ACTC Presents Black History Programs
Ashland Community and Technical College will commemorate February as Black History Month with programs on the theme of “Voices from the Past to the Future.”
These programs illustrate the influence of African Americans on our society and culture, and they are supported by ACTC, the Highlands Museum & Discovery Center and a number of community partners.
All programs are free and open to the public.
Community Forum and Diversity Presentation
Black History Month will open with a program combining a community forum with a presentation by Dr. Roger Cleveland. The program is Friday, Feb. 10 at 11 a.m. at ACTC’s Technology Drive Campus.
Dr. Roger Cleveland is Associate Professor of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at Eastern Kentucky University. He is nationally known for his work in the areas of diversity, instructional equity, cultural competency, closing achievement gaps, learning styles, transforming school culture and school improvement planning.
A diversity and inclusion forum will follow Dr. Cleveland’s remarks. This forum is a continuation of the community dialogues held in Ashland last fall to encourage area residents to share their experiences, insight and expertise concerning equity and inclusion.
The program will conclude with a luncheon and group work sessions. For more information contact Al Baker, ACTC Director of Cultural Diversity, 606-326-2422 or email: alvin.baker@kctcs.edu.
The Technology Drive Campus is located just off KY 67 (Industrial Parkway), accessible from I-64 exit 179 or from US 23 one mile south of Greenup.
Gospel Night
Gospel Night will be held Thursday, Feb.16, at 6 p.m. at the Highlands Museum & Discovery Center in downtown Ashland.
At Gospel Night, choirs and individual singers from African American churches throughout the Tri-State will sing the songs that have inspired generations of Americans. From humble beginnings as Negro spirituals, the sound and spirit of black gospel music has become a profound force in American music and culture.
The audience will also be able to view the Museum’s February Black History Month exhibits, including works by Flatwoods artist Jerry Johnson. For information about performing at Gospel Night, contact the Museum at 606-329-8888.
A Night at the Apollo
A Night at the Apollo will be held Friday, Feb. 24, at 7 p.m. in ACTC’s J. B. Sowards Theatre at the College Drive Campus.
A Night at the Apollo is both a performance venue and a talent contest. Amateur solo and group performers may enter the contest. Prizes are $250 and $100 for adults and $100 and $50 for youth up to age 12.
There is no talent registration fee, but pre-registration is required with Al Baker at 606-326-2422 or email: alvin.baker@kctcs.edu. The registration deadline is February 10, and the number of acts is limited to 20 on a first-come basis.
Free MICROCONTROLLER CLASSES
A series of free spring classes at ACTC will help participants learn to use microcontrollers to complete a variety of tasks. The eight classes include Arduino and Raspberry Pi programming languages, a basic soldering class, an internet overview and a project demonstration.
“Whether you are 12 or 92, these classes will spark your curiosity and interest,” said instructor Mark Riggs, ACTC Associate Professor of Astronomy, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics.
Microcontrollers allow the use of computer technology for simple tasks such as electronics and robotics projects, 3-D printing and 2-D plotter cutting.
All classes will be held on a Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in ACTC’s College Drive Campus Drive Library.
Three classes will help participants use Arduino programming language and software: Intro to Arduino on Feb. 18, Arduino Programming on March 4 and Arduino Sensors on March 18.
Two Raspberry Pi classes are an Introduction on April 15 and Programming on April 29.
A Basic Soldering class on April 1 will help participants with the construction of electronic devices.
An Internet of Things class on May 18 will cover connecting a microcontroller to the internet so that makers can communicate with their devices from a web browser or cell phone.
The final class on May 27 will be a demonstration of projects constructed though use of techniques learned in the class series.
The classes are provided through a $50,000 USDA grant for “Emerging Technology and Entrepreneurial Training” projects.
To sign up for any or all classes, email as_workforce@kctcs.edu or call 606-326-2072. For class details, email: mark.riggs@kctcs.edu. For best results, students should take all classes offered in Arduino or in Raspberry Pi, although any class can be taken alone.
