Serving with compassion

Toni Hobbs (Class of 2002, 2009), an Eastern Kentucky native, is the director of digital and brand strategy at MSU. She was instrumental in developing the concept for a mentoring program for underrepresented students, DREAMS. In 2009, her passion for service led to the establishment of the Hobbs Endowment for Equality. This $50,000 endowment will support generations of future Eagles.

The funds support inclusive academic programming and scholarship, one of the first scholarships of its kind in Kentucky. It was created specifically for LGBTQIA+ students who do not receive adequate support from their home and/or school environments.

Supporting social work

The students of the MSU at Prestonsburg regional campus social work program are very close. When graduate Nickolas R. Bailey (Class of 2018), passed away unexpectedly at the age of 25 following a motorcycle accident, the loss was difficult.

Through tragedy, Nick’s wife, Jessica Bailey (Class of 2018) and MSU Social Work Instructor and Facilitator, Deirdra Robinson, worked to create the Nickolas R. Bailey Memorial Scholarship Fund to support senior social work students at MSU at Prestonsburg. Through the award, recipients will carry on Nick’s legacy as a beloved husband, father, student and social justice advocate.