Beyond the Classroom

By Amy Charles, MBA '23

Richard ’68 and Judy Maynard ’68 first connected at then Pikeville College through their shared passion for education. Their bond grew into a lifelong partnership, both in marriage and in their careers as educators. Together, they dedicated their lives to serving the children of their community and leaving a lasting impact.

Richard’s journey to “the hill” began on the basketball court, a sport that helped him overcome childhood illness and insecurity. His love for the game, paired with a major in health and physical education and a minor in history, laid the groundwork for a career in teaching and coaching. He earned accolades as a standout player, including induction into the UPIKE Athletics Hall of Fame. He went on to earn his master’s degree in education and later his Rank 1.

“I struggled with asthma as a child. I was very thin, but I was tall. Playing basketball changed everything for me,” said Richard. “My family wasn’t financially able to send me to college so a full-ride scholarship to play ball opened a lot of doors for me.”

Judy’s ambition to become a teacher was clear from an early age. She double majored in history and political science, with minors in English and psychology, and later earned her master’s degree in education.

“I always hoped I would become a teacher,” said Judy. “Growing up just a few miles from campus, Pikeville College was a natural choice for me, and I was the first in my family to attend college.”

Upon graduation, they both secured teaching positions right away. After spending time at other schools, they found themselves teaching together at Millard High School, where Richard coached basketball for 12 years before becoming assistant principal. The couple dedicated their careers to shaping young minds, both advocating for students and working to foster a positive environment in schools.

“To be an effective teacher, you’ve got to have that instinct to let kids know that you care about them,” said Judy. “Over the years, many students have told me that what they appreciated most was how we treated everyone equally. Whether they came from wealthy backgrounds or faced challenges, we made it a point to treat all our students the same.”

Their commitment to education went beyond the classroom. Judy engaged in extracurricular activities, leading organizations like the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Richard's various roles as teacher, assistant principal, coach and bus driver impacted his approach to how he interacted with students.

“The first step is learning each student’s name,” said Richard. “I drove a school bus for 46 and a half years. I never made a run where I didn't say good morning or ask them about their day. You never know what situation they are coming from so I wanted to be something positive in their life.”

The Maynards retired in 1997, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication. Now, more than five decades since their graduation, they both express a deep gratitude for the opportunities the university provided.

“I really credit the college for giving me a shot at life,” Richard said. “Before I went there, my future felt pretty limited. But it gave me hope and an opportunity to build a rewarding career where I can serve my community and make a difference for countless kids.”

“College was a great experience. I worked and I studied hard, but at the same time, I made so many friends that I still have today,” said Judy. “The professors had a profound effect on the teachers we became. They always treated us with respect, making us feel valued. Pikeville College had a very positive impact on both of our lives.”