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Time, Talent & Treasure THE LEGACY OF BURLIN COLEMAN
By KATIE RAY ’24
When former Kentucky Governor and University of Pikeville Chancellor Paul E. Patton speaks of Burlin Coleman, his voice carries a reverence reserved for those whose legacies stand the test of time. Coleman, a business leader who spent more than 50 years developing the banking industry in Eastern Kentucky, was more than a supporter of then Pikeville College; he was a cornerstone of its success. His commitment, leadership and philanthropy helped shape UPIKE into what it is today.
A longtime member of the university’s board of trustees (1979-2006), including serving as chairman, Coleman played a pivotal role in key initiatives that propelled the college forward. His contributions were not just financial or symbolic; they were foundational. Patton credits Coleman with essentially saving the college from bankruptcy through his instrumental role in the establishment of then Pikeville College School of Osteopathic Medicine in 1997.
“Burlin wasn’t just involved. He was invested,” said Patton. “In the mid-1990s, there was talk of creating a medical school in Paintsville, Ky., but Burlin recognized that such a venture was better suited for Pikeville College. He gathered key figures, including myself, and made a compelling case for bringing the medical school to Pikeville. When Burlin spoke, people listened, and he could make things happen.”
Current Chairman of the UPIKE Board of Trustees Terry L. Dotson ’72 echoed this sentiment.
“Mr. Coleman was hugely influential in so many businesses. He was a quiet, good, caring individual,” said Dotson. “When the first announcement was made that Chad Perry wanted to build a medical school, I thought it was a crazy idea. But when Burlin spoke up and said, ‘I think we can do this,’ that changed everything.”
The first class of physicians graduated in 2001, marking a turning point for the college. The medical school’s success provided the financial means needed to sustain and expand the institution. In 2011, PCSOM became the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, and under the leadership of then President Patton, the board of trustees recognized the college’s evolution into a university, leading to the establishment of UPIKE. Today, KYCOM remains central to the university’s success, and its presence is a direct result of Coleman’s foresight and determination.
In 2013, UPIKE honored Coleman and his wife, Jean ’50, ’62 by establishing the Coleman College of Business. A retired educator, Jean shared her husband’s deep commitment to education and community progress. Their $1 million gift to the college reflected their belief in the power of education.
“He understood that by educating people in business, they would go on to create and expand businesses in the region, driving economic growth and, in turn, strengthening the bank and other industries,” said Patton. “He was very interested in promoting business but just as interested in promoting the college. His generosity and vision helped UPIKE expand its role in preparing future business and community leaders.”
CCOB Founding Dean Howard Roberts, Ph.D., ’78 emphasized that Coleman’s belief in the power of education was more than just a principle, but a promise he fulfilled through tireless efforts and generosity.
“Burlin Coleman transformed the educational landscape of our region. Through his dedication, countless aspiring professionals have been equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive, shaping industries and communities alike,” said Roberts. “The impact of his leadership and service is woven into the success stories of those who walked through the doors of the Coleman College of Business. His legacy lives on in every graduate, every career launched and every dream realized.”
Coleman’s influence extended far beyond UPIKE. During his time as CEO of Community Trust Bank, he played a key role in transforming it from a small organization into a thriving multi-state bank. Through strategic acquisitions and expansion, he ensured local businesses had access to the financial resources needed to grow. Beginning his career there in 1949, he retired three times before stepping away for good in 1999.
Beyond banking, Coleman was an integral part of the Pikeville community. He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, the Rotary Club, Thomas C. Cecil Masonic Lodge, the board of then Pikeville Methodist Hospital, the First Baptist Church of Pikeville and a veteran of the United States Navy Reserves.
Until his passing in January, Coleman remained actively involved in business development. As UPIKE continues to thrive, it does so on the foundation laid by dedicated individuals like Coleman.
“I’ve always said you have three things to give: time, talent or treasure. Burlin gave all three,” said Dotson. “Some of us have more time than talent or more treasure than time. But Burlin was blessed with both talent and treasure, and he made the time. He understood that his investment would shape the future for so many in the community he cared about. That’s all you can do in life. You invest those things, and he did.”
