TANF Awards Ceremony Celebrates Student Success and Achievement

The 2025 TANF Awards Ceremony, held on May 7th, honored the accomplishments of students supported by the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. The celebration recognized academic excellence, leadership, and perseverance.
The event opened and closed with thoughtful reflections by Joe Linville, who delivered both the invocation and benediction. Keynote speaker Darrell Taylor offered encouraging remarks, while TANF student and Spring 2025 graduate Kristi Perkins addressed the audience as the student guest speaker, sharing her journey and achievements in the Medical Lab Technician program.
Representatives from the West Virginia Department of Human Services were in attendance, including Charlie Dotson of the Policy Commission, Tracy Slone, and Jennifer Justice of Mingo County. Mr. Dotson also presented certificates to students on behalf of the DoHS, mirroring the categories recognized during the ceremony.
Guests enjoyed a reception featuring finger sandwich platters, potato salad, a fruit tray, cookies, donuts, and beverages.
Spring 2025 Graduates
Kristi Perkins – Medical Lab Technician, Associate in Applied Science
Leeanna Blankenship – Salon Management Cosmetology, Associate in Applied Science
Dean’s List Honorees
(Fall 2024)
Hannah Fortner
Latisha Collins
Kelly Griffith
Leeanna Blankenship
Certificate of Recognition: Academic Achievement
Awarded for outstanding academic performance throughout the semester:
Allison Hainer
Rebecca Rosales
Kacie Staten
Samantha Evans
Deborah Harris
Hannah Fortner
Kelly Griffith
Leeanna Blankenship
Cameron Duty
Latisha Collins
Anna Damron
Student Leadership and Resilience Awards
Shawna Bias – Elected President of the Student Government Association
Overcoming Barriers to Student Success:
Kiarra Gibson
Sarah Jude
Makayla McKinney
Brandy Church
Emily Evans
Hannah Elkins
This annual celebration reflects the dedication of TANF students and their commitment to academic and personal growth. The TANF program proudly continues to support students as they achieve their educational and career goals.