SKYCTC Surgical Technology student receives National Merit Award from NBSTSA

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Naomi Richards, a Surgical Technology student at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC), has been recognized on the national stage as one of just fifteen students across the country to receive the prestigious National Student Academic Merit Award from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

Each year, the NBSTSA presents Student Academic Merit Awards to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, dedication to surgical patient care, and a commitment to public safety. The 2025 awards include a $3,000 scholarship in memory of Dalton Gay, a student-athlete from North Carolina; a $2,000 award based on essays and grades; and fifteen $1,000 awards recognizing academic excellence and professional promise.

Richards was selected for one of the $1,000 national merit scholarships due to her exemplary academic record and leadership within the program.

“Naomi Richards earned the program's academic achievement award due to having the highest GPA in the 2024-25 class,” said B.J. Chandler, Assistant Professor of Surgical Technology at SKYCTC. “She exemplifies what a surgical technologist is—patient advocate, sterility expert, and a vital member of surgical teams.”

“We receive many outstanding applicants, and the NBSTSA is pleased to support these students in their educational and professional journey,” said NBSTSA CEO Robin Y. Jenkins, CAE, ICE-CCP. “Each one of our scholarship awardees studies at an accredited institution and represents the next generation of qualified surgical technologists.”

About NBSTSA:
The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is a 501(c)(6) organization responsible for all decisions regarding certification for surgical technologists (CST®) and surgical first assistants (CSFA®). Its mission is to uphold the gold standard in professional certification and support continuing education, ultimately advancing superior patient care in the surgical setting.

For more information about the Surgical Technology Program at SKYCTC go to: https://southcentral.kctcs.edu/education-training/program-finder/surgical-technology.aspx 
or contact:
B.J.Chandler
bj.chandler@kctcs.edu
270/901-1079