast” for

Kenny said. “The best part is that most find a home here and remain beyond graduation to be full members of our community.”

Kenny said the students at Wesleyan benefit from

the 15th consecutive year.

“Kentucky Wesleyan College is proud to be an integral part

of the town, and providing the opportunity of a faith-based

Owensboro’s business community, which provides experiential

liberal arts education that prepares students for not only careers,

learning opportunities, internships and jobs.

but careers with a calling,” Kenny said.

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

GO Chamber Magazine would like to recognize these member businesses and organizations in a unique way by putting faces to the company name. This Profiles of Local Alumni special advertising section is our way of showcasing graduates of local high schools, colleges and universities that continue to call Owensboro home.

k PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BB&T

100 W Third St // Owensboro, KY // (270) 688-7730 // bbt.com

Front row (left to right): Tonya Crabtree, Brescia University Laura Goetz, Associates from OCTC, Bachelors WKU Back row (left to right): Angel Howard, Associates OCTC and Bachelors WKU-O Leigh Ann Brown, OCC-UK & KWC Jared Daugherty, Brescia University

ife after graduating from college can be a scary time in a person’s life. Getting a job in the town where you went to school can make the transition a little easier. The BB&T branches in Owensboro are committed to local education and their local employees. Whether it’s helping someone navigate post-grad life or encouraging their employees to get a degree, BB&T knows employment and education go hand in hand. Angie Morrison, Owensboro market president of BB&T, said “Community is important to BB&T—it aligns with our mission and vision. We like to promote and hire from within the company.” Along with promotion, Morrison said hiring local graduates is another priority. “There are folks at the bank who were hired while getting an education here locally,” she said. “Some of our employees decided to go back to school for a degree while working here.” Morrison said they have 10 employees who chose to stay local for school who are currently employed by the bank. She knows retention is important to the company and hiring local people helps with that goal.

Andrea Crabtree, OCTC & WKU-O

“Some employees have longevity here because even though they didn’t finish school they got a job at the bank and then went back to finish their degree,” she said. “We support that and help in any way we can with education expenses.” While the bank currently does not have an internship program, they promote their careers and education by speaking to local non-profit groups and students across the county. Since Morrison become interested in becoming a banker while at Daviess County High School, she knows the positive effects of working in the same community where you went to school. “Our employees are our best advertisement,” she said. “These people are already ingrained in our community—they’re your friends, neighbors and church members. What better to way to show who we are than with our people.” BB&T has five branches in Owensboro and is firmly rooted in the communities they serve. From funding education programs to lending a hand to charitable and faith-based organizations, BB&T is proud to join friends and neighbors in building stronger and more vital communities.

Trisha Todd, Brescia University Not pictured: Rebekah Hale, OCTC Olivia Gold, KWC

Profiles o

mni l ocal alu 33

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

Alexander Thompson Arnold, PLLC 1735 Frederica St // Owensboro, KY // (270) 691-8981 // atacpa.net

Front row (left to right): Patrick Neel, Kentucky Wesleyan 2015; Logan Ferguson, Kentucky Wesleyan 2015 Back row (left to right): Kris Kemp, Kentucky Wesleyan 1997; Jack Somerville, Brescia 1986 Not pictured: David Roberts, Brescia 2010

lexander Thompson Arnold (ATA: formerly “Myriad CPA Group”) has made a tradition of partnering with schools and universities in communities across the South and Mid-West, where its offices call home. Successful intern and co-

The state of Kentucky understands the rewards of hiring local and have developed

a variety of programs to assist businesses in creating better local hiring pools. Kentucky’s workforce training programs have been nationally ranked and its non-profit training

op programs are not only a testament that ATA is a proud member of the community,

consortiums have offered workforce training to local businesses for years. Area high

but also shows the firm is invested in the professional development of the area’s future

schools have also recognized the need for a skilled workforce and have committed to

leaders. But perhaps most important are the benefits these partnerships create for local

guiding students through workforce ready programs that ensure a smooth transition

businesses. Work training programs create a skilled local talent pool that businesses

from technical training in the classroom to higher education or into a candidate’s first

can draw from to employ a home-grown workforce. Local graduates and residents

job.

bring established networks of friends with them which can generate new, prospective

business. When recruiting, companies are diligent in their efforts to vet and hire the

locally sourced” are more than just buzzwords – “…they’ve become seals of quality”.

most qualified applicant for a position, but filling positions locally minimizes the risks

By investing locally in the economy and in people, ATA pledges to continue fostering

and potential cost of relocating a candidate to a new area, which ultimately decreases

quality, solid relationships with local educational institutions and steadfast service to its

the possibility of turnover.

clients and communities it serves.

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According to a September 2016 issue of Forbes, “…locally owned, operated or

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

kentucky legend

6 Dublin Lane // Owensboro, KY // (270) 926-2324 // kentuckylegend.com

entucky Legend has been a proud supporter of Kentucky Wesleyan College for many years but has taken the “proud partnership” to a new level in 2018. With their marketing efforts quickly increasing, finding fresh talent became a high priority for leadership. Marketing Director, Brooklyn Maple, was able to find a wealth of educated and motivated prospects with the help of Margaret Cambron, recently retired Director of Career Development and Service Learning at KWC. “Originally, we were looking for someone right out of college for an exciting opportunity on our team. We wanted someone with new ideas, energy and a desire to hit the ground running. We found that when we met Nick Cooper who was hired shortly after he completed his degree in Business Administration. It snowballed soon after and before we knew it, we had three students and/or recent graduates all from Kentucky Wesleyan College on our Marketing team,” says Brooklyn. “Karisa Winters and

Mallory Sacre joined our team as interns and have a bright future with us. Karisa is majoring in Business Administration and Mallory is majoring in Mathematics and Business Administration as they both attend Wesleyan. We couldn’t be more thrilled to be able to provide opportunities to keep such talent in Owensboro.”

“Kentucky Legend is always looking for adaptable, driven individuals.”

states Vice President of Retail Sales, Ric Herrera, “KWC nurtures their students and ensures they are well prepared for the work force. It’s important for businesses to take advantage of the breadth of graduates from our colleges and universities in town. Each year there are hundreds of educated young adults ready to dive into their passion. Kentucky Legend is focused on hiring the best to ensure we are cultivating a prosperous Owensboro.”

Left to right: Mallory Sacre, Kentucky Wesleyan Nick Cooper, Kentucky Wesleyan Karisa Winters, Kentucky Wesleyan

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t first glance, you might think there are some top-secret operations afoot behind our gates, but the work performed at Southern Star is far from secretive. The headquarters on Highway 56 and Employee Excellence Center on Highway 54 house the area talent supporting a nearly-6,000 mile natural gas transmission pipeline moving gas from areas as far away as Wyoming and Oklahoma to cities and metropoles in Kansas and Missouri and places inbetween. Moving natural gas requires a workforce of diverse skills and personalities, and Southern Star has found Owensboro to be rich in supply. “Brescia University and Kentucky Wesleyan College have been integral is keeping the talent coming” says HR Director Jared Hamilton. “We have roles commonly associated with running any business: accountants, IT specialists, trainers, engineers, attorneys, and more. And much of that talent is homegrown.” For KWC and Brescia graduates, the benefits of finding a strong job market locally is a win-win. The four years you spend at KWC or Brescia will develop invaluable relationships that can last a lifetime. “Having family, alumni, and a great job all in the same place makes for a fulfilling life,” says Nathan Isbell, a Communications Specialist with Southern Star and a KWC graduate. “I get the opportunity to give back to the community that has given me so much and can pass that value on to the next generation.” We all want somewhere special to call home, and it’s easy to find that in Owensboro with all the educational and career opportunities, but don’t think that working at Southern Star keeps you behind those gates. Employees get to see a lot of the country working in the natural gas business. We love Owensboro as our place to call home, but we know with a world-class education (like KWC and Brescia provide) and a world-class company come other extraordinary opportunities. Many of Southern Star’s employees have worked and visited our field operations out West, and we are heavily involved with many professional, national organizations such as the American Gas Association, the Southern Gas Association, and the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America. We’re connected to professionals in our field around the country. Visit Southern Star’s website for exciting and rewarding career opportunities.

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline 4700 Highway 56 // Owensboro, KY // 270-852-5000 // sscgp.com

Bottom row (left to right): Matt McCoy, Brescia University Dean Roberts, Kentucky Wesleyan Michelle Ellis, Kentucky Wesleyan Kara Barnett, Brescia University Kellie Parker, Brescia University Samantha Hall, Brescia University Middle row (left to right): Chris Green, Brescia University Chad Priar, Kentucky Wesleyan Cynthia Schadler, Kentucky Wesleyan David Bristow, Kentucky Wesleyan Ryan Edge, Kentucky Wesleyan Carrie Ebelhar, Brescia University Travis Roberts, Kentucky Wesleyan Luke Atherton, Brescia University Top row (left to right): Karen Roby, Kentucky Wesleyan Suzanne Capps, Kentucky Wesleyan Denny Miles, Brescia University Lisa Bryant, Kentucky Wesleyan Linda Richeson, Brescia University Chris Williams, Kentucky Wesleyan Ruth Clark, Brescia University Robin Joska, Kentucky Wesleyan Derek Hibbs, Kentucky Wesleyan Mark Luckett, Kentucky Wesleyan Jason Drenon, Kentucky Wesleyan

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mni l ocal alu 37

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owensboro health (270) 417-2000 // OwensboroHealth.org

Owensboro Catholic High School Sarah Osborne, APRN, Pediatrics David Danhauer, MD, Chief Medical Information Officer Jody Mitchell, MD, Sports Medicine

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ne advantage for Owensboro Health is the quality of education in the area. We are able to hire people who were born and raised right here, with a connection to the community, but we wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to do that without a quality education to build upon. The high schools in the area are outstanding and the colleges in town produce top-notch professionals that are ready to step into leadership roles and take Owensboro Health into the future. With all the changes in healthcare and technology it is increasingly important to have individuals that are ready to face new challenges. However, it is just as important to have people who have roots here, that are truly invested in the community, that are willing to learn from those who have seen the evolution of Owensboro Health through the years. It is a passing of the baton from one generation to the next. We have been fortunate to add Owensboro natives to our team with great success and we hope to continue that trend. Everyone at Owensboro

Health is a caregiver in one way or another and showing true kindness and compassion comes naturally when you feel at home. We try to give back to our community as an organization and we encourage our team to do whatever they can financially but also to get out into town and give of their time. The kids that come out of Owensboro and Daviess county schools are used to that culture. They are encouraged through school, beginning at an early age, to be civically minded. The same is true for students at KCTCS, Brescia and Wesleyan. We really appreciate that encouragement because when we hire people from Owensboro, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to explain why giving back is important. The mission of Owensboro Health is to heal the sick and to improve the health of the communities we serve. Who better to fulfill that mission than a community member who understands the value of the community?

Brescia University Audry Rhodes, MD, Occupational Medicine Trasey Falcone, DO, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

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summit obgyn

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Maggie Howard, OCTC

1921 Leitchfield Rd // Owensboro, KY // (270) 478-5334 // summitob.com

Lyndsay Gaynor, OCTC Katee Roberts, OCTC

he doctors and nurses of Summit Obstetrics & Gynecology, PSC believe in rising above the conventional, empowering women and delivering exceptional patient care. They also believe in is community and hiring local graduates. Ginny Ball, practice administrator for Summit, said like many local businesses, they think it is important to hire local graduates because of their commitment to the community. The staff at Summit are committed to developing a personal relationship with their patients that fosters open communication and collaboration through all the stages in a woman’s life. “Our nurses have trained locally and have developed relationships with patients, medical facilities, fellow nurses and physicians in the community,” Ball said. “All of these attributes help

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

to provide resources to our patients and families.” Ball said hiring local graduates helps with retention in many ways. “These employees are committed to the community,” she said. “They care about their patients and families as many of them are friends and neighbors.” Summit Obstetrics & Gynecology, PSC was established in 2017 by Maria Smith and Suzanne Rashidian. Both Smith and Rashidian had a desire to change the way healthcare was delivered to their patients by providing a warm and welcoming environment. Summit Obstetrics & Gynecology, PSC offers comprehensive health care to women from adolescence through late adulthood. For more information call the Summit at 270-478-5334.

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

QUESTIONS DR. ADE OREDEIN

Associate Dean of Students/Director of Diversity at Owensboro Community and Technical College BY BENJAMIN HOAK - PHOTO BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

HOW D I D YOU G ET TO OCTC AND WHAT I S I MPORTANT ABOUT YOUR R OL E ?

say a mumbling word for 53 seconds and when he spoke this came out: “I am smart enough to be here, Doc—I have a 3.2 GPA.”

I have always wanted to work at a community college, so I was looking for a place I could make a difference, and after my visit I fell in love with OCTC. My background is Counseling and College Leadership, and I

am from the great state of

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU GIVE TO COLLE GE GRADUAT ES ABOUT TO E NT E R T HE RE AL WORLD?

Mississippi. (Mississippi State Bulldogs & Alcorn

Create a good resume NOW. Don’t wait until you

State Braves. My fraternity is Phi Beta Sigma.) I

graduate. If you need help, seek it out, and be willing

help students realize that no matter what your

to pay if needed for a quality resume—remember,

educational skill level is today, if you let me show

this is your first impression on paper. Also, begin

you how to build your skills up, this institution can

applying for jobs NOW. Don’t wait until after you

help you achieve your dream(s).

graduate. Prepare and research for the interview like you are down to your last $100.

WHAT I S THE I NTER NATI O NAL STU DENT POPUL ATI ON LIKE AT OCTC ? The OCTC international population is small but powerful. The student groups they lead shed light on different cultures. The faculty, staff and administration learn so much from our international students like their achievements and struggles being in a foreign land. The college

WHAT IS ONE OF T HE BES T OR MOS T WORT HWHILE INVES T ME NTS YOU HAVE E VE R MADE ? (COULD BE T IME , MONE Y, E NE RGY, E FFORT, E TC.) Working at a tribal college to learn how to navigate higher education with bare bone funds.

is preparing for the growing population of Burmese families so OCTC can provide quality customer

WHAT D O YOU R EMEMBER T HE MOST F R OM YOU R CAR EE R ?

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES AND INT E RES TS , WHAT ARE YOU PASS IONAT E ABOUT AND WHAT ’S T HE NE X T T HING YOU WANT TO CHE CK OFF YOUR BUCKE T LIS T ?

I remember a young man I recruited—he felt like

Motorcycles, fishing, mentoring, paintball, sailing,

he wasn’t college material, but I encouraged him

mudding, SEC & SWAC football. I’m passionate

and others from his town to give my institution a

to EDUCATE MINDS AND CHANGE LIVES.

try to help achieve any dream. He made it through

Parasailing is next on the bucket list—it seems

the fall with fair grades. The end of spring he walked

liberating to see the world from an eagle’s point of

in my office crying and just stood there and didn’t

view even if for a short period of time.

service.

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WHAT PUR CHAS E OF UNDE R $10 0 HAS MOST P OS IT IVE LY I MPACTED YOUR LIFE IN T HE L AST SI X MONT HS ?

WHAT ’S YOUR MOT IVAT ION IN LIFE ?

Buying a box of coats in variable sizes for

went to further my education.

My parents’ happiness. I never knew how great I had it with great parents in our home until I

elementary students who may not have one heavy enough for the weather.

WHAT AR E ONE TO T HRE E B OOKS THAT HAVE GRE AT LY I NF LUENCED YOUR LIFE ?

IF YOU COULD P UT UP A GIA NT BILLBOARD WIT H ANY T HING O N IT, WHAT WOULD IT SAY AND WHY ? The worst thing you could be as a man is a COULDA, SHOULDA, WOULDA ……

Dorm Rooms to Boardrooms (Victoria Pilate), Majoring in the Rest of Your Life (Carol Carter), The Coddling of the American Mind: How a Generation for Failure (Greg Lukianoff and

WHAT ’S A HIDDE N OR UNUS UA L TALE NT YOU HAVE ?

Jonathan Haidt)

I know how to fold a fitted sheet.

Good Intentions and Bad Ideas are Setting up

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BONUS QUESTION:

DID ? YOU

KNOW

CORRECT ANSWER: ANSWER:

BRACKEN DARRELL FROM PAGE 7

Bracken Darrell, Daviess County High School class of 1981, is President and CEO of Logitech. The company’s products are sold in almost every country in the world. Logitech was named to Fast Company’s 2018 list of the world’s most innovative companies.

THE FINAL ANALYSIS JACLYN GRAVES Google defines ed∙u∙ca∙tion as the process of receiving or giving systematic instruction, especially at a school or university or an enlightening experience. But, what does it mean to you? I’ve found that education means something completely different to me now at 36 years old than it did to me at 16 or 6 years old. Back in the day, I was concerned with pizza and recess, and let us not forget the epicness of the book fair! Speaking of, is there anything that we loved as much as a child that we loathe so much as a parent than the book fair? No, I think not. And, no, you are not getting 11 bookmarks and a sparkly kitten poster for your room. Grab a Wimpy Kid or a Junie B. Jones and let’s go. At 16, it was learning just enough to make it through that week’s French test (sorry Mrs. Scarbrough) or testing my procrastination skills with every paper Mrs. Craig assigned senior year. We are going to skip right through my days at WKU – my mom is reading this and we don’t need her upset. But now, as the parent of a 4th grader and the aunt of two Kentucky Wesleyan sophomores, I see education in a different light. Education is an opportunity to create a better, more impactful life. Education is an awakening for those who thought they could never escape their circumstances.

Membership Development Manager

Education is an empowering tool to all who will allow it to lead them along their journey. And, education challenges us to crawl out of our comfort zones, see the world from another angle and truly decide where we stand and who we want to be. Is education the process of receiving or giving systematic instruction? Yes, of course it is, but that’s not all it is. I believe it’s how that instruction is given that makes it such an impactful experience. Those who devote their lives as an educator are the ones leading the way when things get tough. They see the potential in us when we don’t, they encourage us to see the opportunity to succeed when all we see is the chance to fail, and they guide us along the way when we don’t know our next steps. At age 6 or 36, education has and will continue to be a big part of my life. My appreciation for those who have shown me my true potential will never fade. I’m confident in and proud of Owensboro for providing such incredible education opportunities for our citizens at all levels. This is truly a community that values and understands the importance of educational opportunities for all. And, what better gift to give than the limitless power of education for those here now and those still to come.

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200 E 3rd St, Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-1860 http://chamber.owensboro.com

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2018

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID OWENSBORO KY 42301 PERMIT NO 420