Students at Big Sandy Community and Technical College now have the opportunity to earn a certification in Appalachian Studies. While the school has been offering courses in Appalachian Studies, this is the first semester this certificate is being offered. Officials said the credential demonstrates students have a dedication to cultural understanding and regional engagement.
Brandie Davis teaches Survey of Appalachian Studies I and II at Big Sandy. Davis said the certificate program is good for a resume.
“In that it helps with building their soft skills and also their awareness of their culture. It shows a commitment to diversity. It certainly would be helpful for nursing or any medical profession, for educators, for business. You know, I really think that it would be beneficial in all regards and I think that employers will recognize that,” said Davis.
Students in the program will have the opportunity to not just learn about Appalachia, but participate in growing communities.
“We have the opportunity for students to go to SOAR for free so they can learn about the business side and the things that we can do to bring in new business to build the community. Better internet connection, various things that are in the works that they can learn to help with,” said Davis.
The credential is open to all BSCTC students. Davis said earning the Appalachian Studies certificate allows students to dispel negative narratives about eastern Kentucky.
“Those are misguided and sometimes they’re even insulting. So, I think it’s past time that we begin to tell our own stories and to uplift this region. Here at Big Sandy we have smart, talented and diverse students and many are looking for ways to impact positive change. So, we see this in many of our students’ writings, in podcasts and in digital stories. So the Appalachian Studies Certificate will help equip students to do more of that,” said Davis.
More information about the new credential can be found by emailing Davis at bdavis0112@kctcs.edu or by calling (606) 889-7385.
