In honor of North Central Missouri College’s centennial, NCMC will spotlight 100 inspiring stories. These narratives will showcase the voices and journeys of our alumni, students, faculty, staff, donors, and the communities that have shaped TJC/NCMC’s legacy. Each story is a tribute to the people throughout history who make NCMC extraordinary.

Kristi Cutsinger

Associate in Arts 1998

As a Trenton native and graduate of Trenton High School, my connection to North Central Missouri College (NCMC) began well before I became a student.  I took dual-credit classes through NCMC while attending high school.  After graduating, I knew I wanted to finish my AA transfer degree in my hometown.

NCMC offered many advantages. I had grown up just three blocks from campus, and my mom, Joyce Cutsinger, taught in the Nursing program. The smaller class sizes were appealing, and I already knew many of the faculty members. NCMC felt like a natural extension of the community I had always called home.

Several instructors made a lasting impression on me.  Mrs. Melody Shipley was an excellent math instructor who had a gift of explaining it in a way that was understandable.  Mrs. Carol Elliott was the Dean of the Nursing department, and I loved taking her Health Education class.  Mr. Max Mothersbaugh’s physical education classes were always a good time.  I also became a work study and worked in Mr. Don Dalrymple’s science lab.  That was an experience trying to organize his lab.

NCMC provided an excellent foundation for my transition to Northwest and earn my bachelor’s degree.  As part of my degree, I was required to complete two Internships.  For my first internship, I returned home during the summer and worked under Tim Asher, Director of Ketcham Community Center.  It was wonderful to have a place to complete that in my hometown.

After completing my bachelor’s degree, I went into the workforce until December 2007.  With my family in Trenton, I knew I wanted to remain in the area, and I was fortunate to have the opportunity to join NCMC in the Nursing & Health Science department.  I initially worked at the Maryville location for nine months before transitioning back to the Trenton office.  During that time, I gained valuable experience learning about the nursing program and advising students.

While working at NCMC, I was able to earn my master’s degree.  In 2015, I transitioned into my current role as Director of Health Science.  Today, I have the privilege of working with an outstanding team and overseeing NCMC’s health science programs while advising students as they pursue their educational and career goals.  I am grateful for my journey and the full circle moment it has created.  It is a privilege to give back to the college and community that gave me such a strong start.

NCMC invites alumni, students, faculty, staff, and our communities to be part of the story. We would love to hear your story about Trenton Junior College/North Central Missouri College. Visit the Centennial Website to submit your own story, memory, or reflection. Whether you walked the halls decades ago or are just beginning your journey, your story is a vital thread in the college’s tapestry, and we want to hear it.

Visit the Centennial Website to explore Trenton Junior College/North Central Missouri College stories, rich history, and celebration recaps.

Photo: Kristi Cutsinger