Ricky Smith, Gateway Community & Technical College Student Government Association (SGA) president was elected to the Kentucky Community & Technical College (KCTCS) Board of Regents and will serve as student body co-president with Gavin Posey of West Kentucky Community & Technical College.
“Ricky is a servant leader and represents our student body well,” said Dr. Fernando Figueroa, Gateway president. “He will be a tremendous asset to the board of regents. We’re very proud of him.”
Smith and Posey were elected by their SGA peers and will serve one-year terms that begin immediately and continue through August 2018.
“This is an incredible opportunity for me to bring the voice of Northern Kentucky and Gateway to the KCTCS Board of Regents,” said Smith. “I am honored to have been elected by my peers and look forward to making an impact for the college and community.”
Smith, who will be a senior at Gateway, lives in Latonia and is pursuing an associate of applied science degree. Gateway students elected him 2017-18 SGA president this year. He is a member of The Society for Collegiate Leadership & Achievement, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the National Technical Honor Society.
He has been a peer tutor for two years and recognized as the Outstanding Student Tutor of the Year for 2016-17.
“Tutoring has been an incredible opportunity and learning experience, causing me to re-evaluate some of my goals,” said Smith. “I feel as though I am being drawn to teaching because of tutoring.” Smith plans to earn bachelors and master’s degrees in programming, web design and database administration. Then, come back and teach a class or two at Gateway.
As a 10th grade dropout who waited over 25 years to continue his education, Smith is living proof that you are never too old to further your education.
He says, “with a little, well a lot, of hard work and perseverance, you can be successful!” Smith is doing things he previously thought impossible.
“Gateway has been an incredible learning experience and has provided my some significant opportunities,” said Smith. “Gateway has helped me start to make my dreams come true. Gateway is my dream-catcher.”
