HCC honors HCHS staff member with 2025 awards
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – Henderson Community College (HCC) recognized a staff member with Henderson County High School (HCHS).
HCC officials have announced Amanda Lacer, assistant principal of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Unit at HCHS, has been awarded two of HCC's highest honors: the 2025 Pathfinder Award and the HCC Board of Directors' Distinguished Service Award.
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Officials say the Pathfinder Award, established by the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS), is presented annually to one teacher or counselor in each of the state's 16 college service areas who has demonstrated 'exceptional commitment' to helping students identify career pathways and navigate postsecondary education. Lacer was honored during the HCHS CTE Banquet on May 1 with a commemorative award and prize package. Each KCTCS-affiliated recipient will be considered for the statewide Pathfinder of the Year award.
'Amanda Lacer has had a significant and lasting impact on technical education in Henderson County,' said Dr. Chad Phillips, HCC's Chief Student Affairs Officer. 'From developing apprenticeship programs to streamlining dual credit opportunities, she has continually broken down barriers between industry, HCHS, and HCC. Thanks to her leadership, HCHS graduates are equipped with the skills needed to succeed in today's workforce.'
HCC says in addition to the Pathfinder Award, Lacer received the Board of Directors' Distinguished Service Award during HCC's May 9 commencement ceremony. The award recognizes an individual or organization whose leadership and service have had a 'profound and positive' influence on the college and its mission.
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'As principal of the CTE Unit, Amanda has nurtured and strengthened a vital partnership between HCHS and HCC,' said Dorsey Ridley, HCC Board Chair. 'Through her leadership, CTE programs have expanded and evolved to prepare students for real-world success while enriching our community.'
Officials note Lacer is set to retire at the end of the 2024–2025 academic year.
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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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