Caitlin Ranburger, guidance counselor at McLean County High School, has been recognized for her unwavering dedication to helping students chart a path to success. She’s been named the 2025 Pathfinder of the Year by Owensboro Community & Technical College.
Established by the Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS), the Pathfinder of the Year Award honors high school teachers and counselors who go above and beyond in helping students plan for college and careers. Each of the 16 KCTCS colleges selects one recipient each year. Ranburger has been nominated annually since the award’s inception, according to a release.
“It is truly an honor just to have been nominated for this award,” Ranburger said. “I am shocked to have been selected, as I know that so many educators are equally deserving, but I am also extremely appreciative for the recognition.”
OCTC President Dr. Scott Williams, along with members of the college’s Student Affairs and Marketing teams, presented the award in a surprise ceremony at McLean County High School on May 23. Family, friends, and school administrators were also in attendance.
“Ms. Ranburger exemplifies what it means to be a Pathfinder,” Williams said. “Her passion, commitment, and tireless support for students are inspiring. We deeply value our partnership with McLean County High School, and Caitlin’s impact on her students and her school community makes her a remarkable choice for this award.”
A McLean County High alumna, Ranburger began her career in education as a substitute teacher in 2016. She later taught 8th-grade English/Language Arts at McLean County Middle School before transitioning to her current role as the high school’s sole guidance counselor.
Ranburger now oversees student scheduling and dual credit enrollment, working closely with OCTC to coordinate opportunities. She also helps students navigate financial aid and scholarships, offering guidance on the FAFSA, KHEAA resources, and the Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship.
“It seems like a never-ending process at times, so I am so appreciative of the staff at OCTC and all their help and patience with me,” she said.
Beyond academics, Ranburger is a strong advocate for student well-being. This year, she helped implement the Teen Mental Health First Aid program for freshmen, making MCHS the first traditional high school in Kentucky to fully train an entire class.
She also uses social media to keep families informed about scholarships, summer opportunities, student clubs, and more — and never misses a chance to celebrate her students’ accomplishments.
“She celebrates her students’ strengths and knows our students are worth the extra effort,” wrote her colleague and friend Shannon Wood, who nominated Ranburger for the award. “She always makes them feel confident they have the best plan for their future in motion.”
When asked about her proudest achievement at MCHS, Ranburger didn’t hesitate.
“Receiving the OCTC Pathfinder of the Year Award for 2025 feels like my biggest success so far,” she said. “McLean County is a special place, and we have great kids here. They deserve people in their lives that are advocating for them and doing all that they can to help them be successful.”
