Little wins first-ever BCTC counselor award

In a world where a single act of kindness can change a student’s entire future, Mickey Little lives by a simple truth: Treat others as you want to be treated.

That guiding principle has earned the longtime GRC counselor the distinction of being named Bluegrass Community & Technical College's inaugural Together We Thrive Counselor of the Year..

Chosen among hundreds of counselors from BCTC’s partner high schools, Mr. Little's outstanding commitment to helping students pursue their goals was key in his selection.

“I was honestly shocked beyond belief," said Mr. Little, a school counselor for 22 years. "I heard my name and it took me a second to realize it was actually me. I never feel like I am doing anything more than my fellow peers. I was always taught to work hard and treat others the way I would want to be treated."

To Mr. Little, it's all about supporting students during some of the most important years of their lives. "No child should feel alone and without support," he said. "This is what makes my job the best blessing I have ever received. I grew up without resources.  I think that is what makes it personal for me to be that person for students."

For Mr. Little, the best part of being a high school counselor is the connections he builds with students.

"I absolutely love being a person who can provide opportunities for students who have no idea of what they can do," Mr. Little said. "There is nothing more exciting than seeing the enthusiasm in a student's eyes when they realize, "I can do that". I love the opportunity to be that non-judgmental, encouraging person with whom students can be honest and feel safe with."

Mr. Little said he is especially honored to be award's first-ever recipient.

"It was definitely an honor to receive this award in the company of so many accomplished school counselors who are also very deserving," he said. "It was especially nice being the first recipient to receive it. I love connecting students to opportunities. I just hope to keep doing better tomorrow than I did today.”