Grayson County High School counselor recognized as Outstanding High School Educator

Published on Apr 17, 2023

ECTC 2023 High School Teacher/Counselor Pathfinder Award recipient Diane Harned, center, with award, and ECTC faculty and staff, from left, Jennifer Yates, Miky Wright, Eddie Clemons, Cindy Carman, Bobbie Sosh, Barry Williams and JoNell Henderson.

During a surprise event at Grayson County High School, guidance counselor Diane Harned was announced the Elizabethtown Community and Technical College (ECTC) 2023 High School Teacher/Counselor Pathfinder Award recipient. 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. 

“Before, during, and after Community College Month, high school teachers and counselors are working tirelessly to ensure our young people can succeed in the classroom, workplace and community,” said ECTC Leitchfield Campus Director Cindy Carman. “In that spirit, the Pathfinder Award recognizes those who go above and beyond to embolden and empower the next generation.”  

Nominations for the Pathfinder Award were made by KCTCS students, faculty and staff. Winners were selected based on the following criteria: encouraged student(s) to attend a KCTCS college; assisted students in identifying a career and postsecondary path; provided mentorship; and/or maintained contact with students. Harned was nominated by two former students currently attending ECTC.  

“Thanks to Ms. Harned’s exemplary efforts, the students who nominated her and countless others in Grayson County are able to follow their dreams and make more informed decisions about their future,” Carman said.  

In addition to Harned, the Pathfinder Award will be given to one teacher or counselor from each of the other 15 KCTCS colleges. All total, nearly 250 nominations were submitted, representing every KCTCS college.