July Student of the Month

Somerset Community College (SCC) is proud to recognize April Privett as the Health Sciences Student of the Month for July 2026, representing the Human and Social Services Program.

A native of McCreary County, Kentucky, April earned her GED through SCC in 2025 and is the proud mother of five children. She credits her children as her greatest source of motivation and inspiration throughout her educational journey.

April currently serves as a facilitator with Goodwill Kentucky, helping individuals work toward employment, recovery, and greater self-sufficiency. Through both her professional work and academic studies, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to helping others overcome challenges and achieve meaningful change in their lives.

April chose to pursue Human and Social Services because of her own experiences with addiction, trauma, domestic violence, and loss. Rather than allowing those challenges to define her, she has transformed them into a passion for serving others. She believes her experiences have equipped her with the empathy, compassion, and understanding needed to support individuals facing difficult circumstances.

“My children have been my greatest motivation to break generational cycles, build a better future, and show them that no matter where life begins, healing, education, and perseverance can change everything,” April shared.

She describes her experience in the Human and Social Services program as life-changing. The program has strengthened her confidence, expanded her knowledge, and reinforced her passion for advocacy and service. As someone who works daily with individuals in recovery, she has been able to immediately apply what she learns in the classroom and see the impact firsthand.

Following her studies at SCC, April plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Human Services. Her long-term goal is to work with individuals affected by addiction and domestic violence, helping them find hope, healing, and opportunities for a brighter future.

Human and Social Services Program Coordinator Josh Petrey, who nominated April for the award, praised her dedication to both personal growth and service to others.

“April is a highly deserving recipient of this award,” Petrey said. “She consistently demonstrates resilience, initiative, and a genuine commitment to helping others. Through both her academic work and her service in the community, she exemplifies the core values of the Human and Social Services profession and serves as a positive force for change in the community.”

April’s story reflects the transformative power of education, perseverance, and service. SCC is proud to recognize her as the July 2026 Health Sciences Student of the Month and celebrate the positive impact she continues to make in the lives of others and within her community.

The community is invited to apply to SCC for free at somerset.kctcs.edu or visit a location near you to learn more. Fall classes begin on August 17.