CITIZEN STAFF REPORT
PAINTSVILLE — Sabrina Hayden, outreach and admissions manager for the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center, has been named a recipient of the Kentucky Commonwealth Ambassador Award, one of the Commonwealth’s highest honors for leadership, civic engagement and service.
The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professional excellence and a commitment to strengthening communities across Kentucky. Hayden was selected from more than 90 nominees for her work expanding educational and workforce opportunities for underserved and at-risk youth throughout Eastern Kentucky.
A resident of Meally, Hayden leads outreach, recruitment and community engagement efforts for the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center and supervises a team serving communities across the state. Through partnerships with schools, workforce agencies, community organizations and local leaders, she helps connect young adults with educational opportunities, career training and workforce development resources. She also remains active in community initiatives, advisory groups, boards and volunteer efforts focused on education, youth development and regional advancement.
“This recognition reflects the importance of investing in people and creating opportunities for future generations,” Hayden said. “I am incredibly honored to receive this award and grateful for the opportunity to serve communities across Kentucky alongside so many dedicated partners and leaders.”
Colleagues and educators who have worked with Hayden said her commitment to helping young people succeed has made a lasting impact on students and communities throughout the region.
“Sabrina’s passion for helping others and her unwavering commitment to the young people we serve make her exceptionally deserving of this recognition,” said Melody McCoy, OA/CTS director at Carl D. Perkins Job Corps. “She goes above and beyond every day to create opportunities for students, strengthen community partnerships and improve lives throughout Eastern Kentucky. We are incredibly proud of her and this well-deserved achievement.”
McCoy said Hayden has played a key role in strengthening relationships between Job Corps and community partners while helping connect students with educational and career opportunities.
Central Elementary School Principal Mike Conley said Hayden’s dedication to students and communities is evident in both her professional work and volunteer efforts.
“As a principal, you quickly learn who the people are that genuinely care about making a difference. Sabrina Hayden is one of those people,” Conley said. “She is always willing to step up, serve others and support our students and school community. Her heart for helping people and her dedication to making Kentucky a better place are evident in everything she does. This recognition is well deserved, and I am proud to celebrate her achievement.”
Hayden’s work has also earned praise from school counselors who have partnered with Job Corps to help students pursue post-secondary education and career training.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Sabrina over the past several years through our co-enrollment partnership between Martin County High School and Job Corps,” said Crystal Wright, guidance counselor at Martin County High School. “Throughout that time, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, dedication and a genuine commitment to student success. Mrs. Hayden’s knowledge of the program and her ability to guide students toward achieving their post-secondary goals are truly outstanding. She is always willing to offer support, answer questions and collaborate to ensure students have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
“Her compassion and kindness allow her to build meaningful relationships, making students feel valued, supported and encouraged as they navigate important decisions about their futures. Her strong communication skills, unwavering advocacy and student-centered approach make her an invaluable asset to both Job Corps and the students she serves.”
Individuals interested in learning more about the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center in Prestonsburg may call 606-433-5336 or 859-320-1200 for information about enrollment opportunities.