PADUCAH, Ky. — West Kentucky Community and Technical College and the Paducah Junior College Foundation announced a significant multi-year scholarship commitment from John and Bonnie Longenecker to support WKCTC students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The gift reflects the Longeneckers’ longstanding ties to Paducah, their careers in the nuclear industry and their interest in preparing the next generation of professionals for careers tied to the nation’s energy and national security missions.
“Bonnie and I are pleased to be able to provide financial support to the students of WKCTC,” John Longenecker said. “From our initial discussion with Dr. Reece, his team’s commitment to transforming lives through education is evident in everything they do. We are honored to support efforts to help their students, including many who are first in the family to attend college or military veterans, to achieve their education and career goals, and hopefully become the future leaders in our industry.
“After working with the people in Paducah, Kentucky, for more than 35 years, we continue to be impressed with their ingenuity, work ethic and commitment to supporting some of the most important U.S. energy and national security missions.”
WKCTC Chancellor Dr. Anton Reece recently visited the Atomic Museum in Las Vegas with the Longeneckers, where he learned more about their contributions to the nuclear industry and their interest in STEM education. The visit underscored the shared commitment between the Longeneckers and WKCTC to expanding educational opportunities and building the skilled workforce the region will need.
“On behalf of WKCTC, I deeply appreciate this timely and generous investment from John and Bonnie and their shared commitment to student success,” Reece said. “This scholarship will help remove financial barriers and expand access for students pursuing STEM education and careers. Their support is an investment not only in our students, but also in the skilled workforce and future leaders who will help power our region and our nation.”
The multi-year commitment will provide ongoing scholarship support for students preparing to enter STEM-related fields, reducing financial barriers and creating opportunities for students to complete their education and move into high-demand careers.
PJC Foundation Executive Director Andy Wilson said the commitment is especially meaningful because of the lasting impact it will have on students over multiple years.
“This is the kind of gift that can change lives for years to come,” Wilson said. “John and Bonnie understand that investing in students is also an investment in the future workforce of our region. Their commitment will help students pursue opportunities they may not otherwise have had while strengthening the pipeline of talented graduates prepared to serve industries that are vital to western Kentucky and our nation.”
The Longeneckers have worked with people and organizations in the Paducah area for more than three decades through their involvement in the nuclear industry. Their continued investment in the community reflects their confidence in the region’s talent and their belief in education as a pathway to opportunity.
“We are fortunate to have partners who see the tremendous potential in our students and are willing to invest in that potential,” Reece said. “John and Bonnie’s generosity will make a difference for students and families, while helping ensure our region continues to have the skilled workforce needed for the opportunities ahead.”
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