ECTC honors LaRue County High School educator

Published on Mar 24, 2026

During a surprise presentation at LaRue County High School, College and Career Coach Karen Miller was announced as the Elizabethtown Community and Technical College 2026 High School Teacher/Counselor Pathfinder Award recipient.  

The award recognizes high school teachers and counselors for their outstanding efforts in assisting students with their college-going plans.  

“We work with so many dedicated high school teachers and counselors who ensure their students make informed decisions about college and their future careers,” said ECTC Recruitment Team Lead Becca Owsley. “The Teacher/Counselor Pathfinder Award singles out one individual each year who has a positive impact on the students they serve.”

Nominations for the award were made by Kentucky Community and Technical College System students, faculty and staff. A winner from each of the 16 KCTCS colleges was selected based on the following criteria: encourages students to attend a KCTCS college; is knowledgeable about ECTC programs and opportunities; and assists students in identifying a career and postsecondary paths.

“In the time we’ve worked with Karen, she has gone above and beyond to be a great partner to ECTC,” Owsley said. “She helps her students set college and career goals and plan their paths to achieve those goals. She truly cares about her students’ futures.”

Miller, who retired after 27 years of teaching, returned to education as a college and career coach.

“I’m incredibly grateful,” Miller said. “I’m doing what I love to do, and this is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.”

In addition to Miller, the award is given to one teacher or counselor from each of the other 15 KCTCS colleges.