1. University of Kentucky - Philanthropy
  2. Your Gifts at Work
  3. UK Philanthropy News

UK Philanthropy News

UK

Runway Renegade

Dan Knapp -
For most budding fashionistas, accessories serve to complete an outfit. Many insist on the right handbag, the perfect patent-leather stiletto or some glistening bangle to bring a look together. TaMyah Jordan’s must-have…
UK

UK reaches historic, transformative Kentucky Can campaign goal

-
  On October 27, the University of Kentucky, along with donors and community partners, celebrated the achievement of the $2.1 billion goal for Kentucky Can: The 21st Century Campaign — the largest fundraising campaign in…
Martin-Gatton announcement speakers

Historic $100 million gift will catapult UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment

-
Continuing a “legacy like no other,” late University of Kentucky alum and former trustee Carol Martin “Bill” Gatton bestowed a transformational gift of $100 million to the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (…
BOT meeting

UK Engineering graduate makes history with $34.5 million gift to advance the college, support students

Lindsey Piercy -
Stanley Pigman understands the immense impact of higher education and financial support. Born and raised in Eastern Kentucky, he is also passionate about engineering being an accessible career path for students from the…
John Maze Stewart

Gatton College holds naming ceremony for John Maze Stewart Department of Finance and Quantitative Methods

-
LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 24, 2023) — The University of Kentucky Gatton College of Business and Economics held a naming ceremony for the John Maze Stewart Department of Finance and Quantitative Methods last week to…
Jake Lemon

Jake Lemon accepts offer to become UK Vice President for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement

-
  In an email to the University of Kentucky community on March 9, 2023, UK President Eli Capilouto announced Jake Lemon had accepted the position of Vice President for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement at the…
Alumni Commons

Rose Street renovation project to be named Alumni Commons

-
A plan to name the Rose Street Redevelopment Park Project as Alumni Commons was approved on September 16, 2022, by the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees. The $9 million development project located between Columbia Avenue…
Photo of Tanner Thomspon seated and smiling

Tanner Thompson – a.k.a. “Scratch”

-
Tanner Thompson, from Monticello, Kentucky, triple majored in accounting, finance and management. That means that while he was a student, Tanner was usually reading, studying or attending classes. However, on game day, Tanner…
One Day for UK

More Than 3,400 Donors Support Students on 'One Day for UK'

-
On April 21, 2022, more than 50 colleges, programs and causes at the University of Kentucky participated in the fourth 24-hour university-wide giving day, “One Day for UK.” A total of 3,409 donors contributed $2,408,…
Rendering of outdoor space at Gray Design Building

$5.2 Million Gift from Gray, Inc., Will Create New Home for UK College of Design

-
LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 29, 2022) — A transformative gift of more than $5.2 million will create a new home for the University of Kentucky’s College of Design and an exciting entry point into Lexington. The gift from …
Mike Richey, Bill Gatton and UK President Eli Capilouto

Historic $5 Million Scholarship Gift to Increase Access for First-Generation, Medical, Gatton Academy Students

By Jay Blanton -
A historic $5 million gift from the University of Kentucky’s largest single donor will help thousands of young Kentuckians from underserved areas obtain a degree from UK. The scholarship program will also target…
Headshot of Christina Hesley, smiling

Families Managing Challenging Behaviors Find Lifeline in Women and Philanthropy Grant Recipient

-
As a busy working mother of two small children, Christina Hesley hesitated to walk away from the salary and benefits of her full-time job. Still, she dreamed of going to graduate school to expand her career by becoming a…
Headshot of James Hardymon smiling at camera

James F. Hardymon $3 Million Gift to Provide Renovation, Expansion for Emerging Undergraduate Engineering Programs

By Kel Hahn -
The University of Kentucky Board of Trustees approved a $3 million gift to the College of Engineering from alumnus and longtime supporter of the university James F. Hardymon during the Dec. 14 meeting. The gift will…
Chalotte Seeger kneeling in the grass with her golden retriever, Honey.

Dogs and Dietetics: Charlotte Seeger

-
Charlotte Seeger loves helping people, particularly those experiencing trauma or difficulty like cancer or post-traumatic stress syndrome. In fact, her deepest connections to the University of Kentucky have come through…
Winners of the Mobley Awards standing outside, smiling for a photo

Mobley Philanthropy Awards Highlight Unwavering Commitment, Exceptional Achievement Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

By Kel Hahn -
On Thursday, Nov. 18, the University of Kentucky Office of Philanthropy honored seven UK employees and volunteers at the Terry B. Mobley Philanthropy Awards Ceremony. Held in the Harris Ballroom of the Gatton Student Center, the…
Alumna donor Nancy F. Hanna '68 (center) met in June with theatre and arts administration student Chelsea Russell '21 (left) and master's student in music Houston Tyrrell (right).

UK Alum Establishes Dorothy Dowling Fish Scholarship to Benefit College of Fine Arts Students

-
When Nancy Fish Hanna (’68 home economics, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment) was a child growing up in Raleigh, North Carolina and Milford, Pennsylvania, she had what some might call a magical childhood…
Ben C. Kaufmann and Janet Zusman

Music Patrons Pledge Largest Ever College Donation to UK Fine Arts

-
STORY BY WHITNEY HALE, UK PR ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN UKNOW AUGUST 25, 2021 Like many preteens though, Kaufmann had other ideas of how he would prefer to spend his time. But what started out as an inconvenience, eventually…
Aerial view of farm equipment on a field

Scholarships Eliminate 5-Hour Commute for UK Senior

By Ravyn Ladenburger -
Dylan Gentry was raised in Green County by a single father, a hard-working UK 4-H extension agent who also runs a small business to make ends meet for his two children. Growing up, Dylan tagged along to his father’s 4-H meetings…
Photo of Mike Richey

VP for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement Announces Retirement

-
Dear Campus Community, This morning, I have the bittersweet responsibility to tell the UK community that Mike Richey is retiring at the end of 2021 as UK’s vice president for philanthropy and alumni engagement. In the coming…
Ashraf Traboulsi standing next to a ZzzQuil banner

Alumni Spotlight- Ashraf Traboulsi

By Jacob Lewis -
Oftentimes people find themselves having to make sacrifices when it comes to postgraduate work, whether it's in the form of pay, location, or position. However for a lucky few, their hard work, perseverance, and access to…
A photo of the late Myra Tobin

A Tribute to Myra Tobin

-
“We don’t know what it’s like to live in a world without Myra.” This is a stark reality that so many people are feeling at this moment. Some might say our community is weaker today with the loss of an alumna who spent much of…
A large group of UK staff members line up at Kroger Field for a photo.

Alumni and Philanthropy Staff Give Back at Kroger Field

-
On the morning of April 6, Amanda Trail knew there was only one pair of shoes to wear that day: her UK basketball shoes, a gift from her Duke-loving boyfriend. We won’t talk about that part. More importantly, Trail, a…
Wildcat making the shape of a "Y" at the end of the word "Kentucky".

One Day for UK 2021

-
LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 10, 2021)— For 24 hours on Wednesday, April 21, more than 50 colleges, programs and causes at the University of Kentucky participated in the third university-wide giving day, “One Day for…
Photo of campus with the text "One day for UK" overlaid

One Day for UK is today

By Meredith Weber -
The University of Kentucky’s giving day, “One Day for UK,” is today, Wednesday, April 21. The UK community is encouraged to participate in the 24-hour virtual event to help advance the university’s mission to improve people’s…
Taylor standing and smiling in the Gatton Student Center

Taylor Blair

-
Taylor Blair is Director of Orientation and Outreach at UK. He is building strong, authentic communities through virtual and in-person experiences that make students excited to come to UK and build…
blank header image

One Day for UK 2021 slated for April 21

-
On April 21, the University of Kentucky will celebrate its third university-wide giving day, "One Day for UK" For 24 hours, the university will encourage donors around the world to give to the college, unit or cause they…
UK Main building surrounded by flowering spring trees

UK Women & Philanthropy Network Awards $217,342 to Six UK Academic Initiatives

-
The Women and Philanthropy Network at the University of Kentucky recently awarded $217,342 to six academic initiatives at UK. This brings their lifetime grants to $2,484,392. The Women and Philanthropy Network was formed in…
An old photograph of a woman with bobbed hair and an orange mock-neck shirt.

Application Submission Open to Owen County Students for the Marcella Whisman Peed Endowed Scholarship

By Ann Blackford -
When Gus Peed reflects on his life, and successes along the way, he recognizes that hard work, a drive to achieve, opportunity and an outstretched hand have shaped his life successes. The help Gus Peed received enabled him to…
Photo of University of Kentucky stone wall

A Note to the Future

By Brent J. Pieper, Ed.D. Associate Vice President for Philanthropy University of Kentucky -
Astronaut Dr. Story Musgrave, who has been on six space missions and spent more time beyond earth than any human being to date suggested that “It’s useless to leave this Earth unless you know what it’s like to live in it.” The…
Photo of Rebecca Liebert

UK Alum Trailblazing Path for Female Engineers from Eastern Kentucky

-
You could say, three p’s shaped Rebecca Liebert: planning, project management and not procrastinating. For the University of Kentucky alumna, these qualities were instilled early in life. Planning for crops on her family’s farm…
The Kirkings

Pharmacy Alums Share Love of International Travel and Giving Back

By Ann Blackford -
When Duane Kirking, then a pharmacy student at the University of Wisconsin, and Marilyn Howard, a UK pharmacy student from Harlan, Ky, met at a national student pharmacy convention in 1973, neither of them knew at the time that…
Construction work on the Gatton Student Center

Expansion in All Ways: Bill Gatton Student Center Grows with Sights on the Future

By Ann Blackford -
When the new Bill Gatton Student Center on the University of Kentucky campus opened in 2018, the vision was to provide a larger space with modern technology to meet the needs of an ever growing and thriving campus community.…
Photo of Dr. Bing Zhang and his wife, Rachel, inside their home.

Giving Back to Pay it Forward: Statistics Department named for UK alumnus Bing Zhang

By Richard LeCompte -
Dr. Bing Zhang recognizes how profoundly his life was changed by a helping hand at the University of Kentucky, where he earned a doctorate in statistics. Now he’s helping UK students both personally and through a generous gift…
Photo of Eric Coleman

Discipline, Determination and Deep Faith: UK alumnus establishes scholarship to ensure education as a pathway to a better life

By Ann Blackford -
In his recently published book, “Not by Accident,” University of Kentucky alumnus Eric Coleman (‘92) says nothing in his life has been coincidental, not the people and relationships that have shaped his life, nor the…
blank divider

‘One Day for UK’ Back for Second-Annual Digital Day of Giving

By Katie Sanders Vogel and Meredith Weber -
One day to build a brighter future together. Mark your calendars! On September 16, the University of Kentucky will celebrate the second-annual university-wide giving day, “One Day for UK” For 24 hours, alumni, friends,…
Chris and Vicki Gordman

Couple’s Generosity Continues During COVID-19 Pandemic

-
Most choose to attend college to earn an education —hoping they will gain knowledge to prepare them for the pursuit of a career. But the path to a degree can unlock more than job opportunities. Just ask Chris Gorman. It was…
Brent Seales kneeling in front of machinery used for examining ancient Dead Sea Scroll fragments

Reading the Unreadable: Seales and Team Reveal Dead Sea Scroll Text

By Lindsey Piercy -
Adam Prewitt and his mother

Adam Prewitt Outdoor Pursuits Trip Fund Created to Honor UK ROTC Alum

By Ann Blackford -
To say that Adam Prewitt lived life large might be a bit of an understatement. Descriptions from his family and friends describe a young man who was passionate about his life, about books and knowledge, the outdoors, adventure,…
Lauren and Michael Gorrell

Michael and Lauren Gorrell Bestow Gift to Benefit First-Generation College Students

By Ann Blackford -
University of Kentucky alum, Michael Gorrell (2015), grew up in McLean, Virginia where not many UK fans could be found. However, the home he shared with his parents, Warren and Catherine, and his sisters, was true blue. Warren…
Tony Delk standing on basketball court

'Untouchable' Tony Delk Gives Back to Kentucky's Children

By Hilary Brown -
Mira Ball

UK Board Authorizes Naming of Residence Hall, Athletic Complex in Honor of UK Supporters

-
The University of Kentucky Board of Trustees today approved the naming of a campus facility and an athletics complex in connection with the generosity of two major donors to the university. Woodland Glen II residence hall will…
Woman cooking

UK Alumni Launch Non-Profit to Feed Front-Line Workers, Support Local Restaurants

-
A group of University of Kentucky alumni are putting their degrees to work by showing support for front line workers and local restaurants. With backgrounds in business and medicine, Michael Zhu, Jodi Llanora, Kyle Luo, Logan…
Female student studying

A ‘Soft Spot’ to Strengthen UK’s Future

-
A passionate innovator, University of Kentucky alumnus S.J. "Sam" Whalen is recognized as a pioneer in brazing (a metal-joining process akin to welding), welding and non-destructive testing (techniques to evaluate the properties…
Two lab workers

Helping Cats Reach Their Potential

-
As a soil and crop production specialist, Herbert F. Massey Jr. traveled the world, helping farmers and governments to grow crops. Working through the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, he…
Virtual 5K

First Saturday in May 5K

-
Saturday, May 2, 2020   For Kentuckians and Kentuckians at heart, the first Saturday in May has been circled on our calendars for months. While the horses won’t be racing until September this year, that doesn’t mean you…
Roy-Hunt

World War II Veteran Benefits His Alma Mater, Community

-
By Molly Williamson A flock of wooden eagles perch atop Roy Hunt’s cabinets. They are watching over a true patriot, one of the last remaining World War II veterans. In his 97 years, Hunt has witnessed history. He served as an…
cameron-asher

Asher Uses His Story to Give Back, Inspire Others

-
By Molly Williamson Cameron Asher thinks he is smarter now than he was ever meant to be. Over the last four years, he has pushed and challenged himself, never cutting himself a break. He had something to prove to himself and to…
joseph-feliciano

Taking Flight: Feliciano Knew He Was Destined to Work for NASA

-
By Molly Williamson As he approaches graduation, senior Joseph Feliciano has a plan. The physics and mathematics major intends to earn a master’s in science in space systems engineering from Morehead State University. Final…
Dr Andrews standing in front of Miller Hall

Drew Andrews

-
William M. “Drew” Andrews Jr. is a geologist and section head of the Kentucky Geological Survey. He has seen his work help the state of Kentucky and advance the land grant mission of UK over the last 30+ years as a student and…
Therese Smith

Therese Smith Benefits Her Alma Mater, Workplace

-
As a two-time University of Kentucky alumna, Therese Smith wants to see her alma mater succeed. And as the Community of Concern director, she is uniquely positioned to understand UK’s needs. Every year, she supports the College…
Grahams

Couple Turns Tragedy into Triumph by Giving Back to UK in Honor of Their Sons

-
By Ann Blackford People have many reasons for wanting to support the University of Kentucky, but for retired U.S. Army Major Gen. Mark A. Graham and Carol Graham, the reason is deeply personal. When the Grahams lost their two…
nurse

UK College of Nursing Awarded Grant from Helene Fuld Health Trust to Fund Nursing Scholarships for Accelerated BSN Students

-
By Ann Blackford The University of Kentucky College of Nursing has received a $600,000 grant from the Helene Fuld Health Trust to fund scholarships for UK nursing students pursuing the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing…
Mobley 2019

Mobley Awards Honor Outstanding Achievement, Dedicated Employees in Philanthropy, Alumni Relations

-
By Molly Williamson A mentor. A friend. A Wildcat. That is how one nominator described Jill Smith, the interim executive director for the University of Kentucky Alumni Association, who was among the four winners of the Terry B…
Lacy and Maschio

All the World's A Stage: UK Theatre Alumnus' Career Has Taken Him Around the World

-
By Ann Blackford When Todd Lacy was a student at the University of Kentucky in the 80s, he was an English major planning to go to law school. That is, until his English class attended a Shakespeare play presented by UK's…
Linda-McNay

Fundraising Expert Teaches Students Tips, Tricks to Secure More Gifts

-
By Molly Williamson The Center for Student Philanthropy will host fundraising expert Linda Wise McNay at 10 a.m. Nov. 16 at the Boone Center to discuss “Six Things Every College Student Should Know about Fundraising.” Her…
David-Rosenberg

UK College of Law Graduate Makes Historic $20 Million Gift for College of Law Future

-
By Jay Blanton Growing up in Lexington, J. David Rosenberg learned about the power of education to transform lives and create opportunities. It was a lesson solidified in his mind as a student in the College of Law at the…
sweetheart-majorettes

Sweetheart Majorette Alumni Club Raises More than $15,000 for Scholarship Fund

-
By Molly Williamson More than 50 years ago, 150 ladies would vie for the 10 open Sweetheart Majorette and two Feature Twirler spots at the University of Kentucky. Tryouts were competitive, and only the best twirlers would be…
browning

Browning Plans to Start Humanitarian NGO After Graduation

-
By Haley Potter Senior Shelby Browning is currently pursuing a degree in chemical engineering. In addition to her position on the Student Philanthropy Board, Browning participates in several organizations on campus including…
wondrous-things

Donations Sought for UK College of Education Project to Support Promise Academies

-
By Amanda Nelson A project to enrich learning at two local schools has launched on Big Blue Crowdfunding. It will help the University of Kentucky College of Education’s efforts to support students at Fayette County’s two…
stites

Stites & Harbison Supports New UK College of Law Building with $1M Gift

-
By Shawntaye Hopkins The University of Kentucky College of Law is pleased to announce a $1 million gift from Stites & Harbison, PLLC to support current and future UK Law students as well as the major rebuild of the now-…
wildcart

Wildcarts Increase Student Mobility Around Campus

-
By Molly Williamson A primary goal of the University of Kentucky’s new $2.1 billion campaign is to improve access to education. A recent gift from an anonymous donor is doing just that – ensuring that all UK students can access…
Hyundai

Hyundai Hope on Wheels Grant Makes Cancer Treatment Easier for Young Adults

-
By Molly Williamson For the 15 to 29 year old demographic, cancer packs an additional punch. Though they are treated at a children’s hospital, they no longer are children. In addition to their diagnosis, they are juggling…
carl-mchargue

A Man of Vision: Alumnus Supports Engineering Students Through Estate

-
Carl and Betty McHargue’s $2 million estate gift will endow a new scholarship fund for engineering students in eastern and southeastern Kentucky. His gift is the pinnacle of an extraordinary life. By Kelly Hahn At age 93, Carl…
RWJF-team

UK Team Selected by Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to Address Children's Health Challenges in Casey County

-
By Jenny Wells-Hosley A team from the University of Kentucky has been selected to participate in the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's (RWJF) Clinical Scholars leadership program to address children's health and education in…
sandy-helton

Alumna Sandy Helton Ensures Students Have Access to UK Education

-
Sandy Helton, a 1971 mathematics graduate, spoke to alumni, friends, parents and community members on behalf of Kentucky Can: The 21st Century Campaign in June 2019 at an event in Chicago. She discussed how her University…
Deborah-Slaton-small

Deborah Slaton Creates A Legacy for Doctoral Students

-
By Amanda Nelson Dr. Deborah Bott Slaton has been helping special education students, teachers and doctoral students for more than three decades. Even in retirement, she is working for the betterment of others. In fact, giving…
Keeneland

Taking the Lead: Keeneland, NTRA Partner with UK to Ensure Horses' Safety

-
By Molly Williamson For the Keeneland Association and the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) Charities, investing in two new University of Kentucky laboratories was a simple decision. Safety – of both the horse and…
ashley-weaver

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Ashley Weaver Helps Others Find 'Volunteer Passion'

-
By Haley Potter Student Philanthropy Board Correspondent Already on her way to a pharmaceutical career, senior Ashley Weaver is pursuing a degree in public health with a certificate in health communication while working as a…
GFC-opening

UK Celebrates Opening of Grain and Forage Center of Excellence

-
By Katie Pratt University of Kentucky researchers, Kentucky farmers and stakeholders celebrated the official opening of UK’s Grain and Forage Center of Excellence, a facility committed to moving the state’s and surrounding…
seth-debolt-barrels

UK & Jim Beam Partner to Create the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits

-
By Laura Skillman and Molly Williamson Working in the printing industry, Nancy Savage saw the need for her services steadily decline. More businesses were using online resources, and readers were shifting…
2018 winners

Committee Accepting Nominations for 2019 Terry B. Mobley Philanthropy Awards

-
By Molly Williamson UK Philanthropy is accepting nominations for the 2019 Terry B. Mobley Philanthropy Awards, an annual recognition ceremony for the people who advance the University of Kentucky through their work in…
Lynda-Thomas

Memorial Gift Honors Alumna, Benefits Healthy Kentucky Research Building

-
By Molly Williamson A true outpouring of human support — that is how Sen. Reggie Thomas described the treatment his wife received at the Markey Cancer Center. As she battled uterine cancer, alumna Lynda Morris Thomas was…
girls-walking

UK Raises More Than $200M for 2nd Year in Row

-
By Molly Williamson The University of Kentucky is celebrating a record year — the largest graduating class in history, record retention rates and the highest one-year giving totals. For the second year in a row, UK has raised…
Bruce-Lunsford

Bruce Lunsford Pledges $1M to Establish Scholarship Program

-
By Jenny Wells-Hosley and Lindsey Piercy University of Kentucky alumnus and successful Kentucky businessman Bruce Lunsford has pledged $1 million to establish the W. Bruce Lunsford Scholars Program in Citizenship and Public…
Ed-Shuttleworth

Shuttleworth Uses UK Education to Serve Rural WKY Patients

-
Ed Shuttleworth's story shows the power of a University of Kentucky education. He used his College of Medicine training to practice as a surgeon in rural Western Kentucky, establishing a surgery center to better serve the region…
dealla-samadi

Student Researcher Changes Way Philosopher's Work Is Interpreted

-
By Ann Blackford Little did Dealla Samadi know that something as simple as reading an email about an internship opportunity would transform her life so dramatically.  Samadi had a full schedule as a biology, neuroscience…
sandee-mcaninch

Longtime Library Employee Leaves Legacy of Service, Support

-
By Ann Blackford Sandra McAninch has worked in a library nearly her entire life. She recently retired from the University of Kentucky after nearly 36 years of service, and although McAninch is now enjoying retirement with her…
Dalton-Dowdle

Engineering Student Dreams of Working at NASA

-
By Molly Williamson As a child, Dalton Dowdle was fascinated with space exploration and dreamed of working for NASA. Now, thanks to Meade County Bank, his goal is within reach. In the fall of 2018, Dowdle was one of seven…
breckinridge-scholars

UK LEADS Scholarship Recipients Thank Their Donors

-
By Molly Williamson Seven University of Kentucky students received an unexpected gift around Thanksgiving of last year – a scholarship that reduced or eliminated their debt last semester. On April 9, they were able to thank…
One-Day-students

More Than $1 Million Raised During One Day for UK

-
By Molly Williamson It was a day that exceeded all expectations and showed the generosity of the University of Kentucky community. One Day for UK, the university’s first giving day, raised more than $1 million on…
Samantha-Eversole

Kentucky Can Inspire New Donors: Samantha Eversole

-
Samantha Eversole, a 2018 graduate and current medical school student at Lincoln Memorial University, shows that anyone, any age, any income level can make a difference through Kentucky Can: The 21st Century Campaign. By…
bradley-wilson

Kentucky Can Improve Lives: Bradley Wilson

-
Bradley Wilson, a 2019 chemical engineering graduate, has spoken to alumni, friends, parents and community members on behalf of Kentucky Can: The 21st Century Campaign multiple times. This spring and summer, he traveled to…
One-Day-Feature

One Day for UK Dedicated to 24 Hours of Giving

-
By Molly Williamson and Lindsey Piercy One day. One gift. Enormous impact. Mark your calendars! On April 17, the University of Kentucky will rally alumni, faculty, staff, parents, students and fans to support the campus…
One-Day-feature

One Day, One Goal: Strengthen UK During 24 Hours of Giving

-
By Lindsey Piercy Calling all alumni, faculty, staff, parents, students and fans — make an enormous impact by supporting the campus community through "One Day for UK." During the 24 hour campaign, which is currently underway,…
Destiny-Oakley

Oakley Wants to Empower Young Women

-
By Haley Potter Student Philanthropy Board Correspondent Meet the founding executive director of the Student Philanthropy Board, Destiny Oakley.  After graduating in May with a degree in business management and minors in…
Louisville-regional-event

UK, Louisville Partner for Progress in 'Kentucky Can'

-
By Jay Blanton The state’s largest city has large aspirations for the future: at least 40,000 more residents with bachelor’s degrees in Louisville to fuel sustainable, long-term economic growth. Such goals, says University of…
NKY-regional-event

'Kentucky Can' Campaign Kicks Off in Cincinnati, NKY

-
By Jay Blanton The Roebling Bridge between Northern Kentucky and downtown Cincinnati was under construction in 1865 when the University of Kentucky was opening its doors for the first time. When the Roebling opened, it was the…
KY-Can-graphic

Historic $2.1 Billion Campaign Makes UK More Accessible, Enhances Research and Clinical Care

-
By Jay Blanton, Amy Jones-Timoney, Brad Nally and Kody Kiser The largest fundraising campaign in the history of the Commonwealth will create thousands of scholarships to expand access to education at the University of Kentucky…
Ben Kaufmann

Inaugural One Day for UK Campaign Encourages Giving Back

-
By Ann Blackford  As One Day for UK quickly approaches, many people who wish to support UK's campus community are thinking of ways they can give back to the university that has served so many throughout the…
One Day for UK

Parents of UK Student Show Commitment With One Day for UK Challenge Gift

-
By Gail Hairston  Wednesday, April 17, is One Day for UK. One day ... one gift … one enormous impact at the University of Kentucky! Alumni, friends, parents, faculty, staff and fans are challenging each other to…
Marie-Blevins

Serving in Belize One of Blevin's Many Philanthropic Activities

-
By Haley Potter Student Philanthropy Board Correspondent Public health major Marie Blevins hopes to one day meet Ellen DeGeneres. The talk show host and philanthropist has inspired the University of Kentucky senior through her…
Matthew-Westling

Westling Hopes to Close Health Disparity Gaps

-
By Haley Potter Student Philanthropy Board Correspondent A founding member of the Student Philanthropy Board, Matthew Westling is dedicated to his future in pharmaceuticals and philanthropy.  Working toward a dual…
Penny Robinson

Scholarship Continues Robinson's Legacy of Helping Students

-
By Molly Williamson For nearly 40 years, Penny Robinson inspired University of Kentucky students, exciting them about mathematics, guiding them as an academic counselor and motivating them to achieve more in college. “Penny…
Col. Douglas A. Harper

A Man of Many Words: Alumnus Gives Back to UK Libraries

-
By Ann Blackford Many words come to mind when describing Col. Douglas A. Harper: career serviceman, craftsman, history buff, world traveler, avid reader, genealogist and veteran.  But his legacy at the University of…
fehr

Honoring His Wife's Life, Work with Scholarship

-
By Molly Williamson When senior Anna Villarreal received the Diana M. Fehr Memorial Scholarship, she was at her lowest point.  Throughout college, she struggled. She had difficulty transitioning to UK until she learned…
McCullers

Giving Back Has Become A Habit

-
By Molly Williamson Margot McCullers knows the power of suggestion. As she was reading her alumnae magazine for Mount Holyoke College, she saw that one of her classmates had recently created an endowment.  That story…
metzlers

Divided in Basketball, United in Love of Education

-
By Molly Williamson It is a house divided. Dr. Drayton Logan-Metzler supports the University of Kentucky. She graduated from UK in 1977 with a nursing degree, and her extended family has always cheered for the Wildcats. Her…
Genesis-Perello

Spreading A Love of Chemistry to the Next Generation

-
By Ann Blackford Chemist Wilbur L. Price was happiest when he was working in the lab. “He often said, ‘Human behavior is unpredictable, but you always knew what went into a test tube and you could change what came out,’” said…
corleys

Family Memorializes Alumna with Scholarship

-
By Molly Williamson She was one of those people who could light up a room. Alumna Shannon Corley had passion for everything she did. Whether it was playing basketball in high school through three different surgeries or…
Alan-Cabrera

A Welcome Surprise: Anonymous Gift Helps Harrison County Students

-
By Molly Williamson Every morning, Alan Cabrera starts his day around 7 a.m. The child of newly divorced parents, Cabrera wants to help his mother as much as possible, which includes dropping his three siblings off at Harrison…
Gary-Moore

Alumnus Makes Butler County Students' Dreams Possible

-
By Molly Williamson Like many Wildcats, Gary Moore always dreamed of attending the University of Kentucky. He grew up a fan of the basketball team, hiding his radio under his pillow so he could listen to late-night games. He…
Ball gift

$10 Million UK LEADS Gift Will Increase Access in Henderson, Nelson Counties

-
By Jay Blanton, Amy Jones-Timoney, and Kody Kiser Mira and Don Ball have spent a lifetime building one of the country’s most successful homebuilding businesses. They also have spent a lifetime giving back in ways that…
Michael Graehler

Senior Michael Graehler Making An Impact in Nepal with His Nonprofit 

-
By Sydney Sparks  Student Philanthropy Board Correspondent As a founding member of the University of Kentucky Student Philanthropy Board, senior Michael Graehler has helped set the tone for philanthropy around campus and…
Kendall-Hitch

Senior Kendall Hitch Making Impact on Global Education

-
By Sydney Sparks Student Philanthropy Board Correspondent As one of the founding members of the Student Philanthropy Board at UK, senior Kendall Hitch hopes students realize that they don't have to wait until after they…
katie-Sterling-feature

'I learned more, not only about myself, but about the world than I could have imagined'

-
By Molly Williamson As a first generation college student, Katie Sterling was unsettled. She did not know what to expect when she went to college nor did she know how she would afford her tuition. But, the Independence,…
Nana-Ntodi

Hearst Scholar Spreads Mentoring Message Throughout Ghana

-
By Molly Williamson When she was 11 years old, Hearst Scholar Nana Ntodi received an amazing opportunity. She and her family, who lived in Ghana, won the visa lottery and were able to move to the United States. “There was no…
buddies

Brack Duncan Wants to Change Lives Through His Nonprofit

-
By Sydney Sparks  Student Philanthropy Board Correspondent "For me growing up, my parents always stressed the importance of giving back," said Brack Duncan, a University of Kentucky senior majoring in social studies in…
Student-wellness-ambassadors

UK Student Wellness Ambassadors Work to Strengthen Students' Minds, Bodies and Spirits

-
By Ryan Girves For more than 15 years, Brown-Forman Corp. has supported the wellness of University of Kentucky students, funding alcohol awareness initiatives and holistic wellness programs that teach students how to live…
Jevincio Tooson

'I couldn't have done this without you'

-
By Molly Williamson After visiting the University of Kentucky’s Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition website, Jevincio Tooson was moved. He saw how happy the featured students looked and how they were changing the world…
Kenneth Blair and Beverly Tharp

Alumna honors father with scholarship

-
By Molly Williamson Leaving the only home he had ever known was difficult for Kenneth Blair. He grew up in Letcher County in Eastern Kentucky, where he met his wife, raised his family and worked as an electrician in the coal…
Irving D. Rodriguez

Scholarship inspires student to give back

-
This story shows the impact scholarships have on University of Kentucky students. Ensuring students' success is one of the top priorities for the university's new $2.1 billion comprehensive campaign, Kentucky Can: The 21st…
Dr. Teresa M. Waters

Endowment allows chair to focus on research

-
This story shows how increased endowment funds strengthen the University of Kentucky and empower faculty and staff to research and make discoveries that impact people throughout Kentucky and the world. Growing UK's endowment is…
Alexis Amorese Sheffield

Alumna's love of horticulture bloomed at UK

-
By Molly Williamson When she began working at a lawn and garden store, Alexis Amorese Sheffield ’13, ’16 simply wanted to make a little money. What bloomed was a love of horticulture.  It led her to the University of…
oliver-white

Three Decades after Playing Career, Oliver White Returns to Earn Degree

-
This article shows how the University of Kentucky cares for the total student-athlete, providing them the support and resources to be successful in competition and in life. Strengthening support of UK's student-athletes and…
Center-for-Health-Disparities

New Center Addresses Health Disparities

-
This article shows the importance of groundbreaking research at the University of Kentucky, one of the main initiatives of the university's $2.1 billion comprehensive campaign, Kentucky Can: The 21st Century Campaign…
hand-surgery

Healthcare Collaboration Saves Woman's Wrist

-
This story shows the power of advanced medical care has on the Commonwealth and world. UK HealthCare is nationally ranked for its innovation and care. Continuing to support and advance UK HealthCare's work is a priority for the…
Jordan Nicoulin

Clearing pathways

-
By Molly Williamson As he sells coffee, shakes and fries, junior Jordan Nicoulin cannot help but run through his finances in his head. Working two nights a week at Sonic Drive-In and every Saturday at a coffee shop will…
Students

Every Dollar Counts: Scholarships Increase Access, Boost Retention

-
By Molly Williamson Before she applied for college, sophomore Kate Harding took the ACT and SAT five times. She knew that having impeccable grades and high standardized test scores were the only way she could afford college. A…
Bill Gatton

A UK Hero for Generations to Come

-
By Jay Blanton, Amy Jones-Timoney and Kody Kiser It was never a question where Bill Gatton would go to college. His fate was sealed before he was born. “It was expected that I would attend the University of Kentucky,” the…