Small-town scholar to Harvard student: Burkesville native Jordan McCloughan’s dream becomes reality

Published on Apr 24, 2025

While some seventh-grade boys dream of becoming sports stars, Jordan McCloughan had a different vision: attending an Ivy League school. That dream, first sparked in middle school, is now becoming a reality.

Before heading to Cambridge this fall to attend Harvard College, McCloughan will graduate summa cum laude from Somerset Community College in May, having earned two associate degrees through the Kentucky Community and Technical College System’s dual credit program: an associate of arts and an associate of science. Later that same month, he will graduate as valedictorian of the Cumberland County High School Class of 2025 in Burkesville.

McCloughan still vividly remembers the moment he received his Harvard acceptance.

“It was an amazing experience for me,” he said. “When I logged into my application portal and saw the digital confetti, I couldn’t believe it. I was also accepted to Dartmouth and Yale — the other schools I applied to. I was very, very surprised. It’s just so uncommon for someone to get accepted from a small, rural school like mine.”

With limited access to Advanced Placement courses at his high school, McCloughan credits the KCTCS dual credit program and the opportunity to earn two associate degrees as key factors in strengthening his application.

“Jordan’s exceptional story shows that dual credit isn’t just a program — it’s a powerful, versatile pathway proving you can start at KCTCS and go anywhere,” said KCTCS President Ryan Quarles. “We’re incredibly proud of Jordan and excited to see where his education takes him next. The sky is truly the limit.”

McCloughan’s path to an Ivy League education has been paved with dedication, excellence and ambition. Inspired in ninth grade by a fellow student who earned an associate degree before high school graduation, McCloughan set a goal to become his school’s second associate degree recipient. He is also a Hal Rogers Scholar and an alumnus of the prestigious Governor’s Scholars Program.

Leadership has played a central role in McCloughan’s high school experience. He has served as president of the Beta Club and the 4-H Council, treasurer of the Civics Club, and woodwind section leader in the marching band. Notably, he is the youngest voting member of the Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

McCloughan credits his success to the support of many people, especially his parents, John and Nikki McCloughan.

“They have always been very, very supportive of everything I’ve done,” he said.

He also acknowledged Cumberland County Judge Executive Luke King for encouraging his civic engagement.

“Luke has helped me along the journey of civic engagement in my county and state, and I am grateful for his mentorship and guidance. Luke can certainly be attributed to some of my recent success and involvement,” said McCloughan.

King said that McCloughan’s experience sets a great example for the county’s youth.

“Jordan's acceptance into Harvard is the result of years of dedication and focus on a personal goal. Jordan will, no doubt, benefit from the education he'll receive over the next few years.

“Equally as important, the youth of Cumberland County will continue to benefit for many years to come because of the example Jordan set to dream big and work hard on his journey to reach such a lofty goal. We are incredibly proud of Jordan and all his many accomplishments and contributions in the community, and we can’t wait to see where his dreams take him,” added King.

This summer will be a busy one for McCloughan. In June, he’ll attend the 4-H High School State Conference, and in July, he’ll travel across Europe with Kentucky Musicians Abroad — a select ensemble of high school musicians from across the state — performing concerts in five different countries.

At Harvard, McCloughan plans to major in earth and planetary sciences and is considering a second major in music — a lifelong passion. He’s also exploring the possibility of attending law school, with a particular interest in environmental law.

No matter what path he ultimately chooses, McCloughan is poised to make an impact — not just at Harvard, but far beyond.