At the signing ceremony were SKCTC and LWC Administrators, including: Sherri Clark Dr. Paul Bryant, James Weaver, Julie Brooks, Dr. Patsy Jackson, Dr. Tammy Sexton, Dr. Erin Reasor, Dr. Kimberly Brown, Dr. Lee Harrison, and Dr. Rebecca Johnson. (Photo submitted)

Building on a decades-long partnership, Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College and Lindsey Wilson College have expanded their agreement to offer a new hybrid human services and counseling degree program on the Middlesboro campus. The initiative provides a flexible weekend-format bachelor’s degree program tailored for adult learners.

The announcement reflected a shared commitment to serving students who prefer face-to-face learning environments and are seeking careers in mental health and addiction recovery.

“This is an amazing opportunity to bring higher education partners together in a way that truly supports adult learners,” said Dr. Patsy Jackson, interim president of SKCTC. “Many students want the support of a cohort and the in-person classroom experience, and this program delivers exactly that.”

The Middlesboro site joined the long-established LWC program at SKCTC’s Cumberland campus. Leaders from both institutions emphasized that the new cohort represents an expansion, not a relocation.

Dr. Tommie Ann Saragas, assistant vice president of educational outreach for online and graduate programs at Lindsey Wilson College, called the launch “deeply personal,” noting that she and Regional Academic Director Dr. Kimberly Brown were among the first adult learners to graduate from the Cumberland site.

“We know how powerful this program can be—it changed our lives,” Sexton said.

The hybrid format includes in-person weekend classes with continued online support. Jason Weaver, who currently leads enrollment for LWC’s Cumberland cohort, will serve in the same role at Middlesboro. A licensed counselor with experience in addiction recovery, Weaver will assist students with applications, financial aid, and academic support.

“This partnership helps meet a critical need in our region,” said Dr. Lee Harrison, incoming president of SKCTC. “It aligns with our mission to serve the whole student and to be part of regional solutions—especially in mental health and recovery services.”

The program builds on a 23-year transfer agreement between LWC and SKCTC institutions, offering students a seamless path from an associate degree to a bachelor’s or master’s degree in counseling.

Fall enrollment is now open. For more information, contact Jason Weaver, LWC coordinator, at weaverj@lindsey.edu or call 606.589.3075.