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Weekly Update

Late this week, I traveled to Western Kentucky and visited with members of our community impacted by the horrific storms that cut a path of devastation through so much of our state in December. The encounters reminded me of the importance of community and the hope that, even in the darkest of moments, there is the promise of something brighter ahead.

Legislative Progress; Our Commitment to Health and Well-being

The state House yesterday adopted a proposed two-year budget and spending plan for the Commonwealth. The spending plan, which now goes to the Senate, underscores the importance of higher education and this institution — in creating a Kentucky that is healthier, wealthier and wiser.

Our First Week Back

The first week of the academic semester is always a powerful reminder of why we are here. We welcomed our students back and saw our classrooms come alive once more with engagement and learning. Our faculty and staff continued to foster the kind of community that is only possible on a robust, residential campus like ours.

The Legislative Session and UK

Last week, the Kentucky General Assembly convened for its annual session that runs until April. This year is particularly important because it is a so-called budget year in which the legislature adopts a two-year budget for the Commonwealth including the investments that policymakers will make in higher education.

A New Semester: Expectations for Student Success and Our Community

The following message from President Capilouto was sent to all of campus on Friday, Jan. 7, 2022. Campus Community, The sound of shovels and tractors throughout the night and into the morning reinforced for me in a compelling way the unwavering commitment this community has to service — service to students, service to care and service to our state.

Our Plans for Return to In-Person Classes Next Week, Keeping Our Community Safe

At the start of this semester, we know we will experience many more cases of the virus as we continue to offer free testing services for those with symptoms and resume the required weekly testing of unvaccinated faculty, staff and students. We will transition to our spring reporting this week, and you can review the numbers regularly at our  COVID-19 data dashboard.

A Tragic Death, Our Work to Find Answers December 22, 2021

A little more than two months ago, our community suffered a heartbreaking loss. One of our students — a life filled with promise and potential — was taken from us.

Weekly Update- Get Your COVID-19 Booster December 17, 2021

Today, I have the distinct honor and privilege of addressing our December 2021 graduates at Commencement. These ceremonies celebrate the core of our mission — preparing students for lives of meaning and purpose.  

A Community That Cares A Community That Cares

As many as 100 died — if not more — in what’s been described as the worst night of storms in our state’s long history. The images will long remain in my mind’s eye, reminding us all again of how precious and fragile life is and how the only thing we can control what we do, together, to help each other whenever and wherever there is need.

Provost Search December 10, 2021

I am pleased today to announce a committee charged with conducting a national search for the permanent provost.