O

ne of the challenges for colleges and vocational schools in our area is to get prospective students interested and excited in enrolling beyond high school.

This may mean thinking outside the box in promoting educational institutions throughout the Tri-State.

One example of that came last Friday, when racer Greg Thompson, of Ironton,  paid a visit to Ashland Community & Technical College.

Thompson had his car with him which was recently painted with the school’s logos, mascot and slogans.

As ACTC president Larry Ferguson said, the hope is that Thompson’s car, which will debut on the track in May, will spur interest in ACTC.

Ferguson said that the science behind the vehicle could then initiate a conversation on the STEM education programs available at the school.

Such a conversation starter may go a long way further then traditional marketing efforts in reaching some students and getting them to think about a future career.

It is good to see the school exploring innovative ways to spread their message and we encourage others in our region to do the same.