Northeast KY AHEC Commemorates 40th Anniversary With 1980s-Themed Preceptor Recognition Event

The Northeast Kentucky Area Health Education Center held its annual Preceptors Recognition Celebration on Nov. 14, marking the organization’s 40th anniversary and honoring medical professionals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to clinical teaching across the region.

In recognition of the Northeast AHEC’s founding year, the event incorporated a 1985 theme, offering a light touch of nostalgia while maintaining its focus on academic excellence and professional achievement.

Throughout the evening, the Northeast AHEC formally acknowledged the pivotal role preceptors play in preparing future health care providers for real-world practice. Organizers emphasized that the continued dedication of these educators remains essential to sustaining high-quality clinical training opportunities for students across multiple disciplines.

Awards were presented in the following categories:

• Outstanding Leadership Award: Onieta Stewart, DMSc, PA-C (UK St. Claire)
• Outstanding Health Professional Award: Dr. Cory Yoder, DO (UK King’s Daughters)
• Outstanding Mentorship Award: Bethany McClure, PA-C (PrimaryPlus-Morehead)
• New Preceptor Award: Dr. Emilee Bailey-Offill, DO (Gateway Recovery Clinic, Mt. Sterling)
• Outstanding Teaching Group Award: Katie Carswell, PA-C; Kayla Crawford, APRN; Amy Amburgey, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC; Hillary Carrol, APRN; Sarah Flynn, APRN; Whitney Wright, PA-C; Angela Stansfield, APRN; Michelle Walters, APRN; Angelica Tuttle, PA-C; and Travis Montgomery, PA-C (UK St. Claire Urgent Treatment Centers)
• Preceptor of the Year Award: Dr. Stewart Carraway, DO (UK King’s Daughters)
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. Nancy Henly (UK St. Claire Pediatrics)

The event concluded with acknowledgments of all participating preceptors and their ongoing contributions to health professions education. AHEC leadership noted that, just as it was in 1985, the organization remains guided by a commitment to progress, professional stewardship, and the preparation of the next generation of health care providers.