Honoring President Larry L. Cockrum 2025

A Legacy of Commitment Honoring the Leadership & Dedication

Dr. Larry L. Cockrum

Tenth President of University of the Cumberlands

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on a pedestal (This publication may come as a complete surprise to him. Our sincerest apologies, Dr. Cockrum).

umberlands’ mission is deeply rooted in a commitment to the students and region it serves. When it comes to Dr. Larry L. Cockrum, the tenth President of University of the Cumberlands, what you see is truly what you get, and his commitment is evident. There’s no facade—just a man deeply dedicated to the well-being of students, faculty, and staff, with an unrelenting devotion to the university’s mission of providing affordable, high-quality education to students from all backgrounds.

Timeline of Service v 2005-2007: Director of Assessment, Assistant to the President v 2007-2014: Vice President for Academic Affairs

Dr. Cockrum leads through everyday actions, big and small.

Step into his office, and you might find him poring over enrollment data, manually calculating trends to better understand progress and areas of concern. New employees at Cumberlands are often surprised—at first—when Dr. Cockrum walks into their office, pulls up a chair, and asks for direct insight on an issue to make the best possible decision.

But for those who know his leadership style, this level of personal involvement is nothing out of the ordinary.

v 2015-2025: University President With over more than two decades at the helm, including a decade as President, Dr. Cockrum has been instrumental in launching innovative online degree programs, introducing new career-driven academic offerings, acquiring and enhancing state-of-the-art facilities, surpassing record enrollment numbers, reducing long-term debt, increasing scholarship and endowment funds, and introducing the groundbreaking Cumberlands Commitment initiative, which has made a Cumberlands’ education one of the most affordable in the nation.

These scenarios might seem unusual for some, but for the Cumberlands community, they reflect the standard of commitment they’ve come to expect from Dr. Cockrum.

“As I reflect on UC’s remarkable accomplishments and progress, I feel a deep sense of pride and gratitude,” said President Cockrum. “Of all that we have accomplished, I am most proud of the way we have remained focused on our students, committed to providing a quality education at an affordable price and driven to create academic programs matching workforce demands so our students leave Cumberlands with job opportunities in hand.”

His presidency has been nothing short of transformative— yet he rarely accepts credit. Dr. Cockrum always credits the university’s faculty, staff, and students for those successes. He also never misses an opportunity to thank his wife of more than fifty years, Dixie, often jokingly expressing appreciation for her “putting up with” him. Together, they’ve built a family that includes four children—Jason, Nicholas, Lindsey, and Cassie—and three grandchildren: Cora, Indie, and Louie.

Dr. Cockrum's unrelenting focus on student experience and success is a defining hallmark of his historic presidency – a legacy this publication will explore in depth. Commitment is the underlying theme here, indefinitely shaping everything he has touched.

As Dr. Cockrum prepares to transition to the role of President Emeritus in the fall of 2025, he will leave behind a legacy rooted in transparency, vision, and above all, commitment.

His actions will impact this university for decades to come, and even so, he has no desire to be placed

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20 YEARS OF

COMMITMENT University of the Cumberlands has experienced remarkable growth and innovation under the leadership of Dr. Larry L. Cockrum. His tenure is marked by impressive academic, financial, and infrastructure milestones highlighted in the timeline below.

2005 v

Dr. Cockrum begins career as the Director of Assessment, Assistant to the President.

2006 v

Master of Arts in Education and Master of Arts in Teaching are the first two graduate programs—offered online.

2007 v

Dr. Cockrum named Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dean of the University.

2008 2010 2012

v Cumberlands signs a memorandum of understanding with The University Center of the Mountains and Hazard Community and Technical College to provide an online Master's degree in Education for students who live in the Kentucky River region of Southeastern Kentucky.

v Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership is the first Doctoral program—offered online.

v School of Lifelong Learning (online undergraduate) launched in the fall semester with 40 students, offering four bachelor's programs: business, criminal justice, human services, and psychology. Now, UC Online Undergraduate has surpassed 5,000 students, and offers multiple degree options in over 30 programs.

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2013

2014

v Cumberlands and Somerset Community College enter into an articulation agreement, providing business students at SCC, and other Kentucky Community & Technical College Systems colleges across the state, a pathway to complete a bachelor's degree in business administration.

v Dr. Larry L. Cockrum named President-Elect and Chief Operating Officer. v E. Taylor House acquired, now home of the Campus Ministries program.

2015 v

Dr. Larry L. Cockrum officially named the tenth president of University of the Cumberlands.

v Ward Correll Health and Wellness Center addition to the Boswell Campus Center is completed. v The opening of University of the Cumberlands, Northern Kentucky Campus. v Launches Executive programs in the summer, on the main campus, with two programs; master of business administration and master of science in information security systems. Have since expanded the program and offers residency classes at both the Main and Northern Kentucky campuses, as well as 5 locations; Washington, Virginia, Texas, Michigan, and California.

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2016 v 2017

First season of Men's and Women's Lacrosse.

v Chick-fil-A opens on campus in the Boswell Campus Center. v Cumberlands receives its first international accreditation: being recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. v Programs in the Hutton School of Business granted first-time accreditation from the Board of Commissioners of the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). v Cumberlands purchases Faulkner and Taylor Furniture Store building in downtown Williamsburg. In 2020, Marketplace on Main and 3rd opened as a combination commercial and residential space.

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2018

v Cumberlands Commitment is announced in the fall, with the first phase lowering on-campus undergraduate tuition by 57%, beginning fall 2019. v Patriots Dance Team and Esports become varsity sports. v Total enrollment surpasses 10,000 students in over 50 programs online and on-campus. v In an agreement at the annual meeting, Cumberlands formally cut ties with the Kentucky Baptist Convention.

Cumberlands has since built its own trustee board.

"Cumberlands has many distinguished alumni and friends who could provide expertise and resources for the university. We are grateful to the KBC for our many years of shared ministry and for the generous support of the Kentucky Baptists." - Dr. Larry L. Cockrum v Receives $5 million grant from the Grover Hermann Foundation to begin renovations and turn the university's library into a 21st Century Learning Center. v Terry and Marion Forcht make $1 million gift, to help establish the Terry & Marion Forcht School of Nursing. v The university and Williamsburg Police Department sign agreement allowing officers to be stationed on Cumberlands' campus to act as school resource officers.

2019

v Second phase of the Cumberlands Commitment announced, offering a free textbook program to on-campus undergraduate students. v First Cumberlands Give Day successfully raises $76,162. To date $1.79 million has been raised on Give Day. v The Army ROTC program is reinstated. They have since commissioned 12 service men and women. v Adams Hall and Templeton Hall opens to students as residential spaces. v The Randy Vernon Basketball Court is dedicated to retired Cumberlands basketball coach, Randy Vernon. v Pete's Eats restaurant opens in the Adams Center. v State-of-the-art laboratory equipment for the Physician Assistant program is made possible by the Eaton and Bizzack families, as well as other friends of the university.

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2020

v Patriot Park is remodeled to include an outdoor physical fitness space, table seating, bench swings and a hammock area. v Department of Diversity and Multiculturalism is established.

"Our mission clearly states that Cumberlands exists to provide a quality, affordable education to students from all backgrounds. As we strive to live out this mission, I believe it is more important than ever that we work to create an environment that is welcoming and empowering to our growing and diverse student population at UC that values individuals, celebrates differences, and helps find common ground among diverse populations." ~Dr. Larry L. Cockrum v All classes are successfully and temporarily moved to virtual learning in the spring semester due to the COVID-19 shut down.

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2021

v Cumberlands receives nearly $6 million in emergency COVID-19 relief funding, with every dollar redirected to the undergraduate student body.

"Every decision we make is made with our students in mind. During this time of prolonged national emergency, supporting our students is crucial. We care for our students, we want them here, and we want them to be able to focus on their education and extracurricular opportunities." ~Dr. Larry L. Cockrum v Rollins Family Learning Center and Grover M. Herman Library reopens after a $7.3 million dollar reconstruction project, which began in 2020.

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2022

v Viaduct goes through complete reconstruction and opens for use.

v Cumberlands named the first university in Kentucky to offer EPSB-approved Option 9 programming to aspiring Kentucky educators. v Renovations to the T.J. Roberts Dining Hall, Boswell Campus Center, Doyle Buhl Stadium, and wrestling facility are completed.

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2023

v $25 million donation made toward the Cumberlands Commitment Endowed Scholarship Fund v Third phase of the Cumberlands Commitment announced: The One Price Promise implements a tuition model that includes everything needed for student success while eliminating all fees and hidden costs, for all students. v The Connie D. Hauser School of Physical Therapy is established in partnership with PT Pros. v Cumberlands embarks on the most ambitious fundraising campaign in university history, raising $200 million to support the Cumberlands Commitment Endowed Scholarship Fund. v Collaboration with IBM for STEM-related careers is established. v Cumberlands is ranked the top institution in Kentucky for empowering students in social mobility for the second consecutive year.

"From our founding, Cumberlands has remained focused on providing young people with an education and training that prepares them for life after college. Part of our mission is to make college more affordable. When a student graduates, it is our hope that they have the knowledge and training to earn a job that keeps them financially stable and that they don't have to worry about a mountain of student loan debt." ~Dr. Larry L. Cockrum

2024 2025

v Fourth phase of the Cumberlands Commitment is announced, offering on-campus undergraduate students a combination of new scholarships and forgivable, zero-interest loans. Students now pay no more than $4k a year.

v University of the Cumberlands and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources enter into a Wildlife Management Area agreement to provide public access for hunting, fishing, and related outdoor recreation on 10,273 acres of university-owned land in Whitley and McCreary counties. v Mountain Outreach program finishes the 156th house for the local community.

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Excellence in Leadership

Dr. Cockrum established the Excellence in Leadership series in 2006 in partnership with the Forcht Group of Kentucky Center for Excellence in Leadership. The annual event brings nationally recognized speakers to campus to share stories, insights, and experiences with students and the broader community.

The series features world-class speakers and programs that inspire leadership, character, and good citizenship. The goal is to help students better understand leadership and how to use their skills, talents, and influence to make a positive impact on the world.

While primarily geared toward undergraduate students, the event also draws community members, business professionals, and government leaders.

Now a signature event at Cumberlands, the Excellence in Leadership Series continues to foster a culture of growth, service, and lifelong learning.

Notable past speakers include: Ms. Laila Ali World-class athlete, fitness & wellness expert, and cooking enthusiast who spoke of having a positive attitude no matter how hard you're knocked down.

Mr. Terry Bradshaw Hall of Fame quarterback and broadcaster who blended humor and heart in his message on overcoming obstacles and staying grounded.

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Mr. Drew Brees Super Bowl MVP and philanthropist who spoke on leadership, teamwork, and purpose.

Ms. Caitlin Clark Record-setting WNBA athlete who inspired the audience with her message on presence, perseverance, and giving back.

Mr. Stephen Covey Renowned author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, who spoke about principle-centered leadership and personal development.

Mr. Jon Dorenbos Former NFL player and magician who shared his story of resilience, optimism, and finding joy after adversity.

Mr. Shaquille O'Neal NBA legend and entrepreneur who emphasized the value of education, hard work, and giving back.

Mrs. Mel Robbins Bestselling author and speaker who offered insights on motivation, personal growth, and action.

Mr. Karl Rove Former White House Deputy Chief of Staff and political strategist who shared insights on public service, influence, and leadership in government.

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“True leadership is servanthood. Dr. Cockrum and his team have faithfully served and positively impacted my academic opportunity and have continued to foster a place of great community.”

Eli Duff ’25

Commitment to the Future INCREASED ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION Since the launch of the online undergraduate, graduate and executive programs, the total enrollment for Cumberlands has grown from 1,700 to over 22,0000 students. The Chronicle of Higher Education recognized University of the Cumberlands as one of the fastest-growing private, nonprofit universities.

ESTABLISHED NEW ACADEMIC PROGRAMS Expanded the university's academic offerings to include more than 180 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and certificate programs. This included an increase in medical programs that includes Nursing, Physician Assistant, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Doctor of Physical Therapy.

IMPROVED THE CAMPUS EXPERIENCE Zero deferred maintenance for main campus facilities.

Modernization of the 100-year-old Viaduct walking bridge.

Renovation of the Rollins Family Learning Center and the T.J. Roberts Dining Hall. Development of key facilities including the Forcht School of Nursing, the Connie Hauser Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, and Patriot Park. Expansion of outdoor wireless access throughout campus .

IMPROVED STUDENT OUTCOMES Implemented a robust Student Success program that offers students personalized academic advising, academic tutoring, career development services, and wellness support. Increased retention for all student populations.

Increased fall-to-fall student retention to a university-high of 80.5%. Increased student retention for first-time full-time undergraduate students to 81%.

ELIMINATED UNIVERSITY DEBT Built new revenue streams and wisely stewarded university resources. Used enrollment revenue to invest in campus programs and facilities. Took the university’s long-term debt from $38.7 million in 2015 to $0 in 2022. The university announced it was debt-free in June 2022.

INCREASED STABILITY FOR UNIVERSITY EMPLOYEES Granted Employees more than a 46% increase in raises and bonuses since 2015. Ensured no increases in medical, dental, or vision insurance rates paid by employees for 12 years.

Increased retirement matching funds to 10% on November 1, 2024. Ensured there were zero employee layoffs during the COVID pandemic.

INCREASED UNIVERSITY ENDOWMENT Increased Endowment to ensure Cumberlands can continue providing access to affordable education. Raised $200M in funding for the Cumberlands Commitment Endowed Scholarship Fund. Secured a $25 million donation from the O. Wayne Rollins Foundation, the largest single donation in the school’s history. Increased university investments from $40M to $371M. Increased university assets from $216M to $646M. IMPROVED ATHLETICS ON AND OFF THE FIELD Significantly advanced athletic programs through strategic investments. Achieved a balanced approach to supporting all athletic teams, culminating in the university's first-ever NAIA Learfield Directors' Cup in 2024. Celebrated landmark victories, including the first NAIA National Championship in university history, by the women's soccer team. Emphasized academic excellence among student-athletes and set records for NAIA All-Americans, MSC All-Conference, and MSC Academic All-Conference honorees.

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Commitment to Cumberlands When Dr. Larry L. Cockrum was officially named the tenth President of University of the Cumberlands, he took office with one thing in mind: making college more accessible for anyone with a dream of obtaining a degree.

On September 4, 2018, President Cockrum announced The Cumberlands Commitment–a multi-phase initiative to make a college education more affordable.

The initial phase included a 57 percent reduction in tuition price, ensuring an affordable college education for students throughout Kentucky and the Appalachian region. The Commitment also affirms that no programs or services are reduced to accommodate the tuition reduction.

IMPACT OF THE COMMITMENT

A year later, President Cockrum announced the Free Textbook program, providing free access to all textbooks for on-campus undergraduate students, so long as they returned them at the conclusion of the course.

In 2023, Cumberlands implemented the One Price Promise tuition model–a comprehensive package extended to all students. The model includes tuition, textbooks, tutoring, and other academic services while excluding all hidden fees.

The final phase of the Cumberlands Commitment was announced in the fall of 2023. The Cumberlands Commitment Endowment campaign raised $200 million to support new student scholarships. Thanks to the campaign's success, students were awarded new scholarships to reduce out-of-pocket costs beginning fall 2024. On average, on-campus undergraduate students now pay no more than $2,000 per semester.

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Students immediately saved an average of $1,298 outof-pocket with the Cumberlands Commitment.

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Students have reduced, on average, federal loan debt by $1,500 per year.

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25 percent of on-campus students are now debt-free.

Cumberlands is ranked among the top 100 universities in the nation whose students acquire the least debt.

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One Price Promise program saves students over $1,200 each year in textbook expenses. Students saved a total of $6.1 million in the program’s first year.

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The Cumberlands Commitment Scholarship Program helps to cap out-of-pocket costs at $4,000 per year for on-campus students.

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Cumberlands continues to be ranked among the most affordable universities in Kentucky.

“The Cumberlands Commitment is a powerful part of that legacy, a lasting gift, rooted in his belief that everyone deserves a chance.”

Dr. Leslie Ryser, Executive Vice President

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Cumberlands was realistic to where, obviously, there’s still a cost to it, but they made sure you got your money’s worth out of it. There’s a lot of value to what you pay for, including the free textbooks. I graduated debt-free, which gives many advantages in life after college.

Luken Glover ’23

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COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE v Total Growth of Enrollment 2005 - 1,300 students 2025 - 22,120 students

v According to the U.S. News and World Report, UC students have the lowest debt and highest social mobility among national Kentucky universities.

v Awarded College of Distinction 2018 - 2025

v The Cumberlands' business programs were granted first-time accreditation from the Board of

Commissioners of the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE).

v Named a Military Friendly university 2018-2025 v Ranked #1 for best online college in Kentucky by EDsmart.

v Shoes 4 the Soul awarded the 2024 Governor's Service Award.

v Ranked among the top 5 percent of universities in the U. S. for social mobility among students.

v Provided 7,500 pairs of shoes to local children through the Shoes 4 the Soul program since 2011.

v On Money Magazine's list of most affordable schools in nation for 2023 and 2024.

v The online Ph.D. in Business is ranked the #1 program in the nation by Forbes.

v Recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education, one of only 400 institutions ranked in the U.S.

v The university is issued an "international award" from Colleges of Distinction for its service to international students.

v Named Most Transfer Friendly of private schools in Kentucky by Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education.

v Cumberlands contributes $337 million annually to the Kentucky economy according to a report from the Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities (AIKCU).

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v Named a Tree Campus Higher Education Institution in 2020 by the Arbor Day Foundation.

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"What makes a person successful in anything they do is focus, unrelenting focus."

Dr. Larry L. Cockrum 10th President of University of the Cumberlands