Staff Profile: Sherry Tinsley

Degree & School: Associate in Science in Recreational Therapy from Eastern Kentucky University (1981), Associate in Arts from Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College (2009), Bachelors of Human Services and Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College (2010), Masters of Education in Human Development and Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College (2012), licensed professional counselor (LPCA)

Official Title: Developmental Education Academic Advisor (Harlan & Cumberland campuses)

Contact Info: sherry.tinsley@kctcs.edu or 606-589-3074

Time at Southeast: 14.5 years

What brought you to Southeast? I started in the library on the Cumberland campus in 2001 after working in various roles for Begley s Drug Store, which is now Rite Aid, for more than 15 years. I was a circulation supervisor. I had no idea what it was about, but I knew I wanted to do something with my education, so I came here.

What is the most important part of your job to you? I like to make a difference in the lives of the students that I meet, helping them get to the path that they need to succeed in whatever they re trying to achieve.

Why do you enjoy working with students? I like people and I like young people. I ve always worked with kids, all the way back to when I was 11 or 12 years old. As the years passed, I started working with teenagers and now I m working with young adults. It s just a passion. It s just my fit in life. I love to see them learn and their brains explode and just see them become who they are.

Tell us something fun about yourself that someone might not normally know. I am a Zumba goddess! I love Zumba! Zumba is my exercise, my stress release and it s just so much fun! I really love to exercise!

Why do you stay at Southeast? I feel that it s where God wants me at this moment. I may be here 10 more years, who knows? It s all God s plan. I was brought here by a fluke and I m still here after almost 15 years. It s where I m supposed to be.