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Making A Difference in the Lives of Our Students

Each year, I am proud to announce the winners of the University of Kentucky’s Outstanding Teaching Awards — each one of whom is actively making a difference in the lives of our students through their passion and teaching. The Outstanding Teaching Awards, awarded by the Office for Faculty Advancement (OFA),acknowledge the distinguished individuals at UK whose dedication to student achievement is evident through their role in the classroom.

Academic Ombud Reappointed

I am pleased to announce that I have reappointed Dr. Alice Turkington as the University of Kentucky Academic Ombud for the 2024-25 academic year, effective July 1, 2024. The Academic Ombud is the university officer charged with facilitating the resolution of student academic issues that may arise, in a manner that is fair and equitable for all parties.

Moving Our Institution Forward: Faculty Promotions and UK ADVANCE

As we move closer to the end of the spring semester, I am reminded of what an exciting season it is for everyone across our campus. Our university continues its momentum to advance Kentucky in many ways across our campus and around the Commonwealth.

New Gaines Center for the Humanities Director Named

Campus Community, I am pleased to announce that Michelle Sizemore has been named the new director of the John R. Gaines Center for the Humanities, pending approval by the Board of Trustees. With her extensive experience in and passion for the humanities, Dr. Sizemore will provide exemplary leadership for the Gaines Center and help to further its mission of cultivating an appreciation of the humanities in students, staff, faculty and the wider community. 

Associate Provost for Academic Affairs Named

I am pleased to inform you that Brandi N. Frisby, acting dean of and professor in the College of Communication (CI), has agreed to serve as the new associate provost for academic affairs, effective May 13. This announcement is the result of feedback from faculty, staff and students and the search advisory committee.

Expanding our Horizons through Fulbright

One of the many ways in which our university community excels is building connections with different groups — locally, regionally and globally. Our partnerships are key to ensuring we can provide leading edge instruction and care to those we serve. Collaboration with our partners enables transdisciplinary and shared learning experiences.

Collaboration and Partnerships through TEK

Recently, I was honored to speak with participants in a question-and-answer session hosted by the Transdisciplinary Educational approaches to advance Kentucky (TEK) team. This event connected our team and participants in the Faculty Fellows program with the community partners and experts we collaborate with to provide our students with the knowledge and skills required in Kentucky’s modern workforce.

Inspiring Innovation through the SEC Academic Leadership Development Program

A significant part of our mission to inspire ingenuity and innovation at the university relies upon the Office for Faculty Advancement to promote growth for faculty members who do so much for UK and its people. Part of those efforts for faculty development are implementing programs like the Southeastern Conference Academic Leadership Development Program (SEC-ALDP).

Spotlighting the Graduate School

Throughout the spring semester, we continue highlighting the excellent and pivotal work conducted by you and your peers across campus. This week, we focus on the Graduate School and their mission to support graduate education across all levels at the university.

College of Public Health Dean Appointment

I am pleased to inform you that Dr. Heather Bush has accepted our offer to serve as dean of the UK College of Public Health. She has served as the acting dean for the past two years, and I am grateful for her continued leadership in the college’s era of growth.

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