SKYCTC President/CEO Michelle Trawick Named Phi Theta Kappa Paragon President Honoree

JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI - Dr. Michelle Trawick, President of Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College, has been named a Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Paragon President Honoree. Dr. Trawick will be recognized during PTK Catalyst, Phi Theta Kappa’s annual international convention. 

The Phi Theta Kappa Paragon President recognition celebrates college leaders who demonstrate a strong and immediate connection to student success by prioritizing the recognition of high achievement and championing meaningful opportunities for student engagement. These presidents understand that when students are connected to their campus through leadership, scholarship, and service, they are more likely to persist, complete their credentials, and achieve successful transfer and career outcomes. Honorees are nominated by Phi Theta Kappa student leaders. 

At Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College, Dr. Trawick has demonstrated visible and enthusiastic support for Phi Theta Kappa’s Beta Upsilon Alpha Chapter by elevating student achievement across campus and ensuring the organization remains an integral part of the college’s culture. Through her presence at campus events, encouragement of leadership opportunities, and recognition of members’ accomplishments, she has helped expand awareness of Phi Theta Kappa and reinforce its role in shaping student success. 

Students and advisors note that Dr. Trawick’s leadership emphasizes access and opportunity. By promoting PTK during orientations and college communications, encouraging faculty to recommend eligible students, and supporting initiatives that reduce financial barriers to membership, she has helped more students connect with leadership and scholarship opportunities. Her advocacy for tutoring, mentorship, and leadership development programs reflects a broader commitment to ensuring students have the resources needed to thrive academically and professionally. 

"From the moment Dr. Trawick stepped into her role as the President of SKYCTC, she made it clear that student success was a priority and not just a talking point,” says SKYCTC student Alex Smith. “I could tell when she was being interviewed for the position, she doesn't just lead from a distance. She listens, she engages, and she is actively receptive to student voices. Her example has helped student leaders develop exponentially. In my time serving in a variety of student leadership positions, I've worked with many administrators, but Dr. Trawick's leadership stands out because it is rooted in such genuine care. We are viewed as essential assets to our campus and our communities, which helps all our clubs--not just PTK--thrive."