QCC Student Kayla Paterson Named One of the “29 Who Shine”

Kayla Paterson always wanted to be a teacher, but after a bad experience at a four-year college she wasn’t sure if it was going to happen.

Soon after starting at Quinsigamond Community College, her English teacher encouraged her to be a tutor. Working with students at the QCC Writing Center reignited her passion for teaching.

Ms. Paterson, 23, a Blackstone resident, excelled at QCC, becoming an active member of the PTK Honor Society. Last year, after becoming involved in different fundraisers and club activities, she ran for and was elected as president of the PTK for 2015-16.

She is graduating this spring with an associate’s degree in general studies, with an option to transfer in the elementary education program. She plans to attend Anna Maria College in the fall to continue her studies in elementary education.

She was named earlier this month as one of “29 Who Shine.” Since 2011, the state Department of Higher Education has named an annual list of outstanding graduates from the Commonwealth’s public higher education system. Each honoree from a community college, state university or University of Massachusetts campus is nominated by a faculty or staff member, or by a university awards committee.

The winners were celebrated at a ceremony at the Statehouse in Boston on May 9. Award winners are selected on the basis of their academic success as well as their records of leadership and community service.

Ms. Paterson said the opportunity to visit the state house and meet other recipients was a great experience. “I connected immediately with a couple of the other students I met, it was awesome to see what other people are doing in their communities,” she said. “It gives everyone ideas for other projects and ways to get involved.”

As president of PTK, Ms. Paterson has been involved in the campaign to fund Lilly, one of Worcester Public Library’s bookmobiles, which travels to Worcester schools and family events to promote early childhood literacy.

“A lot of times people forget not everyone has access to books,” Ms. Paterson said. “For children, one of the best indicators for success is their ability to read. Providing this access encourages children to read, learn, and build their vocabulary. This really was a perfect project, it touches my heart.”

PTK and the QCC Foundation made a three-year pledge to support the bookmobile with a $100,000 commitment. This year, the PTK held a number of fundraising events, including a 5K run and an event with motivational speaker Loretta LaRoche, with all money raised going towards this cause.

Bonnie Coleman, PTK advisor, said Ms. Paterson is extremely hard working. “She holds three jobs while maintaining a 3.9 GPA,” Ms. Coleman said. “While doing all of that, she volunteered at numerous events. As Kayla grew in our office, I could see she has what it takes to be an exceptional leader in our community. She has a way with other students, faculty and staff, and they respond to her in such a positive way.”