2025-2026 STUDENT HANDBOOK
ABOUT GAINES
Founded in 1984 by a generous giftfrom John and Joan Gaines, the Gaines Centerforthe Humanities serves as a hub for innovative humanities inquiry and collaboration atthe University of Kentucky. We foster in our students a broad appreciation ofthe humanities by embracing varied paths of knowledge and integrating experiential learning with traditional academic instruction. We workto promote the humanities across campus and the surrounding community by building cross-disciplinary partnerships and leading public programming.
Located in three historic buildings between the University of Kentucky and downtown Lexington, the Center is also designed to provide a link, intellectual as well as geographic, between the campus and town communities. The center sponsors an array of public events — seminars, workshops, and creative events — that bring the rich and varied resources ofthe Lexington community and the University of Kentucky. The Gaines Center also sponsors a celebrated undergraduate fellowship program complete with an intensive team-taught seminar course focused on a rotating theme in the humanities and a rigorous thesis projectto be carried out underthe direction ofthe center and a chosen faculty committee.
S T A F F
Michelle Sizemore, Ph.D., Director Office: Bingham Davis 202; email: michelle.sizemore@uky.edu
Chelsea Brislin, Ph.D., Associate Director Office: Bingham Davis 201; email: clbris4@uky.edu
Catherine Brereton, MFA, Program Coordinator Office: Bingham Davis 203; email: catherine.brereton@uky.edu
CURRENT FELLOWS
2024 - 2026
Angoma, Botshelo Botshelo.Angoma@uky.edu
Arenas Florez, Maria mnar227@uky edu
2025 - 2027
Sidney Acree smac224@uky.edu
Priscilla Agzobo Priscilla Agbozo@uky edu
Carey, Maria Maria Carey@uky edu Coady, Hunter Hunter Coady@uky edu
Dotson, Caleb Caleb.Dotson@uky.edu Franklin, Carter cbfr228@uky.edu
Ferriell, Danielle danielle ferriell@uky edu
Frizzo Pereira, Eduarda eduardafrizzo@uky edu
Hardin, Beaux beaux hardin@uky edu Hopkins, AJ AJ Hopkins@uky edu
Myers, Chase Chase.Myers@uky.edu
Mitchem, Matthew Matthew.Mitchem@uky.edu
Sammons, Faith faith sammons@uky edu Owen, Riley Riley Owen@uky edu
Shacklette, Kauner Kauner shacklette@uky edu Patel, Prisha Prisha Patel@uky edu
Snow, Amica Amica.Snow@uky.edu Rhein, Cecilia Cecilia.Rhein21@uky.edu
Vazsonyi, Marc mvazsonyi@uky edu Scharkley, Vay Vay Scharkley@uky edu
Williams, Natalie natalie williams@uky edu Wright, Sanai Sanai Wright@uky edu
FACILITIES
B I N G H A M D A V I S H O U S E
Located at 218 East Maxwell Street, the Bingham Davis House is Gaines Center headquarters. The upper level holds the administrative offices, and the lower level holds the main conference room used for Gaines seminar courses. Additionally, the space is often reserved by campus and community partners for classes, meetings, events, and other activities. The Bingham Davis House is also home to the Fellows lounge, a space accessible onlyto Gaines Fellows.
Gaines Fellows are encouraged to use the Bingham Davis House facilities. The building is unlocked from 7:30am until 6:30pm, Monday - Friday (summer and winter break hours mayvary). Outside of these hours access to the house is via swipe access; simply swipe your UKID card at eitherthe front or back doorto gain access.
The Bingham Davis House is equipped with security cameras in the front and back hallways of Bingham Davis House. Dr. Brislin and Catherine can viewthese cameras at anytime. Camera recordings are retained for 24 hours.
Bingham Davis is one ofthe few remaining buildings on campus with windows that open. However, please rememberto close anywindows you open when you leave. It’s a massive security riskto leave windows open—especiallythose on the ground floor.
The Fellows’ Lounge is located on the ground floor; the door is underneath the front staircase. The passcode for entryto this lounge is 3179#. Please make sure the door is closed and the blinds pulled down when you leave. Ifyou notice any problems with the technology, please let Catherine know. Please make sure anywaste orwrappers make it into the trash cans. Please do not leave food waste in here. Make sure anyfood waste goes into the appropriate trash can in the kitchen. Ifyou’re using the lounge during the day, please close the door and be mindful of noise levels since it’s quite possible thatthere’ll be a class or meeting in the seminar room.
The Conference Room is also located on the ground floor. This space is consistently used for classes and meetings. This room is also first choice forthesis defenses. You’re more than welcome to work here if it’s empty—but if a class or group comes along with reservations, you’ll need to relocate.
C O M M O N W E A L T H H O U S E
Located at 226 East Maxwell Street, the Commonwealth House is used for class meetings, receptions, and other events by Gaines and campus and community partners. There is an outdoor classroom and event space, “The Commonwealth Commons,” on the back patio. An exhibit space will open in Fall 2025. You can gain access at anytime with your UKID card. The rightwing ofthe second floor is used by campus instructors and Gaines Cooperative members as classrooms, meeting space, and work space.
Gaines Fellows are encouraged to use the firstfloor as an individual study space, a group workspace, and a place to hang out between classes and after hours and on weekends.
R A Y M O N D B E T T S H O U S E
Located at 232 East Maxwell Street, the Raymond Betts House is the former home ofthe Gaines administrative offices and the KentuckyWomen Writer’s Conference.
Since 2018, the Betts house has been undergoing maintenance and is currently unavailable for use.
FELLOWSHIP
The Gaines Fellowship in the Humanities is a one-of-a-kind, two-year program designed to enrich undergraduates' study atthe University of Kentucky. Promoting an expansive liberal arts education, Gaines’ curriculum and co-curricular experiences nurture well-rounded intellectual and personal growth. Gaines offers a small, tight-knit community of learning and belonging on a large campus of 36,000. Fellows form close relationships with their cohort of peers, and they receive holistic support, individualized attention, and investment in their academic and personal success from the program’s faculty and administrators. Fellows find it meaningful to take part in a lively intellectual culture—one that productively challenges them, encourages them to explore, and helps them grow academically, professionally, and personally.
The humanities are the study of human creativity and creation and encompass an array of subjects: literature, languages, linguistics, history, philosophy, cultural studies, design, architecture, art history visual studies dance theatre music and much more The humanities also involve
J U N I O R Y E A R
Fall Semester
Enroll in HMN 301
Begin thinking aboutyourthesis topic and begin to identify a suitable committee chair and additional committee members
Begin planning community engagement project (your HMN 301 enrichment instructorwill share more information)
Spring Semester
Enroll in HMN 302
Create thesis committee—secure chair and two additional committee members; send them agreementform for signature * Prospectus due*
HMN 301 & 302
All 12 Junior Gaines Fellows are required to actively participate in the Gaines Seminar courses: HMN 301 and HMN 302, each worth four credit hours respectively. The course takes place both semesters ofthe student’s junioryear. It is comprised oftwo interrelated parts: 1.) interdisciplinary humanities coursework and 2.) an enrichment hour providing guidance on the primary cocurricular in Gaines, the Community Engagement Project; thesis topics and prospectuses; and other academic and professional opportunities.
This unique course is one ofthe many highlights of Fellows’ experience in the program. It’s the space where students engage in rigorous and lively conversations and coalesce as a cohort around deep and sustained inquiry into searching questions about human life.
Meeting Pattern
The seminar meets everyTuesday and Thursdayfrom 4:30-6:00 pm in the Bingham Davis House, unless otherwise stated. The seminar enrichment hour, led bythe Associate Director, takes place everyThursdayfrom 3:30-4:30pm.
Lewis Honors
Ifthe student is a member ofthe Lewis Honors College, HMN 301 and HMN 302 may be counted towards the student’s upper-level Honors requirements. Degree audit exceptions may be entered bythe student’s Honors advisor in the Lewis College. Syllabi are available upon request.
Theme
Each year, the Gaines Center administrators select a theme forthe Center’s participants to investigate throughout its programming. The Junior seminar’s coursework and co-curricular activities are modeled afterthattheme. Pastthemes include Citizenship, The Contemporary South, Movement/s, Monsters & Myths, and Health and the Humanities. This year’s theme is Origins— for a description, please see the HMN 301& 302 syllabus on Canvas.
UK Faculty
The seminar is team-taughtwith sequential faculty units each composed offourweeks. Different facultyteach for Gaines each year, bringing their expertise in a variety of disciplines across campus.
Readings, Assignments, Grading
Each faculty memberwill require readings, othertypes of class preparation, and graded assignments fortheir unit. The grades for each unitwill be averaged together and counttoward the final grade in HMN 301 and HMN 302. Enrichment hour assignments, including the Community Engagement Project and thesis prospectuses, comprise the remaining components ofyour HMN 301 and HMN 302 grades.
THE ENRICHMENT HOUR: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
This 1-credit hour supplementto the Gaines seminar prepares you forthe community engagement project as well as yourthesis work. The Gaines Center juniors are expected to complete an immersive community engagement project as a part ofthe Gaines Fellows Program. The Community Engagement Project is the centerpiece of junioryear. This projecttakes place across both semesters ofthe junioryear and is supervised bythe Gaines CenterAssociate Director.
This high-impact experience aims to foster a greater sense of social and civic responsibility and to create a deeper understanding ofthe surrounding communities in which the university exists. Through this hands-on collaborative project, students learn howthe study ofthe humanities equips us to understand, navigate, and respond to real-world challenges — from cultural conflict to ethical dilemmas to social innovation. Finally, students gain valuable transferrable skills such as working on a team to problem-solve and achieve a common goal, communicating with colleagues and community members, creating a budget, allocating time, and delegating roles all while being trained on best practices for community partnerships.
THE ENRICHMENT HOUR: THESIS PREPARATION
Fall Semester
During the first semester ofthe Gaines curriculum, students begin brainstorming ideas fortheir thesis projects. They are given the following guidelines:
The thesis should be roughly 50 pages in length, based on careful research.
Ifthe Fellow is carrying out a creative thesis, the hours invested must be equal to the university standards for six credit hours (one credit= 800 minutes ofworktherefore six credits = 4,800 minutes, or 80 hours).
The thesis must demonstrate command ofthe material and appreciation of scholarship in the related field(s) and must be clearlywritten.
The thesis must engage with the humanities in a clearway.
Spring Semester
Once students have narrowed down a topic fortheirtheses, they must begin assembling a committee ofthree scholars relevantto their research. The first ofthese will serve as the chair ofthe committee. The othertwo members will provide guidance to the student and the chair. Each committee member is responsible for signing an agreementform viewable HERE. The prospectus must be five pages double-spaced and should include the following: a summary ofthe topic and its relevance (the "what" and the "why"), the methodology (the "how,”), potential barriers to be aware of (is there very little written aboutthis? can you can access to the necessary materials? etc.), and a preliminary bibliography offive-six sources. Bythe end ofthe spring semester, students should have assembled a full committee and completed theirthesis prospectuses. Further, they should have their prospectuses formally approved bytheir committee and the Associate Director, along with a plan forwhattheywant to accomplish towards theirthesis projects overthe summer months.
Summer
Overthe summer, students should complete the primary and secondary research and begin drafting portions oftheirthesis. To help keep students on pace with thesis work, a “Summer Assignment” is due during the firstweek of classes.
JUNIOR YEAR REQUIREMENTS
The Gaines Junior Fellowship in the amount of $2,000 is awarded for a term of one year, renewal in the second year contingent upon completion ofJunior Fellowship requirements. A stipend of $1000 per semester in the junioryear is paid in August and January upon enrollment in HMN courses and satisfaction of requirements.
Enroll in the Gaines Seminar on the Humanities (HMN 301 and HMN 302) for4 credit hours each semester. The fourth hourwill consist of a work and discussion period to prepare for a community engagement project and seniorthesis.
Conclude all responsibilities for community engagement project
Complete the Gaines seminars with a grade of B or better
Assemble thesis committee
Submit and receive approval ofthesis prospectus
Maintain a 3.0 GPA during the period ofthe Fellowship.
Attend and actively participate in all required co-curriculars (e.g., the Bale-Boone Symposium, the Breathitt Lecture, etc.) More information on co-curriculars below.
Respectthe Center's attendance policies, protocols, deadlines, and facilities.
S E N I O R Y E A R
SENIOR YEAR AT-A-GLANCE
Fall Semester
Enroll in HMN 497
Summer thesis assignment due by August 27, 2025
Ensure thesis committee members have signed thesis agreement forms (it is your responsibility to follow-up with any committee member who has not signed their form). Catherine can check agreement form status, if necessary.
Thesis Draft 1 due by September 30, 2025
Thesis Draft 2 due by October 22, 2025
Thesis Draft 3 d e b December 17 2025
S E N I O R Y E A R C O N T.
HMN 497
All 12 Senior Gaines Fellows are required to take part in HMN 497 across the fall and spring semesters for a total of six credit hours. The goal of HMN 497 is to support Fellows in writing their seniorthesis and in presenting and discussing theirthesis research atthe thesis defense.
Fall Semester
A meeting pattern is established with all the seniors to facilitate thesis progress.
The Gaines Center meets early in the fall semestervia Zoom with all members ofthe students’ committees to go over expectations ofthis service.
Students provide 3 drafts to the Directorthroughoutthe fall illustrating their progress towards the thesis.
70% ofthe midterm and final grade for HMN 497will be determined bythe drafts, class participation, and other assignments.
30% ofthe midterm and final grade for HMN 497will be determined bythe chair ofyour committee, often in consultation with the full committee. The rubric below outlines what will be sentto them as a guideline for assigning a grade:
Grading Rubric
A
Student is in good communication Student is meeting all assignment deadlines according to the agreed-upon schedule. Work shows appropriate rigor and thoughtfulness on the topic.
B Student is in good communication. Student is meeting most assigned deadlines according to the agreed-upon schedule. Work may not be as developed as it needs to be at the current stage
C
D
Student communication may be unreliable or sporadic on occasion Student may be meeting some but not all deadlines according to the agreed-upon schedule. Work may not be as developed as it needs to be at the current stage.
Student communication is sparse Student is not meeting most deadlines according to the agreed-upon schedule Work is not as developed as it needs to be at the current stage
E Student is not in communication Student is not meeting deadlines according to the agreed-upon schedule Work is undeveloped
Spring Semester
A meeting pattern is established with all the seniors to facilitate thesis progress.
Students provide 3 drafts to the Directorthroughoutthe spring illustrating their progress towards the thesis. This includes a defendable draft due atthe beginning of March.
70% ofthe midterm and final grade for HMN 497will be determined bythe drafts, class participation, and other assignments.
30% ofthe midterm and final grade for HMN 497will be determined bythe chair ofyour committee, often in consultation with the full committee. The rubric above outlines whatwill be sentto them as a guideline for assigning a grade.
Each student must schedule their defense by February1st.
Each student must registerforthe Undergraduate Research Showcase by March 15th
Defenses take place in April, allowing time to re-defend if necessary. Each committee member is expected to be present.
Students should plan to circulate theirthesis to committee members at leasttwo weeks priorto the defense.
Defense Sequence and Outcomes:
Welcome bythe Gaines Director
Presentation – 20-30 minutes
Student and guests leave the room. Committee discusses presentation and questions for Q&A. Q&A Portion –40-60 minutes
Student and guests leave the room. Committee determines one ofthe following outcomes:
Pass without revisions (less common)
Pass with revisions (most common)
Fail (rare)
Re-defense, time permitting substantial revisions OR C, D, or E without a second defense. Deadline for revisions decided bythe committee.
Important Notes
The final draft ofthe revised thesis, with committee approval, is due to the Gaines Center bythe Friday of Finals Week.
Students presentthesis research atthe Undergraduate Showcase
Following the submission of all students’ final drafts, the Gaines Center sends theses to the UK Libraryto be added to UKnowledge and the Gaines archive.
It is primarilythe responsibility ofthe studentto make sure each committee member is up to date on the thesis progression and has ample opportunityto share feedback/concerns. If a committee member is no longer able to serve, the Gaines Center can assistthe student in finding alternative faculty members.
THESIS MENTORING GUIDELINES
Success forthe thesis requires close collaboration among faculty and students with shared areas of interest. While the advisor-advisee relationship is central forthe success of our students, it is importantto recognize that people have different relationship styles and thatthere are different models forwhatthis professional relationship can look like. It is equally, if not more important, for students to have as much clarity as possible regarding their committee’s expectations throughout the Gaines Fellows Program. We take thesis mentoring seriously and have thus modeled these guidelines on those written for UK’s English PhD program.
To help ensure success, we suggest students discuss the following points with their advisor atthe beginning oftheir relationship:
The thesis timeline and the timing of committee formation and other deadlines
For all students, no mattertheir path, securing a primary advisor should occur ideally no later than the end oftheir junioryear.
The advisor’s preferred communication method and frequency
Does the advisorwantto meetto discuss drafts? Does the advisor preferto send marked up drafts via email? Or some combination?
The expected supervisory model or style
Drafting is much ofwhat students do in preparing for a thesis. How many drafts will depend on both the advisor and the process bywhich the studentworks. See below aboutthe role that ancillary committee members are expected to take in the drafting process.
Students might consider asking:
How quickly can you expectyour advisorto respond to written submissions turned in on time?
Two-three weeks might be an average turnaround during a busy semester, but it’s good to learn from your advisorwhen you can expectfeedbackforyour planning purposes.
How quickly can you expectyour advisorto respond to requests for meetings or conversations?
Email is likelythe bestwayto touch base with a professorto schedule an in-depth meeting, but sometimes emails fall from the top ofthe inbox (faculty, like students, get a lot ofthem!). Ifyou don’t hear backfrom your advisorwithin a week, feel free to send out a gentle reminder. It is rarelythe case that an advisor is being simply lax or derelict. Probably, that advisor is swamped with service, teaching, research, and other responsibilities.
How regularly does your advisor like to meet?
Meeting with your advisor should occur at leasttwice a semester orwith whateverfrequency they deem appropriate.
Students might consider asking (cont.)
How often would your advisor like a written update ofyour progress? Whatformat should this update take?
Self-assessment can be a wonderful tool for measuring progress and outlining aims and accomplishments; a semesterly or monthly reflection on one’s work can be very salutary. It is important, however, notto letthese reflections or summaries take the place ofthe more substantive measures of progress toward the thesis.
What role does your advisor expect 2nd and 3rd committee members to take in the advising the thesis?
In some cases, advisors like close oversight ofthe studentwith committee members in the background; in other cases, advisors like the committee members to be reading drafts throughout every stage ofthe writing process. There is a range of options, and it is bestforthe student and advisorto figure out preciselywhatthe expectations are.
Advisees should:
Initiate regular communication with the advisor. Such communication should involve progress updates; important dates and deadlines; and periodic requests for meetings to discuss your questions, plans, and challenges with the project.
Workwith the advisorto create an agreed upon timeline for reaching program milestones and maintaining timely progress toward the thesis. In most cases thattimeline will correspond to the various templates provided in the enrichment hour and HMN 497. But it is importantforthe advisor and the advisee to be on the same page, whatever shape that might be.
Complywith the standards of professionalism outlined in the Gaines Student Handbook.
Advisors Should:
Maintain regular communication with advisees. Along with the student, keep the other committee members informed. Be mindful ofthesis deadlines.
Help determine midterm and final grades for HMN 497 and sign off on the required student progress reports.
SENIOR YEAR REQUIREMENTS
The Gaines Senior Fellowship in the amount of $3,000 is awarded for a term of one year, contingent upon completion ofJunior Fellowship requirements. A stipend of $1500 per semester in the junior year is paid in August and January upon enrollment in HMN courses and satisfaction of requirements. Enroll in HMN 497
Complete all required drafts and assignments for HMN 497
Complete and successfully defend thesis no laterthan April
Failure to complete the thesis bythe end ofthe senioryearwill necessitate reimbursement ofthe senioryear, first semester stipend before an official transcriptwill be issued bythe University, unless an exemption is granted bythe Director.
Maintain a 3.0 GPA during the period ofthe Fellowship.
Attend and actively participate in all required co-curriculars (e.g., the Bale-Boone Symposium, the Breathitt Lecture, etc.) More information on co-curriculars below.
Respectthe Center's attendance policies, protocols, deadlines, and facilities.
C O- C U R R I C U L U M
Co-curriculars are a critical component ofthe Gaines Fellows Program. Some activities enhance the classroom learning ofthe seminar, providing deeper understanding and practical application of concepts. Other activities call on you to serve as humanities ambassadors to the campus and wider community. Some are purely social. All are designed to build community within and across cohorts.
FALL SEMESTER
ShakerVillage Retreat
ShakerVillage is our annual welcome/welcome back and orientation/reorientation event. This overnight excursion offers plenty oftime to getto know each other and to learn more about Gaines and being a Gaines Fellows.
The Bale Boone Symposium
The Joy Bale and George Street Boone Symposium is an annual humanities event spotlighting distinguished artists and public intellectuals since 1998. Fellows gain backstage experience producing a major arts & culture event, take part in a small group discussion with the special guest beforehand, serve as public-facing hosts and humanities ambassadors, and getVIPseats forthe show.
40th AnniversaryAlumni Reunion
Everyyear, there are typically1-2 bonus co-curriculars, such as an alumni speaker or a visitto an art museum. This year, Gaines turns forty and we’re hosting a big reunion! This will be a good chance to learn aboutthe history ofthe institution and its people and to connectwith alums who have done amazing things in their careers. We require your attendance atthe opening event (the Bale Boone Symposium, above) and the closing dinner (a throwbackto the Feast, a beloved tradition for many generations of Fellows). We encourage you to attend as many ofthe other events as your schedule allows—we have a sign-up sheetforvolunteers.
Winter Celebration
The Winter Celebration provides a much-needed break atthe end ofthe semester and a chance to socialize with yourfellow Fellows before break. Casual dinner served at an off-campus location with a fun group activity.
SPRING SEMESTER
The Breathitt Lecture
Established to honor Edward T. Breathitt, an eminent Kentuckian, Governor of Kentucky (1963-67), and UK alum with an exceptional passion for higher education and the humanities, this lectureship is awarded to an undergraduate for outstanding research in the humanities. Awarded by a subcommittee consisting of Gaines administrators and Gaines faculty of record. The Breathitt Lectureship recipient receives a special award and an honorarium of $500. All students atthe university are eligible, and we encourage Fellows to apply. Fellows are expected to attend the lecture to learn aboutthe distinguished scholarship and presentation of an undergraduate peer.
The Lafayette Seminar
Gaines’ annual Lafayette Seminar offers an opportunityfor Lexington community members, elected officials, and faculty and students to discuss such issues as the local economy, town and gown relationships, and the creation of successful public spaces. Fellows learn about pressing local, national, and global issues and serve as public-facing hosts and humanities ambassadors in different roles with the event.
The NewYorkArt Experience (Senior Fellows)
The NewYorkArt Experience provides airfare, hotel and admissions costforthe senior Gaines Fellows to travel to a citywithin the continental United States forthe purpose ofvisiting art museums and other special art exhibits chosen atthe discretion ofthe Director ofthe Gaines Center. Since its inception, Fellows have been traveling to NewYork Cityto viewthe Whitney, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Metropolitan Museum ofArt. Travel typicallytakes place during “prep week,” orthe week before finals on the spring academic calendar. This experience is made possible thanks to an initial endowment byJim Gray, local art patron, Secretary ofTransportation of Kentucky, and former mayor of Lexington.
The Scarf Ceremony
This annual end-of-year celebration takes place during finals week. The relaxed outdoor celebration brings together Fellows, faculty, administrators, and board members over a casual catered meal on the lawn. This occasion is also the only meeting ofthe three cohorts — juniors, seniors, and the incoming class. It is an opportunityto reflect on the year’s accomplishments and recognize the twelve seniors in the Scarf Ceremony, where they receive signature scarves in distinction as Gaines graduates.
COMMUNITY
It is importantto us to cultivate an engaging, productive, and supportive learning environmentfor all students in the Gaines Fellows Program. We rely on the Fellows to co-create this environment by living up to community standards for behavior, participation, and community building. The Gaines Fellows Program combines academic, professional, and social interactions, and, with this in mind, we have outlined our expectations for conduct and disposition in the many settings Gaines will take you.
PARTICIPATION
The Gaines Fellows Program is highly interactive. You will be working with faculty, peers, and community members in interdisciplinary classes, a community engagement project, an intensive thesis project, co-curricular events, and other activities. While the Gaines Fellows Program will provide time and space for relaxation, entertainment, and activities with your peers, you are expected to attend and actively participate in all required Gaines classes and co-curricular activities. Please rememberthe Gaines Fellows Acceptance Agreement, in which Gaines requirements are expected to take priority over other obligations.
COMMUNITY-BUILDING
Each of us has a key role to play in building a dynamic and supportive community of learning and belonging. We wantyou to be able to bring yourfull selves into this community and to create the conditions for others to do the same. We can fosterthis environmenttogether by not defining others or making hasty judgments but by giving others a fair chance and trying to understand where they’re coming from. Be curious, not judgmental. We all bring different personalities, experiences, ideologies, and values to the classroom and other spaces. Sometimes we hit it off and sometimes we do not. Regardless of our differences, we expect all students in the Gaines Fellows Program to practice thoughtful interpersonal communication, i.e. respecting others, thinking before we speak or respond, actively listening, and practicing empathy bytrying to imagine what someone else might be thinking orfeeling. Assume a positive intent unless proven otherwise. These are skills thatwill take you far in your personal and professional development.
Being part of a tiny cohort oftwelve is special. You’ll make lifelong friendships and colleagues in Gaines. While we don’t expect everyone to be bestfriends—it’s only natural that some ofyou will be closerthan others—we do expect everyone to be best colleagues. Be intentional aboutwelcoming and including everyone. Show an interest in talking to people outside your immediate circle. The academic and social camaraderie you share during this time together is an enduring feature of Gaines and inherentto the title of “Fellow.”
RECEPTIVITYAND INTEREST
Through Gaines, you’ll be exposed to a world of new ideas and experiences. We askthatyou approach them with openness, intellectual curiosity, and a willingness to explore. “What can I learn from this experience?” is the first response we encourage with each new encounter in Gaines. It is from a receptive disposition thatwe continue to grow, no matter how much knowledge or experience we may already possess. Move through Gaines with a desire to learn about all the topics, phenomena, and people that come yourway.
RECIPROCITY
Finally, we abide by a philosophy of reciprocity in Gaines. This means first recognizing the privileges ofthe Gaines Fellowship, along with the investmentthat board members, campus administrators, faculty, alums, and other supporters have made in you, the Fellows. Then wanting to give back. Occasionally, we’ll askyou to perform a service on behalf ofthe Gaines Fellows Program, whether volunteering to meetwith prospective students, tabling, doing PR, or having lunch with a donor. These small services are essential to advancing the program into the future. Being a good citizen of the Gaines community involves donating time in return forthe opportunities received.
POLICIES ABSENCES
As a member ofthe Gaines Fellows Program, you will be participating in co-curricular activities throughoutthe academic year. Forthe 2025-2026 Academic Year, there are 8 co-curricular requirements: 5 in the Fall Semester (including the ShakerVillage Orientation and Retreat) and 3 in the Spring Semester. Your active participation in the co-curriculars is essential foryour own success as a Gaines Fellow as well as forthe success ofthis Gaines Fellows Program. We therefore expectyou to take part in every requirement. We do understand, however, that conflicts will arise on occasion. We therefore allowfor one Tier1 orTier 2 absence. Belowyou will find information on these categories. We askthatyou let us know aboutyour conflict a minimum oftwo weeks in advance whenever possible.
Tier1:
Tier1 absences correspond to university excused absences and include instances such as the significant illness ofthe student; a regularly scheduled credit-bearing class meeting or an exam stated in the syllabus that cannot be rescheduled; major religious holidays; interviews forfull-time job opportunities after graduation and interviews for graduate or professional school; and other circumstances. Please familiarize yourselfwith the university policy on excused absences.
Tier 2:
Tier 2 absences referto absences resulting from the prioritization of other academic and professional obligations or needs. Examples include co-curricular* requirements in other programs; conferences and internships; other academic, leadership, and professionalization opportunities; optional class review sessions; rehearsals and auditions; trips sponsored by another educational unit; trips for a university class, etc. *A co-curricular activity is an activity linked to a credit-bearing course or a university program thattakes place outside of scheduled class time but enhances the curriculum.
Tier 3:
Tier 3 absences encompass extracurricular* activities and conflicts that could have been prevented with better planning ortime management. The former includes events sponsored by student organizations and the latter includes preparing for coursework, studying for exams, being scheduled to work, attending an information session, and so on. This category of absence does not qualify as excused. *An extracurricular activity is a voluntary activity, notfor academic credit, that students engage in outside of regular coursework. These activities can range from clubs and intramural sports to volunteering, hobbies, and personal projects.
PROFESSIONALISM
We expect all Gaines Fellows to actwith professionalism when interacting with peers, faculty, administrators, guests, and community members. Professional conductforthe Gaines Fellows Program includes but is not limited to the following:
Forms ofAddress.
Address faculty and administrators bytheir professional titles (Dr., Professor, etc.) unless invited otherwise.
Email Etiquette.
Communicate with faculty, administrators, peers, and others in a timely manner. We will always do our bestto respond to your emails within 48 hours and we expectthe same courtesy. If an email is urgent, we will note that it requires a quickerturnaround. Correspondence should followthe appropriate form for academic email. Forfurther information, please see Purdue Owl’s email guidelines.
Punctuality. Be on time for meetings and appointments.
Advance Notice.
We are always happyto assistwith your academic and professional success. To help us do our bestto help you, we need some lead time during the busy semester. Generally, in an academic setting, letters of recommendation should be made a minimum of4weeks in advance. Meeting requests should be made 1-2 weeks in advance; a requestfor review of materials for applications, fellowships, or jobs should be made a minimum of 2 weeks in advance; and most other kinds of requests should be made a minimum of 2 weeks in advance. Of course, there are circumstances in which shorter advance notice is warranted.
Courteous Behavior.
Gaines relies on the goodwill and generosity of supporters inside and outside the university, and it is appropriate to show appreciation to those who donate theirtime, energy, and resources on behalf ofthe Center. Most ofthe time, appreciation is shown by embracing the program’s opportunities with a positive attitude. On occasion, though, we’ll askyou to meet with orwrite a thankyou note to a donor, board member, UK administrator, or guestfortheir contributions to the Gaines Center. Essentially, courteous behavior is about making a conscious effortto be kind, considerate, and respectful of others in your interactions and extends to all the bullet points above.
UK’s Code of Student Conduct and Maintaining Standards
Adhere to the University of Kentucky’s Code of Student Conduct. Beyond decorum, professionalism relates to the standards Fellows bring to theirwork and commitments in the program. This means following through with obligations, honoring commitments, investing in yourwork, taking responsibilityforyour actions, and being accountable to yourself and others.
EXPECTATIONS
To remain in good standing, Fellows must satisfy all program requirements and expectations. Failure to meetthe curricular and co-curricular requirements and/or expectations forthe program will result in a meeting with the Associate Director, the Director, or both. Reasons varyfor being unable to fulfill program obligations. In some cases, it may be competing priorities ortime management. In other cases, there may be extenuating circumstances. We are here to help you workthrough any issues interfering with your participation in the program. In extreme cases, however, failure to meet requirements may result in probation (with pause ofthe stipend) or a forfeiture ofthe Fellowship (with reimbursement ofthe stipend). Students must also adhere to the University of Kentucky’s Code of Student Conduct. Violations ofthe Student Code of Conduct may result in probation or forfeiture ofthe Fellowship.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media are powerful communication tools that have a significant impact on organizational and professional reputations. Because the use of social media may blurthe lines between personal voice and institutional voice, the University of Kentucky has established policies to clarify how bestto enhance and protectthe University, as well as personal and professional reputations, when participating in social media.
Both in professional and institutional roles, students are expected to followthe same behavioral standards online as theywould in the real world. The same laws, professional expectations, and guidelines for interacting with faculty, students, parents, patients, alumni, donors, media, and other University constituents apply. Students are accountable for any institutionally related contentthey postto social media sites.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
We aim to make the Gaines as accessible and enjoyable as possible for all students. However, please be aware thatthere is some physical activity required of all students—for instance, walking across campus from one class to another, or participating in interdisciplinary activities orworkshops that askyou to move your body. Ifyou are unable to participate in moderate levels of physical activity, please contact us and UK’s Disability Resource Center as soon as possible to ensure we are able to accommodate your needs. Some classes may require clothing that allows you to freely move in a safe manner. Each Gaines instructorwill reviewtheir requirements during the firstweek of classes.
DRESS CODE
Occasionallythere will be a dress code for a Gaines-sponsored event, and we’ll letyou know in advance. Dress can range from casual to business and formal attire. For example, you will need athletic wear and sneakers forthe Asbury challenge course atthe orientation and dress attire forthe alumni reunion Feast.
You’ll need your Gaines t-shirtfor our signature events—the Bale Boone Symposium and the Lafayette Seminar. We may also askyou to wearyour Gaines t-shirtfor other Gaines-sponsored events.
Otherwise, just relax and wearwhat’s comfortable foryou.
NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
We wantto celebrate your accomplishments, so email us ifyou’re going to a conference or if you’ve had a paper or piece of creative work accepted for publication. Let us know ifyou’re celebrating a life event (only ifyou wantto share, of course). We love to share Gaines Fellows news amongst ourselves and publicly, as appropriate.
SUPPORT
EUROPEAN TRAVEL FUND
This award is given to two rising senior Gaines Fellows to supporttravel to Paris, Chartres, Berlin, Dresden, Frankfurt/Main, and Munich. Students are also encouraged to choose a “city group” from the following options:
Milan, Venice, Florence, Sienna, Rome, Vatican City
London, Salisbury, York, Canterbury Madrid, Toledo, Cordoba, Seville, Granada “City group” as defined bythe Gaines Center Director
The application typically opens afterwinter break and closes atthe end of February. Awarded by a subcommittee consisting of Gaines administrators and Gaines faculty of record. Students are expected to present an overview oftheir experiences no laterthan the end ofthe fall semesterfollowing the program at a lunch or eventwith Mrs. Zolondek and the Gaines Philanthropyteam.
THOMAS GAINES LANCASTER AWARD
A $500 award given to a senior Gaines Fellowwhose “thesis topic falls within the broad area of aesthetics in which Clay Lancasterworked.” Areas offocus include “architecture, architectural history and preservation, Kentucky heritage, artists and artforms, Asian art, Eastern thought, EastWest dialogue, children’s literature, criticism and the fantastical.” Traditionally, Warwick Foundation Member Paul Holbrook makes the decision aboutthis award, which includes access to the Lancaster Estate pending availability.
RESEARCH, INTERNSHIP, AND CONFERENCE SUPPORT
Ifyou are planning research related to yourthesis, applying for an internship, or attending a conference, please talkto us aboutfinancial support as we have some (limited) funds available for this purpose, listed below. Linkto apply here and on Canvas. Please allowfor a minimum oftwo weeks for a decision, to be determined bythe Gaines administrative team.
Ifyou need to purchase books foryourthesis research or items forthe community engagement project, please talkwith us first. We cannot reimburse you for items thatyou have purchased with your own funds. Butwe can often either provide or purchase items on your behalf.
Dan Rowland Scholarship Fund
Funds available for any Gaines Fellowwho needs assistance forthe following: travel, a research trip, research, a paid or unpaid internship, or graduate school visits. The endowment specifies that funds may be used to “gain experience thatwill enrich their lives and open future doors to careers or graduate schools.” Awarded on a rolling basis bythe Gaines administrative team. Special consideration may be given to students with demonstrated financial need.
Gaines Fellowship Research and Travel Fund
This fund is used to support Fellows in travel or experiential learning related to their academic studies and/orthesis research. Awarded on a rolling basis bythe Gaines administrative team. Amounts vary.
John L. Cutler Memorial Fund
This fund is used to support undergraduate students, particularly in the area of literature and library resources. Examples include expanding the Gaines library, ordering books forthe fellows, etc. Awarded on a rolling basis bythe Gaines administrative team.
Raymond Betts Award
Funds available for rising seniors in the Gaines Fellowship Program who need assistance towards the completion oftheirthesis projects. Preference is given fortravel to archives/museums. Awarded on a rolling basis bythe Gaines administrative team.
2025-26 DATES
We’ll circulate more detailed information closerto the time, butfor now, be sure to save these dates on your calendar. Gaines events are co-curricular, which means theytake priority above other campus organizations, groups, and clubs. Your attendance is expected at all Gaines events and required atthose in bold below. Ifyou are struggling with commitments, we urge you to talkwith Dr. Brislin as soon as possible.
DATE/TIME
August 27, Summer Thesis Assignment due Seniors only
August 29, 7:30am –August 30, 11am
September 1
October 1
October 23, 3:30p – 9pm
October 24, 10a – 8pm
October 25, 10:30am – 6pm
November 1
Asbury Challenge Course & Shaker Village Overnight Trip
All Fellows Casual
First thesis update due Seniors only
Second thesis update due Seniors only
Bale Boone Symposium with Ebony Patterson, followed by VIP reception
Gaines Alumni Reunion Events on campus (please attend the events you bl t d t il d iti ill b
Gaines Alumni Reunion Events at Keeneland Racetrack (detailed iti t f ll )
Gaines Fellowship applications open
November 18, 3p Fellowship recruiting/info session (Zoom)
December 11, from 3:30pm Winter Event (Off-Campus Location TBD)
December 1
January 1
All Fellows
All Fellows
All Fellows
Volunteers needed
Gaines T-shirts
Gaines T-shirts (daytime) S t
Smart/Casual
All Fellows Casual
Third thesis update due Seniors only
Zolondek applications open (Europe trip)
January 21, 1p Fellowship recruiting/info session (Zoom)
All fellows
Volunteers needed
February 1
February 2
February 2
Februrary 18, 4p
Scheduling thesis defense due Seniors only
Breathitt Lecture applications open All fellows
Gaines Fellowship applications close
Gaines Lecture for Outstanding Research in the Humanities
February 20, Zolondek applications close (Europe trip)
March 2
All fellows Casual
All fellows
Breathitt Lecture applications close All fellows
March 15, Undergraduate Research Showcase registration due All fellows
April 1
April 9, 6pm
Thesis defenses begin Seniors only
Breathitt Lecture All Fellows Casual
April 16, 3pm Lafayette Seminar All Fellows Casual
April 28, Thesis defenses end Seniors only
OPPORTUNITIES
BINGHAM SEMINAR
The Mary C. Bingham Seminar in the Humanities provides an unusual and intense educational experience for a select group of University of Kentucky students. The Bingham Seminar meets biennially during the spring semester (HMN 300) and includes a travel component carefully designed to expose students to a culture that most ofthem know little about and provide perspectives on their own culture and life plans. The seminar is open to all University of Kentucky students; the faculty instructor and students are chosen every otheryear by open competition. The seminar is held atthe Gaines Center, with the travel-study componenttaking place over spring break or early in the summer. Students receive a $1,000 travel grant.
HMN 303: HUMANITIES IN ACTION (HMN 303)
“Humanities in Action (HMN 303)” is a hands-on, high-impact laboratory course that immerses students in various careers within the humanities, taking them beyond the classroom and into the field. Developed bythe Gaines Centerforthe Humanities atthe University of Kentucky, this teamtaught seminar rotates through three distinct units, all centered on the pressing need fortrained humanists in today’s society. The seminar is open to all University of Kentucky students.
Spring 2026 will see the third iteration of HMN 303 afterthe successful pilot and sequel. HMN 303, Spring 26 will explore the fields of Historic Preservation, Archives, and Arts Emergency Management. Using UK’s Betts House as a case study, students will investigate the structure and its artifacts, learning aboutthe theories, techniques, and careers associated with the preservation of historic structures, books and manuscripts, artwork, and other material objects. The Betts House is one of three buildings designated for Gaines Center use and was evacuated in 2019 due to water damage. The broader goals forthe course are to demonstrate the real-world applications of humanities skills and to showcase that humanities training is indispensable to the social, economic, and civic developments ofthe twenty-first century.
GAINES-SPONSORED EVENTS
Gaines sponsor and co-sponsors numerous campus events throughoutthe yearthrough our faculty mini-grant program and beyond. You’re not required to attend these events, butyou may be interested in doing so nevertheless. For instance, Gaines will be a co-sponsor award-winning writer Kiese Laymon on September9th. The bestwayto learn aboutthese events is on the Gaines website calendar and on our social media.
