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Cates Named WKCTC Teacher of the Year

Cates Named WKCTC Teacher of the Year
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By West Kentucky Star Staff
Apr. 25, 2016 | PADUCAH, KY
By West Kentucky Star Staff Apr. 25, 2016 | 04:08 PM | PADUCAH, KY

Students have named WKCTC assistant math professor Joel Cates the school's 2016 Teacher of the Year.

Cates and 26 other faculty members were nominated for the award by students. Nominees must have at least assistant professor status, and must have been a faculty member for at least three years.

One student who was quoted after the announcement had good things to say about Cates, “I’ve had several courses with Mr. Cates, and I’ve never had a math teacher more engaging in the subject. He loves his course and his students; it is evident every day in his class.” The student said.

Cates thanked his wife, Kelli, the WKCTC math faculty and his church congregation and pastor for their support. Cates, a McCracken County resident, said he felt both privileged and surprised to receive the award. “It’s a profound honor to be at WKCTC and teach among my peers, and teach these students – probably the best students in Kentucky,” said Cates. “When you get nominated, you don’t want to expect anything, but you hope and dream it might be you. And when you hear your name called, it’s validation of all that you’re doing for the students.”

Cates joined the WKCTC faculty in 2011. He has a bachelor’s degree in engineering physics and a master’s degree in math from Murray State University. He also serves as sponsor for the college’s math club chapter of Mu Alpha Theta and co-sponsor for the Campus Ministries student organization.

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