Spring/Summer 2026
REACHING NEW HEIGHTS
IN THIS ISSUE
BUILDING THE TANNER COLLEGE OF DENTAL MEDICINE
ELEVATING ATHLETICS AT THE BEAR MOUNTAIN ATHLETIC COMPLEX
STRENGTHENING OPPORTUNITY THROUGH SCHOLARSHIPS
EXPANDING THE KENTUCKY COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE
Alumni and friends of the University of Pikeville gathered at Carson’s in Lexington, Ky., for an evening underscored by the transformative impact of donor support. The program featured current presidential scholars who shared personal stories of academic achievement and a commitment to service, and President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D., premiered the Reaching New Heights capital campaign video.
Spring/Summer 2026
Volume 12, Number 2
MAGAZINE STAFF
Burton J. Webb, Ph.D. President
Lori Werth, Ph.D.
Executive Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer
EDITOR & ART DIRECTOR
Katie Ray ’24
editor@upike.edu
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kirsten Callahan ’26
Larry Epling ’26
Dustin Merrill
CONTRIBUTORS
Amy Charles, MBA ’23
Laura Damron, MBA ’19
Kate Hensley, MBA ’23
Jeremy Justice
Sherrie Marrs
Brooke Thacker ’04
Stacey Walters
BUILDING THE TANNER COLLEGE OF DENTAL MEDICINE
The Power of Giving, The Promise of Care Return on Investment The Heart of Giving
ELEVATING ATHLETICS AT THE BEAR MOUNTAIN ATHLETIC COMPLEX
Paving the Way Beyond the Game
From Campus to Corporate: Tellis Kennedy II ’20
The Foundation of Progress
Reaching New Heights
Advancing the Mission
STRENGTHENING OPPORTUNITY THROUGH SCHOLARSHIPS
A Million-Dollar Milestone
Love, Legacy and a Lasting Serve: Sue Huffman Stanley ’70 Pirouettes and Possibilities
EXPANDING THE KENTUCKY COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE
Expanding the Mission in the Mountains
Homegrown Healing
Two Paths, One Purpose: Jason Hunt, D.O., ’00, KYCOM ’05 and Stacy Taylor-Hunt, D.O., ’99, KYCOM ’03
Commencement 2026
Alumni Updates
LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN
As I reflect on the remarkable progress taking place at the University of Pikeville, I am reminded of a simple truth—we all stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. For generations, alumni, friends and supporters have invested in this university, and those investments have changed lives, including my own.
I have often said that each of us has three things to give: time, talent or treasure. Some of us have more of one than another, but all of us have something meaningful to contribute. The Reaching New Heights capital campaign is a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when those gifts are given with purpose. Together, we are not simply funding four important projects. We are shaping futures, opening doors and building a foundation that will serve students, families and communities for generations.
Bear Mountain Athletic Complex will create a one-of-a-kind destination for outdoor recreation, wellness, leadership and connection, enriching student life in ways that extend far beyond the classroom. The Tanner College of Dental Medicine will directly address critical oral health needs across Central Appalachia while preparing the next generation of dental professionals to serve where they are needed most. Scholarships continue to expand access, ensuring that talent and determination, not circumstance, define a student’s future.
The expansion of the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine holds special meaning for me. Since its founding, KYCOM has transformed health care across Appalachia by preparing physicians committed to rural and underserved communities. As demand for health care providers continues to grow, this expansion will allow even more students to answer that call. It is also a deeply personal effort for my family, as we honor my daughter Leslie through the naming of the Leslie Ann Dotson Center for Medical Education.
Whatever I have been able to accomplish in life, I would not have been able to without the University of Pikeville. This institution gave me opportunity, direction and purpose, and that responsibility stays with me every day. It is why I remain so committed to ensuring that future generations have the same chance to build meaningful lives through education.
Now, I ask you to consider how you might be part of this story. Your support will help carry this mission forward. Every gift matters, and every act of generosity brings us closer to our goal.
Thank you to the alumni, donors and friends who continue to invest your time, talent and treasure in UPIKE. Your belief in this university is what makes it possible for us to reach new heights together.
With gratitude,
Terry L. Dotson ’72 Chairman, Board of Trustees
CAMPUS NEWS
Follow @UPIKEBears for up-to-date campus news.
KYCO CELEBRATES CLASS OF 2028 IN ANNUAL WHITE COAT CEREMONY
March 28 marked a defining moment for the Kentucky College of Optometry Class of 2028 as 52 students received their white coats during the college’s annual ceremony. Surrounded by family, friends and members of the campus community, the students formally entered the clinical phase of their education.
“This white coat you receive today is more than a garment. It is a symbol of professionalism, compassion and the trust your patients place in you,” said KYCO Dean Renee Reeder, O.D., FAAO, FBCLA, FSLS, FIACLE, FNAP. “When someone sits in your chair, they are placing their confidence in you, not just for your knowledge, but for your care.”
Keynote speaker Brad Lane, O.D., MBA, M.Ed., FAAMOS, vice president of the Southern Council of Optometrists, challenged students to think beyond personal success and focus on the impact they will make in the lives of others.
“I used to think success meant leaving where I came from, leaving the small town and leaving the struggle,” Lane said. “But I’ve come to understand something different. The goal isn’t just to leave. The goal is to become something, and then decide what you’re going to do with it. Use it to serve. Use it to lead. Use it to make a difference in the lives of people who are trusting you. So, as you put on that white coat today, wear it with pride. Wear it with purpose. But more than anything, let it reflect who you are.”
EXPANDING BIBLICAL MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES
UPIKE has expanded its religious studies program to better prepare students for careers in church leadership. Students can now pursue a major, minor or certificate in biblical ministry, providing focused spiritual and academic training for those called to serve in ministry.
Andrew Deskins is among the first students taking advantage of the new option. Deskins is double-majoring in biblical ministry and medical humanities, while also serving as a student chaplain and participating in Baptist Campus Ministry. His interest in ministry was shaped in part by his childhood pastor, Paul Potter, D.Min., who now teaches religious studies courses at UPIKE and leads the biblical ministry program.
“The addition of a biblical ministry major at UPIKE is such a blessing,” Deskins said. “At a time when so many people feel disconnected, the gospel reminds us that we can still be connected through faith and community. What makes it especially meaningful is that ministry is already happening on campus, and not just in the classroom. Through campus ministry, service and relationships with local churches, we’re able to live out what we’re learning while growing spiritually and preparing to lead and serve others.”
UPIKE Bowling captured their sixth national title and the 2026 NAIA Women’s Bowling National Championship in Lansing, Mich.
UPIKE Cheer finished seventh in the nation at the 2026 UCA College Nationals, held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Fla.
Twin sisters Alexis and Aliya Osborne led UPIKE Dance to a national title, topping the field in the NAIA Jazz Division at the NCA and NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship.
UPIKE received a $20,000 grant from the American Heart Association (AHA) to strengthen its preparedness and response to cardiac emergencies on campus. The funding assisted the university with implementing a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) and expanding training and equipment to help save lives during sudden cardiac events.
“The American Heart Association is thrilled to see the University of Pikeville taking such a proactive and inspiring step toward strengthening cardiac emergency preparedness on campus,” said Executive Director of the Central and Eastern Kentucky AHA Andrea Ooten. “Empowering students, faculty and staff with hands-on CPR opportunities doesn’t just build skills, it builds confidence, readiness and a community of lifesavers.”
As part of the initiative, the university created a campuswide CERP , established a trained response team and designated a program champion to guide the effort. The plan also included training several staff members in AHA-certified CPR, expanding hands-only CPR instruction for faculty, staff, resident advisors and students, and adding automated external defibrillators across campus.
“Because of this grant, our campus is better prepared to respond when every second counts,” said UPIKE Director of Public Safety Lee Upchurch. “Ultimately, that preparation means something very important—lives will be saved.”
Students, alumni, faculty, staff and trustees came together in April for UPIKE’s annual Phonathon, raising more than $103,000 for student scholarships and sharing the impact of giving across generations.
CELEBRATING THE IMPACT OF RESEARCH
UPIKE hosted its 6th Annual Research Symposium, led by Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine Associate Professor of Pharmacology M. Nabeel Ghayur, Ph.D., and Director of Research and Innovation Eric Werth, Ed.D. This year’s keynote featured internationally recognized experts Bradley Bale, M.D., and Amy Doneen, DNP, ARNP, co-developers of the BaleDoneen Method and leaders in cardiovascular disease prevention. The symposium also included faculty and student oral presentations across health sciences, education and social research, along with poster sessions and networking opportunities.
“Events like this showcase the depth of curiosity and commitment to discovery that define our students and faculty,” Ghayur said. “It’s an opportunity to share ideas, spark new collaborations and celebrate the impact of research at UPIKE.”
By KATIE RAY ’24
The Power of Giving The Promise of Care
The University of Pikeville’s Tanner College of Dental Medicine is being designed to do more than educate future dentists. It aims to change the landscape of oral health care across Kentucky and Central Appalachia by expanding access, modernizing training and keeping providers closer to the communities that need them most.
At the center of that vision is Dean Jill Keaton, DMD, MS, DABOP, FAAOP, who points to long-standing gaps in rural dental care as the driving force behind the college’s mission. The goal is to build a workforce that understands and serves rural communities, not just temporarily, but long term.
“The Tanner College of Dental Medicine will be transformative for communities across Kentucky, particularly in Eastern Kentucky and Central Appalachia. Patients treated at TCDM will have access to specialists close to home, many for the first time,” Keaton said. “By training future dentists in the communities that need them most, the college will help build a stronger, more sustainable oral health care workforce for the region.”
That vision is taking shape in a five-story facility now under construction on the UPIKE campus. Designed by Kahler Slater and EOP Architects team, the building will sit near the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine and the Kentucky College of Optometry, reinforcing an interprofessional approach to health sciences education.
The facility will include 93 state-of-the-art dental operatories and three specialty clinics focused on pediatrics, special care and advanced technology through the Center for Research and Education in Technology. The design reflects a shift in how dental education is delivered.
Inside the building, students will train in fully digital environments that mirror modern dental practice. That includes intraoral scanners and immersive simulation tools such as SIMtoCARE haptic technology. The goal is to ensure graduates are practiceready from day one.
“Together, these features support comprehensive clinical training, patient care and innovation in emerging dental technologies,” she said. “These spaces create a highly advanced, technology-driven learning environment that distinguishes the program.”
The curriculum is also designed around team-based care and clinical realism, with flexible spaces that blend simulation, classroom instruction and patient care.
“Flexible clinical, simulation and learning spaces are integrated with advanced technologies to provide immersive, handson training,” she said. “The facility’s layout promotes efficient patient flow while supporting high-quality clinical instruction and supervision.”
While construction continues, the college is already building academic momentum, welcoming its inaugural class of 54 students in June. Students are training in interim spaces during construction. Students will also receive clinical training at the East Kentucky Oral Health Training Center at Big Sandy Community and Technical College’s Mayo Campus.
“The admissions goal of the college is to attract and graduate a diverse student body with strong academic credentials, knowledge of dentistry, a heart for service and a passion for practicing in underserved and rural areas,” she said.
The college will also support robust research opportunities and community partnerships.
“Our institution will feature the Center for Research and Education in Technology Innovation Center, providing advanced infrastructure to support innovation and discovery,” she said. “Under the direction of the associate dean of research, scholarly efforts will focus on areas aligned with the mission of the university, including public health initiatives and emerging fields such as salivary diagnostics, while fostering meaningful partnerships that improve community health outcomes.”
Fundraising efforts are gaining strong momentum through the Reaching New Heights capital campaign, anchored by a transformative $25 million gift from the Tanner family and strengthened by additional contributions from generous donors.
“While these investments have brought the project a long way, continued philanthropic support will be essential to fully realize the college’s vision for transforming dental education and care in the region,” she said.
Through the Reaching New Heights campaign, supporters have the opportunity to play a direct role in shaping the future of oral health care in Central Appalachia. Continued philanthropic investment
will be critical to completing the facility, advancing technology and preparing the next generation of dentists to serve where they are needed most.
That impact extends beyond financial support. Alumni and donors can also serve as ambassadors for TCDM, helping to raise awareness, strengthen partnerships and expand the college’s reach through their professional networks and communities.
As the campaign progresses, supporters can look ahead to key milestones, including the inaugural class’s White Coat Ceremony on Aug. 14, 2026. The facility is expected to be largely complete and in use by June 2027, with additional spaces coming online as construction continues.
For Keaton, the effort represents far more than the launch of a new academic program. It is a long-term investment in the region’s health and future.
“Working as part of a team to build the college from the ground up allows us to create an innovative curriculum, integrate cutting-edge technology and educate dentists who will address the unique needs of rural and underserved communities,” she said. “I am inspired by the opportunity to work alongside faculty, staff, donors and partners who share a commitment to excellence and access to oral health care. Together, we can make a lasting impact on both students and the communities they will serve.”
UPIKE students selected for the Tanner College of Dental Medicine’s inaugural class include (from left) Noah Brown, Carly Crooks, Spencer Howard, Russell Goins, Hailey Little, Amelia Casey, Hannah Callis, MaHailey Kirk, Ethan Slone and Wali Ghayur. (Not pictured) Kaiden Hess and Joshua Pugh.
Return on Investment
By KATIE RAY ’24
The Presidential Fellow Scholarship, one of the University of Pikeville’s highest honors, is a highly selective program designed for undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential and a strong commitment to service. Scholars participate in a cohort experience that emphasizes leadership, communication and engagement across campus. They are paired with mentors, encouraged to take on leadership roles and supported as they pursue research, service and other high-impact learning opportunities. The program is designed to prepare students for competitive graduate and professional programs.
For Presidential Scholars Noah Brown ’26 and Wali Ghayur, the scholarship positioned them for a seamless transition into the Tanner College of Dental Medicine.
Both local students arrived at UPIKE with strong academic records and a shared goal of pursuing dentistry. Through rigorous coursework in biomedical sciences and deep involvement across campus, they sharpened not only their academic abilities, but also their leadership, discipline and sense of purpose. Brown immersed himself in the pre-dental club, the UPIKE Honors Program and the biomedical science honors program. Ghayur was active in the pre-dental club, STEM club, pre-professional health club and biomedical sciences club.
Now, they are part of something even bigger. As members of the inaugural class of the Tanner College of Dental Medicine, they are stepping into a program made possible through the vision and generosity of donors committed to expanding health care education in Eastern Kentucky. They both recognize the unique responsibility that comes with helping shape a new program and its future.
“Being part of the inaugural class is exciting and meaningful,” they said. “It’s an opportunity to help set the tone, culture and standards for future students. There’s a responsibility that comes with that, but also the chance to be part of something that will have a lasting impact on both the university and the region.”
The Presidential Fellow Scholarship shaped Brown’s approach from the very beginning.
“Receiving this scholarship pushed me to hold myself to a higher standard, not just academically, but professionally and personally,” Brown said. “It motivated me to stay disciplined, take advantage of opportunities on campus, and get involved in programs that would prepare me for a career in health care. It also gave me confidence in my ability to succeed and represent UPIKE in a positive way.”
For Ghayur, who completed his undergraduate requirements early to begin dental school, the experience had a similar impact.
“Being named a Presidential Scholar pushed me to aim higher academically and take full advantage of opportunities like research and mentorship from the start,” Ghayur said. “It shaped my habits, my work ethic and how I approached every opportunity at UPIKE.”
Their interest in dentistry is rooted in personal experiences that revealed the human side of care and the difference one provider can make.
“I’ve known since sixth grade I wanted to be a dentist,” Brown said. “That early goal gave me direction and
Noah Brown ’26
motivation, and over time it’s grown into a real passion for helping people and making a difference in their lives.”
“I was told I might need extractions and surgery, and that made me really nervous,” Ghayur said. “But my orthodontist took the time to explain everything and made me feel comfortable. That’s when I realized how much dentistry can do, not just for someone’s smile, but for their confidence and peace of mind. After that, I knew it was what I wanted to do.”
Choosing TCDM felt like a natural next step for both students, who are now beginning the next phase of their training.
“I’m excited to learn the clinical skills that will allow me to directly help people,” Brown said. “It’s the next step toward a career I’ve been working toward for a long time. Having access to advanced facilities and hands-on clinical training here at home is a tremendous advantage.”
“I’m excited to be in a setting where everyone is focused on the same shared goal,” Ghayur said. “I’m especially excited about training in a brand-new facility with modern technology and a curriculum designed from the ground up. It offers more hands-on learning, close mentorship and the chance to help shape a program as it grows.”
With a fast-tracked, three-year path ahead, Brown is already focused on what comes next, returning home to serve the community that shaped him.
“My goal is to become a dentist who provides access to quality care while building strong relationships with patients,” Brown said. “Being able to serve the same community that supported me is a big part of what motivates me. I want to improve access to care, educate patients about their oral health and be someone people trust.”
Ghayur shares that same commitment, with plans to serve in a rural community where barriers such as cost, transportation and fear often prevent patients from seeking care. He also hopes to stay engaged in outreach efforts, including school screenings, oral health education and preventive initiatives.
“I want to explore different specialties and figure out where I fit best,” Ghayur said. “I hope to make a real difference by improving access to care and focusing more on prevention in the communities I serve. My interest really grew through the pre-dental club, where I’ve helped with oral health awareness, handed out hygiene kits and volunteered at local food banks. Those experiences showed me how much even small efforts can mean to families with limited access to care.”
Both want their journeys to show what is possible for students in Eastern Kentucky and the lasting value of investing in higher education.
“We want our experiences to show that students from this area can achieve their goals while staying connected to their community,” they said. “It reflects what becomes possible when you fully embrace the opportunities UPIKE provides.”
Those opportunities, they emphasized, are the direct result of donor support.
“I am grateful for their belief in this region and investment in its future,” Brown said. “Their support is opening doors that will shape lives far beyond this campus and strengthen communities for generations.”
“I want to thank them for believing in students like me. This dental school is creating opportunities that will shape not only our careers, but also the health and future of the communities we will serve. I am grateful to be part of it.” -Ghayur
Wali Ghayur
The Heart
of Giving
By AMY CHARLES, MBA ’23
Across Central Appalachia, access to dental care is often limited by geography and a shortage of providers. In many rural communities, the number of practicing dentists continues to decline while the need for care increases.
The University of Pikeville is addressing this challenge through the creation of the Tanner College of Dental Medicine. As part of the university’s Reaching New Heights capital campaign, the new dental college will educate future dentists prepared to serve rural and underserved communities across Kentucky and the Appalachian region. Currently under construction at the heart of campus, the state-of-the-art facility will include advanced simulation labs, collaborative learning spaces and clinical treatment areas where students will train while providing care to patients in the community. The vision for TCDM has been made possible through the generosity of donors who believe in expanding access to care and investing in the future of the region.
EXPANDING ACCESS
Brahmaji Puram, M.D., and Vijaya Puram, M.D., spent a lifetime practicing medicine in Pikeville. In their decades of service, the couple helped shape the region’s health care landscape, with Brahmaji Puram serving as one of the area’s first interventional cardiologists and Vijaya Puram as a dedicated hematologist and oncologist. Together, they brought specialized care to Eastern Kentucky, improving access to advanced treatment for countless patients and families.
Now retired and living in Tampa, Fla., they are continuing their philanthropy through a meaningful commitment to TCDM.
Their support is helping create a technologically advanced classroom within the new dental school. The Drs. Brahmaji & Vijaya Puram Classroom will serve as a hub for learning and innovation, where students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to provide high-quality, patient-centered care.
Their investment reflects not only a belief in education, but also in the importance of access. Having spent their careers addressing critical health care needs in the region, the Purams recognize the increasing demand for dental services and the importance of preparing providers to meet it.
“It will have a meaningful impact because we need to train more skilled dentists to serve this region,” Brahmaji said.
“The demand for dental care continues to grow, and by educating providers here, we can ensure patients receive the care they need close to home.”
Longtime supporters of the university since 1994, the Purams continue to play a vital role in advancing its mission. Their generosity is helping lay the academic foundation of TCDM while creating a space where learning, service and purpose come together.
CREATING OPPORTUNITY
For Leslie Horn, DMD, the path to becoming a periodontist was anything but traditional. Raised in Inez, Ky., she developed a deep respect for education early in life, a value that guided her as she balanced the demands of building a career while raising a family. As a single mother of two, Horn pursued her dental training with determination, ultimately becoming the first female periodontist in Lexington and establishing a successful practice at Beaumont Periodontics.
Today, she and her husband, Mike Browning, are giving back in a way that reflects both her personal journey and her professional passion. Through a gift to TCDM, the couple is helping create pathways for students whose journeys may look different, but whose impact on the region will be just as profound.
Horn’s commitment to the new dental school is rooted in her own experience. She understands firsthand the barriers many students face. The presence of a dental school in the mountains, she believes, will open doors for nontraditional students who might otherwise be unable to pursue a dental career.
“I know what a great need there is for more access to dental care in Eastern Kentucky,” Horn said.
“Having a dental school close to home will create opportunities for students who are balancing family and education. It allows them to stay connected to their support systems while preparing to serve the communities that need them most.”
Her enthusiasm is also driven by the college’s emphasis on interdisciplinary care, an approach she views as essential to improving patient outcomes. Through collaboration across health care fields, students will be better equipped to treat the whole patient, which is an approach that mirrors the evolving landscape of modern dentistry.
Horn’s connection to the profession is also a family legacy in the making. Her daughter has recently completed dental school and is finishing a periodontics residency, with plans to join her practice. As that transition unfolds, Horn looks forward to becoming more involved at UPIKE, with hopes of teaching and mentoring students at TCDM.
ADVANCING CARE
For more than four decades, Gopal Majmundar, M.D., and Mina Majmundar, M.D., have dedicated their lives to caring for patients in Eastern Kentucky. Now retired, the former Floyd County physicians are making a significant investment in the next generation of health care providers.
The Majmundars made a gift to TCDM to support the creation of a state-of-the-art simulation lab. The facility will provide students with immersive, hands-on experiences that mirror real-world patient care. Equipped with advanced technology, the lab will allow students to build clinical skills, gain confidence and refine techniques in a safe, controlled environment before entering patient settings.
Their contribution reflects a lifelong commitment not only to practicing medicine, but to strengthening access to care across rural Appalachia. Since moving to Martin, Ky., in 1978, the Majmundars have served generations of families. Gopal brought expertise in family medicine and pediatrics, while Mina completed training in obstetrics and gynecology before pursuing an additional residency in anesthesiology.
“Our goal has always been to invest in a healthier future by increasing access to care, growing a skilled local workforce and supporting education that stays connected to the people it serves and the people who need it most,” they shared.
“This contribution is one small way we help create lasting change.”
Their gift also reflects a broader belief in education as a pathway to improving community health. By investing in the education of future dentists, the Majmundars are playing a role in making sure communities across the region have the care they need.
“This donation is about more than just equipment,” they added. “It’s about empowering the next generation of clinicians who will receive exceptional education and go on to strengthen the communities they serve.”
The Majmundars hope their donation will inspire others in the medical community to support educational institutions that provide outstanding education and train future health care leaders dedicated to serving this region.
Through the Reaching New Heights capital campaign, you can help shape the education of future dentists who will care for communities across the region for generations. Every gift directly impacts the lives of students and the patients they will serve. Join us in bringing this vision to life.
Paving the Way
By AMY CHARLES, MBA ’23
Across the University of Pikeville’s Bear Mountain, stretches of new pavement are beginning to mark a visible shift in the landscape. It is more than access taking shape. It is the groundwork for growth, connection and possibility. Through a strategic partnership, the City of Pikeville and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet began construction on critical roadway and utility infrastructure this spring.
In total, the City of Pikeville will manage $8.7 million in road development funding, supported by state funding and local coordination. The Kentucky General Assembly allocated $4.7 million through the Department for Local Government to fund essential utilities, including water and sewer, with future access to natural gas, power and telecommunications. An additional $4 million from Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 12 is designated for roadway improvements following the access route’s official incorporation as a city street. The district has been a partner on the project from the beginning, including assisting with preliminary cost estimates for the road.
Because these funding streams require a municipal partner, the City of Pikeville has taken the lead in managing both the funding and construction. The university remains closely involved, working in coordination with city leadership to ensure the project aligns with campus needs and long-term goals.
“Bear Mountain represents a strong partnership between the City of Pikeville and UPIKE, bringing together investment and shared vision,” said Pikeville City Manager Reggie Hickman. “This project not only supports the university’s growth but also enhances recreational opportunities and quality of life for our community.”
Construction on utilities and roadway improvements is expected to continue through the fall. Even now, the transformation is visible. What was once undeveloped land is becoming the foundation for something far greater. Spanning more than 500 acres, Bear Mountain is designed to be more than an athletic complex. It is a long-term investment in the future of the university and the region.
For student-athletes, the development will bring new outdoor facilities that enhance training, competition and recruitment. For students, it will create expanded opportunities for recreation, wellness and campus life. For the community, it will open the door to local and regional events that draw visitors, support local businesses and strengthen connections across Central Appalachia–and it all begins with the road.
“This progress reflects what is possible when partnership and purpose come together,” said President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D. “Bear Mountain is not just about today. It is about building something that will serve students, families and this region for generations.”
The way is being paved. Now is the time to help shape where it leads. Through the Reaching New Heights capital campaign, donors can be part of what comes next, with naming opportunities ranging from seats and bricks to future stadium spaces and major facilities. Every gift helps move the vision forward, transforming Bear Mountain into a place where athletics, community and opportunity come together. GIVE NOW
the game BEYOND
When Najmir Bellegarde weighed his college options, football scholarships were on the table from multiple programs. For the Georgia native, the decision was never only about football. He was searching for a place where he could grow beyond the game. Now a junior majoring in business administration management, Bellegarde knew early on that the University of Pikeville offered something the other programs could not.
“It ultimately came down to where I could develop and grow as a person and find my identity within myself,” Bellegarde said. “UPIKE really believes that no matter where you come from, if you come here, you will walk across that commencement stage and earn that degree.”
Within the Bears football program, Bellegarde found more than teammates. He found a community that quickly felt like home.
“The culture and brotherhood within UPIKE football is something very special,” he said. “It’s bigger than football. It’s about loving and supporting each other.”
That culture is reinforced by Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Corey Fipps, whose unifying message has stayed with Bellegarde. Fipps often reminds players, “Heaven might look like a football locker room filled with people from every background united as one,” that a football locker room filled with people from different backgrounds coming together as one reflects something powerful.
“That message represents exactly what our program is about,” he said. “Unity, diversity and loving one another like family. The culture we have here is amazing because it’s built on trust, accountability and genuine care for each other. We push each other to be better every day, not just as football players but as men.”
Bellegarde also saw opportunity in the university’s continued investment in athletics. The Bear Mountain initiative, which will transform UPIKE’s athletic facilities, played a role in his decision to become a Bear.
“Bear Mountain played a major role in my decision to come to UPIKE. It has the potential to bring more people to campus and build pride within the community. Being here during a time when the university is growing makes me feel like I am a part of something bigger than just my time as a player.”
Beyond football, he is involved in campus leadership as a member of the Student Leadership Council, which helps connect students with clubs, community service and leadership opportunities. Looking ahead, Bellegarde is considering several career paths after graduation, including project management, starting his own business or possibly coaching. Whatever path he chooses, the experience of balancing athletics and academics has prepared him well.
“Between practices, workouts, travel and schoolwork, I’ve learned that staying organized and managing my time effectively is critical,” he said. “The work ethic, perseverance and ability to handle pressure that I have developed here will carry over into any career or challenge I face.”
By Stacey Walters
From CamPus to CorPorate
By Stacey Walters
Tellis Kennedy II ’20 began his professional journey with ambition and a foundation built at the University of Pikeville. He learned to recover from setbacks, grow as a leader and build skills that have carried him well beyond graduation. From the practice fields in Pikeville to the planning rooms of a global corporation, his journey reflects the lasting impact of an education that instills leadership and the confidence to face new challenges.
A standout on the football team and an academic all-conference student-athlete, Kennedy credits both his on-field and classroom experiences for shaping his career.
“When I think back on my time at UPIKE as a student-athlete, it stands out as one of the most exciting and transformational chapters of my life,” Kennedy said. “UPIKE didn’t just prepare me academically. It gave me lifelong friendships and mentors who believed in me.”
Today, Kennedy serves as a finance manager in corporate strategy at Procter & Gamble, one of the world’s leading consumer goods companies. His path to that role, however, was far from linear.
Graduating with a bachelor’s in business administration in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kennedy returned home to Cincinnati and worked as a restaurant manager while simultaneously building his real estate portfolio and completing his master’s in business administration.
“Those years taught me humility, work ethic and the importance of staying committed to longterm goals, even when the path isn’t clear,” he said.
A pivotal moment came when he joined Kroger as a human resources recruiter, gaining his first exposure to corporate operations. Shortly after, he was given the opportunity to join Procter & Gamble in a supply chain role supporting the Oral-B business. His curiosity about finance led him to pursue internal opportunities, eventually serving as a finance lead for Global Flight Operations before being promoted to his current leadership role.
“In corporate strategy and finance, collaboration is everything,” he said. “The ability to positively influence others and foster accountability within a team translates directly from the football field to the boardroom.”
He credits UPIKE’s Coleman College of Business for equipping him with the analytical foundation necessary for success in strategy and finance.
“I vividly remember spending time in office hours not only working through challenging coursework, but also having meaningful conversations about leadership and career development,” he said. “Those moments helped shape how I think and lead today.”
Kennedy is excited to see the university continue to invest in its athletic facilities as plans for a new state-of-the-art athletic complex on Bear Mountain move forward.
“It means a great deal to see the university making this kind of investment in athletics,” he said. “A facility like this elevates preparation, builds school pride and encourages student-athletes to perform at a higher level. It also creates dedicated spaces for studying and connecting with teammates, reinforcing excellence in the classroom alongside success on the field. It’s clear the university wants students to succeed in every facet of life.”
THE FOUNDATION
“We all drink from the wells others have dug.”
That was Harold H. “Hal” Smith’s way of explaining leadership, legacy and the ripple of impact one person can have on a community. He often invoked the ancient African philosophy of Ubuntu: “I am because we are.” Those ideas guided him at every turn.
When Smith arrived in 1997 as the 16th president of then Pikeville College, the institution was on the cusp of transformation. Enrollment was growing steadily, new programs were taking shape and conversations were beginning about expanding the college’s reach. It was a time of potential, but realizing it required vision, courage and determination.
Over the next 12 years, Smith guided the college through a period of growth and reinvention that would shape the University of Pikeville into what it is today. Among his most ambitious efforts was the creation of the Pikeville College School of Osteopathic Medicine, now the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine. Yet perhaps his boldest initiative came in 2000 when the college launched its first football program, laying the foundation for a centerpiece of the college’s identity.
“We were constantly looking for new ways to provide educational opportunities for the people of Appalachia and its surrounding area. The football program was a good way for us to continue to grow and prosper in an effort to serve the area,” Smith said. “As a former collegiate athlete, I can attest to the valuable role athletics play in the total development of students. Providing that opportunity for students was something we believed would have a lasting impact on both their futures and the communities they call home.”
The idea of a football program had long been a topic of conversation and curiosity across the region. For years, local fans wondered if the college would ever take the leap.
In October 2025, Hal and Karen Smith visited Bear Mountain to see how the Reaching New Heights campaign is transforming the campus landscape.
FOUNDATION
PROGRESS
By KATIE RAY ’24
“For a long time, maybe decades, one of the questions among sports fans in Eastern Kentucky was when the college would start football, and whether it would ever happen,” said Director of Athletic Communications and Media Rick Bentley ’89. “The truth is, it took someone with an understanding of what football can do for a small college and a vision as to how to make it happen. Hal Smith was that guy. It was a bold move, given that he was still early in his presidency. But he saw the potential of it, he believed in it and was the leader of the movement.”
Other sports soon followed, including volleyball, soccer and bowling, expanding opportunities for student-athletes and energizing campus life. But that first August day when more than 70 football players arrived for practice remains unforgettable for faculty and staff.
“The recruits came from our region and high schools in the Deep South, the Carolinas, Georgia and Alabama. They brought with them different cultures, lifestyles and a measure of diversity unprecedented on our campus,” said Assistant Professor of Communication Lucy E. Holman ’89, Ed.D. “In just a few short years, that fledgling group grew into more than a team. They became part of the fabric of this campus and found a permanent place in our hearts.”
More than 70 percent of the inaugural roster came from outside Kentucky, learning not only a new system on the field but also how to find their place in an unfamiliar community.
The “Elite Nine” set the tone for the program. That inaugural group included Jerry Anderson ’05, Antwan Brown ’05, Quintin Collins ’05, Larry Forester ’05, Justin Gordon ’05, James Mullins ’05 and Michael Sheppard ’05, along with the late Derrick “Big Show” Silas ’05 and Joe Spears ’05. Together, they embraced the challenge of building something from the ground up, establishing a standard of toughness, commitment and belief that would carry the program forward for years to come.
“During that time, we were trying to get acclimated to the community. A lot of us were out-of-state guys, so that alone took some getting used to,” said Forester, now a UPIKE trustee. “Hal and Karen Smith, among others,
really provided a place of comfort and solace. The whole experience helped shape our core values: discipline, accountability, maturity and integrity.”
Smith and his wife, Karen, were partners in shaping the college’s mission. Guided by faith, generosity and a genuine care for students, Karen’s impact was seen everywhere. She prepared snacks for players before games, advised Lambda Sigma, coordinated Homecoming and orientation traditions, organized Habitat for Humanity projects and even cooked meals for students who couldn’t make it home for the holidays. Through the Presbyterian Church, she built connections between local families and students living away from home.
“Karen was a mentor and ‘bonus mom’ to a group of extraordinary young men on the college’s inaugural football team,” Holman said. “The young men met regularly, developing their leadership skills and discussing ways they could give back to the community. They did, and they still do.”
Upon retiring in 2009, Smith was named President Emeritus. During his tenure, more than 2,000 undergraduate students graduated, including 250 nurses and 200 teachers. The medical school thrived as well, producing more than 500 physicians committed to serving rural and medically underserved communities, particularly in Appalachia.
Smith’s bond with the university has never faded. Last year, he and Karen returned to campus, touring Bear Mountain with President Burton J. Webb and viewing plans for the future football stadium. Since his first gift in 1997, Smith has given more than 200 times, most recently supporting outdoor athletic facilities.
“When we started the football program, we were imagining a community, a place where students could thrive and people could come together,” Smith said. “Seeing Bear Mountain take shape, knowing it will be a home for athletics, recreation and connection, it’s the same dream, only bigger. The university has grown into something remarkable and continues to provide so many opportunities for students.”
GOAL
$50,000,000
CURRENT RAISED
$38,071,704*
*Total as of May 2026
At the University of Pikeville, vision has always been matched with action. From its earliest days serving the people of Appalachia to the health professions programs now transforming communities across the region, UPIKE has grown because people chose to invest in possibility.
Today, UPIKE is in the midst of Reaching New Heights, a $50 million capital campaign and the most ambitious in the university’s history. A capital campaign is a focused fundraising effort that supports transformational priorities beyond the university’s annual operating budget. It fuels the kind of growth that cannot happen through tuition alone. It turns aspiration into opportunity and plans into permanent progress.
This campaign propels the Tanner College of Dental Medicine forward, expanding access to oral health care in Appalachia through the region’s first dental school and Kentucky’s only three-year program. It fuels the growth of the 500-acre Bear Mountain Athletic and Recreation Complex, creating a dynamic space for competition, connection and community. It strengthens the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, reaffirming a longstanding commitment to medicine in the mountains. At its core, it invests in scholarships so that financial barriers never stand in the way of calling and purpose.
Reaching New Heights is about more than buildings. It is about access to care. It is about workforce development. It is about first-generation students who need someone to believe in them. It is about keeping talent in the mountains and sending graduates into the world prepared to serve.
Thanks to the generosity of alumni, friends and partners, the university is nearing its goal. Momentum is strong, but the work is not finished.
You can be part of this defining chapter in the university’s story. Make a onetime gift or a multi-year pledge. Support the initiative that speaks most to your heart. Share the vision with others who care about the region’s future. Every gift matters. Every donor becomes part of the foundation shaping UPIKE’s future. With your help, we are reaching new heights.
TANNER COLLEGE OF DENTAL MEDICINE
Digital Lab: $100,000
Large Waiting Area: $35,000
Support Lab: $35,000
Small Waiting Area: $30,000
Operatory: $15,000
Student Locker Room: $10,000
Faculty Grading Room: $10,000
Faculty Patient Simulator: $10,000
Patient Simulator: $6,000
Breakout Room: $6,000
BEAR MOUNTAIN ATHLETIC COMPLEX
Football Locker Room: $175,000
Weight Room: $150,000
Training Room: $50,000
Locker Room: $50,000
Ticket Booth/Concession Stand: $50,000
Press Box Suites: $25,000
Coaches’ Offices: $20,000
Plaza Bench: $1000
Stadium Seat: $250
Plaza Bricks: $100
KENTUCKY COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE
Endowed Scholarships: $200,000-$500,000
Large Classroom: $125,000
Atrium: $75,000
Faculty Suite: $75,000
Problem-Based Learning Room: $50,000
Study Lounge: $40,000
Group Study Room: $20,000
Individual Study Room: $7,500
Faculty Offices: $7,500
Faculty Lounge: $5,000
Additional naming opportunities are available. To learn more, contact the Office of Advancement at 606-218-5268.
ADVANCING THE MISSION
By KATIE RAY ’24
Behind every scholarship, program and opportunity at the University of Pikeville is a team dedicated to building connections that make a difference. The Office of Advancement partners with alumni, donors and friends to support students and strengthen the university’s future. Through this work, generosity becomes opportunity, ensuring UPIKE continues to grow while staying true to its mission of service.
LAURA DAMRON, MBA ’19
ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT & ALUMNI RELATIONS LAURADAMRON@UPIKE.EDU | 606-218-5272 | 606-794-9949 LAURA SMITH DIRECTOR OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS ADVANCEMENT & ALUMNI RELATIONS LAURASMITH@UPIKE.EDU | 606-218-5116 | 606-226-2639
Laura Damron, MBA ’19 serves as assistant vice president for advancement and alumni relations, providing leadership for efforts that strengthen connections between the university and its alumni, donors and friends. Her work focuses on building meaningful relationships that support UPIKE’s mission and long-term growth. Through strategic engagement and outreach, she helps foster a culture of philanthropy that directly benefits students. From scholarships to program support, these efforts create opportunities that allow students to thrive both in and beyond the classroom. She is committed to ensuring supporters remain closely connected to the university and the impact of their giving.
“Giving isn’t about the amount. It’s about the heart behind it and the opportunities it creates for our students. Every gift represents someone choosing to invest in a student’s future, and that trust is something we take seriously every day.”
Laura Smith connects alumni and supporters with opportunities that directly impact students in UPIKE’s health professions programs: KYCOM, KYCO and TCDM. She believes philanthropy plays a vital role in removing barriers and creating pathways for student success.
Her work centers on building strong relationships that encourage engagement and generosity. Through these connections, she helps support scholarships, enhance learning environments and provide resources that allow health professions students to focus on their education and future careers.
Smith emphasizes that every gift makes a difference, regardless of size. She sees collective generosity as a powerful force that drives meaningful change and strengthens the university’s ability to serve its students and community.
“I hope health professions alumni and supporters feel a continued sense of pride and connection to UPIKE, recognizing that their involvement plays an essential role in shaping the university’s ongoing impact.”
LISA BLACKBURN
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
LISABLACKBURN@UPIKE.EDU | 606-218-5296 | 606-794-5421
Lisa Blackburn recently celebrated her 10th year at UPIKE, where she has dedicated her work to strengthening relationships with alumni and friends of the university. She plays a key role in keeping graduates connected to the institution long after commencement.
Through events and outreach efforts, Blackburn creates opportunities for alumni to reconnect, share experiences and build new memories. These gatherings, both local and regional, help reinforce the lasting sense of community that defines the UPIKE experience.
She believes every gift to the university is life-changing, providing scholarships, enhancing academic programs and opening doors for students.
“Staying connected to UPIKE means being part of something bigger than yourself. When alumni stay engaged, they help carry forward the spirit and opportunities that shaped their own experience. That experience doesn’t end at graduation—it continues for a lifetime.”
DANNY OSBORNE ’99
DIRECTOR OF ANNUAL GIVING
DANNYOSBORNE@UPIKE.EDU | 606-218-5438 | 502-330-6111
Danny Osborne ’99 joined the team in March as director of annual giving, bringing with him a deep personal connection to the university. As an alum, he is passionate about supporting the institution that helped shape his path and the region it serves.
He views annual giving as the foundation of the university’s continued success. Consistent support from alumni and friends helps fund scholarships, campus resources and everyday needs that enhance the student experience and create lasting opportunities.
Guided by a commitment to servant leadership, Osborne is motivated to serve others and build meaningful relationships. He believes fundraising is about more than dollars. It is about connecting people to a purpose and helping them see the impact they can have on students’ lives.
“Annual giving is about participation and connection. When alumni and friends give, they’re saying this place mattered to me, and I want it to matter for someone else, too.”
LEARN ABOUT WAYS TO GIVE AT UPIKE.EDU/GIVING
A Million-Dollar Milestone
For 25 years, a quiet but powerful legacy has been growing at the University of Pikeville. This year, the Lon Brown and Mary Evelyn Walton Rogers Endowment surpassed $1 million, marking a milestone defined not just by dollars but by the opportunities it has created for more than 50 students.
Established in 2001, the endowment honors a couple whose lives were defined by faith, service and a strong belief in the power of education. They were devoted supporters of then Pikeville College, serving on the board of trustees and championing its mission to provide an education grounded in Christian values. In their eyes, education could provide opportunities and transform lives, but their influence extended beyond campus. Through civic leadership, church involvement and community initiatives, they dedicated themselves to improving lives throughout Pike County.
Today, their children, Marylon R. “Meegie” Glass, Martha R. “Brownie” Plaster and Fon Rogers II, are carrying that legacy forward.
By AMY CHARLES, MBA ’23
For Glass, seeing the scholarship continue to grow and knowing it has helped so many students is a powerful reminder of the example their parents set.
“They lived out their faith in everything they did,” Glass said. “They gave us so much, and we feel compelled to carry on their legacy. It’s truly our joy to help provide opportunities for others. We have even more incentive to give now that we’ve seen the good that has come from it.”
Lon Brown and Mary Evelyn Walton Rogers
“Our parents believed in the importance of education and in the college’s mission,” Rogers said. “They consistently looked for ways to make things better and saw education as one of the most powerful ways to improve lives and strengthen communities. Supporting students from this region is a meaningful way to honor that belief and continue something that mattered so much to them.”
For Plaster, the continued growth of the endowment, fueled by others who share in honoring the Rogers’ legacy, is especially meaningful.
“Consistent giving is what has allowed the fund to grow,” Plaster said. “Our parents would be proud and humbled that others, not just us, have contributed to the scholarship.”
Each year, the scholarship continues to support students from Eastern Kentucky and the surrounding region, helping to remove financial barriers and create pathways to higher education. The family’s legacy remains firmly rooted in the principle that education opens doors and strengthens communities, with an impact that echoes across generations.
“Mother and Daddy’s memory is living on through these students,” Plaster said. “Their love of education persists through this scholarship, and it means so much that we can continue to support such a wonderful institution.”
ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS: WHERE GE
An endowed scholarship is a lasting way to support students and create a legacy in your name or in honor of someone who inspired you. Your gift provides ongoing assistance, opening doors for generations to come.
HOW TO GET STARTED
1. Contact the Office of Advancement to discuss your goals.
2. Choose a name and focus for your scholarship.
3. Make a gift or pledge to establish the endowment.
“This scholarship gives me the opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a physical therapist without being held back by financial stress. With a small support system, I’ve learned to be independent and determined. This support recognizes that hard work and empowers me to build a future helping others overcome their own challenges.”
Rylee G. Theiss
Lon B. and Mary Evelyn Rogers Endowed Scholarship Recipient Health and Human Performance Major Pikeville, Ky.
“Receiving this scholarship means a great deal to me because it represents recognition of the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my academics and athletics. It motivates me to continue pushing myself to succeed and make the most of every opportunity moving forward.”
Kaden Bryce Looney
Lon B. and Mary Evelyn Rogers Endowed Scholarship Recipient Business Administration Major Vansant, Va.
Love, Legacy and a Lasting Serve
Sue Huffman Stanley ’70 built her legacy on a tennis court, in a gymnasium and in the quiet, persistent act of remembering two men she loved most—her father, Paul Butcher, and her late husband, Kenny Huffman ’66.
As a young girl in the 1960s, Stanley spent countless hours in the then Pikeville College Gymnasium, trailing behind her father.
“My dad practically raised me in the gym,” Stanley said. “I was his tag-along because I loved all sports.”
Butcher’s career at the college spanned from 1958 to 1992, encompassing roles as head basketball and baseball coach, athletic director and president of the Kentucky Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (KIAC). During his tenure as a basketball coach, he guided the Bears to two KIAC Conference titles and earned KIAC Coach of the Year honors twice.
“Paul helped develop a generation of athletes who still speak his name with reverence. I always called him ‘Mr. Pikeville College,’” said former Vice President of Student Services and Athletics Director Ron Damron. “And when you see Paul Butcher Field, you understand why his legacy is woven into the very fabric of this campus.”
During Stanley’s first year at the college, she seized a pioneering moment and asked for a place on the tennis roster. At the time, there was no women’s team. Her dad brought up the question before the Eastern Division of the NAIA conference, and they agreed to let her compete if she could beat 50 percent of the men on the team. For two years, she played on the men’s tennis squad, becoming the first woman in UPIKE history to compete in the sport.
Years before Stanley stepped onto the UPIKE tennis courts, Huffman had been part of the college’s tennis program, creating a connection that would later surface.
“Kenny was one of the best tennis players in the region. He was a natural athlete whose dedication to the game matched mine,” she said. “I admired him so much.”
The two quickly became young people in love with tennis and in love with each other. Huffman earned his bachelor’s in health and physical education
and a minor in history and political science. The two married in 1967, and Stanley went on to earn a bachelor’s in health and physical education. For years, they were fixtures on the tennis courts, competing, teaching and growing the sport around the region.
In the early 1970s, Huffman passed away following a cancer diagnosis. To honor him, Stanley collaborated with the University of Pikeville to establish the Kenneth W. Huffman Memorial Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to young tennis players pursuing higher education.
“Kenny was young, and his absence left a shape in the world that I’ve spent decades honoring,” she said. “I wanted to do something in his memory that would last.”
In 1973, she founded the Kenneth Warren Huffman Memorial Tennis Tournament, which quickly became a success and has grown into a notable event. In 2010, it was renamed the Kenny Huffman Tennis Classic. The tournament continues to this day, celebrating a sport they both loved while raising funds for the endowed scholarship at UPIKE.
“I knew Kenny would have wanted this because he was always playing and helping young players get better,” she said. “What started as a memorial event has grown into a beloved tradition. God has blessed me and this tournament.”
Stanley also authored a book titled A Tennis Love Story, sharing her passion for tennis and the legacy of the tournament. The book tells the true story of two young tennis players and shows how life can take unexpected turns, yet with God’s guidance, it continues and hope endures.
She now calls Statesboro, Ga., home, where she lives with her husband, Brad, and their two children, Kenny and Missy. Though miles from campus, Stanley continues to reflect on the foundation her father helped build and the lasting impact Huffman left on the tennis courts. While she hopes to one day see new tennis courts at Bear Mountain, her deeper priority is that student-athletes carry forward the values of humility, character and integrity that both Butcher and Huffman embodied.
By Stacey Walters
“Good character is always remembered. It’s what people carry with them long after the game ends.”
-Sue Huffman Stanley
Pirouettes and Possibilities
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
For Carly Sparks, those words have guided every step of her journey at the University of Pikeville. A junior majoring in elementary education, Sparks grew up hearing stories about the campus from her father, C. Michael Sparks ’92. He often shared memories of professors who challenged him, late nights studying with friends and the traditions that shaped his college years. After years of hearing her father’s stories and attending campus events, Spark decided to follow in his footsteps.
“I feel a real sense of pride knowing my daddy once sat in the same classrooms I do now,” Sparks said. “His legacy left a mark on the university and on me, and I hope I can do the same.”
At a young age, Sparks and her twin sister began dancing at the UPIKE School of Dance. Afternoons were filled with ballet, jazz and eventually contemporary classes. That early connection to UPIKE led Sparks to join the UPIKE Dance Team, a dream she had long carried.
“I always dreamed of dancing at a higher level, and when I got the opportunity to dance for UPIKE, continuing to do what I love, I was on cloud nine,” she said. “I still am.”
Sparks’ mother, Jennifer, is a certified special education teacher who now teaches third grade. Growing up, Sparks often accompanied her mother to school and helped in the classroom. Watching firsthand the impact a teacher can have on students has influenced the kind of educator she hopes to become.
“I was a teacher’s kid, always going with my mother to help her with her classroom. I looked up to her, and still do,” she said. “She is the definition of what a teacher should be: loving, compassionate, an advocate for her students and a leader. I want to be a teacher who is always kind, who shows students they can be anything they dream of being. I want to encourage them, believe in them and help them reach their full potential.”
Sparks also hopes to one day open a dance studio near her hometown of Williamson, W.Va., and Belfry, Ky. Inspired by her early experiences at Debbie’s Dance Studio, she wants to create a space where young people can build confidence, creativity and discipline.
“I owe a lot to Debbie’s Dance Studio for my desire to become a dance teacher. Dance allows students to step into a new world where they can grow and express themselves,” she said. “I want to share the art and passion of dance with kids and give them a positive place where they can learn, feel supported and discover their potential.”
While dance has played a major role in her college experience, Sparks has also embraced opportunities across campus, including serving as the publicist for UPIKE’s chapter of the Kentucky Education Association, where she connects with fellow education majors and gains leadership experience.
Sparks has also authored and illustrated a children’s book. What began as a class assignment soon grew into a community initiative through a collaboration between the Patton College of Education and the Coleman College of Business.
“It became a natural and exciting partnership to bring these ideas together, pairing the business school’s creativity and marketing vision with the education program’s focus on literacy and pedagogy,” said Associate Professor of Education Theresa Dawahare, M.Ed. “The goal was to create an authentic, meaningful learning experience that extended beyond the classroom.”
When Dawahare introduced the idea, Sparks immediately began asking questions. That evening, she wrote the entire rhyming story in one sitting.
“I just felt like I needed to write down my thoughts,” Sparks said. “I entered a flow state and wrote the whole story that night.”
The story, Ollie the Octopus and the Frightened Frizzle, explores themes of friendship, bravery and kindness. Sparks illustrated the book by hand and later saw her work come to life in print. She then visited more than 40 second-grade classrooms across Pike County, sharing the story with students.
“The smiles on the students’ faces, the joy and the hugs they would give Ollie and me made all of it worth it,” she said. “It was so special to see them understand the message that it’s OK to be afraid, but we can face those fears with love and kindness.”
In each classroom, Sparks brought a sense of warmth and authenticity that resonated with both students and teachers.
“She has a natural gift for storytelling, but what stood out most was how genuine her work is,” Dawahare said. “I could tell she had written from her heart and truly wanted children to feel safe, and that’s what makes her story so meaningful for children.”
The project’s success has helped lay the groundwork for future opportunities. With continued collaboration and new grant support, the initiative will expand, allowing more students to experience the impact of creating something meaningful for their community.
After graduation, Sparks plans to pursue her master’s degree, build her dance studio and begin her career in a local classroom. Sparks credits her experiences at UPIKE for shaping not only her career path but also her purpose. The Alumni Association Scholarship helped make those opportunities possible, giving her the freedom to focus on her studies, stay involved on campus and continue pursuing her calling in the classroom.
“This scholarship means so much to my family and me,” she said. “It didn’t just help with tuition and expenses. It gave me confidence, a sense of accomplishment and the freedom to take advantage of every opportunity UPIKE offers.”
By KATIE RAY ’24
EXPANDING THE
MISSION IN THE MOUNTAINS
By KATIE RAY ’24
In the early 1990s, a group of community leaders shared a bold vision: to bring a medical school to the mountains of Eastern Kentucky and train physicians who would serve rural and underserved communities. That vision became reality in 1997 when the Pikeville College School of Osteopathic Medicine welcomed its inaugural class of 60 students, marking a transformative moment for health care in the region.
The program steadily grew in both size and influence. Enrollment increased to 75 students in 2008, reflecting the rising demand for physicians trained to serve communities across Appalachia. In 2011, the school became the University of Pikeville Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, strengthening its identity and mission. The following year, the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation approved an expansion to 135 students per class, and the college moved into the state-of-the-art Coal Building, a facility designed to support advanced medical education, research and training.
KYCOM recently celebrated the graduation of its 26th class, welcoming a new group of physicians into a network of more than 2,200 alumni practicing across the country. Many serve in rural and underserved communities, continuing the mission that first inspired leaders to imagine a medical school dedicated to improving health care in the mountains. That mission has earned national recognition. KYCOM ranks sixth in the nation for the number of graduates practicing in rural areas and seventh for the number of graduates practicing in primary care, reflecting its strong focus on preparing physicians to serve communities where they are needed most.
“KYCOM has a proven track record of successfully training physicians who serve in rural areas in Kentucky, across Appalachia and in underserved communities,” said KYCOM Dean Joe Kingery, D.O., KYCOM ’06, MBA ’18, FACOFP, FAAFP. “What sets our graduates apart is not only their clinical preparation, but their commitment to the communities they serve. They understand the unique challenges of rural health care because they’ve lived it, and they’re prepared to make a lasting impact.”
STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES
Students extend KYCOM’s impact beyond the classroom through the BEAR Healthcare Clinic, a free, student-run clinic located on Millard Highway in Pikeville. Operating monthly during the academic year, services include preventive care, routine checkups, vaccinations, sports physicals, behavioral health services and osteopathic manipulative treatment. The clinic provides valuable experience for students while helping address gaps in care across Eastern Kentucky. Many patients rely on fixed incomes, Medicare or Medicaid and face barriers to afford diagnostic testing and medical services.
Spearheaded by Co-Clinic Director Hasibah Ahmed, OMS II, the clinic received the 2025 Family Medicine Cares USA Grant from the American Academy of Family Physicians Foundation. The grant will fund essential clinical resources and expand diagnostic and therapeutic services at no cost to patients. By increasing access to preventive care and early detection, the funding supports efforts to reduce complications from chronic disease and strengthen access to quality, affordable health care in Eastern Kentucky.
“Our goal has always been to have steady, meaningful growth each year to expand access to care for the patients who rely on our clinic. Hasibah’s leadership in securing this grant reflects that commitment,” said CoFounder, Advisory Board Member and former Clinic Director Elshaday Zelalem Sendek, OMS III. “This grant allows us to ensure that every individual in Eastern Kentucky is fully seen, fully heard and fully cared for.”
INVESTING IN MODERN TRAINING
KYCOM received a $400,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to support the expansion and modernization of its clinical simulation lab. ARC uses congressionally appropriated funds to invest in economic development, workforce training and improved health care access across the Appalachian region. At KYCOM, the funding will strengthen a key component of medical education by enhancing the college’s simulation-based learning program.
Simulation training allows medical students to practice clinical skills, decision-making and patient care in a safe, controlled environment before entering clinical rotations. Students gain exposure to a wide range of medical conditions they may encounter in the future through evidencebased, immersive scenarios. The ARC grant will allow KYCOM to add updated equipment and additional supplies to its existing simulation lab, ensuring the technology keeps pace with advances in medical education. The expanded resources will support instruction and position KYCOM to thoughtfully increase class size while maintaining the hands-on training that prepares graduates to serve communities throughout Appalachia.
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
KYCOM is expanding its research initiatives to give students handson experience in biomedical and clinical sciences while advancing medical knowledge. Faculty and students collaborate on projects ranging from rural health disparities to innovative treatment approaches, evidence-based practices and health policy studies.
In recent years, the college has made significant investments to strengthen its research infrastructure and opportunities. Upgrades to laboratory space and equipment, including the addition of a ChemiDoc Imaging System, have enhanced the precision and quality of biomedical research. Student opportunities have also grown, with 21 positions now offered through the Summer
Research Fellowship program, alongside the addition of a competitive National Institutes of Health Immunology Fellowship that supports up to five osteopathic medical students each year.
Faculty continue to secure competitive funding for impactful research. Projects include studies on thymic aging in elderly populations, estrogen receptor signaling and cardiovascular function, noncoding RNA responses to fear and novel cannabinoid enzyme inhibitors. These efforts not only advance scientific research but also provide meaningful experiences for students.
KYCOM students and faculty regularly present their work at regional and institutional events, including the Ohio Osteopathic Symposium and the annual UPIKE Research Symposium, reflecting the continued growth and strength of the college’s research enterprise.
NEW OPPORTUNITIES
KYCOM recently launched a new Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences degree designed to help students take the next step toward careers in health care. The fully online, 30-credit, non-thesis program offers an accelerated eight-week course format and can be completed in two years. The degree is tailored for students preparing for medical, dental and optometry schools, as well as other professional health programs.
“This program is intentionally structured to meet students where they are and help them move forward,” Kingery said. “Whether a student is looking to enhance their academic profile for professional school or advance within the health care field, this degree provides the scientific foundation, advising support and flexibility they need to succeed.”
The curriculum emphasizes scientific reasoning, ethical decision-making and applied research skills. Core coursework includes applied genetics, research methods and biostatistics. Students may also select interdisciplinary electives in leadership, social policy, mental health and addiction policy, artificial intelligence for communication strategies and crisis communication, allowing them to align their studies with personal interests and career goals.
The program is ideal for recent graduates pursuing health careers, applicants seeking to strengthen professional school applications and working professionals aiming for advancement in medical or health-related fields. Faculty with expertise in biomedical and clinical sciences provide instruction, as well as career development and professional advising.
DONOR IMPACT
Generous donors have been essential to KYCOM’s growth, helping provide the facilities, technology and resources needed to train physicians for rural and underserved communities. One deeply personal gift comes from Chairman of UPIKE’s Board of Trustees Terry L. Dotson ’72, who dedicated the former Appalachian News-Express building, located directly in front of the Coal Building, in honor of his late daughter, Leslie Ann Dotson.
The Leslie Ann Dotson Center for Medical Education will serve as a space designed to support student learning, collaboration and innovation, further strengthening KYCOM’s mission to prepare the next generation of physicians.
Leslie lived a life defined by kindness, compassion and a love for all creatures. A “daddy’s girl” through and through, she shared her family’s passion for animals and education, earning a master’s degree in clinical psychology while cherishing every four-legged friend in her life. To celebrate her legacy, Dotson established the Leslie Ann Dotson Scholarship Fund in her memory, ensuring that her spirit continues to inspire students pursuing careers in health care.
“Leslie’s life was a reminder of the impact one person can have on the world,” Dotson said. “Creating a scholarship fund and naming the building in her honor allows her love for learning and service to live on through the students who will become tomorrow’s physicians.”
MEETING THE NEED
The inaugural Tanner College of Dental Medicine class began in June, with initial instruction in the Leslie Ann Dotson Center for Medical Education building while construction continues on the permanent facility. Once the dental school transitions to its new home, the vacated space will allow for additional expansion of KYCOM and support continued growth.
KYCOM plans to increase its annual class size by 60 students, bringing enrollment to 200 students per class, pending approval from the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation. When fully implemented, the expansion would bring total enrollment to 800 medical students.
“As we look to the future, our planned expansion marks an exciting new chapter in this work. By broadening educational opportunities and strengthening clinical partnerships, we are building on that foundation to meet the evolving health care needs of rural and underserved communities for generations to come,” Kingery said.
“DONOR
SUPPORT ALLOWS KYCOM TO KEEP GROWING AND TRAINING PHYSICIANS FOR THE COMMUNITIES THAT NEED THEM MOST. THE DEDICATION OF THOSE WHO INVEST IN OUR MISSION WILL SHAPE THE FUTURE OF HEALTH CARE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME.”
-JOE KINGERY
HOMEGROWN HEALING
Growing up in Raceland, Ky., Macen Witt ’24 always knew she wanted to become a physician. Inspired by her mother’s career in health care, she imagined a future where she could help people the same way.
“I have never known a time when I did not want to be a doctor,” Witt said. “I remember hearing my mom talk about her work when I was little, and I knew I wanted to help people as she did.”
That sense of purpose led her to the University of Pikeville, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences and Communication. As she progressed through her studies, her love for subjects such as anatomy and physiology solidified her desire to become a physician.
During her time at UPIKE, Witt immersed herself in campus life. She served two years as captain of the dance team, worked as a student ambassador for undergraduate admissions and led the Communication Honor Society as president. She also participated in the Osteopathic Medicine Scholars Program, the Student Mental Health Committee and the Biomedical Sciences Honor Society. Today, Witt continues that dedication as a student at the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, where she serves as president of the Sports Medicine club. She is active in several student organizations, including the American Medical Women’s Association, the American College of Osteopathic Emergency Physicians, the Student American Academy of Osteopathy and the Student Osteopathic Medical Association. She also mentors students in the Osteopathic Medicine Scholars Program, serves as a student liaison for KYCOM admissions and works as a teaching assistant for osteopathic patient care labs.
Witt credits her undergraduate experience at UPIKE with preparing her for the rigor of medical school. Her coursework built a strong academic foundation, while balancing leadership roles, dance and academics taught her how to manage demanding responsibilities.
“I learned how to approach complex topics and study efficiently,” she said. “My communication degree also taught me how to effectively communicate with patients, which is a side of medicine that isn’t always taught in the classroom. But the biggest lesson came from dance, and that was discipline.”
Witt also gives back to the community by volunteering at the BEAR Healthcare Clinic, a free student-run clinic.
“Not only have I gained valuable experience treating patients, but I’ve also seen firsthand the barriers to health care access in Eastern Kentucky and how they affect the lives of people in our communities,” she said. “As
By KATIE RAY ’24
someone who hopes to build my medical career in this region, those experiences have helped me learn how to better advocate for my future patients.”
This past summer, a group of students from KYCOM traveled to the Dominican Republic for a medical mission trip. There, Witt experienced a moment that reinforced her decision to choose this path while performing an osteopathic screening on a patient with neck pain.
“With my preceptor’s permission, I did an osteopathic screening of her neck and determined which OMT technique I was going to use—one I had done many times,” she said. “As soon as I was finished, she moved her head around with a smile from ear to ear. Seeing a positive impact with my own eyes made me realize that the many late nights studying and events missed were worth it, and I was getting to live out the life I had dreamed of since I was a little girl.”
As Witt prepares for clinical rotations at St. Claire Regional Medical Center in Morehead, Ky., this July, she remains open to different specialties. Still, sports medicine stands out as a natural fit. After suffering a knee injury during her sophomore year of college, she understands the physical and emotional toll of being sidelined from a sport that had become central to her identity.
“That injury was tough mentally and physically,” she said. “But it also showed me what athletes go through. I want to help them get back to what they love, both as their physician and as their biggest cheerleader.”
For Witt, attending KYCOM represents more than personal achievement. It reflects the mission that began with its founders’ vision.
“A lot of hard work and determination went into building and maintaining this renowned program,” she said. “I admire the people who dedicated themselves to improving health care in rural Appalachia. The investment of their time and resources has made it possible for this Eastern Kentucky girl to fulfill a lifelong dream.”
With each year she spends on campus, her appreciation for the university grows.
“KYCOM’S MISSION IS TO TAKE PEOPLE FROM THE APPALACHIAN MOUNTAINS AND TRAIN THEM TO SERVE THE APPALACHIAN MOUNTAINS. THAT IS EXACTLY THE FOUNDATION I WANT TO BUILD MY MEDICAL CAREER ON.”
By KATIE RAY ’24
TWO PATHS ONE PURPOSE
Jason Hunt, D.O., ’00, KYCOM ’05 and Stacy Taylor-Hunt, D.O., ’99, KYCOM ’03 first met in high school in Pike County. Years later, they would follow a similar path through the University of Pikeville and the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, building careers in medicine that continue to impact patients across the country.
For Jason, the journey to medicine was not always part of the plan. He came to UPIKE after meeting coach Johnnie LeMaster and earning the opportunity to play baseball. At the time, he had not considered becoming a physician. His path began to shift after his baseball career ended, and Stacy enrolled at KYCOM. Watching her experience made medical school feel like a natural next step. For Stacy, the decision to pursue medicine stemmed from growing up in rural Kentucky and recognizing the region’s health care needs.
Today, both have built careers that reflect the training and values they developed during their time at KYCOM. Jason is an orthopedic surgeon and the founder of OrthoLinks Orthopedics & Rehabilitation and the OrthoLinks Performance Center in Tampa, Fla. His work focuses on sports medicine, joint preservation and minimally invasive techniques designed to help patients recover and return to activity.
His interest in orthopedics began during medical school after an elective rotation at Orlando Regional Hospital. A subsequent rotation with an orthopedic surgeon helped confirm his interest in the specialty.
“Sports medicine allowed me to stay involved in athletics,” Jason said. “Instead of competing against other athletes, I compete against injuries and help athletes return to play.”
He has since expanded his work with the opening of the Joint Preservation Center of Kentucky. Inspired by advanced meniscus repair techniques pioneered by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Justin Saliman, the center focuses on preserving joints that were once considered irreparable.
Throughout his career, Jason has treated more than 60,000 patients. His approach to care remains grounded in the osteopathic principles he learned from KYCOM Professor Edward Stiles, D.O., FAAO.
“Osteopathic training is at the core of everything I am as a physician. I treat and operate on patients, not X-rays or MRIs,” he said. “Everything I do in the performance center is based on everything I learned from Dr. Stiles as a medical student.”
Stacy pursued family medicine, a specialty that allows her to care for patients across every stage of life. She practices at Lexington Clinic Andover in Lexington, Ky., where she focuses on building long-term relationships with patients and their families. Those relationships are one of the most meaningful aspects of her work.
“Family medicine gives me the ability to interact with the whole patient and their family,” Stacy said. “I’m not sure if I become part of their family or they become part of mine, but their successes and triumphs are rewarding to me.”
She also sees a significant need for expanded behavioral health care services in many communities and emphasizes preventive care as an essential part of improving patients’ quality of life. Like Jason, Stacy credits her osteopathic training with shaping how she approaches patient care.
“I approach the whole patient as a person and not a list of individual symptoms,” she said. “I remember one of the professors saying, ‘When you hear hoofbeats, don’t look for zebras,’ so when the answers aren’t obvious, I believe in starting over—looking at things from a different perspective instead of giving up.”
Jason also remains closely connected to KYCOM as chair of the division of surgery and as a clinical professor of orthopedics. In those roles, he helps shape the surgical curriculum and delivers lectures to medical students while mentoring future physicians. Both remain proud KYCOM alums and supporters of its continued growth and mission. For Stacy, that growth represents new opportunities for future
physicians, especially students from Eastern Kentucky who hope to serve their communities.
“KYCOM continues to inspire kids from Eastern Kentucky to pursue their dreams and improve health care in the area,” she said. “We strive to give back the opportunities that were afforded us.”
Jason believes the medical school is positioned to continue expanding its impact on health care education and innovation. He encourages alumni to stay connected and support the college in whatever way they can.
“KYCOM provided all the groundwork I needed to be successful clinically. The core site rotations put me ahead of other students at other schools during internship and residency. KYCOM is uniquely positioned to be a regional leader in health care,” he said.
“SUPPORT THE UNIVERSITY IN YOUR BEST WAY. PRAY FOR KYCOM’S CONTINUED SUCCESS AND INFLUENCE. GIVE FINANCIALLY. VOLUNTEER. ADVOCATE. WE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN GREATER THAN THE SUM OF OUR PARTS. JUST PLAY A PART.”
-Jason Hunt
“Your careers will demand more of you than you can imagine. Your education has prepared you for this by stimulating you to think about learning as a lifelong enterprise. Be curious, dig deep and keep growing. We’re proud of you, and we stand ready to support you in building a life of fulfilling service. ”
-Burton J. Webb, Ph.D.
COMMENCEMENT
More than 575 University of Pikeville graduates crossed the stage inside the Appalachian Wireless Arena on May 2, marking a day defined by achievement, reflection and a clear sense of purpose. Families filled the arena as students from undergraduate, graduate and health professions programs celebrated the culmination of years of work.
During the health professions ceremony, Chairman of the American Optometric Association Center for Independent Practice Robert Layman, O.D., delivered a message that centered on intention and impact. He urged graduates to resist the pull of comfort and instead pursue work that matters.
“Choose the meaningful path over the comfortable one,” Layman said. “When faced with safety versus significance, choose significance. That is where real impact lives.”
At the undergraduate ceremony, President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D., spoke directly to the complexity of the world graduates are stepping into. He acknowledged the challenges ahead while emphasizing the role of curiosity and lifelong learning.
“Your careers will demand more of you than you can imagine. Your education has prepared you for this by stimulating you to think about learning as a lifelong enterprise,” Webb said. “Be curious, dig deep and keep growing. We’re proud of you, and we stand ready to support you in building a life of fulfilling service.”
The keynote address from acclaimed singer/songwriter Nick Jamerson ’10 struck a more personal chord. Drawing from his own journey, Jamerson encouraged graduates to hold onto the resilience and perspective they developed during their time on the hill.
“I challenge you to continue to keep that open mind, that open heart with the same traits of resilience that you’ve been walking in and fostering here on this hill. I challenge you to never stop chasing that thing deep down in your spirit that makes you feel alive,” Jamerson said. “You are prepared. You have the skills you need to sort through it all and to continue to move mountains.”
To watch the ceremonies in their entirety, visit youtube.com/upikebears.
2026
MORE PHOTOS
ALUMNI UPDATES
1990 s
1980 s
← Pam Baker Redman ’80 coauthored and self-published her memoir, The Long Flight Home: A True Story of Years Lost and Love Found, in December 2024. The book has been reviewed by Kirkus and BookLife.
Craig Greshaw ’92 → retired from Zeeland Public Schools after a 28-year career. He served as a teacher, assistant principal and principal, most recently leading Creekside Middle School.
← Christy Fleming ’93 retired as a public librarian with the Pikeville Public Library. She holds a master’s in library science and now works part-time as a historian for the public library and KYCOM.
Lynetta Stiltner ’97, KYCOM ’03 is serving as president of the Kentucky Academy of Family Medicine.
2000 s
UPIKE’s Director of Annual Giving ← Danny Osborne ’99 married Ronda Williamson on March 28 at Connection Church in Pikeville.
Edna Fugate ’02 received the Kentucky Association of College and Research Libraries Outstanding Academic Librarian Award.
UPIKE’s Director of Stewardship and Donor Engagement Brooke Thacker ’04 → and her husband Kevin welcomed Myles Franklin on March 31.
2010 s
← Brandon ’12 and Desteni Hamilton ’12 welcomed Eleanor Mayra Jo on July 29, 2025.
Brittani Higgins ’12 was promoted to the position of lead mammographer technologist at Norton West Hospital.
Nicholas Hunt ’13 → and his wife Hilary welcomed Eliza Anna James on March 19.
Lula Bowling Ford, a former educational counselor and English professor at then Pikeville College, has remained connected to the university for decades. She earned her master’s degree through a cooperative agreement with Morehead State University without leaving the Pikeville campus. She later studied stained glass through a continuing education course at the college. She was glad to contribute when UPIKE Facilities approached her about creating a stained-glass window for the Administration Building.
The finished piece incorporates a circle symbolizing infinity and a cross representing faith, and took several months to complete. She and her husband Bob ’69 remain proud supporters of the university, and the window stands as a lasting reflection of that connection.
← Della Abshire Rowe ’13, ’15, MBA ’17 married Bennie Rowe on November 1, 2025. The ceremony took place at Lick Creek Holiness Church and was officiated by her son Chris ’01. Her son Nathan ’17 walked her down the aisle.
Nissona ’16, MBA ’19 and Evan Faulkner, MBA ’18 → welcomed Brooks Emery on January 31.
Collan McCoy ’16 ↑ and his wife Bre welcomed Caleb on April 15. They live in Louisa, Ky., and Collan is a teacher at Lawrence County High School.
← Jaclynn Castle ’17 married Ashton Thomas. She works as a behavior analyst at the Pikeville Medical Center’s Appalachian Valley Autism Center.
Zachary Sumpter, D.O., KYCOM ’17 joined Healthstar Primary Care in Kingsport, Tenn.
Zachary Thacker ’17 was promoted to Tug Valley Market President of Community Trust Bank, Inc.
South Laurel High School named Amy Corum ’18 head girls’ soccer coach.
Rob Rundle ’18 → married Allison on November 28, 2025, in Cincinnati. He serves as a customer success manager at Vector Solutions.
Kelli R. Albrecht, D.O., KYCOM ’18, Peter L. Albrecht Jr., D.O., KYCOM ’18, Megan Edin, D.O., KYCOM ’21 and Amy Beard, D.O., KYCOM ’22 joined Norton Healthcare in Louisville, Ky.
Peyton ’19 and Laura Hamilton ’19 → welcomed Leo on January 9.
Heather Jones McPeek, MBA ’19 joined United Real Estate Bluegrass as a real estate agent.
2020 s
← Ben Tanoff, MBA ’19 was promoted to associate head coach for Ellsworth Community College men’s basketball for the 2025-26 season. He also serves as a professor of business and computer science.
Jeremy Penn, O.D., KYCO ’20 → married Hannah Penn on May 25, 2025. He practices at MyEyeDr in Cynthiana, Ky.
Donovan Layne, MBA ’20 joined the Kentucky Primary Care Association as director of program implementation.
Emily Sharpe ’20 → joined Pikeville Medical Center’s Appalachian Valley Autism (AVA) Academy Learning Center as a teacher.
In February, Maivys Longa, O.D., KYCO ’20 opened a private practice in Fort Myers, Fla.
Bowen Smith ’20 → was named head baseball coach and offensive coordinator at South Aiken High School.
← Kyle Nagy ’20 began a new role as a video sales support engineer with Roland, providing technical support and representing the company at trade shows.
← Zack Hall ’21 began a new role as East Kentucky field director at Edelen Renewables.
Mackenza Harris, MBA ’21 joined the Appalachian College of Pharmacy as an assistant professor of pharmacy practice and recruiter. She also serves as a pharmacist in charge at the Mountain Care Center.
Tanner Leigh, O.D., KYCO ’21 was named Kentucky’s Young Optometrist of the Year for 2026.
Katherine MacKillop, D.O., KYCOM ’21 joined Harris Regional Hospital as an obstetrician-gynecologist.
Stephen Osborn ’21 → works for Microsoft, where he manages and administers enterprise email systems and contributes to the development of Outlook and Microsoft 365. He and his wife Hayley ’21 celebrated their third wedding anniversary in October 2025 and reside in Ozark, Mo.
← Evan ’22 and Skylar Coleman ’24 welcomed Kallum Neil on April 14. They live in Richmond, Ky., where Evan works at Cintas Corporation and Skylar works at Waco Elementary School.
Elizabeth Hickey ’22 is now a doctor of physical therapy at the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital.
Gary Humberson, MBA ’22 joined Dona Ana Community College in Las Cruces, New Mexico, as an adjunct instructor.
Jada Hood ’22 → is based in Atlanta as a flight attendant with Delta Air Lines and recently surpassed one million miles flown.
Kevin Justice ’22 → and Katie Jo Campbell, D.C. ’22 were married Dec. 20, 2025. Katie earned her Doctor of Chiropractic in March.
Kristy Lee, MSW ’22 earned her Licensed Clinical Social Worker in February and joined UPIKE as an adjunct professor in the social work department.
← Taevon Horton ’22 is playing professional basketball overseas.
Doug Thompson, O.D., KYCO ’22 was promoted to managing optometrist at Heartland EyeCare in Oklahoma City, Okla.
Kate Hensley, MBA ’23 → has been promoted to director of marketing and communications at UPIKE.
Jeffrey Black ’24 secured a professional opportunity with a pro football team in Cincinnati.
← Michael Hobby ’24 married Lexiss in September 2025 and began a new career as a realtor in East Tennessee.
Bryce Oliver ’24 was selected for Team USA in bowling for the second consecutive year.
Aariana Sparks ’24 → and Jacob Rainey ’24 were married on New Year’s Eve 2025. Aariana is a second-year medical student, and Jacob works as a manager at Republic Finance.
