Outstanding Graduates Showcase the Many Paths to Student Success at OCTC

At Owensboro Community & Technical College, student success looks different for everyone. Some students arrive on campus while still in high school. Others return to college to pursue a new passion or advance their careers. Some balance family, work, and academics while preparing to make a difference in their communities.

This spring, several students recognized as Outstanding Graduates by their faculty exemplify the dedication, perseverance, and excellence found throughout OCTC.

Caring for Patients and Communities

Ashlee Diaz Garcia, recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Radiography Student Award, has already begun making a difference in healthcare.

Throughout her academic and clinical training, Ashlee demonstrated exceptional technical skills, professionalism, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Faculty recognized her ability to master complex radiographic concepts while also excelling in clinical environments.

One of Ashlee's greatest strengths is her ability to communicate with patients in multiple languages. Her bilingual skills help create meaningful connections with diverse patient populations and contribute to improved patient experiences and outcomes.

Following graduation, Ashlee accepted a position with Ohio County Healthcare, where she will continue serving patients and building on the skills developed at OCTC.

A Future Leader with Big Dreams

For Xander Berry, college has been part of his journey since his freshman year of high school.
An Early College student, Xander is graduating from Apollo High School while simultaneously earning both an Associate in Arts and an Associate in Science degree from OCTC. During his time as a dual-credit student, he distinguished himself academically as a National Merit Finalist while remaining heavily involved in Beta Club, Thespian Society, Cross Country, Academic Team, and Advanced Placement coursework.

At OCTC, Xander found opportunities beyond the classroom through multiple performances with Oak Island Theatre. This fall, he will attend Yale University, where he plans to pursue a double major in Mathematics & Philosophy and Theatre, Dance, & Performance Studies before eventually attending law school.

His long-term goal? Returning to Owensboro to practice law, participate in local theatre, and serve his community through public service.

Creating Art and Community

Outstanding Visual Arts student Kris Grenier proves that distance is no barrier to achievement.
Living in rural Kentucky near Cynthiana, Kris completed coursework online while maintaining an active studio practice and preparing to pursue a Master of Fine Arts degree. Already holding a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies, Kris returned to OCTC to earn an Associate in Fine Arts – Visual Art degree and further develop artistic skills.

Using wool from sheep raised on the family farm, Kris creates intricate felted landscapes that blend creativity with a deep appreciation for place and community. Beyond personal artistic work, Kris is currently leading a grant-funded participatory art project that invites hundreds of Kentuckians to collaborate in imagining a hopeful future for their communities.

Faculty praised Kris not only for academic excellence, but also for demonstrating empathy, leadership, and a commitment to bringing people together through art.

A Passion for Learning

When the Engineering and Electronics Technology faculty selected their Outstanding Student, they chose someone who exemplifies curiosity and determination.

Donna DePasquale entered the program to strengthen her electronics knowledge and enhance skills related to her profession. Throughout the program, she excelled in both coursework and laboratory experiences while becoming a trusted resource for fellow students.

Faculty noted that Donna consistently sought to understand not just how technology works, but why it works. Her willingness to assist classmates and tackle challenging concepts made her an invaluable member of the program.

In addition to being an outstanding student, Donna serves as a full-time Mathematics faculty member at OCTC, demonstrating that lifelong learning remains an important part of professional growth.

Celebrating 
Student 
Success

These four students represent just a small sample of the remarkable graduates who crossed the commencement stage this spring. Their stories reflect the many pathways available at OCTC and demonstrate that success comes in many forms.

Whether earning college credits while still in high school, pursuing artistic passions, advancing professional skills, or preparing for careers in healthcare, OCTC students continue to inspire through their dedication, resilience, and commitment to excellence.

We are proud to celebrate their accomplishments and look forward to seeing the impact they will make in the years ahead.

Bernie Hale is Director of Marketing and Communications for OCTC. She holds a Master's degree in Public Administration from WKU, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Brescia University. She lives in Owensboro with her husband Jeff, their dog Bennie, and they have three grands.