SKYCTC’s Jim Turner Retires from Multi-Faceted Career of Teaching and Journalism

"SKYCTC Associate Professor of Art, David Jones (right), presents an original sketch to Jim Turner at his retirement celebration. Turner's five-decade career in teaching and journalism is honored with the sketch humorously portraying him and Jones as the iconic Muppet characters Statler and Waldorf, renowned for their witty banter and heckling on 'The Muppet Show'."

Russellville, Kentucky, May 9, 2024 - After a distinguished career spanning over five decades, Jim Turner, Assistant Professor of Communications at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC), bids farewell to his role as an educator. Turner's legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to teaching and his extensive contributions to the field of journalism.

Having embarked on his teaching journey in 1968, Turner's passion for education and writing has left an indelible mark on countless students and readers alike. Reflecting on his dual roles, Turner remarked, "I'm either a writer who teaches or a teacher who writes." Throughout his career, including 34 years in the classroom, Turner's dedication to his students and craft has remained unwavering.

A versatile educator, Turner has taught at both high school and college levels, nurturing minds and inspiring future generations. His journey into journalism was serendipitous, as a chance encounter led him to pursue a career in sports writing for the News Democrat in Russellville. Under the mentorship of Al Smith, Turner honed his skills and eventually ascended to the role of Editor.

Turner's career trajectory saw him transition seamlessly between academia and the newspaper industry, with notable tenures at Russellville High School, Logan County High School, Western Kentucky University, and the News Democrat. In 2009, Turner joined SKYCTC, where he continued to impart knowledge and mentor students in the field of communications.

Beyond the classroom, Turner's dedication to journalism led him to establish The Logan Journal, an online newspaper covering Logan County. He plans to continue publishing what is known as “The LoJo” on a part-time basis.

His contributions to the local community were further recognized with inductions into the Cougar Foundation Athletic Hall of Fame and the Cougar Pride award at Logan County High School.

“I think what I’ve enjoyed most is seeing students I had 40-50 years ago in high school who still seem to like me, that makes a difference,” Turner said. “I wasn’t sure they liked me then, but they seem to now.” 

As Turner bids farewell to his illustrious career, his impact on generations of students and readers will endure as a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for education and journalism.

Jim Turner and his wife Elaine will continue to reside on their farm outside Russellville, cherishing the memories of a fulfilling career and looking forward to the next chapter in their lives.