PHILANTHROPY
REPORT
Eastern Kentucky University 2025
CONTRIBUTORS
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ben Keeling Photography
Steve Ridzon Photography
WRITERS
Jessica Duerson
Melinda Murphy
Krista Rhodus
Ethan Sirles
Ashley Thacker
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Melissa Abney
Office of University Development and Alumni Engagement (859) 622-GIVE | giving@eku.edu Coates CPO 19A 521 Lancaster Avenue Richmond, KY 40475
LEADERSHIP UPDATES
DEAR EKU FAMILY,
As we reflect on another fiscal year, I am yet again astonished and inspired by the generosity of our Colonel Family. Our record-breaking accomplishments, including back-to-back historic fundraising years and another exceptional show of support on Giving Day, are all thanks to you—our committed alumni and friends. With your support, EKU continues to break down barriers in higher education and open the doors of opportunity.
2024-25 marked the most raised in a single year on record for EKU, with $12,038,265 contributed. This came on the heels of the previous record in 2023-24 of $10,005,663 given, another significant increase in funds. The continual growth in fundraising proves EKU’s impact goes far beyond the Campus Beautiful and leaves a lasting impression on all those who cross our path.
Yet again, Giving Day in April demonstrated exactly what we can accomplish as One Eastern. In the span of just 24 hours, EKU exceeded its goal of 2,425 donors, representing the 2024-25 academic year. In its best year yet, 2,441 donors helped us raise over $1 million.
The pursuit of fundraising efforts expands opportunity at EKU and increases accessibility for higher education. Our success is a testament to the work and strength of the Development and Alumni Engagement team and the leadership of Mary Beth Neiser, vice president for University Development and Alumni Engagement and executive director of the EKU Foundation.
In addition to record-breaking fundraising, EKU has been making significant strides in expanding educational opportunities. In March, a bill eliminating the restriction on comprehensive universities seeking doctoral programs passed both the House and the Senate unanimously and was signed into law by the Governor. This marks significant progress in our bold plan to establish a College of Osteopathic Medicine at EKU and address a need within our state.
On the enrollment front, we continue to mark steady increases year after year, despite the recruitment challenges facing higher education. Our enrollment growth puts EKU at the top as the largest regional public university in Kentucky for degree-seeking students.
Like our students, EKU is growing, overcoming challenges and creating opportunities. And we’re as strong as our support. Thank you for your continued generosity and commitment to Eastern Kentucky University.
One Eastern,
David T. McFaddin, Ed.D. President, Eastern Kentucky University
PRESIDEN T 'S CIRCLE
GIVING SOCIETIES
640 DONORS
The EKU President’s Circle celebrates those dedicated alumni and friends who demonstrate their support of EKU’s mission and vision through leadership-level annual gifts of $1,000 or more.
DEAR FRIENDS,
I am proud to share this year’s Eastern Kentucky University Philanthropy Report—a testament to your generosity, our shared vision and the extraordinary impact of giving.
EKU celebrates our second consecutive, record-breaking fundraising year, with over $12 million in support committed during the 2025 fiscal year. This number tells an incredible story—one of lives lifted, opportunities created and a university community that never fails to support our students.
This shared success was the result of a coordinated effort reaching across the country. Our Directors of Development traveled to over 30 states, sitting across kitchen tables and coffee shop booths, talking with folks who care deeply about the Eastern Experience. More than 60 alumni and friends stepped up with major gifts this year—an incredible show of love for EKU.
In addition, alumni and friends from all 50 states contributed to EKU raising more than $1 million for the first time ever on Giving Day! This show of support underscores our belief that every single gift—no matter the size—is important. You have helped fund scholarships, strengthen programs and support students in every corner of campus. Whether you give $5 or $50,000, you’re helping Colonels reach their goals and find their footing in the world, and we couldn’t be more grateful.
Within these pages, you’ll read just a few of the many stories your generosity made possible this year. I hope you feel the impact of your giving in every one.
Thank you for believing in EKU. Let’s keep building on this momentum—together.
RAVINE SOCIETY
GIVING SOCIETIES
The EKU Ravine Society recognizes alumni and friends whose lifetime cumulative cash giving has reached $100,000 or more.
91 MEMBERS
Mary Beth Neiser
Vice President of University Development and Alumni Engagement
FISCAL YEAR-END DATA SUMMARY
$2,531,703
$12,038,265 TOTAL $6,659,772 $2,846,790
Planned Gift:
This type of gift is arranged in advance and often comes through a donor’s estate after they pass away. Planned gifts can include bequests, trusts or other financial arrangements that support the organization’s long-term goals.
Annual Gift:
This is a gift given regularly, usually once a year, to support the ongoing operations of an organization. These gifts are often smaller in amount but come from a broad base of donors and help cover essential, day-to-day expenses.
Major Gift:
A major gift is a larger, one-time gift that typically funds specific projects or strategic initiatives within an organization, such as scholarships.
#GIVEBIGE 2025 HIGHLIGHTS
MOST COLLEGE DONORS
College of Education and Applied Human Sciences
MOST DONORS TO AN EKU ATHLETICS TEAM
EKU Matter of Pride Football Boosters
MOST AFFINITY DONORS
EKU Athletics
MOST GREEK ORGANIZATION DONORS
Chi Omega
FUND WITH MOST DONORS
Eastern Fund
Giving Day 2025:
ONE DAY, ONE EASTERN
EKU’s alumni and friends helped break another record on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 during Eastern’s fifth Giving Day. Colonels far and wide came together in support of the Eastern Fund, scholarships, the Colonel Club and other important causes across campus. By midnight on #GiveBigE, 2,441 donors had contributed over $1 million, setting a new 24-hour philanthropic record at EKU.
The Giving Day 2025 celebration included the first-ever I EKU Party: Late Night Bingo. More than 300 students gathered in the Keen Johnson Ballroom on the night of April 22 to count down to Giving Day. Students enjoyed several rounds of bingo, with the opportunity to win big prizes like a television and mini fridge, while learning about opportunities to give back to EKU. Then, on Giving Day night, EKU alumni, friends and community members came together for a time of friendly competition and connection during the annual Giving Day Trivia at Dreaming Creek Brewery. Three teams came out on top, each securing a gift to their favorite EKU fund, courtesy of Mary Beth Neiser, vice president of University Development and Alumni Engagement.
Preparations are already in motion for next year’s Giving Day. Stay tuned and save the date for Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
The EKU Milestone Society celebrates the dedicated alumni and friends who support Eastern’s students year after year through consecutive annual gifts.
Visit go.eku.edu/Milestone-Members to see the 2024-25 Milestone Society Honor Roll of Donors.
Photos: Students enjoy playing bingo in Keen Johnson (top); some of the Giving Day Team, Foundation Board and Alumni Board members celebrate Giving Day goals met (middle); trivia participants gather at Dreaming Creek Brewery (bottom)
CLASSROOM IN A BOX:
Equipping New Teachers for
Success
During the 2024-25 academic year, many EKU alumni and friends united in support of future educators by funding boxes of essential classroom materials for Eastern’s education graduates. The inaugural Classroom in a Box campaign was established to empower and equip new teachers as they prepared to enter their first classrooms.
As school budgets continue to shrink, it’s becoming increasingly rare for first-year teachers to start their careers with fully stocked classrooms. The Classroom in a Box campaign helped to ease some of that financial burden—while also equipping future teachers with tools thoughtfully recommended by those who’ve been in their shoes. Before the campaign launched, education alumni shared their most essential classroom items through a survey, helping shape the contents of each box. Campaign donors were also invited to write a note of encouragement for each box recipient, offering words of support and inspiration to new teachers as they embarked on their first year in the classroom. This involvement from alumni and friends made every box both practical and personal.
“Across the U.S., teachers spend about $250 annually on supplies for their students,” said Dr. Elizabeth Smith, dean of the College of Education and Applied Human Sciences. “With the help of College staff, faculty, alumni and friends, our future teachers will enter their classrooms with a head start on the supplies needed to support their students. Our graduates are highly prepared and ready to teach on day one—and now they have the supplies they need that first day, too!”
During the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 Classroom in a Box campaigns, nearly 150 graduating education students received a box of classroom supplies, thanks to the generosity of Eastern’s donors. Visit go.eku.edu/give-Classroom to learn about this fall’s Classroom in a Box campaign.
Photos: College of Education and Applied Human Sciences students receive boxes during their Exit Seminar
From
Your Note From A Classroom In A Box Don
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Your Note From A Classroom In A
Congratulations on joining the education family! This will be some of the hardest work you will ever do, but it is the most rewarding! You are shaping the future one student at a time Remember to use your colleagues as resources for support and to be a support to others Together, we make a difference daily Thank you for choosing to be an educator!
“This is an honor being able to represent the construction management community of Eastern Kentucky University and walk the stage in hard hats."
- Max Drohan, '25
BUILDING SAFE FUTURES:
Hard Hat Challenge
Construction management and occupational safety students depend on hard hats throughout their internships and into their professional careers. These essential pieces of safety gear not only provide protection against potential hazards but also symbolize the responsibility required in their fields of work. In spring 2025, EKU launched the first-ever Hard Hat Challenge—a campaign created to equip students with their own hard hats at no cost to them.
EKU alumni and friends stepped up to quickly cover the cost of hard hats for all 60 graduating occupational safety and construction management students. Hard hats provided through the inaugural Hard Hat Challenge will not only serve to keep EKU graduates safe, but they were also imprinted with the EKU logo to promote the excellent EKU experience wherever they go.
“This is an honor being able to represent the construction management community of Eastern Kentucky University and walk the stage in hard hats. Your contribution gives us an extra sense of confidence to build our future. We truly appreciate your continued investment in our education,” said Max Drohan, 2025 construction management graduate.
Hard hat donors were invited to share personal notes of congratulations and encouragement—offering words of support and inspiration as each student stepped from the commencement stage into their professional journey.
Photos: EKU students on a job site (left); graduates utilizing their new hard hats at commencement (right)
EKU EVERYWHERE
You never know when you might run into a fellow Colonel. EKU is everywhere—from students traveling throughout the United States and studying abroad thanks to the support of donors, to alumni who can be found in every corner of the world, to students enrolled in EKU’s online programs from all across the country, to EKU Directors of Development (giving officers) on the road weekly with a goal of meeting alumni and friends like you.
LET'S CONNECT
We are coming to a town near you! If you would like to meet with one of our Directors of Development about planned or major gift opportunities, please email giving@eku.edu or call 859-622-GIVE.
Photos: EKU students on education abroad trips (left)
EKU HONORS: Discovering New York City
In January 2025, 34 EKU Honors students traveled to New York City for the EKU Honors Program’s annual “Cultural Trip,” for an experience that complements their classroom learning. Students enjoyed exploring the city, visiting numerous culturally and historically significant sites. They toured Ellis Island, the United Nations, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Tenement Museum, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and much more.
This Cultural Trip was a new experience for many students, one that they will carry with them through their academic careers and lives. Laynie Wollam, a junior communications disorders major from Louisville, Kentucky, said, “The New York City Cultural Trip gave me incredible opportunities to
explore a new city, experience art and history in a new way, and connect with my classmates and professors. I went on the trip for a research project and left with new outlooks and understandings of one of the most iconic cities in America.”
The generosity of EKU Honors alumni and friends through the Bonnie Gray Society Endowed Fund helps to keep the trip affordable for student travelers. EKU Honors Executive Director Dr. David Coleman explained, “On the occasion of the retirement of the founding director of EKU Honors back in 2008, several grateful honors alumni came together to establish the Bonnie Gray Society Fund, and our alumni have been giving to and building that fund ever since. The fund is dedicated explicitly to subsidizing the annual Cultural Trip. For the New York trip this past January, this fund covered nearly half the cost for each student. Such funding makes it possible for us in EKU Honors to make this an especially meaningful experience for our honors students.”
Plans are already taking shape for the 40 students from EKU Honors who have registered for the January 2026 Cultural Trip— this time to New Orleans. The 2026 trip will again be supported by generous gifts from honors alumni and friends to the Bonnie Gray Society Endowed Fund.
"I went on the trip for a research project and left with new outlooks and understandings of one of the most iconic cities in America.”
- Laynie Wollam
Photos: Images from the EKU Honors January 2025 Cultural Trip to New York City
A GLOBAL CITIZEN ROOTED IN EASTERN:
Dr. Deborah Alexander’s Lifelong Mission to Bridge Divides
To describe Dr. Deborah Alexander by a single title—diplomat, scholar, humanitarian—would never capture the full depth of her story. Her career has spanned continents and crises, peacekeeping missions and pivotal elections, always driven by a deep and unwavering belief: that we are all part of one human family.
Dr. Alexander’s passion for travel and cross-cultural connections began not in an airport or embassy, but in her kindergarten days. “I set out to walk to China, armed with a peanut butter sandwich and a carton of milk.” Though the journey ended before she reached the end of her road, the idea had already taken root. That early, imaginative walk would later become a lifelong path toward diplomacy, global service and personal transformation.
As a first-generation college student at Eastern Kentucky University, Dr. Alexander was also the first in her family to apply for a passport. She had never been on a plane and didn’t own luggage when she won the prestigious Hays-Fulbright Scholarship. The award allowed her to study abroad in India and Italy—her first time leaving the country. “It was life-changing,” she said simply. And it was just the beginning.
That formative experience launched her into a career that has since taken her to more than 45 countries. From South Africa to Kazakhstan, Russia to Indonesia, and throughout Central Asia and the Middle East, Dr. Alexander’s work has crossed disciplinary, geographic, religious, social and political divides. She has advised U.S. presidents and worked alongside brave citizens resisting tyranny. She has served in high-stakes, high-conflict zones, including years embedded with U.S. and NATO forces during multiple historic elections in Afghanistan. She’s even shared moments of quiet humanity with Mother Teresa.
Through it all, she has remained grounded in the values she learned as a young woman in Kentucky: courage in the face of challenge, compassion for all people and the conviction that justice and dignity should not be limited by borders. Her work has earned her multiple public service honors from the
U.S. Departments of State and Defense, but for Dr. Alexander, the real rewards are the people she’s met—and the truths they’ve taught her.
“I’ve seen the worst poverty, but was offered a family’s last piece of bread,” she said. “I’ve celebrated victories and wept over fallen friends around military campfires. I’ve been welcomed and befriended around the world by people of all colors and religious faiths. These experiences made me a better-informed patriot, a more loving person of faith and a more compassionate global citizen.”
That compassion now comes full circle in the form of the Dr. Deborah Alexander Endowed Fund for Education Abroad. Through this fund, EKU students will have the opportunity to experience the world beyond the classroom and to discover, as she once did, that international travel can ignite purpose and broaden perspective in life-changing ways.
“My career and so much of what I’ve enjoyed in life began, in part, with my education at Eastern Kentucky University,” she shared. “I am forever grateful to EKU for lighting a spark that still inspires me.”
But this gift isn’t just about enabling travel—it’s about cultivating empathy, expanding minds and encouraging students to recognize their place in the world. “It is my hope that these awards help students gain two important lessons: first, that we humans are more alike than different, wherever we live, and that we truly are all part of one human family; second, that people everywhere deserve a place to call home, and to be heard, respected, represented.”
Her words, like her life, reflect a remarkable balance of resilience and warmth. Whether working in the shadow of dictatorship or mentoring young leaders, Dr. Alexander has modeled a rare and enduring kind of leadership—one grounded not in power, but in kinship.
Her journey, which began with a child’s dream to reach China on foot, is now creating opportunities for future generations of EKU students to step into the world with eyes and hearts wide open. And as they do, they’ll carry with them Dr. Alexander’s most lasting legacy: the courage to cross borders, the compassion to listen and the conviction to build a more connected and caring world.
To make a gift to the Dr. Deborah Alexander Endowed Fund for Education Abroad, visit go.eku.edu/give-Alexander
Photos: Dr. Deborah Alexander (left); weekly meeting with government and tribal security leaders, South/Kandahar region Afghanistan (top); midwife trainees and candidates for the Afghan Parliament (USAID & Dept of State project) (middle); Work desk when assigned to United Kingdom troops in Southwest Afghanistan, a region notorious for its opium, gun runners, and terrorists' transit routes (bottom).
DR. GERI POLVINO: Beyond Winning
When you sit down with Dr. Geri Polvino, one theme emerges again and again: growth is forged through challenges, not despite them. It’s a conviction that carried her from the classroom to the volleyball courts of EKU to a successful second career in finance, and it’s what continues to fuel her extraordinary generosity to EKU students today.
A Rochester, New York native, Dr. Polvino first came to Eastern after being recruited by Ann Uhlir. What was intended as a graduate assistantship soon became a lifelong calling. She built EKU’s Volleyball program from the ground up, teaching physical education while pursuing her doctorate at the University of Iowa—completed at just 30 years old. She became EKU's first female conference volleyball coach and a pioneer in her field, combining a deep understanding of human performance with practical application. In 1980, she was commissioned as the first female International Volleyball Federation coach instructor, bringing coaches from around the globe to EKU for one of the organization’s most successful training courses.
But for Dr. Polvino, the purpose was never just about winning games. “One day, I sat down and decided there had to be more than just winning,” she recalled. “It was about going beyond winning—establishing confidence that women can do anything. I always wanted to position young women for success.”
Her philosophy was shaped in part by her own childhood. As a young fast-pitch softball player, Dr. Polvino once missed a fly ball that cost her team a championship. Devastated, she turned to her father for comfort. Instead, he told her: “If you can’t lose any better than that, you better stop playing sports.” That hard truth stayed with her. Failure, she says, has always driven her more than success.
When she eventually stepped away from coaching, Dr. Polvino didn’t slow down. At age 60, she reinvented herself as a financial advisor with Edward Jones, fueled by a lifelong fascination with the stock market. “Investing was always my hobby,” she explained. “But at 60, I was studying 15 hours a day to pass the Series 7. I failed the first exam by two points, passed the second by two. Every action I’ve taken is in response to a disappointment that I’ve tried to correct.” She went on
Photos: Dr. Polvino visits Alumni Coliseum (left); the EKU Volleyball team poses during their European trip (top right); Carson Ledford in Europe (bottom right)
to serve clients for two decades, training the next generation of women advisors before retiring.
Her love of challenge has always gone hand in hand with her love of giving back. Together with her parents, she established one of EKU’s earliest scholarships for volleyball athletes—born out of her frustration at the lack of opportunities for women at the time. That gift has since grown, compounding over decades into transformational support for students. Most recently, she provided a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the entire EKU Volleyball team: a summer study abroad in Europe. “Travel has been such an important part of my own life,” she said. “I wanted the team and their coaches to see the world, to step into something new. That kind of experience builds confidence you can’t get anywhere else.”
Dr. Polvino attributes her success to numerous colleagues and friends, including her best friend of 45 years, Shirley Niezgodski; both of her parents; and Ann Uhlir. Her father’s grit, her mother’s generosity and Uhlir’s relentless drive all shaped the leader she became. Now, through her philanthropy, she hopes to pass those lessons on. “Money will never make you happy,” she said. “But it gives you freedom and choice—and with that freedom, you can do things that bring you joy.”
For Dr. Polvino, joy has always come from investing in people. Whether building EKU’s Volleyball program, guiding families as a financial advisor or opening doors for students today, her story is proof that true success lies not in the wins themselves, but in what you do beyond winning.
To join Dr. Polvino in supporting the EKU Volleyball team, visit go.eku.edu/give-Volleyball.
Colonel Club 2024-25
Eastern Kentucky University Athletics enhances the collegiate experience, offering student-athletes educational and personal opportunities in the stands, on the fields of play and in the classroom. Donors to EKU Athletics help to provide these resources, allowing EKU to maintain a first-class athletics program.
“My experience in Europe was absolutely amazing! We were able to appreciate new cultures, try new foods and see oncein-a-lifetime views. My teammates and I are blessed to have these forever memories and hope to continue this trip for years to come. Thank you to all the donors, especially Dr. Geri Polvino, who made this trip possible. We are beyond thankful for your generosity and support!”
- Carson Ledford EKU Volleyball Student-Athlete
SCHOLAR SPOTLIGHT: Powered
TAYLOR PENDERGRAFT, ’26
As she prepares to graduate with a degree in elementary education, Taylor Pendergraft is looking ahead to her future in the classroom, while reflecting on the lasting impact of a teacher who changed the direction of her life.
Originally from Clark County, Kentucky, Taylor grew up hearing about Eastern Kentucky University from her mother, who was a first-generation college graduate. “Throughout my childhood, she often talked about how much she loved EKU,” Taylor recalled. “After my EKU campus tour and learning more about the education program, I knew EKU was the best school to help me become the best educator possible.”
Her Eastern experience has been marked by gratitude. Thanks to the Roxie Pearl Bullock Burdine Memorial Endowed Scholarship, she will graduate debt-free. “This scholarship has made a world of difference,” Taylor explained. “Without it, I would have had to take out loans for undergrad, and I’m not sure if I could have pursued my master’s degree.”
Her passion for teaching started back in the fifth grade, thanks to a teacher named Mr. Smith. At the time, she was struggling academically due to dyslexia. She said, “I had given up on school. If fifth grade was this hard, how would I survive middle school or high school?” One day, after she had done poorly on a quiz, Mr. Smith sat her down and asked what she wanted to be when she grew up. Her response: “I don’t know—it doesn’t matter. I’m already behind.”
His reply gave her the confidence she needed to dream about her future. “He told me he saw potential in me and that if I didn’t believe in myself, he would believe in me instead. He made me promise I would always try my best because he had faith in me. Without his support, I would have never thought of going to college or even seen myself capable of completing any college program.” After this intervention, her grades improved dramatically and she would eventually graduate at the top of her high school class.
Years later, she nominated Mr. Smith for a Teacher of the Year award and was honored when he attended her high school graduation. “I remember walking to the stage and seeing him standing in the bleachers, cheering for me after all those years,” she said.
Sadly, Mr. Smith passed away in January 2024, but his impact lives on in her daily motivation. “I know how much his support meant to me. He still fuels my passion for teaching. I hope to use my degree from EKU to teach at the school where he taught—to keep his legacy going.”
With a mission to change lives just as hers was changed, Taylor is ready to step into the classroom and carry forward a legacy made possible by a dedicated teacher and the generosity of donors who believe in the power of education.
“After my EKU campus tour and learning more about the education program, I knew EKU was the best school to help me become the best educator possible.”
- Taylor Pendergraft
“Receiving this scholarship has been a tremendous help. It has allowed me to take out fewer loans and focus more on my education without the constant stress of financial burdens. It has been an incredible blessing.”
- Collin Sanchez
COLLIN SANCHEZ, ’26
With May 2026 graduation on the horizon, Collin Sanchez is already planning to make an important difference in the workplace, not only as an employee, but as a leader who helps others to succeed in their careers.
Originally from Lexington, Alabama, Collin is pursuing a career in learning and development, focusing on creating effective onboarding programs and continuous professional development opportunities. His ultimate goal is to help companies improve employee satisfaction, retention and performance by building strong, well-rounded teams.
The Eastern experience has empowered Collin with essential resources and opportunities as he works toward his career goals. He first chose EKU in 2017, after being offered a football scholarship. “Over the years, I’ve grown to value not only the athletic opportunities, but also the strong sense of community and support that EKU provides to students,” he said. Being selected for the Mike Karpathakis Endowed MBA Scholarship has been instrumental as Collin pursues an MBA with a concentration in organizational psychology. “Receiving this scholarship has been a tremendous help. It has allowed me to take out fewer loans and focus more on my education without the constant stress of financial burdens. It has been an incredible blessing.”
Collin’s favorite part about EKU? The people. “What I love most about EKU is the sense of community. The university feels personal and supportive in a way that makes a real difference. Professors, staff and classmates know you by name and genuinely care about your success. That environment has made all the difference for me.”
With a passion for leadership and a commitment to helping others grow, Collin is on the way to building a meaningful career—a journey shaped by the resources, support and experiences gained during his time at EKU.
SHERIDAN NASH, ’26
For Sheridan Nash, pursuing a degree in nursing has been much more than lectures and exams; it has been a life-changing journey made possible by generous donors and a desire to serve others.
Hailing from London, Kentucky, Sheridan plans to graduate in May 2026 and then take the NCLEX exam. Her dream is to then make a difference for young patients and their families every day by working at the Kentucky Children’s Hospital. Sheridan’s journey toward becoming a nurse and pursuing her goals has been shaped by unique experiences, and it all started with a scholarship.
“My freshman year was fully paid for by scholarships, like the Dr. Deborah Alexander Education Abroad Scholarship. Thanks to Dr. Alexander’s scholarship, I had the opportunity to participate in a medical mission through EKU’s Study Abroad and Nursing programs. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Sheridan said.
The study-abroad trip, which combined service with hands-on learning, left a lasting impression on this future nurse. She recalls one moment in particular that highlighted the strength of the community she was serving, “Something that stood out to me is how much of a community the patients had together. There would be two or three mothers sharing a twin XL bed, and as one mother would sleep or recover, the others on the same bed would come to her aid.”
Witnessing this kind of compassion reaffirmed Sheridan’s calling to nursing and her desire to care for people during their most vulnerable moments. She credits EKU not only with providing these kinds of meaningful opportunities, but also with surrounding her with people who have helped her grow. Sheridan said, “I’d say my favorite thing about EKU is all of the incredible people I’ve met over the years--amazing professors, advisors and peers. EKU will forever hold a special place in my heart and memories.”
Sheridan’s experience is a reminder of the ripple effect of donor support. Scholarships helped to make her education possible, opened the door to international service and reinforced a career rooted in compassion and care.
As she prepares to graduate and step into the nursing field, Sheridan carries with her a deep gratitude for those who helped her reach this point. She reflects, “EKU was the School of Opportunity for me. And thanks to the support of Dr. Deborah Alexander and other donors, I’ve been able to take full advantage of every opportunity that’s come my way.”
JOHN AND CARRIE LEWIS: A
Gift Rooted in Connection, Lifted by Opportunity
John and Carrie Lewis know that connection has the power to transform lives. It’s what brought them together, guided their careers and ultimately inspired their recent gift to EKU in support of the nationally ranked aviation program.
Their story began in the trombone section of the University of Kentucky marching band. “We spent hours practicing, performing and getting to know each other,” Carrie remembers. “It was community-building at its core.”
That theme—building community—has never left them and is ultimately what led to John’s career as a pharmacist. Growing up in Carter County, Kentucky, he viewed the local pharmacy as the heart of town—a place with snacks, stories and support. “It wasn’t just a corner drugstore,” he says. “It was where people came to connect, to feel seen.” He’s now served patients for over 20 years, watching them—and himself—grow older together.
Carrie, a former librarian turned development professional, has spent the past nine years working in EKU’s Office of Development and Alumni Engagement. Over time, she witnessed firsthand the difference philanthropy can make.
“Seeing donors pour their hearts into helping students—it’s contagious,” she said. “And eventually, John and I realized we didn’t want to just watch that happen. We wanted to be part of it.”
The Lewises chose to create their own scholarship that supports EKU’s Aviation program, because the industry runs deep in both their families. Carrie’s father, an Air Force veteran, worked on planes during Vietnam and later in the Air Force Reserve. John’s grandfather served as a Marine working as a WWII aircraft mechanic in California, and his
great-uncle served in the Air Force when he was killed in combat over England. Another uncle worked as an air traffic controller. “Aviation has always touched my life,” John said. “It felt right to honor that legacy in a meaningful way.”
Their gift will help ease the financial burden for students entering a high-cost but high-demand field. As former students who took out loans themselves, they understand how hard it can be to chase a dream with debt in the way. “Affording college has always been a challenge,” Carrie said. “If this scholarship can help one student pursue their passion with less financial strain, then we’ve succeeded.”
What they hope students take away isn’t just financial support— it’s encouragement. “Even if we don’t know you personally, we believe in your success,” they said. “We hope this helps you soar a little higher.”
Their advice to others? You don’t have to be wealthy to give. “We’re not millionaires,” Carrie noted. “But EKU makes it easy to give over a period of time. It’s not just about the dollar amount— it’s about making a real, active investment in someone’s future.”
Though neither John nor Carrie attended Eastern as students, they have fully embodied the mantra that EKU is the School of Opportunity. Their unwavering passion for community has forged the ultimate connection—a lasting legacy that empowers others and uplifts generations to come.
You can join John and Carrie in their support of aviation students with a gift to the John H. and Carrie A. Lewis Aviation Scholarship. Visit go.eku.edu/give-Lewis to make your gift online.
“If this scholarship can help one student pursue their passion with less financial strain, then we’ve succeeded.”
- Carrie Lewis
Photo: John and Carrie on the Campus Beautiful
The Mike Karpathakis Endowed MBA Scholarship A FAMILY’S BOUNDLESS LOVE:
Mike Karpathakis began his EKU journey pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with encouragement from his then employer’s (Ajax Magnethermic Corporation) generous tuition reimbursement program. In 1998, while working full-time as an electrical engineer, Mike earned an MBA degree from Eastern’s outstanding College of Business with a 3.98 GPA. Mike fondly remembered collaborating alongside fellow MBA classmate, now Dr. James Kirby Easterling.
Mike, a native of Athens, Greece, arrived in the United States at age 17 to attend the American Language Academy at Baldwin Wallace University in Berea, Ohio. In 1988, he earned both his Bachelor of Science degree in physics at Baldwin Wallace University and a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from Case Western Reserve University. In 1996, Mike became a proud American citizen.
Mike served as an electrical engineer for 12 years at Ajax Magnethermic Corporation in Richmond, Kentucky, and 14 years as an electrical engineering manager at Lexmark International, Inc., in Lexington, Kentucky. His work travel took him everywhere from France, Mexico, Japan, Hong Kong, China and the Philippines to every state in the continental United States.
The Karpathakis family was active in the Richmond and EKU communities for more than 30 years. They became eternal Colonels when their only child, daughter Erin, graduated from Model Laboratory School in 2016 and earned her Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree in risk management and insurance at Eastern in 2020. Wife and mother, Melinda, practiced law
in Richmond, Kentucky, for 23 years before serving as the director of gift and estate planning at Eastern for seven years and as adjunct faculty in the EKU paralegal program for nine years.
In October 2016, at age 51, Mike was diagnosed with posterior cortical atrophy (PCA), a rare visual variant of early-onset Alzheimer’s. As a result, he fought a long and brutal seven-year battle with this degenerative disease and sadly passed away in January 2024, at age 58.
Since all three members of Mike’s immediate family have close connections and passion for the mission of EKU, in January 2024, Melinda and Erin worked with friend and EKU Director of Development, Marie Fore, to establish the Mike Karpathakis Endowed MBA Scholarship Fund. The scholarship would be the first graduate student endowed scholarship at Eastern—to honor Mike’s memory and ease some of the financial burden for graduate students pursuing their MBA degree. Mike was grateful to have been the recipient of tuition assistance from his employer, and Erin, too, is grateful to have been an EKU scholarship recipient. In addition, during the early stages of his disease, Mike benefited from participation with graduate students in EKU’s Occupational Therapy Memory Café and in activities they sponsored at his memory care facility.
The Karpathakis family has a boundless love for Eastern students, and they desire to see them continue to grow and prosper.
To make a gift in support of the Mike Karpathakis Endowed MBA Scholarship, please visit go.eku.edu/give-Karpathakis.
Photos: Mike, Melinda and Erin celebrating EKU Homecoming in 2017 (left); Mike during the May 1998 EKU commencement (right)
A LEGACY OF LOVE:
The Hilda Carol Asher Scholarship Endowed Fund
When Curtis Asher recalls his late wife, Hilda Carol Baker Asher, his words are filled with both tenderness and reverence. “She was the sweetest little soul and spirit,” he shared. “Her joy came from doing ‘a little something for someone else.’ If she thought she had helped someone, she was tickled to death.”
Hilda, who passed away on March 9, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer, built her life on faith, family and service. Though humble by nature, her legacy is now memorialized through the Hilda Carol Asher Scholarship Endowed Fund, established by Curtis to honor her memory and provide opportunity for students from their shared home of Leslie County, Kentucky.
The couple’s story began in Hyden, Kentucky. Curtis remembers spotting Hilda for the first time in the hallway of the vocational school, immediately struck by her beauty. Though it took persistence—and, he believes, divine guidance—Curtis eventually won her heart. The two married in October 1975 and built a life defined by devotion to one another and their three sons.
Curtis, a first-generation college student, graduated from Eastern Kentucky University in 1974. His time at EKU opened doors that shaped his professional career, first in accounting and financial management, and later in business negotiations that tied back to Madison County and the university community. “Eastern changed my life,” Curtis said. “If I had not decided to come, my life would have been totally different.”
Meanwhile, Hilda chose a different path, but one that mattered just as much. She poured her heart into being a wife and mom. Sharp as a tack, she was one of the top students in her vocational classes, especially in English. She became the one her boys always turned to when papers needed editing or encouragement was in short supply. Every milestone her sons reached—degrees
from Eastern, University of Kentucky, University of Rochester, Columbia University—was a victory she claimed with joy. This same celebration extended to her daughter-in-law, nieces, nephew, sisters and especially her beloved grandchildren. Each success, Curtis emphasized, was a shared triumph for Hilda. “She was uplifted by everyone’s success,” he recalled.
The Ashers’ life together was marked by simple joys—family dinners, beach vacations, church involvement and quiet moments of togetherness. Even during her illness, Hilda found joy in travel and beauty. Curtis recalls one of their final adventures together, a special trip to Mount Mitchell in North Carolina: “She told me it was one of the best trips we’d ever taken. It was just beautiful.” Curtis believes that the awe-inspiring beauty of those mountains helped Hilda find peace with her battle and comfort in God's loving embrace.
Now, through this scholarship, Curtis hopes to give students from Leslie County the same kind of opportunity that once opened doors for him—and that Hilda cheered on at every step. “I’d tell them they can make it. I’m proof. If I could do it, they can too,” Curtis said.
For Curtis, the gift is more than a scholarship. It’s a way of keeping Hilda’s giving heart alive, reminding every student it touches that they’re just as capable, just as worthy and just as loved. “It’s hard to imagine going back to live in Hyden without Hilda,” Curtis said. “But through this scholarship, her spirit will always be there— helping somebody else, just like she always did.”
Join Curtis in his support of Eastern’s students through a gift to the Hilda Carol Asher Scholarship Endowed Fund at go.eku.edu/give-Asher
"Through this scholarship, her spirit will always be there—helping somebody else, just like she always did.”
- Curtis Asher
Photo: Curtis holding a favorite photo of Hilda
BRING PEOPLE WITH YOU:
The Life, Legacy and Love Behind the Collins Pigman Endowed Scholarship
Photos: Heather in her office (left); Coy teaching in the late 1960s (top); Gladys teaching in the 1970s (bottom)
“Success isn’t measured by who you leave behind—it’s about how many people you bring with you.” It’s a sentiment Coy and Gladys (Collins) Pigman lived out every day and one their daughter, Heather, still hears echoing in her heart. That phrase, repeated often in their home, now endures through the Collins Pigman Endowed Scholarship at Eastern Kentucky University—a tribute to a couple who believed in helping others, especially those in the EKU service region.
Born in Whitesburg, Kentucky, Coy grew up in the hills of Eastern Kentucky with humble beginnings. His father left school in the third grade to work in the coal mines, and Coy knew early on what it meant to go without. There were nights when dinner wasn’t guaranteed. But values were never in short supply. “Do what’s right, not what’s easy,” was Coy’s guiding principle—advice he gave often, usually with the sort of heartfelt deliberation that meant you better sit down to hear it.
But that guiding moral compass isn’t just something Coy said—he lived it every day starting at a very early age. When he was nine years old, a neighborhood child who could not swim fell into the North Fork of the Kentucky River. Coy, who couldn’t swim either, jumped in and pulled the boy to safety. He never spoke of the moment, but decades later, Heather discovered the story online, buried in a newspaper archive. That act of courage, quiet and instinctive, came to define the kind of man he was—someone who would never stand by and watch someone else struggle without extending a helping hand.
EKU was Coy’s springboard to a different life. With help from a Pell Grant, a tireless work ethic and the support of his sister who put her own dreams on hold to help him, Coy earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from EKU. He even wore a Colonel football jersey; but as Heather put it, he was a much better coach than player. Coaching, teaching and mentoring were where his heart lived. And it was at EKU, through an unlikely favor—delivering a lamp to a dorm room—that he met the love of his life, Gladys Collins. Gladys, a fellow Letcher Countian and EKU Colonel, would later become a passionate English teacher and Coy’s partner in life and purpose.
Their shared commitment to education shaped the life and legacy they built together. Coy encouraged and guided all of his students to prepare for later careers, whether that meant obtaining their diplomas or learning a trade. Gladys also challenged her students with assignments that required them to look beyond words on a page or something they heard on TV and instead to think critically
"Success isn't measured by who you leave behind—it's about how many people you bring with you."
- Coy and Gladys Pigman
about the meaning and consequences of words and ideas. These assignments always came with a lesson, typically one centered around helping students find their own core values and purpose in order to reach their goals. Education wasn’t just a job in their household; it was a calling. Success meant nothing if it didn’t include as many of their students as possible.
That belief is what drove Coy, after Gladys passed away, to establish the Collins Pigman Endowed Scholarship. Inspired by Heather’s decision to create a scholarship to honor her parents at her alma mater, University of Central Florida (UCF), Coy quietly chose to fund one at EKU specifically for students from Letcher County—his hometown. His reasoning? A scholarship means one less job, one more opportunity and a better chance to experience the full richness of college life for a student from the mountains, something he never got to fully enjoy because of the financial challenges he faced.
Coy passed away in May 2023 after a long battle with cancer. Even during hospice care, he was known to offer wisdom and guidance to those around him—never stopping his role as helper, listener and coach. In keeping with his wishes for "nothing big," there was no traditional service after his passing. But his legacy is deeply felt. In addition to contributions during his life, half of his estate went to supporting scholarships at EKU and the rest to the scholarship his daughter established.
The Collins Pigman Endowed Scholarship is more than financial assistance. It’s a reminder of a life built on action, integrity and quiet courage. For every student who benefits, Heather hopes they carry forward her parents’ enduring lesson: “Success isn’t measured by who you leave behind—it’s how many people you bring with you that counts.”
You can help to bridge a financial gap for students with your gift to the Collins Pigman Endowed Scholarship at go.eku.edu/give-CollinsPigman.
PHILANTHROPY FOR EVERY SEASON OF LIFE:
Jeffery Humble’s Story
When Jeffery Humble looks back on his journey, it always comes back to Kentucky. Raised in rural Central Kentucky, his roots run deep in the communities that shaped him, and those roots continue to guide every choice he makes. “My family, giving back and working to make Kentucky a place where everyone has the chance to succeed—that’s what matters most,” Jeffery reflects.
It was at Eastern Kentucky University where those values were sharpened and set into motion. EKU was more than a campus to him; it was a proving ground. There, he learned resilience, discovered his own voice and gained the skills that would carry him into a successful career in insurance and healthcare. His
work has centered on helping people plan for their futures and mentoring others along the way—natural extensions of what he first learned at Eastern.
“EKU opened doors I never imagined possible,” Jeffery said. “It gave me the confidence to build relationships, foster trust and invest in people’s potential. That experience continues to shape me today.”
The call to give back to the university that gave him so much came early in his alumni journey. In 2016, Jeffery was honored with the Young Alumni Award. That recognition became a defining moment. “I knew then it was my turn to take the torch,” he recalled. “I wanted
LEGACY SOCIETY GIVING SOCIETIES
The EKU Legacy Society recognizes alumni and friends who have provided for EKU in their estate plans. These charitable contributions greatly benefit Eastern while often offering substantial tax advantages to the donors. The most common form of an estate or “planned” gift is a will bequest in which a donor names EKU as beneficiary of a specific dollar amount or percentage of an estate. Other planned gift options include charitable gift annuities, charitable remainder trusts and gifts of life insurance. A number of unique variations are possible with these plans, many of which provide donors with lifetime payments.
332 MEMBERS
to use my skills and resources to not only give back to EKU, but to step into a leadership role as a philanthropic supporter.”
Many assume that philanthropy—and especially planned giving—is something reserved for later in life. But Jeffery is proving that generosity is not about age, but about impact. Recently, he established a planned gift to EKU, ensuring that students from Appalachia and rural Kentucky will have greater access to opportunities that might otherwise feel out of reach.
“I’ve met so many young people from rural Kentucky with extraordinary talent who just needed someone to believe in them,” Jeffery says. “I was fortunate to have that encouragement. My gift is about paying that forward—investing in the next generation so they can step into their future with confidence and purpose.”
His focus on Appalachia and rural Kentucky is personal. He knows the quiet doubts that can weigh on students who wonder if they belong in higher education. To them, he has a message: “You belong here, even if you’ve ever felt like you didn’t have a voice. Your story
matters, your perspective matters. There is strength in your journey, and there is power in sharing it.”
Jeffery’s planned gift isn’t just about what comes later—it’s about what he can set into motion now. It’s a living commitment, designed to ripple forward in ways that extend far beyond his own lifetime.
“EKU is worth supporting because it lifts up students who often feel overlooked,” he says. “When you invest in EKU, you’re not just funding an education—you’re giving someone the courage to change their community for the better.”
Through his example, Jeffery Humble is reminding us that philanthropy has no timeline. It is not reserved for someday. It begins with a choice to act, to invest and to believe in the potential of others—right here, right now.
Visit go.eku.edu/give-Humble to make an online contribution toward the Jeffery Humble Endowed Scholarship.
Photo: Jeffery visits EKU
A LIFE OF TENACITY AND GIVING:
Jeri Isbell Named EKU’s 2025 Philanthropist of the Year
Photo: Jeri receiving the EKU Philanthropist of the Year Award during the 2025 Celebration of Philanthropy
Somewhere in the halls of Lexington Catholic High School, a teenage girl once sat in a math class that changed the trajectory of her life. Her teacher, Mrs. Sally Stevens, nudged her forward, insisting she could be both a girl and good at math—an all too uncommon idea for the time. For Jeri Isbell, that affirmation unlocked a confidence that would carry her to Eastern Kentucky University, into a global corporate career and now, into a legacy of philanthropy that is transforming opportunities for future Colonels.
On September 25, 2025, Eastern Kentucky University honored Jeri as its Philanthropist of the Year at the annual Celebration of Philanthropy. Though Jeri has given significantly to the university in the past and served as chair of EKU’s Foundation Board, this year, she committed over a half-million dollars in gifts supporting EKU's College of Business. However, the recognition is not only a recognition of her remarkable generosity, but also of the way she has lived: with intention, gratitude and a fierce determination to lift others as she climbs.
“Eastern was a fantastic choice for me,” she recalled. “I got my accounting degree, joined a sorority and made lifelong friends. My Eastern education is the foundational basis for my career.”
That foundation was solid enough to support an extraordinary 34year career at IBM and Lexmark, where she grew from entry-level financial analyst to U.S. controller, division CFO and eventually chief human resources officer. Along the way, her work carried her across the world and that global experience left a lasting mark.
“It was very important to me to meet people where they live and work,” she said. “Traveling and working alongside others in their communities expanded my empathy and awareness. Those experiences shaped me as a leader and as a person.”
That belief in the power of global connection inspired her most recent gift to EKU. The Isbell Global Scholars Program will provide students with study abroad and professional development opportunities designed to stretch their understanding of the world and prepare them for leadership roles. “I hope it gives our students an edge—new perspectives, awareness, empathy—that will set them apart in their careers,” she says.
But for Isbell, giving is not only about preparing students for professional success. It is about gratitude and about paying forward the encouragement and opportunities she herself received. “None of us achieve what we achieve in our lives by ourselves,” she reflects. “I’ve been mentored and helped throughout my life. Giving back is my way of thanking those who came before me and ensuring the next generation has even greater opportunities.”
"Giving back is my way of thanking those who came before me and ensuring the next generation has even greater opportunities.”
- Jeri Isbell
Her own journey was filled with moments of encouragement that fueled her determination. At Lexmark, she helped build the company from its earliest days, designing systems, hiring teams and navigating the challenges of becoming a standalone public company. Later, as chief human resources officer, she championed initiatives that left a lasting impact—expanding diversity efforts, strengthening succession planning, implementing family-friendly policies and even opening a state-of-the-art daycare center for employees’ children and grandchildren.
For Jeri, the greatest joy often came from making a difference quietly, without recognition. “The best feeling,” she said with a smile, “is doing something positive for someone, and they never know it’s me. It just makes me feel good inside.”
Throughout her career, she has also been a champion for women, intentionally mentoring and opening doors for the next generation of female leaders. It is a calling she hopes to continue well into retirement. “I want to help young women see their potential, to know they can step into opportunities beyond what they ever imagined,” she said.
Today, as she stands at the height of professional accomplishment and personal generosity, Jeri looks back with gratitude and forward with hope. “My life has been rich and rewarding and has exceeded what I hoped for myself,” she reflects. “My wish is that each Isbell Global Scholar will have career opportunities that go beyond their hopes—and that they, too, will one day find a way to give back to Eastern Kentucky University.”
From that Lexington math classroom to EKU’s campus, from boardrooms around the globe to the lives of students who will follow, Jeri Isbell has lived with purpose, tenacity, resilience and generosity. Her story is a reminder that success is never ours alone—and that the truest measure of achievement lies in how we use it to help others rise.
You can contribute online to join Jeri’s commitment to helping Global Scholars at go.eku.edu/give-Isbell.
KEEN JOHNSON SOCIETY
2025 Inductees
CHARLES AND DR. MELBA HAY
Charles and Dr. Melba Hay have always believed that education is the cornerstone of liberty and democracy—and they’ve lived that belief every day. Charles, EKU’s first university archivist, built EKU Special Collections and Archives with care and pride, finding joy in working alongside students, faculty and staff. Melba, a historian, has spent her career relying on the very kind of archives and libraries that shaped both their lives. With no children of their own, they decided long ago that their legacy should benefit future generations of scholars. By making EKU the sole beneficiary of their estate, the Hays are ensuring that EKU Special Collections and Archives continues to flourish—supporting students, expanding opportunities and preserving history for years to come.
ERNEST D. MOORE (1936-2025)
Ernest “Ernie” Moore’s journey to EKU began in an unlikely place—a foxhole in Korea, where a fellow soldier from Kentucky encouraged him to enroll at Eastern after their U.S. Army service. Ernie did just that, earning his degree in accounting and meeting his future wife, JoAnne Blair (19382019), along the way. Their marriage in Richmond, Kentucky, marked the start of a life shaped by opportunity, education and service. His love of golf and his dedication to students, especially first-generation, inspired him to help launch EKU’s Professional Golf Management program, one of only sixteen in the nation. Through scholarships and program support, Ernie’s generosity opens doors for students to build bright, fulfilling futures.
JOE DAVID MARTIN
For Joe David Martin, giving back is both a personal tribute and a lifelong calling. His late wife, Alice Faye Carter Martin—an EKU alumna, teacher and guidance counselor—was remembered for her quiet strength and deep care for her students. After her passing, Joe David honored her memory by establishing scholarships that carry her passion for education forward, supporting students from Tates Creek High School as well as Knott and Floyd counties, where the Martins grew up. An EKU graduate himself and a lifelong educator, Joe David credits Eastern with giving him and Alice a strong foundation and a sense of home. Guided by the Eagle Scout motto, “Do A Good Turn Daily,” he has devoted his life to helping others. Through his philanthropy, Alice’s legacy and his own commitment to service will uplift generations of Colonels to come.
Ernest and his wife, JoAnne
DR. GERI POLVINO
Dr. Geri Polvino’s story is one of grit, growth and giving. Recruited from Rochester, New York, she came to EKU to teach and stayed to build Eastern’s first conference volleyball program from the ground up. Her philosophy—growth comes through challenges—shaped generations of student-athletes. “One day I decided there had to be more than just winning,” she recalled. “It was about building confidence that women can do anything.” Her personal achievements have always fueled her philanthropy: she and her parents established one of EKU’s earliest scholarships for volleyball athletes. For Dr. Polvino, philanthropy is about creating opportunities that empower others. Her legacy proves that the greatest victories are found beyond winning.
DR. CAROLYN ANTONIDES WILLIAMS
Dr. Frank Canon Williams (1936-2021) devoted 40 years to EKU as a beloved professor of philosophy and a driving force behind the creation of the EKU Honors program. His wife, Dr. Carolyn Antonides Williams, is a nationally renowned healthcare leader and former dean of the University of Kentucky’s College of Nursing, whose career has influenced healthcare and education around the world. Together, Frank and Carolyn have lived lives of service—to their students, their professions and even to the many animals they have lovingly rescued. Their gift to EKU Honors is a reflection of Frank’s passion for cultivating curiosity, connecting ideas and creating transformational opportunities for students. Through this fund, Carolyn hopes to honor Frank’s memory by inspiring future generations of Honors scholars to expand their horizons and make a difference in their communities.
Named after the American Georgian style building in the center of campus, the Keen Johnson Society is the most prestigious of the Eastern Kentucky University giving societies. President Donovan wanted to build a structure that would “awe and impress” those who came to visit. The Keen Johnson Building serves as a reminder of the outstanding work that can be done at Eastern. The Keen Johnson Society recognizes donors who have given $1,000,000 or more in their lifetime or with their planned gift and have become invaluable members of our Colonel family.
9 MEMBERS GIVING SOCIETIES KEENJOHN S ON SOCIETY
EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION BOARD
David McFaddin, ’99 ’15
University President Ex Officio Member
Mary Beth Neiser Vice President for Development and Alumni Engagement; Executive Director of EKU Foundation
Bill Reddick, ’87 Board Chair
L. Martin Cobb, ’96 Vice Chair Chair, Development Committee
Deborah Alexander, ’77
Secretary
Brian Mullins, ’00 ’04
Treasurer
Brian Brode, ’83 Chair, Finance & Audit Committee
Melanie Hudson, ’93 Chair, Nominating & Governance Committee
Yousuf Ahmad, ’94
Allison Allgier, ’92
International Alumni Board Representative Ex Officio Member
Sue Dane, ’75
Michael Eaves, ’75 Board of Regents Representative Ex Officio Member
Suzanne Fawbush, ’83
Charley Gillispie, ’74
Karen Harbin, ’82
Tom Larance, ’91
Alvin “Horse” Miller, ’81
Barry Poynter, ’92
Lucy Riffle, ’77
BJ Santiago, ’88
Rose Skepple, ’87
John Wade
Don Whitaker, ’62
Kevin Willis, ’87
Eastern Kentucky University is an Equal Opportunity employer and educational institution and does not discriminate on the basis of age (40 and over), race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, ethnicity, disability, national origin, veteran status, and/or genetic information in the admission to, or participation in, any educational program or activity (e.g., athletics, academics and housing) which it conducts, or in any employment policy or practice.
Eastern Kentucky University Foundation
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
Starting on February 2, 2026, you can visit go.eku.edu/Statement25 to view the statement of financial position as of June 30, 2025.
