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EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY • FALL 2026

EKU EARNS RANKING AS NO. 1 FOR MILITARY FRIENDLY® SCHOOLS

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

HIGHLIGHTS

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

From the first-generation student to the trailblazing career, Eastern Kentucky University shapes the path for every student to achieve their fullest potential. At the Campus Beautiful, in local communities and across the globe, Colonels prove what’s possible with an EKU degree.

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

A LET TER from PRESI DENT DAVI D T. MCFADDI N

REACHING THE PINNACLE While many stories define our Colonel community, one theme permeates: Every Path Made Possible. It’s evident when seeing students gather on campus as they embark on their Eastern experience, when shaking each graduate’s hand on the commencement stage and when witnessing what our alumni accomplish with their EKU degrees. At EKU, we know that no two paths are the same. Some students arrive on campus right after high school, and many are the first in their families to pursue a college education. Others come to EKU later to advance their careers or complete a lifelong goal. No matter when or where the journey begins, EKU helps guide each student to find their own unique path forward. The Fall issue of the EKU Magazine highlights this theme—from Nick Bertram, ’02, a first-generation graduate who’s now leading an international corporation, to Dr. Andrew Napier, ’12, a combat medic who has saved lives as an ER physician and inventor of a medical tool. Here on campus, several other paths are taking shape. In the spring legislative session, EKU received funding to move forward with pursuing accreditation for the proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine. This fall, we were excited to reveal a new look for the Colonel logo that elevates our EKU brand. One path—more than two decades in the making—has reached a pinnacle, and we’re proud to say EKU is No. 1 in the nation for Military Friendly® Schools and Military Friendly® Spouse Schools. The stories throughout this magazine remind us of the many paths our students take and the opportunities EKU creates. As graduates, EKU alumni break barriers, lead with purpose and innovate for the future. One Eastern, David T. McFaddin President, Eastern Kentucky University

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FALL 2026 CONTENTS

EKU Stories

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Meet the Colonel

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Nick Bertram, ’02

Crafting the Path

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T.K. McNeal, ’01

Success By Design

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Dr. Andrew Napier, ’12

Excellence in Action

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Mark Klee, ’90

From EKU to Toyota Leadership

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Advancing Kentucky Together

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EKU Athletics

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Alumni News

32 EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

EKU STORIES EKU Rises to Third Largest Public University in Kentucky As of Fall 2025, EKU is now the third largest public university in Kentucky. EKU’s total enrollment is third to the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville, and ahead of all the state’s regional public universities. EKU credits its climb to efforts in affordability, access, student success and academic excellence.

Another RecordBreaking Giving Day

$2M Investment Strengthens Construction Management Gray, a nationally recognized construction and engineering firm, invested $2 million in EKU’s Construction Management program. The gift establishes an endowed professorship for construction management, allowing EKU to recruit and hire a new faculty member and ensure the role remains in place in perpetuity—supporting generations of students. Gray employs nearly 150 EKU alumni, with about 25% beginning their careers through internships.

EKU celebrated its seventh annual Giving Day on April 22, 2026, marking another record-breaking year of support.

EKU Choirs Take the Big Stage in NYC

$2M Investment 6

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EKU significantly increased support for faculty research, awarding more than $200,000 in 2025-26 through its University Funded Scholarship program. Covering a variety of topics, the funded research projects include teacher recruitment and hiring, DNA recovery, assessments of law enforcement agencies, deepfake detection and food insecurity, among others.

50 Years of Impact— EKU Occupational Therapy Since 1976, EKU’s Occupational Therapy (OT) program has been preparing occupational therapists to enter the workforce. Today, the program is nationally recognized, earning a top 25 ranking in Best Occupational Therapy Programs from U.S. News & World Report. In honor of its 50th anniversary, EKU’s OT program hosted a donation drive to provide OT starter kits for students.

• 2,485 total donors (Goal: 2,134) • $1,120,000 raised • More than $425,000 allocated to scholarships • Gifts from all 50 states

In March, more than 40 students from EKU Choirs performed at the iconic Carnegie Hall. The students, representing all three EKU choral ensembles, joined choirs from across the country for two days of rehearsal and the performance in New York City. Music education major Harper Grizzle said the experience will be an incredible story to share with her future choir students.

Faculty Research Expanded

Essential Education EKU transitioned from its traditional general education curriculum to Essential Education for Fall 2026. The redesigned approach provides transferable and practical skills to help students beyond the classroom. At 30 credit hours, six fewer than the previous general education curriculum, Essential Education streamlines the path to graduation while giving students greater flexibility to pursue their interests and career goals.

Addressing Kentucky’s Nursing Shortage EKU and Humana announced a $125,000 investment to support nursing students, reflecting a shared commitment to address Kentucky’s healthcare workforce shortage and expand access to highquality care. The gift from Humana establishes the Humana Scholars Program at EKU, with $50,000 for nursing scholarships and $75,000 to help reduce personal barriers for nursing students.

THE COLONEL IS HERE MEET THE NEW EKU COLONEL! In September, EKU revealed an updated look for its beloved Colonel logo. Shaped by feedback from the Colonel Family, the new logo was created with care to capture the spirit of EKU. Its design conveys confidence and liveliness while reflecting the welcoming, friendly atmosphere that has always been part of the EKU experience. EKU has carried the Colonel name for more than 60 years. The new logo honors that history and tradition while giving the Colonel a bold, modern identity. Look for the new Colonel logo on EKU merchandise at the Barnes & Noble Bookstore on campus and at other EKU retail locations.

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

NICK BERTRAM, ’02

CRAFTING THE PATH FO R T H E NEX T GENER ATION

“

’m on the path that I planned for, but I didn’t plan for the path,” said Nick Bertram, ’02, who went from the first in his family to graduate college to now serving as president and chief operating officer of Michaels.

Bertram began working at an early age for his family’s plumbing business, always thinking he’d follow in his dad, grandpa and great-grandpa’s footsteps. But when his grandpa encouraged him to go to college, his path changed. “He was my hero,” Bertram said. “So anything he said meant a lot to me, and that’s really what pushed me into going to college.” Bertram first experienced EKU through the summer Foster Music Camp. Then the Opal and Kermit Patterson Scholarship—offering a full ride to EKU for marketing—sealed his future. “I came from a family that wasn’t able to help me pay for college, so that made the decision pretty easy,” Bertram said. “It decided my major, and it decided my career path. That scholarship really changed everything directionally for my life.” Bertram had also recently discovered a passion for retail and business from his high school job at JCPenney. He liked the variety of tasks from visual

merchandising to sales to operations, meeting different people, working as a team toward a goal and being rewarded for individual goals. Overall, he found retail to be fun and exciting. As a resident advisor and student body president at EKU, Bertram tapped into his natural leadership abilities, learned to solve complex problems and managed multiple stakeholder needs—skills he’s continued to use throughout his career. “It was interesting what that four-year journey unlocked in me,” he said. By graduation, Bertram knew he would one day lead and make an impact at a high level. He climbed to leadership roles as a regional general manager at Walmart, then served as president of The GIANT Company before landing his role at Michaels in 2025. Today, Bertram oversees Michaels stores and services, leading 40,000 employees. “I’m creating the system and culture that enables outcomes, but not by myself—I’m surrounded by brilliant people,” he said. “I aspire to continue making change and continue to create great brands for great companies that create great lives for people.” EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

“I HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO SET THE NEXT GENERATION UP FOR SOMETHING BIGGER...” - NICK BERTRAM One of Bertram’s favorite parts of working for Michaels is getting to see what people create. With the company’s custom framing shops, he noted, “I’m looking at my EKU degree on the wall right now. I had it framed at Michaels in Richmond what feels like a lifetime ago.” Whether it’s the first-in-a-family’s college diploma, the uniform of a fallen soldier or a little girl’s ballet slippers, Bertram said, “There’s something so personal and special and emotional about the things people are framing. These artisans in our stores— they’re laboring over it. It’s amazing to see that, and that happens 10

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in our stores every day. Somebody is creating something that didn’t exist before.” Bertram spends two days in the field every week, visiting different markets across North America to bring ideas to life and observe how the stores operate. He also makes time each week to personally respond to a customer from the call logs and write a thank-you note to a store employee whose work has been noticed. When it came to finding his own path, Bertram said everything changed at EKU when he started to bet on himself, rather than worrying about other people’s doubts. He explained the three distinctive characteristics behind his success, saying, “I don’t give up, I’m hungry to learn new things and I treat people well.” Bertram and his wife, Jennifer, ’03, have five sons, further driving him. Having met at EKU, the couple prioritized their own education and want to show their children how education unlocks opportunity and “proves that you can finish something.” Reflecting on his success from first-generation college graduate to now president and COO of a major corporation, he said, “I have a responsibility to set the next generation up for something bigger. That’s what it all comes down to—that every generation moves society further and moves the world further.”

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

T.K. MCNEAL, ’01

SUCCESS BY DESIGN T

edtra “T.K.” McNeal (Wismer), ’01, was at her home in Louisville watching “Jeopardy!” when a familiar commercial popped up. The commercial featured her, beautifully dressed, gliding through a vibrant but functional-looking kitchen—a kitchen she had personally designed.

T.K.’s entrepreneurial spirit and success as a commercial and residential interior designer, head of her own design company, creative director for GE’s Café Appliances and real estate broker are the culmination of many experiences gathered along her path. Experiences like her nomadic childhood lifestyle, pragmatic classes at EKU and noteworthy career opportunities have put T.K.’s unique designs on the pages of Vogue, Southern Living, Better Homes & Gardens and other magazines, plus in TV commercials. “Every single experience I put in my pocket has been useful in my career,” T.K. said. “The pieces all fit together nicely.” T.K. developed her natural talent for fashion early on, noticing how patterns, textures, shapes, colors, materials and lighting

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

can affect the feel of an outfit or room. A daughter of horse trainers, she was exposed to fashion trends in both workingclass and wealthy homes as her parents frequently moved the family from their Louisville home base to Florida, Minnesota, New York and Canada. With each temporary living space, T.K. seized the chance to be creative. “I’d find ways to arrange things in each residence to make it feel more ‘homey,’” she said. Moving often also helped T.K. hone her people skills by reinventing herself at each new school to fit in. While earning her EKU degree in communication, T.K. overcame her fear of speaking publicly, engaged in philosophical discussions and relaxed while creating pottery under Professor Joe Molinaro. T.K. was also recruited for EKU’s new conflict management minor, which taught her invaluable lessons in persuasion, negotiations and mediation. T.K. practiced those skills while serving on a student board, and those same skills continue to serve her in her professional life.

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After graduating magna cum laude, with her pockets already neatly stuffed with experiences requiring multi-tasking and strong organizational skills, T.K. managed restaurants and worked in catering before her artistic career took off. Her creative career began with styling wardrobes and designing sets for reality TV shows, taking her around the country. Once her son was born, 16-hour days on a TV or film set and the constant traveling didn’t feel sustainable. So, T.K. embraced commercial and residential design and was later introduced to trade shows that reveal innovations, gauge buyer interests and form partnerships. In 2014, T.K. launched her own company, Department of the Interiors. Merging her interest in commercial and retail design with marketing, she “evolved from chasing current trends to defining what comes next.” T.K. helps her clients forge better connections with their customers by promoting the client’s distinct identity through social media platforms, video services and targeted website content. In 2022 and 2023, T.K. earned real estate licenses in Kentucky and Indiana, a shared interest with her husband, Vincent, who owns Vince Buys Houses. That’s in addition to starting a brokerage firm in 2024. Also serving as creative director for GE’s Café Appliances, T.K. creates innovative kitchen designs. Her most recent challenge is the annual Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, the largest trade show in North America, which attracts about 80,000 attendees. It takes T.K. a year to research trends, plan pre-

marketing strategies, present her concept and then execute her innovative ideas to fill the sterile 3,000-square-foot space, showcasing GE’s latest cutting-edge products. “I have to build an entire environment that entices people to stop in and spend time interacting with my exhibit, while ensuring that they’ll remember me and my brand later,” T.K. explained. That means engaging all the senses—how the exhibit space smells and playing the perfect background music, as well as selecting the ideal color scheme, collecting, packing and shipping all the props, then strategically positioning them to capture attention. Soon after the event, T.K. starts envisioning how to make next year’s exhibit even better. When T.K. last visited EKU, she was impressed by the new building designs, especially the residence hall suites and all their conveniences. The good thing about design, T.K. says, is that it constantly evolves. She embraces imperfections and loves thrifting to gather pieces that are functional, fashionable and feel “homey.” “I give my designs a life that’s lived in, loved and worn,” she said. Given her expansive experiences, T.K.’s pockets are not yet overflowing, but she’ll have no trouble filling them. “I’m never at a loss for what to do,” she said. “I have lots of interests yet to explore.” EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

DR. ANDREW NAPIER, ’12

EXCELLENCE IN ACTION “

founded IntuBlade after losing a soldier to a preventable airway failure,” said Dr. Andrew Napier, ’12. “Students across the country are entering the field without ever training on the tools they’ll actually use, and that gap falls hardest on rural and underserved communities where resources are already stretched thin. Every provider, regardless of zip code or budget, deserves the same standard of care. That’s what airway equity means to us.” Standing inside Eastern Kentucky University’s Emergency Medical Care (EMC) simulation lab, Napier demonstrates a device he created, designed for some of medicine’s most critical moments. He explains how securing a patient’s airway can mean the difference between life and death, and within only a few seconds. Around him, emergency medical care students watch as they prepare for careers in helping people during those critical moments. For Napier, the demonstration is deeply personal. An emergency room physician, former Army combat medic, Purple Heart recipient, Pat Tillman Scholar and founder of IntuBlade, Napier understands the importance of having the right tools when every second matters. His company’s patented video laryngoscope was born from a tragedy he experienced during military service and a determination to prevent similar outcomes in the future.

“

I WATCHED A SOLDIER SUCCUMB TO WOUNDS THAT HE SUSTAINED IN BATTLE BECAUSE WE DID NOT HAVE THE RIGHT TOOL TO MANAGE HIS AIRWAY. THAT MOMENT NEVER LEFT ME. - DR. ANDREW NAPIER

“

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Napier returned to campus in the spring to donate IntuBlade video laryngoscopes to EKU’s EMC program. The donation represents far more than equipment. It reflects a journey that began thousands of miles away in Afghanistan.

The IntuBlade

A Somerset, Kentucky, native, Napier enlisted in the Army National Guard after high school and deployed to Afghanistan as a combat medic. During his six years of military service, he provided medical support in combat zones, earning the Purple Heart and Combat Medical Badge. While serving overseas, Napier witnessed firsthand the consequences of inadequate access to advanced airway management tools. “I watched a soldier succumb to wounds that he sustained in battle because we did not have the right tool to manage his airway. That moment never left me,” he said. Napier then faced his next challenge after he returned home from service. He enrolled in college but struggled to connect with classmates and adapt to an environment that felt far removed from the realities he had experienced while deployed. As he sat in lecture 18

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The IntuBlade is a single-use video laryngoscope designed to help clinicians visualize a patient's airway during endotracheal intubation. Unlike conventional video laryngoscopes that require a dedicated monitor, the IntuBlade connects directly to a compatible smartphone or tablet through a USB-C interface, turning the mobile device into a high-definition display.

“Colonel Morris pushed me to apply for the Pat Tillman Foundation,” Napier said. “I applied and got accepted, and it really just took my life to a different plane.” After the Post-9/11 GI Bill was signed into law, EKU leaders recognized the need for dedicated support services and, under Morris’ leadership, the university established a veteran-centered approach that focused not only on educational benefits, but also on mentorship, mental health, community and family support. The philosophy was simple: be more than veteran-friendly, be helpful. That commitment has continued to grow over the years and is reflected in national recognition. For 2026-27, EKU was named the No. 1 large public university in the nation for both Military Friendly® Schools and Military Friendly® Spouse Schools. Today, EKU is home to more than 1,900 military-affiliated students, including veterans, active-duty service members, Reserve and National Guard members, and military spouses and children— making them the university’s largest affinity group.

“

I CREDIT A LOT OF MY UPPER TRAJECTORY TO EASTERN. I REALLY FOUND MY PLACE THERE. - DR. ANDREW NAPIER

“

Today, Napier practices emergency medicine in California and leads IntuBlade, the medical device company he founded to improve airway management in high-pressure environments such as ambulances and combat zones. Currently, IntuBlade operates in 46 states and serves more than 460 organizations nationwide.

halls filled with hundreds of students, he felt like another face in the crowd. Within a few months, he considered dropping out. Everything changed, though, when Napier transferred to EKU. Napier found his path and a community that understood his experience and helped him envision a future beyond military service. Mentors like Brett Morris, then associate director of veteran affairs, helped Napier find his footing in the transition back to civilian life.

For Napier, success is measured less by business growth and more by impact. That is why returning to EKU mattered. By donating IntuBlade video laryngoscopes to EKU’s EMC simulation lab, he helps future healthcare professionals train with new technology that they will encounter in the field. “I credit a lot of my upper trajectory to Eastern. I really found my place there,” he said. Napier arrived at EKU looking for a community. Now, he serves many communities as a physician, entrepreneur and innovator whose work improves healthcare across the country.

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

MARK KLEE, ’90

FROM EKU TO TOYOTA LEADERSHIP G

rowing up in the small farming community of Mt. Auburn, Kentucky, Mark Klee, ’90, initially told his father he did not want to attend college. However, a visit to Eastern Kentucky University set him on a path that led to a decades-long career with Toyota. “My father took me to visit a couple of colleges in the state, but I really felt at home in the more hands-on environment at EKU,” Klee said. “When we visited EKU, I was able to meet a couple of the professors and found out that they had a lot of experience and some really interesting knowledge to share. From there, I was hooked.”

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Klee graduated from EKU in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Education and Technology, specializing in manufacturing. Two classes in particular—hot metal processes and cold metal processes—shaped his future. “I was exposed to the concepts and machine types used in many manufacturing processes,” Klee said. “This definitely piqued my interest.” In these classes, he learned the theory of cutting, shaping and joining materials, and then operated machinery to create actual products. Klee said he remembers welding two

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old bicycle frames together in class to create a functional, super-long recumbent bike, which he and his classmates rode around the lower part of the Ault and Fitzpatrick buildings. Beyond the classroom, EKU’s co-op program allowed Klee to gain valuable work experience at three manufacturing companies before graduation. When a competitive job market prompted him to pursue a master’s degree at Purdue University, an EKU professor helped him secure a teaching assistant position. In 1994, Klee joined Toyota as an assembly specialist. Since then, he has rotated through roles in engineering, production and maintenance. Today, Klee serves as the general manager for the body weld and paint shops on Line 1 at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky in Georgetown. As a partner in educating the workforce, Toyota Kentucky announced a $400,000 investment in EKU’s Engineering program earlier this year. With a match through Kentucky’s Bucks for Brains initiative, the total support of $800,000 expands hands-on learning opportunities and enhances access to modern equipment for students. Klee’s connection to EKU came full circle when the late

“EKU WAS AND IS AN EXCITING PLACE TO LEARN BECAUSE IT IS WELL CONNECTED TO THE EDUCATIONAL NEEDS OF BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY.” - MARK KLEE

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Dr. Dennis Field invited him to serve on the Curriculum Advisory Board. Klee shared the specific skills Toyota looks for in new engineers, which led to guest speaking engagements and eventually a role as an adjunct faculty member in the engineering program at EKU. In May of this year, EKU celebrated its first cohort of graduates in engineering, a program developed and launched in response to industry needs.

Helping prepare this next generation of Colonels, Klee sees the same enduring value in an EKU education that shaped his own path. “EKU was and is an exciting place to learn because it is well connected to the educational needs of business and industry,” Klee said. “The key trait of EKU graduates is the strong ability to get a quick start due to a deep understanding of how to apply theory and concepts.” EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

ADVANCING KENTUCKY TOGETHER EKU R ECEIVES STRONG SUPPORT FROM TH E KENTUCKY GENER AL ASSEM BLY

ith the passage of several bills supportive of Eastern Kentucky University during the 2026 Kentucky Legislative Session, EKU makes significant strides toward strategic initiatives and meeting the needs of the Commonwealth. “EKU had a very successful 2026 legislative session and we are blazing the path ahead on several impactful program proposals,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “Our laser focus on serving both students and the Commonwealth resulted in EKU receiving significant investment from the legislature. We are so grateful for the broad support and recognition of EKU as Kentucky’s workforce university.” Kentucky Speaker of the House David Osborne commented on EKU, stating, “This budget cycle was one of the toughest in recent memory, requiring legislators to make difficult decisions and carefully evaluate where taxpayer dollars could have the greatest impact. While those challenges were significant, they also created an opportunity to place even greater emphasis on investing in programs and institutions that consistently deliver results for the commonwealth.

Our continued investment in Eastern Kentucky University reflects that commitment and supports access to healthcare, workforce development, educational opportunities, and strengthens a university that plays a vital role in preparing students to meet Kentucky’s future economic needs.”

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PROPOSED COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE EKU made tremendous progress for the proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine during the 2026 General Assembly. The Kentucky General Assembly funded $42 million to be held in escrow, as required by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA), as well as $8 million in startup funds for the program. EKU has launched a Medical Community Advisory Board for the proposed osteopathic medical program to help guide the effort. In addition to 10 community health officials and physicians, Kentucky House Speaker Pro Tem David Meade and Kentucky Senator Brandon Storm (who have both sponsored legislation to move the EKU proposed osteopathic medical program forward) have joined the Advisory Board. “Far too many Kentuckians don’t have access to healthcare, and I’m grateful that EKU stepped up to establish the state’s first public osteopathic medical program to help address the ongoing physician shortage. In fact, 94% of Kentucky counties are designated Health Professional Shortage Areas for Primary Care and eight Kentucky counties don’t have any practicing physicians. The Kentucky House of Representatives, partnered with EKU, is excited to be part of the solution,” said Speaker Pro Tem David Meade of Stanford, Kentucky. “By giving more Kentuckians the opportunity to attend medical school and practice medicine in their home community, we are growing our own workforce. Healthcare access is vital for successful communities, and I am excited to see this crucial program begin,” added Senator Brandon Storm (EKU Class of 2000) of London, Kentucky. In addition, Senate President Robert Stivers sponsored Senate Joint Resolution 116, which directs EKU, the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville to study and make recommendations to the General Assembly to address the physician shortage in Kentucky, including retaining physicians in rural communities and growing graduate medical education sites in medically underserved areas. “Eastern Kentucky University plays a vital role in preparing our workforce for tomorrow’s challenges. Through strategic investments in EKU’s proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine, its nationally recognized aviation initiatives and new air traffic control training program, we are helping students enter high-demand careers critical to our state’s future. These investments strengthen healthcare access, support the aviation and aerospace sector and ensure Kentucky employers have access to the skilled workforce they need,” stated Senate President Robert Stivers of Manchester, Kentucky. 26

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THE ROAD TO MODEL EKU worked with Representative Ken Upchurch, who serves as the Kentucky House Chairman of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Transportation, and was instrumental in securing $11.1 million in the Kentucky Road Plan for turn lanes on Lancaster Avenue to support the new Model Laboratory School and alleviate traffic congestion. Chairman Upchurch is a 1991 political science graduate of EKU and served as Student Government Association president. He began his service in the Kentucky House of Representatives in 1999. He served until 2010 and rejoined the House in 2013, and in late 2025 announced he would retire in 2026 at the end of his term. “Chairman Upchurch has been a stellar EKU alumnus and one of the most respected legislators in Frankfort. We are so grateful for his support of this road project and all the other EKU strategic goals that have been brought before the Kentucky General Assembly. We wish Chairman Upchurch all the best and look forward to continuing to see him on campus,” President McFaddin said.

AVIATION EXCELLENCE

THE CAMPUS BEAUTIFUL

The General Assembly mandated an Enhanced Air Traffic Control program at EKU, with $5 million in startup funds and $1.5 million in annual operational support over two years.

With $18.1 million allocated for asset preservation to address deferred maintenance needs and maintain the Campus Beautiful, EKU continues enhancing vital campus infrastructure.

The aviation program is an FAA part 141 program, a designation that places EKU among the top collegiate aviation programs in the country and allows graduates to qualify for airline careers with reduced flight hour requirements. EKU’s School of Aviation operates with a strong hands-on training approach, supported by its partnership with Central Kentucky Regional Airport, the second busiest general aviation facility in Kentucky. The airport sees roughly 80,000 to 90,000 take-offs and landings annually, with EKU accounting for the majority of activity, providing students with an opportunity that many other aviation programs don’t offer. “This initiative represents a crucial investment in Kentucky’s aviation industry and workforce development,” said Senate President Robert Stivers. “With EKU, we are laying the groundwork for high-demand, high-paying careers in aviation.” “As an EKU alumnus, I’m proud to see Eastern Kentucky University stepping up to help prepare the next generation of aviation and air traffic control professionals,” said Don Bornhorst, former FAA Chief Administrative Officer. “The Commonwealth of Kentucky’s investment in creating an air traffic control program strengthens both Kentucky’s and the nation’s critical aviation workforce pipeline and positions EKU to make a lasting impact on the future of our industry.”

KENTUCKY’S WORKFORCE Additional bills impacting EKU, among others, include the addition of speech-language pathologists for the Kentucky Healthcare Workforce Investment fund, which opens new scholarship opportunities for EKU students. On the path forward, EKU continues to advance academic programs, in coordination with the support of the General Assembly and in alignment with Kentucky’s workforce needs—powering the Commonwealth’s future. EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

INNOVATING THE

WORKFORCE Across Kentucky and around the globe, EKU alumni not only power the workforce—they innovate it. From advancements in robotics to public safety, healthcare and transportation, these six alumni lead the way, moving the workforce and communities forward.

DON BORNHORST, ’87 Former Chief Administrative Officer for the Federal Aviation Administration Don Bornhorst helped drive innovation across one of the nation’s most critical transportation systems. Having served as president of Comair Airlines and senior vice president of Delta Airlines, he came out of retirement for an assignment as chief administrative officer for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Leading complex operations, Bornhorst fostered accountability and empowered employees to meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry. “Throughout my career, I have approached every organizational challenge as my own, treating everyone with respect while demanding execution and asking nothing of my team that I do not require of myself,” said Bornhorst. “Serving at the FAA is my way of giving back to an industry and traveling public that gave so much to me.”

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BJ SANTIAGO, ’88 President and CEO of SanMarie Business Transformation Group and Focal Point Lexington BJ Santiago began his leadership journey in the U.S. Army as an airborne infantry officer. After his service, Santiago became a transformational executive and growth strategist across Fortune 500 companies, emerging technology firms and global enterprises. Santiago led as CEO of Badger Technologies and now serves as president and CEO of SanMarie Business Transformation Group and Focal Point Lexington, helping others transform their business. “Throughout my career, I have worked to help organizations and leaders think differently about technology, workforce development, automation, AI and operational excellence, not simply to improve efficiencies, but to empower people to perform at higher levels and adapt confidently to a rapidly evolving world,” said Santiago.

TERESA HAYNES, ’75 ’78 ’84 Visiting Research Professor at the University of Johannesburg and Professor Emerita at East Tennessee State University As a professor of mathematics at East Tennessee State University, Teresa Haynes mentored researchers while advancing knowledge in Graph Theory, a mathematical modeling tool with a variety of real-world applications. Working alongside many of the world’s leading researchers, she developed concepts that are used to design the networks people rely on every day, from transportation to communication systems, helping make them more efficient and reliable. “It has been gratifying to contribute to a body of knowledge that bridges mathematical theory and practical real-world problems,” said Haynes. “Each new concept, theorem or insight becomes a stepping stone upon which future researchers can build. Knowing that my work may inspire or assist future generations of mathematicians gives lasting meaning to my research.”

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SCOTT MONROE, ’06 CEO and Co-Founder of Essential Personnel, Inc. After four years of active duty in the Marine Corps, Scott Monroe served as a firefighter and began to notice issues in how public safety agencies tracked human resources data. In 2020, he founded Essential Personnel (EP) with a software solution to address those issues and positively impact the culture and readiness of public safety agencies. EP now serves over 160 municipalities, law enforcement agencies and fire departments in 27 states. “I am proud to say that my EKU alumni network was critical, especially in the early days,” said Monroe. “Many EKU criminal justice and fire graduates are now senior executives across the country. These leaders trusted in me and adopted EP.”

KELLIE SPARKS, ’11

Long-term Care Administrator and Strategic Development Director For 15 years, Kellie Sparks has worked in long-term care, from marketing and admissions to now a long-term care administrator, where she innovates technology to bring more compassionate and interactive experiences to elders. As a strategic development director, Sparks helps create new software systems and initiatives that take healthcare workers from behind the desk with paperwork to the bedside, providing better care for patients. “Nothing means more to me than our elders. Our greatest asset is experience, knowledge and wisdom. It’s the foundation of our family, culture and people,” Sparks said. For her, the greatest accomplishment is “the difference I feel like I make in the lives of the elders I serve.”

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

STARLA BENGE, ‘11 ‘17 ‘20 Gifted and Talented Teacher and Kentucky’s First Rural Teacher of the Year

With a knack for turning heritage, leadership and handson learning into full-blown adventures, Starla Benge is reshaping how students experience education in Rockcastle County, Ky. She founded Kentucky Heritage Day, where students become researchers, educators and ambassadors for local history. She also created Environmental Days at Maywood Environmental and Educational Laboratory, giving high school students opportunities to lead interactive lessons for younger students while building leadership skills and a lasting connection to their community. “I strive to create a learning environment where students feel safe to explore ideas, express themselves, take intellectual risks and make mistakes,” said Benge. “I want students to know that mistakes are not failures but opportunities for growth. By providing a safe and supportive space, I mentor students through challenges, helping them develop resilience, confidence and the ability to learn from setbacks.”

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

EKU ATHLETICS

DR. GERI POLVINO 32

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

NOTHING I CAN’T DO COACH GERI POLVINO BUILT CHAMPIONS AT EKU, YET HER GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT IS THE CONFIDENCE SHE INSTILLED IN THE WOMEN SHE COACHED.

r. Geri Polvino moved to Richmond from Rochester, New York, in 1965. “When I first drove through Richmond, I had only seen that kind of main street on television … in the Wild West shows,” she said.

Polvino came to EKU as a graduate assistant in the physical education department. Back in New York, Polvino had played basketball and volleyball and pitched fast-pitch softball. “Volleyball was my least favorite sport,” she admitted. In a beautiful twist of fate, she ended up coaching the sport at EKU for more than 30 years. Before Polvino arrived, EKU’s Volleyball teams were composed of the top intramural players at the school. “Volleyball at EKU had a culture of winning way before I came here,” Polvino said. “I just expanded on it.” A data-driven learner, Polvino immediately set about consuming all the data she could about volleyball and its athletes and attending volleyball clinics around the country. “I thought: ‘If I’m going to do this sport, I need to learn more about it,’” she said. “And I had to understand the young women who loved the sport.” Early in her career, she packed up her entire team and drove them to a volleyball camp in California, camping along the way to save money. “It was an adventure,” Polvino said. “When I look back on the things we did, I think, ‘How did we have the courage to do those things?’” But courage was exactly what she tried to instill in players. “For me, it became about giving young women the confidence that they could do anything they wanted to do. To go beyond winning,” she said. Still, there was a lot of winning involved. In her 32 years at the helm of the EKU Volleyball program, Polvino won 627 games while leading the Colonels to nine regular-season conference championships and eight league tournament titles. She earned a

league-record eight Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Coach of the Year awards. Polvino was selected as a member of the inaugural class of the EKU Athletics Hall of Fame and became the first volleyball coach inducted into the OVC Hall of Fame. As one of the sport’s most respected authorities, Polvino served as president of the National Association for Girls and Women in Sports Coaches Academy and became the first certified female instructor in the International Volleyball Federation. Despite all the statistics and accolades, Polvino derived the most pride from watching her former players become successful women after college. “When I was growing up, as a woman, there were very limited opportunities,” she said. “Look how far we’ve come.” Reflecting on the accomplishments of the women she coached, Polvino said, “To see where they started and where they are now, there are no words to explain how proud I am. It’s like watching your kids achieve something that you knew they were capable of doing, but did they know that they were capable of doing? That’s what you do, you instill that mindset: ‘There’s nothing I can’t do.’” Not only does Polvino encourage with words, but her transformational support for students speaks volumes. Polvino has funded scholarships, student programs, facility improvements and recently, a study abroad opportunity in Europe for the entire EKU Volleyball team. On Giving Day 2026, she endowed the Colonel’s Cupboard, driven by a desire to help students facing food insecurity. In recognition of her steadfast commitment to others, EKU proudly named her the 2026 Philanthropist of the Year at the annual Celebration of Philanthropy. EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

ALUMNI NEWS

A NOTE FROM YOUR ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT Dear Alumni, When we arrived as students at Eastern Kentucky University, each of us came from a different path. But no matter where we started, EKU met us with support, encouragement and a community determined to help us succeed. That commitment to student well‑being and opportunity remains one of the hallmarks of the EKU experience. During my own years at Eastern, I found mentors who challenged me, organizations that shaped my leadership and friendships that have lasted decades. The path that started at EKU and the opportunities along the way led to my fulfilling career in occupational therapy at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. EKU has always been a place where students are seen, supported and celebrated. That continues today through resources like the Student Assistance Fund for Eastern (SAFE) that helps students facing unexpected crises, Colonel’s Cupboard offering basic needs for students experiencing food insecurity, and Colonel’s Closet, where students can find professional clothing as they launch their own careers. With flooding having affected many areas of our region this year, including my own neighborhood in Cincinnati and my hometown of Richmond, I’m reminded of the profound generosity of our EKU community. Whenever students are in need, Colonels help each other out, and we uplift today’s students to support them during some of life’s most challenging moments. I hope you will reflect on how EKU and its community shaped your life. While each path is never the same, the many forms of support we received were shared and it made our outcomes possible. As your Alumni Board President, I invite you to reconnect, re-engage and continue being ambassadors for the Campus Beautiful. Your experiences matter, your voice matters and your presence strengthens our community. I look forward to seeing you when you return home to EKU for Homecoming 2026 the weekend of October 24-25! Sincerely,

A lliso n A llgier Allison Allgier, ’92

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

CLASS NOTES Dr. Sanford Jones, ’50, was inducted into the Kentucky Veterans Hall of

IN THIS ISSUE CLASS NOTES

PROFILES Deverin Muff, ’14 ’15 ’21

Fame for his military service in WWII, as well as his contributions to the Richmond community. Larry Cleveland, ’73, Franklin County Commonwealth Attorney, received

the Legacy Award from the University of Kentucky Rosenberg College of Law. David Stipes, ’80 ’99, retired from Richmond city government as the executive director of the Richmond Industrial Development Board. Marc Whitt, ’82 ’85, director of media and strategic relations at UK, was

named to the prestigious “Strategic 26,” recognizing him as one of the top strategic communication leaders in the world. Greg Todd, ’83 ’88, EKU women’s basketball head coach, was named Atlantic Sun Conference Coach of the Year. Jean Chenault Logue, ’84, has been

appointed to the EKU Board of Regents by Gov. Andy Beshear. Angela Boykins, ’87, was appointed district

Melanie Busic, ’24

Lena Thoresen, ’93, and Megan Halliday, ’06 ’08

judge in Denver, CO. Michael “Spike” Jones, ’88 ’96, Kenton County Police Chief, recently served as the guest speaker for the Covington Rotary Club. Brian Haney, ’89 ’91, retired as chief

administrative officer for the city of Taylor Mill. Ron Pezzoni, ’90, head softball coach at

IN MEMORIAM

Madonna University, led the team to the NAIA National Championship. Silas House, ’94, has been awarded the 2026

Southern Book Prize for his poetry collection, “All These Ghosts.”

We want to hear from you! Share your good news. Email Us: alumni@eku.edu

Brian Miller, ’94, executive vice president for

the Building Industry Association of Northern Kentucky, was featured on the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Spotlight Podcast. Heather Howell, ’95, president and CEO of

GREATER THAN, was featured in Forbes’ “5 Ways Food Founders Are Using AI to Thrive.” Michael D. Miller, MD, ’95, is now a Chicago

real estate broker with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago. EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

ALUMNI NEWS Kelly Gates, ’96, was awarded the 2026 Rotarian of the Year Award by

the Hopkinsville Rotary Club.

PURPOSE IN PLAY DEVERI N MUFF, ’14 ’15 ’21

Rebecca Shearer, ’98, has been selected as interim principal of Bryan

Station High School for the 2026-27 school year. Dr. Carrie Cook, ’99, English professor and Writing Center director,

received the Curry Award for Faculty Excellence at Georgetown College during its 2026 Founders’ Day Convocation. Kimberly Greenwell, ’99, is celebrating 20 years of her television show,

“My Southern Home,” which she produces as president of KAG Media Consulting, LLC. Carol Ann Hopwood, ’99, applications developer for Great American

Insurance Co. in Cincinnati, recently announced her engagement to Andrew “Drew” Denton Sapp. Lance Schwartz, ’00 ’02, was recently

featured in the Marion Star for his inspiring journey as Elgin’s band director. Alex Cook, ’01, celebrates 25 years of

dedicated service to Hearthside Bank. He currently serves as president and CEO of Hearthside Bank Corporation and HFB Financial Corporation.

Former EKU Basketball player Deverin Muff, ’14 ’15 ’21, knows firsthand the value of finding purpose beyond the game. That’s why he started Next Play Project. Through his business, Muff guides athletes through their unique challenges, on and off the field, and equips them with the skills and confidence to succeed in all areas of life. Muff also teaches in EKU’s Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise and Sport Science. “I wake up every day knowing that I can make an impact on people who want to work in the sports industry or who come from a sports background and just need help finding out what’s next,” said Muff. With his purpose in focus, Muff continues to center his work around athletic identity, life after sports and holistic coaching—with the ultimate goal of making a positive impact on athletes’ lives.

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

Alecia Webb-Edgington, ’02, former Kentucky state representative and current president of Life Learning Center in Covington, was inducted into the 2026 Edmonson County Hall of Distinguished Alumni. Khalid Alfahim, ’03, chairman of

Alfahim Avenue Group, was celebrated for his visionary leadership and contributions to the UAE’s business landscape. Duane Gill, FACHE, ’03, was appointed

director of the VA Eastern Colorado Healthcare System. Patrick Messmer, ’03, has been named

deputy chief of operations for the Tampa Police Department. Josh Blevins, ’05 ’08, began his tenure as

superintendent of Henry County on July 1, 2026. Keturah Herron, ’09, Kentucky state senator, has been promoted to senior adviser in the Louisville office of U.S. Representative Morgan McGarvey.

Kevin Nunn, ’10, has been named fire chief of the Estes Valley

Fire Protection District in Colorado. Nunn previously served as fire chief of the North Tooele Fire District in Utah. Khalid Alanazi, ’17, has stepped into a new leadership role as

regional HSSE manager at Dorf Ketal. Brady Foley, ’17, was hired at ARCO National Construction as

project manager for the Ohio Valley team. Tyler Malone, ’17, has been hired as associate director of

football strength and conditioning for Western Kentucky University. Zach Cornett, ’18, director of

behavioral health for Key Assets in Lexington, recently graduated with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Yale School of Nursing.

TURNING PASSION INTO POTTERY M ELANI E BUSIC, ’24

Abby Gildernick, ’18, enters her

fourth year at University of Wisconsin Oshkosh in 2025-26, currently serving as the deputy director of athletics and senior woman administrator. Meghan Morgan, ’18, is the new

owner/operator of Chick-fil-A Fayette Mall. Ryan Hoots, ’19, was named director of sports media for

UntdWeStnd.com, a veteran-owned multi-media company. Beth Spencer, ’19, graduated from the University of Kentucky

College of Pharmacy with her Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Samantha Sandland, ’20, has joined BASIS Ed as a PR and

events specialist. Madison Kehler, ’21, a Grand

Strand real estate agent was featured in a new HGTV series that focuses on the home-buying process with a modern twist. Talia Martinez, ’21, was

recognized by Influential Women for her outstanding leadership as safety manager at Calhoun Construction Services. Cooper Robb, ’21 ’23, has joined

the Scott County High School boys’ basketball coaching staff as a first-year assistant.

Melanie Busic, ’24, turned her passion for ceramics into a career before she even crossed the graduation stage. She launched Busic Pottery in 2023, selling her handcrafted mugs, vases and décor at local markets and online. Having gained broader recognition in the arts community, she’s now the pottery director at Lexington Maker Space, where she also has her ceramics studio. While a student at EKU, Busic quickly discovered clay as her medium, and hands-on experiences helped prepare her for a career in the arts. “Any free time between classes, I’d be in the studio,” Busic said. “That’s when I realized this is something I’m good at and could use once I graduated.” Inspired by her Eastern Kentucky roots, Busic Pottery continues to gain popularity with pieces like Busic’s mushroom-handle mugs and quilt mugs that capture the essence of the Appalachia region. EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

ALUMNI NEWS Jenny Wilson, ’22, overcame life circumstances through

CARE THAT GROWS LENA THORESEN, ’93, AND M EGAN HALLI DAY, ’06 ’08

McDonald’s Archways to Opportunity program and utilized this supportive initiative to earn a second bachelor’s degree in 2026 and is now pursuing a master’s degree. Abby Huddle, ’23, recently transitioned into a new role as a

marketing strategist at EKU. McKenna Moore, ’23, joined the University of Cincinnati staff as the football team’s Nutrition Fellow during the 2025 season before being promoted to her current role as assistant performance dietitian. Evan Bentley, ’24, joined NTA as

manager of communication and marketing. Travis Olsen, ’25, has accepted a

position and started his professional career with Fastenal in business operations. Sydney Dierig, ’26, has joined American Homeland Title Agency, Inc. as a title associate. Aubrey Kimble, ’26, recently

joined the staff at The Edge as their newest intern.

Lena Thoresen, ’93, and Megan Halliday, ’06 ’08, are co-owners of Children’s Therapy Solutions (CTS), providing occupational, physical, speech and specialized therapies in the Tampa Bay area. “With a heart for people, I was drawn to a profession that combines compassion, creativity and problem solving to help individuals achieve greater independence and success in their daily lives,” said Thoresen, an occupational therapist who co-founded CTS in 2004. In 2021, the clinic expanded to establish The Women’s Center at Children’s Therapy Solutions, now in two locations, offering physical therapy and other health services. “Opening The Women’s Center at Children’s Therapy Solutions was especially meaningful—it was the realization of a long-held vision and an opportunity to expand services in a way that positively impacts our community,” said Halliday, also an occupational therapist, who joined CTS in 2008 after completing her internship at the clinic.

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

’84

EARL CLARK JR. 1961-2026 Earl LaVelle Clark, Jr., of Lexington, passed away on Feb. 12, 2026. Clark graduated from EKU in 1984 with a degree in criminal justice. He became a proud member of Omega Psi Phi in 1980, and was awarded the Perseverance Award in 2022 from the Theta Omega Chapter in Louisville. Clark was also a member of the First Baptist Church Bracktown in Lexington. He sang in the church choir, played piano and performed with several bands. Known by many nicknames, he cherished the children who knew him as Mr. Earl and leaves behind his sisters, extended family, fraternity brothers and friends.

’62 ’63

’73

KENNETH “KEN” TIPPETT

ROB E RT “ ROB” O CLICK

1940-2026

1949-2026

Kenneth “Ken” Tippett passed away on April 13, 2026.

Robert Oran Click passed away on April 30, 2026.

Tippett earned both his bachelor’s and master’s in education from EKU in 1962 and 1963. He was inducted into the EKU Alumni Hall of Fame in 2019.

Click graduated from Model High School in 1967 and EKU in 1973. He was a member of Sigma Chi, served in the Kentucky Army National Guard and worked as an EMT.

Throughout his career, Tippett served as a teacher and principal. In Mt. Sterling, he helped coach the high school to a football state championship title in 1969. He later became assistant superintendent at Woodford County and worked with the Kentucky High School Athletic Association.

After moving to Columbus, Ohio, Click served in the Air Force Reserve and began a distinguished career in commercial real estate. A respected leader in the field, he held numerous regional and national roles.

Tippett served as president of the EKU Alumni Association.

’64

In his community, Click served as past chair of the Columbus Cancer Clinic and Lifecare Alliance and on the Development Board at EKU.

’56

BARBARA HENNESSEY

RICHARD L. NORRIS

1943-2026

1934—2026

Barbara Hennessey passed away on July 12, 2026. After graduating from high school in Indiana, Barbara enrolled at EKU and earned a degree in early childhood education in 1964. She got her first teaching job before graduating and taught first grade in Charlestown, Indiana. Barbara met her husband, Tom, during their freshman year at EKU, and they married after her graduation. Following Tom’s commissioning, the couple embarked on a 28‑year military journey, living across the United States and abroad. Barbara is remembered for her boundless care for her family and the love she generously shared with everyone who knew her.

Richard Lee Norris, Sr., of Louisville, passed away on Feb. 19, 2026, at the age of 91. Norris graduated from EKU in 1956, where he made many lifelong friends. He served in the U.S. Army Reserves before beginning his career at General Electric, where he worked on the first computer installed by a private company in the United States. He later co-founded two technology companies, and then served as a faculty member in computer science and interim director of information services at Bellarmine University. With a lifelong passion for programming, he also mentored small business owners in computer operations.

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026

Nonprofit Organization U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Lexington Ky Permit #879

Office of Alumni and Donor Engagement Alumni Center at Keen Johnson Eastern Kentucky University 521 Lancaster Avenue Richmond, KY 40475-3102

We are excited to welcome back #EternalColonels to the Campus Beautiful for Homecoming 2026

• Campus Tours • Parade • Block Party (Opening of The Family Dog)

• 5k Walk / Run • Alumni Awards and Pioneer Celebration • Eternal Colonel Tailgate • Football vs West Florida

LEARN MORE AT HOMECOMING.EDU.EKU 40

EKU MAGAZINE : FALL 2026