UPIKE Magazine Spring/Summer 2020

MAGAZINE Spring/Summer 2020

YEAR OF THE

OPTOMETRIST IN T H I S I S S U E

VIRTUA L C O M ME N C E ME NT 20 20 K YC O : PAV I N G T HE WAY F OR OPTOME TRY IN APPALACH I A OP TO M E T RY FAC ULTY R E CE IVE NATIONAL AND I N T ERN AT I O N AL RECO GN I T I O N

The University of Pikeville theatre program performed one of William Shakespeare’s most enduring tragedies, Macbeth, directed

by Associate Professor of Theatre Kim Willard in Booth Auditorium during the spring semester. The classic tragedy featured witchcraft, swordplay, murder, revenge and madness. UPIKE’s production gave audiences a spectacular and exciting performance.

Click here for more information about the UPIKE theatre program

(From left) Brandon Gibson, Amari Matthews, Bethany Jervis ‘19, Audrey Caudill and Jeremi Plourde.

MAGAZINE STAFF David Hutchens

MAGAZINE Spring/Summer 2020 Volume 6, Number 2

Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations

EDITOR Katie Ray

CONTRIBUTORS Amy Charles, Laura Damron MBA ’19, Michelle Goff, Sherrie Marrs, Kelly Rowe-Jones, Brooke Thacker ’04, Stacey Walters

ART DIRECTOR Kate Hensley PHOTOGRAPHERS Alex Acevedo, Jared Dingle, Larry Epling, Dusty Layne, Matthew Lester, Ray Wolfe

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

22 28

VIRTUAL COMMENCEMENT KYCO: PAVING THE WAY FOR OPTOMETRY IN APPALACHIA

34

FAMILY PRACTICE: THE THOMPSON FAMILY President’s Letter 3 Campus and Faculty News 4 UPIKE Then & Now 12 Finding Success in the Journey 14 Ronald McCoy Community Service Award 17 Keeping the Promise 18 Passing the Whistle 20 This Just In ... 30 Conquering the Lane 32 Good Morning, Sunshine 36 KYCOM Alumni Association 37 Finding Faith 38 Record Society 40 Class Notes 42

Story ideas and letters to the Editor: Email: editor@upike.edu Mail: Editor, UPIKE Magazine Office of Advancement University of Pikeville 147 Sycamore St., Pikeville, KY 41501

Address changes: Email: alumni@upike.edu Online: upike.edu/alumni/alumni-update/ Phone: (606) 218-5276 between 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday

Class notes: Email: alumni@upike.edu Online:upike.edu/magazine Mail: Office of Advancement, University of Pikeville, 147 Sycamore St., Pikeville, KY 41501

The University of Pikeville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, masters and doctorate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of the University of Pikeville. It is the policy of the University of Pikeville that no student shall be excluded from participating in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in any program sponsored by the university because of age, race, color, creed, religion, handicap, sexual orientation or national origin. All other inquiries should be addressed to the University of Pikeville at 147 Sycamore Street, Pikeville, Kentucky 41501 or call 606-218-5250. *EOE

Jackie Douglas, a second-year optometry student from Louisville, Ky., practices performing an eye exam at the Dr. Jerald F. Combs Eye Clinic. The clinic offers comprehensive eye care to patients while providing training and education for Kentucky College of Optometry students in the state-of-the-art clinic space. Adult and pediatric patients can expect expert care in a number of specialty services. To schedule an appointment for an annual eye exam or for a specialty service, call (606) 218-5540.

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UPIKE MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2020

Letter from the

PRESIDENT

Someday, when I look back at 2020 from the rocking chair of retirement, I will shake my head in amazement at all of the changes a tiny virus has wrought. As COVID-19 began redefining how we care for ourselves and conduct daily life, UPIKE committed to not just survive the impending changes but to thrive during the chaos. At the center of our thinking, planning and response is one overarching priority: student success.

Undergraduate and professional students were able to complete the second half of the spring semester online under the instruction of our exceptional faculty. Around one hundred undergraduate students could not, or chose not to, return home when face-to-face classes ceased. To ensure their overall well-being, we were able to provide them with housing, dining, technology and other resources in a safe on-campus environment.

Our first-ever virtual commencement ceremony was held to celebrate the achievements of our undergraduate, graduate and health professions students.

There was no challenge daunting enough to deter the Kentucky College of Optometry from graduating its inaugural class of 2020. This remarkable group of pioneers overcame adversity along the way and has made us proud. Their tenacity and grit will forever mark them in our history and our hearts. Along with Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) graduates, these compassionate individuals will increase access to quality healthcare in rural communities.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have heard and shared many stories of brave UPIKE and KYCOM alumni working on the front lines. A group of well-trained KYCOM osteopathic medical students received statewide recognition from Governor Beshear for being among the first to answer a call to serve the Commonwealth. We thank everyone within the UPIKE Family who has put themselves in harm’s way in the spirit of service. We are equally inspired by the accomplishments of our student-athletes, experiential learners, faculty and staff during this academic year.

The pages that follow are filled with uplifting stories of selflessness, learning, achievement and growth. Hope exists.

Yes, these are trying times for us all; but there are countless bright days ahead for the university as we continue excelling and...

Striving to serve, Burton J. Webb President

SPRING/SUMMER 2020 | UPIKE MAGAZINE

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Campus News BEARS SUCCEED WITH LEADS INITIATIVE The University of Pikeville Academic and Cultural Enrichment (ACE) program has created an initiative to provide leadership training opportunities to ACE participants.

The LEADS program exemplifies Leadership, Engagement, Achievement, Development and Service and exposes students to leadership-based experiences that help them succeed in their life and future careers.

These experiences enable students to become leaders in their institution and communities, as well as instill a sense of belonging and build valuable interview skills, character and self-esteem.

Academic Coordinator for the ACE Program Shena Shepherd says LEADS is vitally important in having an at-risk student population succeed.

“The LEADS program has had a wonderful impact on our students and has given them the chance to become involved on campus as well as in the community,” said Shepherd. “As a result, students are more prepared to enter the workforce and become future leaders.”

(From left) ACE Academic Coordinator Shena Shepherd, Caitlyn Bowman ’20, Whitley McKinney ’20, ACE Project Coordinator Cecil Williams and Caleb Varney ’20 traveled to Washington D.C., as a part of the LEADS program.

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED

Click here for information on more ways to give

Together, Giving Tuesday is no ordinary Tuesday; it’s a movement.

Giving Tuesday began in 2012 as a way to give back and do good on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. Today, it has grown into a global initiative that celebrates acts of generosity.

In 2019, UPIKE launched its first Giving Tuesday Challenge. The UPIKE community was challenged to give online to support a college, athletic team or club/organization of their choosing. The area with the most money raised at the end of Giving Tuesday received an additional $1,500 donation. The winner of the inaugural challenge was the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Alumni Association.

In total, $12,534 was raised to support the future entrepreneurs, physicians, teachers and leaders of Central Appalachia and beyond. Thank you to everyone who donated on Giving Tuesday.

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KYCOM STUDENTS TAKE CARE OF BEARS The Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) continues its commitment to UPIKE’s student-athletes by providing free pre-participation physicals to players from a multitude of sports.

Nearly 200 UPIKE student-athletes took advantage of this service in the 2019-2020 academic year.

Not only is this practice beneficial for the student-athletes who need the required medical clearance to participate, but this is also a great learning experience for UPIKE’s osteopathic medical students, giving them the opportunity to get clinical experience and practice their skills.

UPIKE’s athletic department is appreciative of the service and Head Athletic Trainer Emily Atkinson looks forward to continuing a partnership with KYCOM, well into the future.

“The partnership that we have developed with KYCOM is one of a kind,” said Atkinson.

“I believe that since we have the resources on campus to provide top-notch healthcare for our athletes while providing another learning experience for our KYCOM students, is a win for both groups.”

“By providing sports physicals for UPIKE student-athletes, our KYCOM students get additional valuable hands-on experience working with real patients,” said Dana C. Shaffer, D.O., FACOFP, dist., FAOGME, dean of KYCOM. “It also brings undergraduate students into the medical school to interact with our students, faculty and family medicine residents.”

Third-year family medicine resident physician at Pikeville Medical Center Sekufe Akhter, D.O., KYCOM ’18, oversaw KYCOM students while they performed physical exams for student-athletes including UPIKE football player Trivette Bridges ’20.

by the numbers

61%

of donations came from

NEW DONORS

24 GROUPS AT UPIKE

received donations

SPRING/SUMMER 2020 | UPIKE MAGAZINE

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BEARS CAPTURE MSC CHEERLEADING CHAMPIONSHIP The University of Pikeville Cheerleading program has set the standard in forming a new tradition of winning championships.

UPIKE Cheer won its fourth Mid-South Conference Championship (2013, 2014, 2016, 2020) and won third place in the nation at the UCA National Championship in 2020.

UPIKE Cheer Coach Jeannie Stone is committed to building a strong, supportive and competitive cheer program at the university that will make the community of Pikeville proud and highlight the commitment of its student-athletes.

“This team worked hard from the very beginning, set high goals for themselves individually, and as a team, and pushed one another to improve daily,” said Stone.

“Their attitude, along with exceptional persistence to never give up just because skills became difficult, allowed them to exceed even their expectations.”

DIVING IN

The University of Pikeville and the Pikeville Area Family YMCA agreed to work in partnership to launch its men’s and women’s swimming programs as its 23rd and 24th intercollegiate sports offered at the university.

UPIKE swim teams will utilize the new community pool to serve as the program’s primary facility. The amenities include a six-lane, 25-yard indoor pool that is part of a 16,000 square foot expansion of the YMCA. UPIKE welcomed its first-ever Head Swimming Coach Casey Wendall, who also serves as the aquatics director for the YMCA.

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UPIKE Athletic Director Kelly Wells is thrilled to be adding men’s and women’s swimming as a part of UPIKE athletics.

“We are really excited to be bringing Casey aboard with UPIKE,” Wells said. “She shares an incredible vision for our new program, brings plenty of coaching experience across multiple levels of collegiate athletics, and possesses an incredible drive for bettering the lives of her student-athletes.”

#TeamKentucky Amid the coronavirus pandemic that swept through Kentucky, a spotlight shone on the giving spirit and attitude of service that makes up the very fabric of the University of Pikeville.

Kentucky Department of Public Health Commissioner, Steven J. Stack, M.D., MBA, FACEP, issued a call to medical students across the Commonwealth to help relieve the strained healthcare professionals on the frontlines of the emergency.

Three brave students from the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) rose to challenges set before them and put their training to use, doing the most good during a time of crisis.

Third-year medical students Amanda Meier, Heather McGuire and Meredith Doughty were sent to the River’s Bend Retirement Community in Lyon County to assist staff members who had been working around the clock to care for medically fragile patients. At least 10 people tested positive for COVID-19 at this facility.

These future doctors came away with a greater appreciation for nurses, a deeper understanding of teamwork and a reignited dedication to medicine.

Despite being required to remain in quarantine for two weeks after their commitment ended, all three ladies have assured Dr. Stack they were ready to serve again.

“I am deeply grateful to KYCOM students Heather, Amanda and Meredith, who were the very first medical students to respond to Kentucky’s call to action during the COVID-19 public health emergency,” said Dr. Stack. “They were welcomed by the local community as angels upon arrival, and as local heroes when they left. Their kindness, compassion and selflessness in helping the River’s Bend

Retirement Community inspires me and is a testament to the power every one of us has to help others. I have never been prouder of Team Kentucky!”

The trio credits KYCOM for preparing them with the skills necessary to face the crisis head-on, and they are exceedingly proud to represent UPIKE.

“KYCOM prepared me to care for patients and to have the ability to adapt to any situation. I feel like our time at UPIKE really allowed us to grow as physicians. I am very proud that our institution stepped up and answered the call,” said McGuire.

“It’s so nice when your institution supports everything you went into medicine for, and I’m proud to show that Eastern Kentucky is putting out truly incredible future doctors. I know I’m in medicine for the right reasons and KYCOM prepared me for the job ahead,” said Meier.

“It’s an honor to represent Team Kentucky during this pandemic,” said Doughty. “I’m proud to come from a group of people who are dedicated to service, answered the call and are willing to go wherever they are needed.”

UPIKE’s nursing department, along with KYCOM, donated their PPE to local healthcare facilities. With the Pike County Health Department stressing frequent handwashing practices, UPIKE showering facilities were left open to the public for the use of the city’s homeless population.

In recent weeks, other KYCOM students including Brady Brooks, Tierra Folsom, Paige Hampton, Katie Johnson, Kathryn Knutson, Holly Nauert, Chrystie Nguyen, Madison Tackett, Peter Weglarz and Fletcher Young answered the call to serve on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

UPIKE commends them all for their service.

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Faculty News “We are what we are because we have been what we have been.” ―

Psychology Professor John Howie, Ph.D., joined the University of Pikeville in 1991 as a teaching assistant, and shortly after, “Howie” became a familiar name around campus. He was promoted to associate professor in 2001 and full professor in 2009. Howie was the coordinator of the psychology program from 1999 to 2019, when he was diagnosed with cancer.

Recognizing him for his years of service, the university bestowed upon him the honor and title of Faculty Emeritus during its 2020 Virtual Commencement Ceremony.

Upon graduating from Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy, he began his journey into psychology at the Goethe Institute in Staufen im Breisgau and Schwäbisch Hall, Germany, in 1977. He studied analytical psychology at the C.G. Jung Institute and Zurich Universität in Switzerland in 1978, before 8

taking root at the University of Dallas where he earned his Master of Arts in psychology and his Ph.D. in archetypal and phenomenological psychology.

“It’s fascinating to learn about the power of dreams, to discover patterns and themes that appear in them and to speculate their purpose in our lives,” Howie stated. “My teacher, James Hillman, taught me archetypal psychology. James Hillman was taught by Carl Jung, who was taught

by Sigmund Freud, therefore, I am three degrees of separation from Sigmund Freud.”

Howie has traveled the globe extensively, gaining experience in psychology and developing his skills.

When asked why he elected to come to UPIKE, his response was simply, “UPIKE chose me.”

The uniquely talented professor has inspired many students in his time at the university.

UPIKE MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2020

Sigmund Freud

"Psychology was the first major that really clicked for me and I was fortunate enough to have a wonderful professor named John Howie,” said UPIKE alum Sara Adkins ’11. “He’s basically the stereotypical eccentric professor. Watching him jump around and change the color of the chalk as he changed topics while he taught made me realize this is what I wanted to do. He inspired me to pursue a career in psychology and earn my Ph.D.” At age 68, he is turning the page to the next chapter of his life’s journey – retirement. Howie intends to stay in Pikeville with his family and continue his passion of ecopsychology by planting trees surrounding a local pond.

“This is what I want to do with my retirement,” he exclaimed as he spread his arms and looked at the pond’s potential. “I want this to be my legacy.”

KYCOM faculty presents at San Diego conference In January, the 20th annual International Meeting on Simulation in Healthcare, the world’s largest medical simulation conference with more than 4,000 participants, was held in San Diego.

Conference attendees had the opportunity to witness UPIKE’s own Danny Driskill, J.D., MCCP, FP-C, Joe Kingery, D.O., CPE, FAAFP, and Sarah Crawford, D.O., co-present a 60-minute panel presentation entitled “Carnival Disaster: Interprofessional Education via MassCasualty Simulation.”

The trio designed an Interprofessional Education (IPE) event based on the real-life 2017 Fireball carnival ride disaster at the Ohio State Fair. The created scenario involved a similar, fictitious disaster with 100 casualties at Pikeville’s Hillbilly Days Festival, with the purpose of educating students about working together in a crisis “so that if they ever really had a mass casualty disaster they would have worked out some of the ways a bad outcome could happen so that the most lives are saved,” said Crawford.

“We used 100 teddy bears positioned throughout a scale model of the carnival area to teach groups of medical, nursing, pharmacy, optometry and social work students the basics of triaging, treating and transporting patients during a mass-casualty incident,” explained Driskill. “They also learned to value the contributions each profession contributes to healthcare.”

After their scheduled IPE poster presentation for the annual conference of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine was conducted online, due to COVID-19 restrictions, they were invited to upload the poster for inclusion in a special online publication of the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association.

Setting the Standard

Dana C. Shaffer, D.O., FACOFP dist., FAOGME, dean of the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, presented at the 2019 United States Osteopathic Medical Regulatory Summit, which landed him a co-author credit in the January 2020 (Vol. 120) issue of the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association (JAOA).

Collaborative efforts earn publication Phillip Jen, Ph.D., professor of biology at UPIKE; Fadi Al Akhrass, M.D., FACP, MBA ’20 medical director of Infectious Diseases and Infection Control at Pikeville Medical Center; and a group of UPIKE students collaborated on a research project that examines the function of specific neurons in the human gallbladder. Their study, entitled “Immunohistochemical Characteristics of Ganglionated Plexuses,” was published in the January 2020 (Vol. 24 Number 1) issue of European Journal of Anatomy.

One of their photomicrographs was also used on the cover of the issue.

Jen and Al Akhrass teamed up soon after Jen began teaching at UPIKE. With a strong background in research, Jen developed a lab at the university to engage students in scientific learning experiences.

After Al Akhrass provided tissue samples for the study, undergraduate students, under Jen’s instruction, cut the tissue, stained and coded slides, and helped map nerve patterns to better understand gallbladder conditions. The student group included Nathan Pray, Cassie Day, Lais M. de Oliveira, Jaymie Collins and Daniel Bosse-Joseph.

Jen said the research may be helpful in the development of drugs and treatment of certain gallbladder disorders. Al Akhrass also noted that the methodology of the study is the first of its kind.

The primary goal of the summit, which was held February 28 – March 1, 2019, in Naples, Fla., was to discuss professional self-regulation and what patients expect of the profession as it sets standards for the osteopathic medical practice.

Shaffer, who also served a two-year term as chair of the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners, spoke about COMLEX-USA, which features an evidence-based design for the distinctive practice of osteopathic medicine.

The JAOA article, titled “2019 United States Osteopathic Medical Regulatory Summit: Consensus, Recommendations, and Next Steps in Defining Osteopathic Distinctiveness.”

“I was honored to be involved in the planning and execution of this extremely important summit,” said Shaffer. “These discussions are defining how and why patients deserve the right to receive distinctive osteopathic medical care in the United States.”

Phillip Jen, Ph.D., UPIKE Professor of Biology

SPRING/SUMMER 2020 | UPIKE MAGAZINE

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KYCO professor receives IACLE award Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO) Professor Renee Reeder, O.D., FAAO, FBCLA, FSLS, FIACLE, has been providing comprehensive, advanced cornea care for patients struggling with corneal problems such as difficulty seeing, dry eye and corneal scarring.

and treatments at KYCO.

Josephine Owoeye, O.D. Presidential Scholar

Reeder is the sole clinical diplomate of the American Academy of Optometry in cornea and contact lenses in Kentucky. She sees an incredible need in the Appalachian region for the treatment of ocular diseases and is grateful that the area has access to technology

Dry eyes can cause discomfort, visual disruption and can cause inflammation and damage to the ocular surface.

Dry eye syndrome can range from subtle, constant eye irritation to significant inflammation and even scarring of the front surface of the eye and vision problems. If left untreated, dry eyes can make it difficult to perform everyday activities.

“Several patients had given up hope,” said Reeder. “Most patients had not had access to the technology we have at KYCO, and we have been able to help them determine some of the underlying general health conditions that could be causing their dry eyes.”

KYCO has access to instruments used to scan the quality of tears and help determine what type of dry eye a patient could be suffering from that could be linked to other diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, hepatitis or lupus.

UPIKE recently celebrated Reeder for her recognition by the International Association of Contact Lens Educators (IACLE) as the 2020 Educator of the Year for the Americas.

IACLE raises the standard of contact lens education and promotes the safe use of contact lenses worldwide.

Contact lens educators from six countries were acknowledged for their success from India, Malaysia, South Africa, the U.S., United Kingdom and Venezuela during the 2020 IACLE Awards.

Reeder graciously accepted the award.

“This is such exciting news and such an incredible honor. I am so thankful to know that I have colleagues all over the world with the same struggles who are always willing to share and help,” said Reeder. “I hope that I can serve as a resource for them as well.”

KYCO Dean Michael Bacigalupi, O.D., M.S., FAAO, FNAP, is proud of Reeder’s accomplishments and believes her honor is well deserved.

“Dr. Reeder is such an outstanding educator,” said Bacigalupi. “She has brought together the latest technology for contact lens fitting and ocular surface disease management to benefit both KYCO students and patients.”

The KYCO mission of defining the standard for excellence in optometric education and providing better access to quality eye care for rural Kentucky residents is what led Reeder to UPIKE.

“I was called to be at UPIKE. The mission at KYCO is what brought me here and the support is here to make a difference,” said Reeder. “We have state-ofthe-art technology and it is very rewarding to help folks have access to care in Appalachia.”

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The Presidential Leadership Scholars (PLS) program announced that Josephine Owoeye, O.D., MPH, FAAO, assistant dean for student and professional development and associate professor of optometry at the Kentucky College of Optometry, has been selected as one of the 60 scholars in the program’s sixth annual class. PLS catalyzes a diverse network of leaders brought together to collaborate and make a difference in the world as they learn about leadership through the lens of the presidential experiences of George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush and Lyndon B. Johnson.

Gulley coauthors book In 2017, UPIKE’s College of Nursing and Human Services Elliott School of Nursing faculty member and nurse practitioner Tauna Gulley began coauthoring a book about her mentor, friend and community champion, Sister Bernadette (Bernie) Kenny. The book, now published, is aptly named “Better for Being with You.” Sister Bernie moved to Southwest Virginia from Ireland 40 years ago to begin missionary work in healthcare.

Making an impact, however possible, she made keeping the “care” in healthcare her life’s work.

Gulley and Sister Bernie met when Gulley was an ICU nurse, and Sister Bernie was operating the Health Wagon to bring needed medical care and health education to remote areas of Southwest Virginia.

Gulley’s idea to begin the book began during a trip to Ireland for a conference. It was during that trip that Gulley was able to visit the motherhouse of the Medical Missionaries of Mary (MMM), where Sister Bernie had trained. When Gulley returned from Ireland she convinced Sister Bernie that they needed to write a book about her life and mission to work in the area.

Throughout the writing process, Sister Bernie’s focus was on education and learning. Gulley said that those principles were the only reasons Sister Bernie agreed to

coauthor the book. She wanted her words and memories to help future students. The pair would meet on Sundays after church to begin writing and talking.

In addition to continuing her Health Wagon, which now includes multiple mobile units, Sister Bernie still attends health fairs and partners with local schools.

The forward for the book was written by award-winning author Adriana Trigiani, author of “Big Stone Gap.”

With each chapter, there are reflection questions for the reader. Gulley said it’s these opportunities to connect and reflect that make the book a philosophy of life and care.

Team effort results in publication Davenport Distinguished Professor of History and Political Science Nancy Cade, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology LeAnne Epling, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Communication Rachel Little, M.A., and Associate Professor of Communication Chandra Massner, M.A., joined forces through their desire to collaborate in an interdisciplinary project that would combine psychology, communication and political science.

“While social media creates a global community, most social media users share content relating to local, state, or national issues as opposed to global issues,” Massner explained. “An interesting gender result was that men were more interested in national issues, while women were more interested in state issues. Overall, higher levels of self-determination were associated with more interest in politics at all levels of engagement.”

The colleagues examined political communication on social media. They conducted an online survey and the results showed that participants with higher levels of autonomy more frequently shared political content on social media.

The group is very proud of their team effort.

“It was truly a group effort,” Cade said. “The four of us each provided very specific knowledge bases and skills.”

Their research study, “The Psychology of Political Communication in Social Media: Using Social Media to be Global and Autonomous,” was recently published in The International Journal of Interdisciplinary Civic and Political Studies.

“Working with my colleagues to produce meaningful research is one of the joys of my professional career.

We work well together to blend our knowledge, experiences, and expertise to address interesting research questions,” Massner said. “I think the way we collaborate demonstrates the strength of our institution and division.

Investigating social phenomena with these women is enlightening academically, professionally and personally.”

SPRING/SUMMER 2020 | UPIKE MAGAZINE

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Then 2010

Began the decade as a college ...

During the past decade, the University of Pikeville has had a variety of development, innovation, athletic achievements, student success and a multitude of evolution.

Spearheaded by former Kentucky Governor, then President of Pikeville College and current Chancellor Paul Patton, Pikeville College officially transitioned to the University of Pikeville in 2011. Through the hard work of faculty, staff and students, the university began a period of development it had not seen in many years.

The Coleman College of Business was established in 2013 to connect with community businesses and instill entrepreneurial leadership skills in its students. Only two years later, in 2015, the Patton College of Education was established to prepare its students to positively impact the community.

During this modern time, UPIKE continues to focus on medical professions as an extension of its original purpose to educate students and fill needs in the community. Faculty and staff

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supported both the minds and bodies of the communities and when the need for medical professionals arose, they spent the last decade expanding the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) and in 2016 developed the Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO). Construction activity exploded and the campus grew with the completion of the Coal Building and the Health Professions Education Building, which houses the university’s two professional schools.

With the dedication of the UPIKE family and the support of the community, the university marked a milestone and celebrated its 130th anniversary in 2019.

Later that year, the College of Nursing and Human Services was established, which encompasses the Elliott School of Nursing and the School of Social Work.

UPIKE also expanded campus housing to accommodate its rising number of students.

It was an era of unprecedented expansion in athletics and investments in athletic

2019

... ended the decade as a university with six colleges, two new buildings and endless possibilities.

facilities that saw the department expand from five sports to more than 20, including football, bowling and volleyball.

Success in the department included national tournament appearances in nine sports and the institution’s first four national championships.

In reviewing the developments of the past decade, the thing that strikes UPIKE’s Director of Library Services Edna Fugate most is how the University of Pikeville has refocused on its original mission.

“We are using education to fill needs in Central Appalachia, and though it may look different than it did in 1889, the growth of this last decade is certainly reflective of what our founders meant us to be,” said Fugate. “We are always moving and changing in ways that best fit our mission in the community.”

While UPIKE is doing amazing things today, it is also firmly focused on the future. The university has ambitious plans for the next five to ten years of adding to its residence halls and athletic facilities.

Now

KYCOM and KYCO will remain strong with the potential for advancement.

UPIKE aims to expand its research capabilities in medicine and optometry by adding additional staff and more specific kinds of research facilities.

Keeping a well-suited balance, the university plans to stay committed to its students and intends to continue to develop the undergraduate college’s diversity of academic programs. UPIKE’s graduate-level programs will be fully implemented in the Master’s in Social Work, Teacher Leader and Master’s in Business Administration.

The university’s objective is to add significantly to the number and quality of its academic buildings.

UPIKE seeks to pursue its mission, provide a promise of advancement and academic excellence while embarking on the journey to nurture a true learning community that will lead to a thriving future for Appalachia.

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FINDING SUCCESS in the Journey

By LAURA DAMRON MBA ’19 In 2015, the University of Pikeville’s Board of Trustees determined to make a change in the trajectory of the institution. That decision, combined with the efforts of the UPIKE Family, has helped to generate remarkable momentum in equipping students to lead meaningful lives and create a bright future for Appalachia. The board began by launching a national search in 2015 for a visionary leader who might be able to take the university to the next level.

Chairman of the Board Terry L. Dotson ’72 said, “Burton was the perfect candidate. His background of working in a religious institution in a rural area, his experience as a medical educator and academic leader, and his education set him apart. He and Kay were the right fit in every possible way.”

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“We felt we needed someone with experience and knowledge in undergraduate and medical education to allow UPIKE to grow into the university we envisioned for Appalachian Kentucky,” added UPIKE Trustee Jean R. Hale ’68. “Dr. Webb had experience in all areas, and he expressed passion and excitement to be involved in the future of UPIKE.” Webb, a native of Central Michigan with deep family roots in Eastern Kentucky, holds a doctorate degree in microbiology and immunology. He came to UPIKE in January 2016 with his wife, Kay Webb, Ph.D., from his post as vice president for academic affairs at Northwest Nazarene University in Nampa, Idaho. Webb’s style of servant leadership has empowered the UPIKE Family to thrive since he was selected as president by the Board of Trustees.

Soon before his arrival on campus, Webb interviewed and hired David Hutchens as vice president for advancement and alumni relations. To modernize academic operations at UPIKE, Webb implemented the provost model that is common in American higher education. Lori Werth, Ph.D., was hired as the university’s first provost and a month later, Barry Bentley joined the president’s cabinet as vice president for business affairs.

“UPIKE has the best team in place in my history with the university,” said Dotson. “Burton brought high-quality, high-energy leaders to campus to complement a fine team of faculty and staff. The leadership team has made many positive changes in all areas of the institution.

UPIKE is growing during a very critical time for our region.”

To guide the university’s transformation, the institution launched a transparent strategic planning process that incorporated ideas from more than 300 employees. The Board of Trustees approved the five-year living document that casts an ambitious vision for the beacon of hope “on the hill” and empowers students to be successful learners and leaders.

Growing from the strategic plan was the realization that the university’s outdated general education core was a barrier to students’ success and for individuals wishing to

transfer to UPIKE. Werth challenged the faculty to find a solution in 2019. A few months later, the faculty designed and passed sweeping changes to the university’s general education core. The new curriculum requires far fewer credit hours, gives students flexibility to choose courses that appeal to their interests and is built around the idea of place – a foundational concept in Appalachian culture, literature and music.

“Students can now come to know who they are, where they are and what they are called to do, all in the context of place,” Webb explained.

Another change that has proven to be of great significance was the creation and accreditation of UPIKE’s first online programs. Beginning with the RN-BSN program, UPIKE has reimagined or launched three new online programs, with more to come. A new learning management system, Canvas, has enriched teaching and learning in significant ways. The faculty were so well prepared in their use of Canvas, that very few struggled to move online this spring amidst COVID-19.

UPIKE academics have been further improved with the addition of support services for students and families.

A comprehensive first-year experience program was created to prepare new students for the rigors of college life. The Office of Family Connections was established to bridge a gap with parents and families. Bear Pause events were established to provide registered students with a clearly defined method of paying their bill prior to classes beginning. To prevent students from leaving UPIKE due to unmet academic needs, an early alert system was implemented so that faculty can report academic challenges as soon as they arise.

In a bold move to provide more opportunities for undergraduate students, UPIKE will implement an eight-week block schedule and offer textbooks at no cost beginning in fall of 2020. The forward-thinking changes will allow students to improve their learning and maintain better balance in their schedules.

“The quality of education being delivered at UPIKE is attaining the desired goal of developing confident and educated young adults,” said Hale.

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Near the beginning of 2016, the advancement and public relations teams realized that important constituencies – alumni and friends – had not regularly been engaged

by UPIKE. Hutchens worked to refocus the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, and his team quickly began reinventing communication with the university’s alumni. The UPIKE Magazine relaunched following a hiatus of four years and has earned prestigious awards.

In addition, the UPIKE website has been rebuilt, various newsletters have been revamped and digitized, and significant alumni engagement events have reconnected graduates with their college for the first time in years.

Since 2016, alumni, donor and grant funding have contributed drastically more resources to support students than ever before. Donations have reached record-setting-levels.

Business operations needed increased efficiency when Bentley arrived. Bentley and the Office of Business Affairs skillfully managed an underfunded construction project while implementing accounting controls and processes necessary to carry UPIKE forward. After years of sound fiscal management, a major budget shortfall turned into a budget surplus, despite a variety of challenges. Several facilities have been updated and the Health Professions Education Building was able to open in 2017.

“Dr. Webb has not only been able to recruit talented individuals to UPIKE, but the university has also attained a much stronger financial position under his leadership,” stated Hale.

The UPIKE Family has remained focused on rising to meet the health needs of the region. KYCO graduated its inaugural class of optometrists in 2020 under the leadership of Dean Michael Bacigalupi, O.D. The Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine is providing exceptional medical education with Dean Dana Shaffer, D.O., at the helm. The College of Nursing and Human Services, under the direction of Dean Karen Damron, Ph.D., is expanding to include an online Master of Social Work program with a unique specialization in mental health and addictions. Each college remains committed to providing quality care to rural, underserved populations.

Additionally, UPIKE has formed partnerships with numerous institutions to provide educational pathways to its health professions programs.

Off campus, Webb prioritizes time to serve as an ambassador for UPIKE and Central Appalachia. His commitment to sharing UPIKE’s story has taken him from as far as the Netherlands, to all corners of the United States. A gifted orator, he is preparing to launch the third season of his podcast, Appalachia Rising presented

by UPIKE, in which he interviews leaders who are creating positive change in the region. Fostering regional economic diversification is also a passion of Webb’s. He has long been a supporter of AppHarvest’s initiative to bring high-tech agriculture in Eastern Kentucky and other innovative opportunities.

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The last five years have not been without difficult circumstances, none more compelling than the COVID-19 global outbreak. One of the benefits of a stable leadership team has been an equally effective leadership plan during the crisis as it has in daily operations. During the pandemic, undergraduate and professional students were able to seamlessly continue their education online in the spring 2020 semester. Faculty quickly rose to the occasion of transitioning their courses online. Students needing access to dining services and resources were able to continue living on campus. Funding sources were applied for and granted to assist students and the university during the pandemic.

In the last five years, undergraduate retention has increased, students feel empowered to succeed, faculty are more engaged, finances are transparent and strong, fundraising is at record levels for five consecutive years and alumni continue changing the world.

There is also an undeniable sense of family that permeates campus.

“The culture at UPIKE has developed into a very participatory culture of teamwork,” Hale said. “Everyone understands that ‘together we can do great things’ and is living and working that way every day.”

Dotson stated, “The administration, faculty, staff and the board care about UPIKE, its students and the community. Employees work together for the common good, and there is a level of comfort across all levels of the institution. I have served on the board for nearly four decades and chaired the board for 25 years. The last four years have been the most rewarding, and I must say the easiest, of my tenure.”

According to Webb, his journey is one of love and service.

“It has been my great joy to serve the UPIKE Family and represent the institution to our friends and alumni. Kay and I understand that we are merely stewards of the legacy we inherit. Ours is a moment in time and it is the exceptional people who choose to live and work here day after day, year after year, who empower our students to thrive. The fact that we have the opportunity to serve here, is a gift that will shape our lives for years to come. We hope that what we have to offer is the right sort of leadership at the right time.”

Click here to view photos from Dr. Webb's trip to the Netherlands

KENTUCKY COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY

Ronald McCoy Community Service Award Striving to serve is a continued sentiment that the University of Pikeville (UPIKE) is committed to achieving.

Retired optometrist and UPIKE Board of Trustees’ member Ronald McCoy, O.D., exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and commitment through his outstanding contributions to the local community and service initiatives.

The Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO) created and designed the Ronald McCoy Community Service Award to honor a 2020 KYCO graduate who embodies the same spirit of service as McCoy. UPIKE Provost Lori Werth, Ph.D., states the award is a prestigious recognition designed to honor the service, commitment and positive contributions of a KYCO student.

Dean of KYCO Michael Bacigalupi, O.D., M.S., FAAO, FNAP, appreciates that McCoy has a giving spirit and does whatever is needed to be done to improve the lives of people in Pikeville.

“Dr. Ron McCoy is a skilled and talented optometrist who has provided eye care for countless patients in Eastern Kentucky throughout his career, but you are likely to see him dragging tree limbs out of the road after a storm or on a ladder painting a community member’s house,” said Bacigalupi. “His spirit of giving back extends well beyond his optometric career.”

KYCO graduate Robert “Travis” Whitlow, O.D., ’20, received the award during the virtual commencement ceremony of KYCO’s inaugural graduating class.

“While I am the first to receive this award, I hope I have inspired others to work hard in their communities,” said Whitlow. “Community service is something I think everyone should get involved in, regardless of how it is done.

I do it because I believe that if we have the ability and skills to help those that are in need, we should do all we can to make their lives better.”

“We believe that service excellence drives innovation and differentiates our students during their patient interactions,” said Werth. “At the University of Pikeville, we believe to impact the lives of others, there must be a focus on service and opportunities to learn from others who permit us to lead.”

McCoy has dedicated his life to the service of others and is humbled to have the award named in his honor.

Robert “Travis” Whitlow, O.D., KYCO ’20, the inaugural recipient of the Ronald McCoy Community Service Award

“Community service and helping others is a significant part of my life,” said McCoy. “The Lord has richly blessed me throughout my life, and I believe we should pass those blessings on to others.”

“I would like to congratulate Travis Whitlow on receiving this award,” said McCoy. “His commitment to community service and helping others is one I admire and hope he continues throughout his professional career.”

Whitlow credits KYCO for preparing him to begin practicing optometry, instilling the importance of serving one’s community and helping him grow as an individual and a leader.

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Keeping the Promise On a typical bright sunny day at UPIKE in Benefactors Plaza, students are hurrying to class, studying outside and walking to lunch with friends, and prospective students are exploring campus and dreaming of the possibilities that lie ahead.

“I remember when I came on campus for a tour,” said UPIKE student Jami Young, reflecting on her decision to attend UPIKE. “Every person spoke to one another as they passed by, and I knew I wouldn’t find that at another institution.”

Recipients must apply for the FAFSA each year, be eligible to receive federal Pell grants, College Access Program Grant (CAP), and Kentucky Tuition Grant (KTG), and complete a minimum of 24 credit hours each year. In essence, UPIKE will accept the financial aid offered by existing federal and state programs as payment in full for tuition. Recipients of the Pikeville Promise can choose to live on campus or at home, which allows students to reduce their out-of-pocket costs even further.

“Without the Pikeville Promise scholarship, I honestly don’t know if I would be in school,” reflected Young. “I couldn’t imagine not being a UPIKE Bear. It is something I hold close to my heart and has become a part of me.

I could never imagine it not being a part of my story. It has helped me achieve my dream of obtaining a college education.”

BRIGHT Bears

When former UPIKE President and current Chancellor Paul E. Patton first put the Pikeville Promise into action in 2009, he was driven by the belief that financial difficulties shouldn’t keep bright students from completing their degree.

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Whitney Hogg UPIKE Class of 2009

Chandra Hunley UPIKE Class of 2018

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Across generations, Patton and Webb share the belief that many students from Eastern Kentucky are eager to attend college but face economic difficulties unique to the region.

Since its inception, the Pikeville Promise has awarded more than $9 million in aid to nearly 2,000 students.

Hundreds of recipients have graduated and hundreds more will in the years to come. The students who have benefited from the promise leave UPIKE as problem solvers, leaders and valued members of the community.

With the same excitement, energy and hope as they did more than 100 years ago, students atop the 99 steps at UPIKE seek opportunity. For students like Jami Young, receiving scholarships made higher education possible.

The full tuition, four-year scholarship, the Pikeville Promise, was recently expanded and made available to even more bright and energetic future Bears. In January of 2020, UPIKE President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D., announced that the Pikeville Promise would extend to all qualified residents of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

“I am very proud of the progress the university has made over these past 11 years and the Pikeville Promise has been a big part of that,” said Patton.

In April 2020, UPIKE announced additional bold measures to help meet the needs of its students. In the fall of 2020, the university will implement an eight-week block schedule and free textbooks for undergraduate students.

With the expansion of the Pikeville Promise, a flexible new learning schedule and free textbooks, UPIKE has cemented its reputation as an innovative institution, driven by impactful students and fueled by the needs of the world around them. The heart of UPIKE can be

Jeffery Justice UPIKE Class of 2015

Ruth Caldwell UPIKE Grant Writer/ Project Manager

Larry Epling

UPIKE Coordinator of New Media

“I couldn’t imagine not being a UPIKE Bear.

It is something I hold close to my heart and has become a part of me. I could never imagine it not being a part of my story.

It has helped me achieve my dream of obtaining a college education.” witnessed every day in the servant leadership of its students and graduates.

For Young, attending UPIKE has given her much more than the obvious educational advantage.

“I often reflect on my freshman year,” said Young. “I think of the moment when I attended GROWL. I never dreamed then I would be where I am now.”

Involved in many areas across campus and inspired by the faculty and staff that have become family, Young reflects on the growth opportunities she didn’t expect when beginning her journey at UPIKE. “That’s one of the things UPIKE does,” began Young. “This institution pushes you past points where you think you are comfortable. It may be uncomfortable, but growth has never taken place in comfort.”

Leadership Kentucky’s inaugural BRIGHT Kentucky Class of 2019 included 50 of the brightest minds in Appalachia. Among those bright minds were UPIKE’s own alumni and staff. Whitney Hogg ’09, Chandra Hunley ’18, Jeffery Justice ’15, Ruth Caldwell and Larry Epling joined BRIGHT Kentucky for five three-day sessions to focus on fully understanding the local economic context and building robust skill sets in communication, collaboration, consensus building, visioning and community engagement.

The program encompassed various team-building exercises and took participants across Eastern Kentucky: Natural Bridge Region in July, Big Sandy Region and Cumberland Region in September, the Daniel Boone Region in October and the Gateway Region in November.

“Going out of my comfort zone and applying to be accepted into BRIGHT was the best decision I have made in my business career,” said Epling. “I left the program with a new group of colleagues and friends that share the same vision as I do, a Brighter future for East Kentucky, one where we tell our own narrative built on the hard work of Appalachians.”

BRIGHT Kentucky is designed to build the capacity of next-generation leaders in the Appalachian region of Kentucky to innovate, collaborate and advance community and economic development. The curriculum is intended to inspire and energize participants who live and work in Eastern Kentucky to stay in Eastern Kentucky and make a difference in their home communities.

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“Sometimes YOU. Sometimes ME. Always US. ”

At the press conference announcing the new men’s basketball coach, Kelly Wells (left) passes the ceremonial whistle over to Tigh Compton ’11 (right).

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PASSING THE WHISTLE

by Stacey Walters

A

fter 14 seasons at the helm of the UPIKE Bears basketball program, Head Men’s Basketball Coach Kelly Wells stepped aside to continue his focus on the role of athletic director (AD) for the university.

However, even on his way out, the winningest coach in UPIKE history gave his players one last lesson, speaking openly and transparently about his love for the game and profession.

Wells was the longest-tenured men’s basketball coach at both Pikeville College and UPIKE, leaving behind a legacy as one of the university’s most successful basketball coaches with the Bears.

Wells completed two years serving the dual role of athletic director and head men’s basketball coach and transitioned exclusively into the AD role on April 1.

In what he called, “One of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make,” Wells passed his whistle to Assistant Coach Tigh Compton with confidence that he will sustain the success of the program.

Wells finished his head coaching career as the all-time career wins leader at UPIKE with 328 total wins.

He has had 20-win seasons in 12 of the last 13 years, two 30-win seasons, most wins in a season at 31, most wins in MSC with 17, advanced eight times to the NAIA National Tournament, and was named NAIA National Coach of the Year 2011 and two-time MidSouth Conference (MSC) Coach of the Year. In addition to winning the NAIA National Championship, his teams made two NAIA Elite Eight appearances. He has produced 24 NAIA All-Americans, two NAIA Players of the Year, 34 All-MSC selections, four MSC Players of the Year and one MSC Freshman of the Year, and 24 of Pikeville’s 29 All-Americans played during his tenure.

“I feel like we are always learning lessons from each other, and that will never end,” said Wells. “I will be able to share those lessons with more people as the AD and have more opportunities to support and mentor all our teams and coaches on campus.”

Wells, his wife Shawne and two children, Kaylee and Mason, have been residents of Pikeville for 14 years and continue to be supporters of the community.

Wells’ lessons about commitment, perseverance and hope will always be remembered as “Nothing great comes without effort.”

A new chapter begins with UPIKE alumnus Tigh Compton ’11, who served as an assistant coach for a total of 11 years from the 2009-2010 season to the 2019-2020 season.

“I am extremely blessed and humbled to be chosen for this position,” said Compton. “Coach Wells has built one of the best NAIA basketball programs in the country and, while I realize we have big shoes to fill, we are very excited to have this opportunity.”

Compton plans to take the program to new heights while continuing to build relationships with his players and staff from a new perspective.

“I hope that we continue to be successful in finding ways to develop the young men in our program both on and off the floor to better prepare them for their professional lives,” said Compton. “Some people believe that instead of wins and losses, there are wins and learning opportunities through a loss. We always want to learn through our wins!”

Compton and his wife, Lisa ’12, are a part of the social fabric of the university. They are excited to step into a more significant role as a family and have the opportunity to impact the student-athletes and the UPIKE community positively.

“The ability to share our love for UPIKE and be a positive example for our campus community is not something that we will take lightly,” said Compton. “Pikeville is a place that is near and dear to our hearts and UPIKE is at the center of those feelings. We can’t wait to lead and serve in any way possible.”

Compton plans to carry forward the motto for the UPIKE men’s basketball program that it will always be about the team, finding their success and the sacrifices made to give the team the best chance to win.

“Sometimes YOU. Sometimes ME. Always US.”

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Congratulations Class of 2020 The University of Pikeville honored the academic achievements of more than 270 graduates at the associate, baccalaureate and master’s degree levels in its first-ever virtual commencement on May 2. Sixty-one Doctor of Optometry degree recipients from the inaugural graduating class of UPIKE’s Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO) joined 123 Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine degree recipients from the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) in a separate virtual commencement. Both ceremonies were held virtually in response to COVID-19 restrictions and are available for viewing at Pikeville.stageclip.com.

“While this is not the celebration we had planned, we are pleased to offer recognition of our graduating students online,” said UPIKE President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D. “We welcome all graduating students back to campus in either December of 2020 or May 2021 to celebrate with us in person.”

In his keynote address during KYCOM/ KYCO’s ceremony, Kentucky Public Health Commissioner Steven J. Stack, M.D., MBA, FACEP, congratulated the new graduates, reminding them that the world in which they are beginning the next phase of their clinical journeys will be unlike any other.

“On the road that lies ahead, let compassion be your compass,” Stack explained. “As healers, how you connect with your patients and show them you care are some of the most important choices you make and skills you learn. Be competent, be confident and be professional, but always be compassionate.”

Theresa Dawahare, M.A, associate professor of education and Timothy Whittier, Ph.D., professor of biology and director of study abroad, were honored as the first- and second-place recipients, respectively, of the prestigious William Wade and Helen Record Walker Teaching Excellence Award. John Howie, Ph.D., professor of psychology, was awarded the honor of Faculty Emeritus.

Commencement week activities for the College of Nursing and Human Services also included the virtual pinning ceremonies for eight new professional social workers and 44 new nurses.

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Master’s Degree Recipients Diana O. Ajala Fadi Al Akhrass Misty Dawn Coleman Asbury Eady Elizabeth Connally J. Sidney Crist Pavin Reed Downs Donovan Christopher Ferguson Stephanie Lynn Gallant Laura Elizabeth Hall Cynthia Michelle Hamilton Shumaila Nida Muhammad Hanif Cheyenne Harlow LaCosta Shonele Hazelett Donia Hicks Andrew Kenneth Hildesheim Ellen Gray Kehoe Sally R. Konja Donovan L. Layne Taylor B. Lemar Michael John McConnell Kristen Alexzandra Neeley Reema S. Patel Deborah Ann Pekel Jordan Scott Pigman Alyssa Brooke Ratliff Braydon Scot Sode Emily Danielle Tester Robert Eugene Staggs Charles B. Alderman Natasha Hope Coleman Baird April Dawn Borowski Brooke Allison Branham Logan David Keith Copley Jonathan Lee Hamilton Courtney L. Howard Milford Gregory Moore Matthew A. Robinson Rachel D. Shrum Taylor Hughes Shawna Kaye Turner

Click here to watch UPIKE's Undergraduate/ Graduate Commencement Ceremony

Bachelor’s Degree Recipients Ted Walter Allen Jacob A. Alvarado Cara L. Anderson Kelly K. Bacigalupi Clifton M. Blackburn Hannah Nicole Absher Hali Danette Adams Megan Brianna Addair Andrea Michelle Adkins June Rochelle Akers Logan Reid Alexander Alexandria W. Alexis Ted Walter Allen Justo Isael Polanco-Amparo Cara L. Anderson Kelly K. Bacigalupi Bruce B. Bell Jr. Eric Domingo Bernabeu Lauren Blake Bevins Clifton M. Blackburn Whitney Faith Boggs Alison K. M. Booth Caitlyn Brianna Bowman Zakary Austin Bray Reagan H. Bridge Trevette Al Bridges Kaitlyn D. Brown Curtis Lamarr Brown DeZmin Brown Taeron Eugene Brown Patrick S. Cable Sarah Renia Cable Zachary K. Caldwell Eric Campbell Jessica Lynne Campbell Brady Andrew Cappe Rebecca Mae Caudill Kara Dawn Chaney Skylar Paige Chapman Hannah Nichole Charles Yurleis Estrada Chavez Myranda Leah Cline Kayla Suzanne Cobern Alyson Makenna Coleman Russell R. Collier Sierriah S. Collins Nicholas S. Collum Brandon Tyler Compton Dominique Kahlil Crockett Mikayla Nicole Cummings

Brock Anthony Damron Matthew Todd Daniel Daniel Ray Dockery Da’Rell Geordon Domineck Peyton Todd Dove Johnathon Patrick Duff Damian Scott Dunn Justin Thomas Dziuba Allison N. Eldridge Kiana Mikale Eldridge Kristin Dawn Epling Spreng Foley Christen MacKenzie Fraley Kendra Jaylee Gannon Jordan Mariah Gentry Jeremy Blake Goodson Mia Denay Greatrex Pastor Armando Sanchez Guerrero Ivvy Rose Gulley Cameron Lee Halcomb Shane Weston Hall Tyrone Verni Hayden Morgan A. Hensley Ian Hicks Zackery Ryan Hill Alexander M. Hoffman James Edward Holstein Ariel Nicole Hopkins Jacob Evan Horrell Ashley J. Howell Jeanna Marie Hunt Patricia Claudette Hurley Tellis Miles Kennedy II Willie McCloud III Ralph William King III Trey S. Isenberg Christy Nicole Johnson Jade Ann Johnson Jason Robert Jones Justin D. Jones Ashley Nicole Justice Ashley Nicole Justice Tabitha Keen Tabitha Jane Kilgore Michalia L. Lane Justin Larson Elisabeth Anne Latham Lukas Cole Layhew Tiffany L. Legault Alannah Faith Little Mallory K. Liversedge Destiny Paige Manns

Kellie Renee Varney Marino Dylan R. Martin Adriane Kay Mason Kase Douglas Mattingly Charles Isaac Maxwell Lillian G. Maxwell Brittany Cheyenne May Lacy Cecile May Trenedy Keith May Laura Grace Maynard Hannah Elizabeth Maynard Shawna Renee Maynard Lauren Elizabeth McCoy Chase Cameron McKinney Tianna Lynn McKnight Triston Gage Lell McNeese Autumn Brooke Meade Kenzie Hannah Meade Tyler Scott Menrath Johnathan Conley Miller Blake Wellington Moody Hayden Moore Jay Austin Andrew Moore Jordan D. Mullins Kayla Marie Mullins Kyle Daniel Nagy Michael-Seth Carder Napier Katy Jade Newman Natasha Jean Newsom Mia T. Newsome Kala Lynn Newsome Theodora Blessing Odia Dillon James O’Grady Claudette Enriquez Olivares Lashawna Brooke Owens William Jacob Padgett Jazz Armande Parker Stanley Perrin Lauren M. Piotrowski Jesse Plourde Jacob V. Plumley Anibal Jose Navarro Pomarico Jacqueline A. Pruitt Kaitlyn Elizabeth Puckett Oscar Alejandro Pacheco Puentes Marinalda Candido Ralston Bradyn C. Randall Jasmine Lynn Ratliff Danielle L. Reid Dustyn W. Reinstetle Cody Ray Riddle Taylor Jo Riffe

Jeffery J. Robinson Jenna Elyse Robinson Triniti Shae Runyon Savanah N. Ryder Brady F. Schmidt Brian Lee Seiber Noelani Simpson Raymond McKinley Jorden Sizemore Hannah Blair Skaggs Kaitlin Lashay Slone Alexandria Lashae Smith Bowen Buchanan Smith Carley Danielle Smith Madison F. Smith Micala B. Sode Taylor M. Sowards Thomas L. Spears Alexis N. Stambaugh Dalton J. Stiltner Kaitlyn Clarissa Stump Hunter Garrett Swindall Brittany L. Tackett Brittany D. Tackett Brett Allen Taylor Leigh Ann Taylor Logan R. Thacker Patsy Ann Thacker Tabitha Darcus Thacker Brad L. Thompson Cody E. Thornbury Elizabeth Hanna-Leigh Tritschler Brittney Turcotte Austin Jay Turner Dana Christine Turner Vanessa Renee Turner William Hunter Varney Emily Eden Waller Taylor B. Watkins Taylor B. Watkins Thomas W. Webb MaKayla Marie Wells Angel Nicole West Angel Nicole West William Thomas Lee West Kelsie M. Williams Andre L. Williams Xondre B. Willis Bennett Allen Wilson Jessica Ann Wolfe Miranda P. Workman Kristen Nicole Wright Roman Alexander Yancey

Associate’s Degree Recipients Kayla D. Adams Sarah Danielle Akers Haley Anderson Andrea D. Begley Karissa D. Bentley Tori L. Bentley Justin Ryan Bowling Heather Marlene Brooks Jeremy Kyle Cantrell Kassidy K. Caudill Ashleigh Paige Causey Ashley Nicole Chaney Kendra Dotson Keylee Erin Coleman Ragan Ashley Cutright Cody R. Dials Lakyn Jade Dotson Abbey Iona Duncan Emily Michelle Elswick Lauren R. Rowe Lesli Ann Fleenor Katherine A. Gayheart Brittni Danielle Griffith Jenna G. Grimm Whitney D. Dials Haley Elizabeth Johnson Kerri Leann Jordan Christian N. Justice Nicole B. Kinder Caitlin Nicole Little Chante Danielle Lunsford Taylor R. Maynard Devin Nicohole Newcomb Angel B. Morton Jonathan D. Mullins Heather Lynnea Richards-Swiney Chasity D. Hobson Brittany D. Rose James D. Runyon Megan Grace Smith Heather R. Sowards Zachary D. Tackett Kathryn Grace Williams McKenzie Cheyenne Wireman

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Congratulations Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine

CLASS OF 2020

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Click here to watch UPIKE's Optometry and Osteopathic Medicine Commencement Ceremony

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Congratulations Kentucky College of Optometry

CLASS OF 2020

Click here to watch UPIKE's Optometry and Osteopathic Medicine Commencement Ceremony

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I have learned additional skill sets, as they pertain to laser procedures and injections through the expanded scope of practice.

Sha’Mia Stinson, KYCO ’20

Paving the way for optometry in Appalachia

The Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO) is transforming the Appalachian region through improved access to vision care and education.

The inaugural class of 61 students who began their journey at KYCO in 2016, made history this spring during the college’s first commencement ceremony.

These pioneers chose to participate in the challenging and comprehensive curriculum offered at KYCO’s state-ofthe-art facilities. The inaugural class comprises students from various backgrounds and locations who share the common goal of becoming the next generation of healthcare providers.

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Graduates celebrated this tremendous milestone that cements the school’s legacy as a premier optometry program.

Sha’Mia Stinson KYCO ’20, was drawn to a career in optometry to help people have a better quality of life.

Stinson chose to attend KYCO because of the expanded scope of practice in Kentucky. With the learning experiences her education has afforded her, she feels prepared to work in any optometry setting.

“I have learned additional skill sets, as they pertain to laser procedures and injections through the expanded scope of practice,” said Stinson. “This will allow me to be of better service to my patients.”

Sara Hillerbrand KYCO ’20, is excited to embark on a career where she can impact lives in a direct and meaningful way. With optometry, she can do just that.

“I have always had a pioneer spirit and paving the way for future optometry students was important to me when I chose to attend KYCO,” said Hillerbrand. “There was always a bigger picture.”

Optometry, like most health professions, is ever-changing with new standards of care, research and solutions, so it is essential to be able to grow and adapt along with the changing profession.

“With vision playing such an important role in learning, our screenings aim to identify any significant visual problems that could impact a child’s performance in school,” said Fitzgerald. “In working with these elementary school students, we hope that they take away the importance of routine eye care and understand more about optometry as a possible career path.”

Assistant Dean for Student and Professional Development and Associate Professor of Optometry Josephine Owoeye, O.D., M.P.H., believes it is beneficial for KYCO to form partnerships in the community while offering this valuable service to the school system at no cost.

“The work we are doing allows us to catch and promptly refer children with changes in their vision,” said Owoeye.

“It is very likely that these children would have been missed otherwise.”

“Adaptability is one of the biggest skills I have learned while in optometry school. Learning to adapt to new environments, people and technology was a necessity,” said Hillerbrand. “I know this skill will serve me well throughout my career and help me continue to be the best optometrist that I can be.”

Michael Bacigalupi, O.D., M.S., FAAO, FNAP, dean of KYCO, is very proud that KYCO’s first graduating class received their degrees this May. KYCO strives to develop leaders in therapeutic optometry through innovative education and commitment to caring for underserved patients.

As a continuation of the university’s strategic focus on health sciences, KYCO, along with the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) and the College of Nursing and Human Services (CNHS) is training students to innovate the future of healthcare. This vision allows KYCO to make a real and lasting impact on the community while fulfilling its mission to provide culturally sensitive, patient-centered, comprehensive and accessible vision care to Appalachia and rural America.

Serving the Community

During the fall of 2019, KYCO faculty and second-year optometry students visited 11 Pike County schools and provided vision screenings to more than 750 pediatric patients. The number of screenings increased by 75 percent from the previous year and several were referred for further ocular evaluations.

Although extremely beneficial, Assistant Professor of Optometry Rachel Fitzgerald, O.D., says these screenings do not substitute for a comprehensive exam with a local eye doctor. KYCO hopes the screenings promote the importance of eye care and pediatric eye health in the region.

Cutting-Edge Technology

To further its mission of training optometry students to the highest level of clinical care, KYCO students continued their hands-on experience with recently installed virtual reality biomicroscope (slit lamp) simulators in its virtual reality lab.

KYCO is the first school in the country to have this state-of-the-art technology from VRmagic (Mannheim, Germany), which allows students to train, examine and diagnose diseases on simulated eyes.

Bacigalupi said that “virtual reality learning is impactful for our students and will allow them to hone their clinical skills in a safe and realistic environment.”

“We know that these new doctors of optometry will improve the eye health of patients throughout their careers,” said Bacigalupi. “And, what a great year to earn an optometry degree…2020!”

by STACEY WALTERS

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“If you think credentials are what will make you stick out, think again. Work hard, be loyal and be humble.”

THIS JUST IN ...

Claudette Enriquez ʼ20 explores careers through internship at C-SPAN

by STACEY WALTERS

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This spring, University of Pikeville communications student Claudette Enriquez ’20 dove headlong into the world of journalism and media with an internship at Cable-Satellite Public Affairs Network (C-SPAN) in Washington D.C., thanks to The Washington Center Internship program (TWC). The network’s mission is to air unedited, balanced views of government and public policy forums and to provide viewers with direct access to elected officials, decision-makers and journalists.

From a small beach town in California, Enriquez initially majored in microbiology and wanted to pursue a career in medicine. However, she soon realized she was unsatisfied with her work goals and discovered she was passionate about journalism.

Not knowing where this career path would take her, Enriquez wanted to use her voice to share others’ stories.

“I was interested in becoming a journalist, but not sure what kind I wanted to be,” said Enriquez. “I always enjoyed talking with people and learning their story so that I could share with others.”

Enriquez credits both UPIKE’s Davenport Distinguished Professor of History and Political Science Nancy Cade, Ph.D., who served as her TWC liaison, and Assistant Professor of Communication J.R. Briscoe, Ph.D., for their encouragement and serving as her mentors during her time on the hill.

“After attending a two-week seminar at TWC, I knew I wanted to pursue an internship opportunity with C-SPAN,” said Enriquez. “I wanted to experience more learning opportunities and utilize my skills towards a profession that I would be happy doing.”

Enriquez interned for C-SPAN’s Department of Education, a branch of the network that is used as a resource for teachers by devising lesson plans and video competitions to get students involved in government affairs.

The impact this experience had on Enriquez’s overall career journey and professional development by allowing her work behind-the-scenes was transformative.

“Getting to expand my skills and expertise to help a broadcasting network like C-SPAN was life-changing,” said Enriquez. “I got to experience what happens behind the scenes and get a feel for what it is like to work for a major media network.”

Enriquez also had the opportunity to work side-by-side with the co-founder of C-SPAN Brian Lamb, an experience she called “priceless.”

The experience enlightened Enriquez on what employers and companies are looking for when hiring someone new.

“The best lesson I learned was to stay humble,” said Enriquez. “If you think credentials are what will make you stick out, think again. Work hard, be loyal and be humble.”

Enriquez’s career-related advice encourages UPIKE students to never be afraid to ask questions and strive to follow their dreams.

“If there is one thing I have learned from this experience, it is the importance of consciously choosing a career that you are passionate about,” said Enriquez. “Do not choose a career for somebody else, for popularity, nor the money.”

Enriquez aspires to begin her career at C-SPAN and make the steps toward starting her own networking business and become a Spanish news anchor.

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Conquering the

Lane

The women’s bowling team continued to earn titles on the national stage during its 20192020 season, although their run for a national championship was cut short due to COVID-19.

Head Women’s Bowling Coach Bobby Brown focused on the fundamentals and helped the Bears achieve unparalleled dominance in their eighth Mid-South Conference (MSC) regularseason championship with a perfect 66-0 record and back-to-back fourth all-time MSC Tournament Championship.

Brown, who was awarded the MSC Coach of the Year, embodies what it means to be a winning coach and shapes the young lives of his players.

New York native and UPIKE alum Lauren Piotrowski ʼ20 earned a place on the NAIA Women’s Bowling All-American Team. Piotrowski captured the 2020 NAIA Women’s Bowling Player of the Year honor in addition to making a spot as a First Team All-American. The two-time MSC Women’s Bowler of the Year, First-Team All-Conference Bowler and MSC Champion of Character captured her recognition in the inaugural All-American selection for the NAIA.

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Piotrowski finished a two-year career by breaking her single season record score, averaging 207.1 pins per game this season, beating the record she set last season of 205. She also finished second in the country in all divisions of collegiate bowling with a +36.0-average differential, meaning she averaged 36 pins more than the event average on the season.

In addition, Jessica Wolfe ʼ20 and Brittany Turcotte ’20 were named MSC First Team and NAIA Second Team All-American.

Wolfe had an outstanding season in her own right, averaging 197.9 on the season. She picked up an individual win at the MSC Indianapolis Collegiate Classic in February and finished in the top 10 in nine of UPIKE’s 12 events this year.

UPIKE set the bar high for success in the classroom and had 16 total honorees for the academic All-MSC awards, which included Piotrowski, Turcotte and Wolfe.

Wolfe continues to be grateful for the opportunity to attend UPIKE and be a part of the bowling team. She has gained several friendships that will last a lifetime.

“UPIKE has made a huge impact on my life and prepared me for my future. Going to school four hours away from home was difficult, but it was easier knowing that everyone on campus was more than willing to help with anything I needed,” said Wolfe. “UPIKE has made me a better student and a better person.”

Piotrowski says that UPIKE is her home away from home and is thankful to have had an experience where coaches and teammates become family.

“UPIKE has had a positive impact on me and prepared me for the future,” said Piotrowski. “I have so much confidence inside and out of the classroom because of my coaches and professors.”

Lauren Piotrowski ’20

“I have so much confidence inside and out of the classroom because of my coaches and professors.”

Brown’s hardest job this season was telling the group of seniors that their championship journey was canceled. He believes itʼs about players giving their all to the team and not about winning or losing.

“No matter what happened to our season, I got to see a group of seniors graduate and know they became one of the best teams in the country,” said Brown. “I know in my heart that we are national champions because of what we have conquered.”

Jessica Wolfe ’20

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Family PRACTICE

You might say the Thompsons are a UPIKE family. Marcia Slone Thompson graduated from Pikeville College in 1981, her husband Randy attended, and four of their six children graduated from UPIKE’s healthcare professional schools. Yes, that means there are four doctors in the family.

When asked why so many members of their family pursued medicine, Ashley Thompson, a 2015 graduate of the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, says, “I think the reason is pretty simple. The term doctor, derived from the Latin word ‘docere,’ literally means ‘to teach.’ My mother, aunt and grandfather were all teachers.”

Ashley, who’s completing a pulmonology/critical care medicine fellowship at the University of Kentucky, continues, “They were first-hand examples of the dedication and discipline that accompanies learning a new skill, as well as the reward of sharing your knowledge with others. My decision to pursue a career of lifelong learning stems from roots planted by the great educators in my family.”

Marcia, a native of Hindman, taught band and chorus until her retirement in 2012. Describing teaching as “a joy,” she returned to the profession in 2013. She and Randy, a former judge-executive in Knott County, also own the radio station WKCB, which is fitting because music has played such a significant role in her life and the lives of her family.

“My father, Ray Slone, was an algebra teacher, but his hobby was music. His parents made him a banjo out of coffee cans and groundhog skins,” Marcia says with a laugh. “He played the fiddle and mandolin and became acquainted with Bill Monroe at festivals. Our family folk band played on the Grand Ole Opry twice while I was in high school.”

Music and Medicine

Marcia’s daughters continued the family tradition. They credit their musical backgrounds with helping prepare them for careers in medicine.

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Four sisters begin their journey of service and healthcare at UPIKE by michelle Goff

Jessica, who recently graduated from the Kentucky College of Optometry, says, “Playing an instrument isn’t an easy task. It takes great time and patience, along with eye-hand coordination. Many times, while in the clinic, I must maneuver a slit lamp while simultaneously using forceps to remove a metal object from an eye. Playing different musical instruments definitely assisted in the development of my eye-hand coordination skills to perform such tasks.”

“I think music impacted my medical career by teaching me to be dedicated to something while also being creative and having to think outside of the box, which is necessary for patients with complex medical problems,” says Alicia, a 2019 graduate of KYCOM and a first-year resident in internal medicine at UK. Tiffany Thompson-Strouth, a 2012 graduate of KYCOM and an obstetrician/gynecologist at Pikeville Medical Center, agrees with her sisters.

“I feel like the ability to play the piano or a stringed instrument helps my dexterity, especially when performing advanced surgical procedures. Musical performance builds confidence, which is essential in delivering outstanding medical care.”

Music also introduced Tiffany to UPIKE.

“Every week, my parents would bring me to piano lessons at Pikeville College. All of us took lessons, so you would wait on the other sibling to finish while you were waiting for your turn. I would work on homework during that time, but I would also walk around Condit Hall to look out the window at the campus. I can remember the construction occurring with the Armington Learning Center to prepare for the medical school. It was such an extraordinary project to think about as a child; this is a place where physicians are going to be made.”

Years later, Tiffany and her sisters would take classes in Armington.

“All of our classes were held in (Armington’s) Chrisman Auditorium,” Ashley recalls. “I remember the construction and groundbreaking of the new state-ofthe-art Coal Building and the transition into the new

facilities. It was so amazing to have one of the most technologically advanced medical training facilities here in Eastern Kentucky. Learning in the OMT lab on the penthouse of the Coal Building, with 360-degree views of the mountains, is a beautiful experience that you cannot receive anywhere else but Pikeville.”

strive for success whether we were learning to read, ride a bicycle, swim or perform a back handspring at gymnastics.

We knew the importance of putting forth one hundred percent effort or devoting the necessary time into each activity or goal we attempted.”

“As a member of the inaugural class of KYCO, I remember my first year of optometry school, during which I attended classes on the fourth floor of Armington while the Health Professions Education Building was being built,” Jessica says. “Toward the end of my first year, the facility was complete. It was amazing to attend classes in a new building with the most up-to-date technology in the optometric world.”

Commitment to Serve

A Community of Support

Ashley notes, “I have witnessed first-hand the disparities and barriers to appropriate healthcare that patients in our region have faced, particularly in regards to lung disease, and I want to provide the highest level of care to our people without having to travel outside of the region.”

UPIKE’s mission, small class size and location drew the sisters to the university.

“There is a certain level of accountability that accompanies having a professor know your name, your background and your career goals,” Ashley says. “I also chose UPIKE because of the location. The support system is a key component to medical school success, and having my family nearby truly helped me survive the grueling first two classroom years of medical school training. My grandmother, who lives in Pikeville, cooked a huge dinner every Monday evening, and was a consistent reminder of the love and support I had throughout this process.”

A close family, which includes brother Matthew, a pharmacy student at Sullivan University, and Brittany, a music teacher at Hazard High School, the siblings call on one another for support and praise their parents for setting a high bar for success.

According to Tiffany, “Our parents instilled the attitude there were no limits for success. Whether it was studying for a spelling test, preparing for a church play or practicing the piano, they encouraged us to strive for the best. They took the time to patiently coach step-by-step and used positive feedback when setbacks were encountered.”

Jessica adds, “In retrospect, our parents provided consistent encouragement to each of us to persevere and

“Both (of our parents) have worked their entire lives not only making sure we were well provided for but also helping others in our community of Southeast Kentucky,” Alicia says. “That’s what I want to do as well; give back to the people of this area.”

Her sisters share similar sentiments about the region.

“My ultimate goal once I am finished with my training is to practice in Southeast Kentucky,” Alicia says. “I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else. I love the mountains, but even more than that, I truly care about the people of this area and want to be able to provide them with quality care here at home.”

Tiffany says, “This is the place that diligently trained and carefully molded me into a physician. There are some patients I see today who helped me learn when I was a medical student. I loved being on rotations in East Kentucky because our facilities sincerely needed the extra set of hands. Whether it was helping coach a new mom during a delivery, assisting in closing a laceration in the emergency room or grabbing a warm blanket in the operating room for a patient, this area made me feel like I belonged.”

Although she completed her residency training in Ohio, Tiffany returned to Pikeville to practice medicine. Or, as Marcia reflects about all her children, “Your heart always goes back home.”

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Good Morning, Sunshine Despite all this, the real excitement came in January upon discovering she had been selected as the 2020 Georgetown University Health and Media Fellow, the only fellowship position of its kind in the U.S.

“After graduating residency in July, I will be heading to Washington, D.C., to start the fellowship,” Kendrick said.

“Half of my time will be spent practicing medicine and teaching med students and residents in Georgetown's Family Medicine Department, and the other half or more will be spent with NPR and ABC getting more national media experience and trying to help improve our country’s health literacy.”

Kendrick credits her time at Pikeville for allowing her to see her wildest dreams come true and says she would not be where she is today if she had not attended UPIKE or KYCOM. “Specifically, I think about Dr. Thomas Hess for keeping me on track in the sciences while I was an undergraduate, taking me under his wing when I had lost my way,” she said.

Upon graduating from KYCOM, Kristen Kendrick, D.O. ’11 KYCOM ’17, moved to Charlotte, N.C., for her residency in Family Medicine at the Carolinas Medical Center, a UNC teaching hospital. Writing and journalism have always been an interest of hers, mostly with the goal of improving public health literacy. She had dabbled in it earlier in residency without much traction, until she met a local doctor who has worked with NBC for years, winning Emmys for his coverage of events such as the Olympics.

Kendrick says he gave her some excellent guidance and encouraged her to seek opportunities to write and produce without fearing failure.

“In the fall, I wrapped up a month-long stint in Manhattan working at ABC News, writing for the medical unit in their digital platforms and helping to review and produce scripts for Good Morning America, ABC News Live and World News Tonight with David Muir.” Kendrick said.

“Being on set at GMA almost every morning and all over the city for shoots and events, even covering a UN Summit in the Rainbow Room at the top of Rockefeller Center was, without a doubt, the experience of a lifetime.”

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“I think the individual attention and guidance I received from the wonderful professors truly made these accomplishments possible and I’m just so very thankful for them and the UPIKE community. I want everyone in the UPIKE family to know how much I appreciate their support over the years. The faculty, staff, directors, donors and all those that have stake in our school have been people I’ve been in churches and classrooms with throughout my life, and I admire them all so much.”

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ALUM N I AS S O C I ATI O N The Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine Alumni Association Newsletter hit inboxes for the first time this academic year. The newsletter includes updates from the college, stories about alumni and information on upcoming events.

Click here to make sure you receive the next newsletter in your inbox

CONTACT

If you’re interested in becoming involved in the alumni association, contact Courtney Justice, Senior Director of Advancement, at (606) 218-5274 or CourtneyJustice@upike.edu.

UPDATE

FOLLOW

Follow KYCOM Alumni Association on social media to stay up-to-date on the latest news and events. @kycom.alumni.association @kycomalumni

Update your information at upike.edu/alumni/alumni-update/ so you won’t miss information about upcoming alumni events, CME opportunities and major announcements.

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Finding faith

by AMY CHARLES

Some say life is a game of chance. For Josh “Scotty” Samarco ’10, uprooting his whole life and coming to Pikeville, a place he’d never even heard of, was a chance worth taking.

The 6’1” shooting guard made quite a name for himself on the basketball court, becoming an NAIA All American and scoring a record 41 points in a single game against rival Georgetown College. But Samarco’s time in Pikeville transformed him into more than a hall of fame basketball star, he became a faithful servant of God.

“Living in Pikeville helped me see there was more to life than basketball,” said Samarco. “It was a tool for allowing me to meet people and get an education, but I discovered I had a purpose in life, so much bigger than basketball.”

From the time he could walk, Samarco’s dad put a basketball in his hands.

Lucky for him, his neighborhood, just outside Detroit, had a basketball park where he could sharpen his skills.

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Belleville High School in Ypsilanti, Mich., was known for turning out talented players. By the time he graduated, Samarco had ranked top five in the state for shooting. He had been recruited to play division 1 basketball for the University of Detroit, but team restructuring in his sophomore year of college would leave him without a position. He scrambled to find a new plan.

“I started researching colleges where I could still play ball and not lose a year of eligibility my junior year,” said Samarco. “It came down to UPIKE (then Pikeville College) and Georgetown.”

In August of 2008, UPIKE Athletic Director and Head Basketball Coach Kelly Wells made the journey to visit with Samarco and his family to discuss a full athletic scholarship and his future as a UPIKE Bear.

“When we set out to Ypsilanti, I had no idea what was in store for Scotty, as well as all of us. What I found was a young man hungry to prove that he belonged, with a passion to excel and overcome the odds,” said Wells. “We sat in his living room with him and his family. We were not leaving Ypsi until we secured his commitment, and we did!!”

Leaving the city for rural life in the mountains was not a smooth transition for Samarco. He was frustrated after leaving Detroit and felt like he had something to prove. On the tough days, he always turned to something consistent and familiar, basketball.

“Being completely on my own made me realize I had to grow up quickly. I had to adapt from being a teenager to a young adult. I dealt with anxiety and panic attacks from not feeling secure after being uprooted from everything I knew and loved,” Samarco explained.

“Basketball was an outlet for me, and practice was the highlight of my day.

I felt secure playing basketball, and at game time I could focus on what I loved and be myself.”

“Scotty was somewhat angry and carried a chip on his shoulder at

first. You could always tell he had a wonderful heart, but was guarded to let many in. Thankfully he let us help him find his way,” Wells explained.

“Scotty fell in love with the success he was having on the court, which bloomed his overall confidence. He began to love school and his teachers and the process.”

It was during this time, with fewer distractions from city life, that he figured out who he was and his relationship with God. However, that faith was tested when a reinjury in practice right before Christmas break resulted in torn ligaments in his ankle, ending his basketball career his senior year. He was upset with God and unsure of his future.

With graduation on the horizon, Coach Wells encouraged him to take a position as an admissions counselor.

He believed it would help grow his mentorship and leadership skills with ministries.

Samarco graduated in Spring of 2010 with his bachelor’s degree in English.

In addition to the influence and guidance of Coach Wells, professor Hannah Freeman, Ph.D., helped shape his writing style and deepen his appreciation for literature.

“I was blown away by Professor Freeman’s knowledge of writing and history,” Samarco said. “She was kind, always open to help, and was a major influence on my writing and encouraged me to finish my degree.”

Overflow Church in Benton Harbor, Mich., set his life on a new path of service.

“I was reading to kids who were falling behind at a church after school program. Pastor Bennett invited me to lunch, heard my story and offered me an internship to mentor young adults.” Samarco said. “That was the beginning of eight years of serving God and helping others.”

Six years ago, the now 32-year-old married his college sweetheart, who stayed behind in Detroit while he pursued his passion in Pikeville. He went on to complete his master’s degree in ministerial leadership at Wesley Seminary in Marion, Ind., and he is currently pursuing a second master’s degree in practical theology.

Living in South Carolina, both he and his wife, Jasmine, serve at the Transformation Church. Samarco’s role overseeing family ministries helps other leaders discover their identity, passion and purpose and who God has called them to be in life. He uses his own experiences to relate to youth and to teach them to trust God with their problems.

When reflecting on his time in Pikeville, Samarco always remembers the beauty of the campus in the mountains on those early mornings.

“Waking up and seeing the mountains in the background with the sun coming up and peeking through and then walking up the hill on my way to class with the clouds sitting low to the ground is something I will never forget,” Samarco said.

In October of 2019, Samarco was honored at the UPIKE Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. He describes this as the icing on the cake of his basketball career.

Samarco ended up back in Michigan after a year working in Pikeville, still trying to make a career of basketball playing semi-pro. A chance encounter with Pastor Brian Bennett of the

“He finished his years as a Hall of Fame player, but also a Hall of Fame person! He is now a living trophy of mine as he has entered the ministry, started mentoring programs,” said Coach Wells. “I am so proud of the man and husband he has become.”

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JAMES F. RECORD

Heritage Society A society of donors

with a lifetime giving of $10,000 or more to the university 40

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Student ambassadors thanked donors for their generosity and continued support to the university.

“The most important seeds we plant are seeds of hope.” – President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D. Every day, opportunities are made possible by University of Pikeville donors. Their support demonstrates a belief in the core promise of education and its potential to transform lives.

UPIKE has a long and proud tradition of opening its doors to students for whom a college education may not always have been certain. Whether as the first in their family to attend college, embrace a bold dream or pursue a new career, UPIKE students become successful alumni with the assitance of donor support.

This year’s gathering of the James F. Record Heritage Society gave students a chance to thank donors for their generosity and continued support to the university.

Hosted by UPIKE’s Board of Trustees Chairman Terry Dotson and his wife, Judy, and Vice-Chairman M. Lynn Parrish and his wife, Jessica, the event featured a musical theatre celebration of Appalachia’s past, present and future and inspiring stories of achievement.

UPIKE alum J. Scott Samarco ’10 shared how a scholarship can transform a life and how the community strengthens the UPIKE experience.

“This scholarship is no ordinary scholarship, but one that comes with a community,” Samarco said, “a community filled with inspiration and encouragement that you can become somebody.”

Impacted by donor support, UPIKE students gave thanks during a video of appreciation for enabling them to further their education.

UPIKE Director of Library Services Edna Fugate presented a new timeline display located on the sixth floor of the Health Professions Education Building and expressed how the institution would not be where it is today without the support of its donors.

“Whether you are faculty, staff, student or a donor, you share in the history of the institution, and understand the hardships we faced to get to where we are today,” Fugate said. “There is something wonderful about being a part of the history of UPIKE.”

The generosity of the UPIKE community is what leads the university to bring top-notch faculty to campus, provide state-of-the-art technology for labs and classrooms and turn campus priorities into realities.

In his closing remarks to Record Society members, UPIKE President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D., expressed his gratitude for their generosity to the university and how their ongoing philanthropic commitment helps UPIKE provide fertile ground where dreams can take root, grow and become a reality.

“The most important seeds we plant are seeds of hope,” Webb said.

“Plant them well, deep in the hearts of the people you encounter. Water them, tend them and let them bear fruit in due season.”

For those who love and invest in UPIKE, thank you!

To join or learn more about the James F. Record Heritage Society, contact the office of Advancement at 606-218-5276 or email advancement@upike.edu.

Sophomore Blake Maupin (middle) thanked trustees Ron McCoy and E. Bruce Walters II (left and right respectively) for supporting students like him.

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Class Notes 1960s

Chantal Helen Robbins ’70 and Clell N. Robbins Jr ’69 met at UPIKE and celebrated their 50th anniversary in March.

1970s

Big I Kentucky, the state’s leading insurance trade association, awarded the 2019 E. Starling Holloway Insurer of the Year Award to James England ’70. This award is given to an individual who has made a significant contribution, enhanced the ideals and reputation of the insurance industry or has made a significant contribution to their community, state and country. England is the Senior Vice President of Peoples Insurance Agency, LLC, in Pikeville. A graduate of Pikeville College, England earned his Accredited Advisor in Insurance (AAI) designation in 2005. During his time with Big I Kentucky, he has been involved in every level of the association, including as president in 2005.

Most recently, he became treasurer, a member of the Government Affairs Committee and is co-chair of the Kentucky Agents Political Action Committee.

Former Paintsville Tiger Head Coach Bill Mike Runyon ’78 was voted into the Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame by his coaching peers. Runyon says it is an honor and a very humbling experience. Paintsville had not reached the state tournament in 52 years before Runyon’s arrival, but in his tenure, the Tigers won eight 15th Region titles, eight All “A” Classic titles and 15 57th District crowns.

The coach also led Paintsville to the 1996 Sweet Sixteen state championship. Runyon, who is now the Mayor of Paintsville, finished his 29-year coaching career with a 581-388 record and is 27th in all-time wins in the Commonwealth’s history. He retired in 2008, but turned his attention to public service as he was a member of Paintsville’s City Council. Mayor Runyon is extremely proud of his team’s record and his community.

Click here to be featured in the next edition of UPIKE Magazine

1980s

Community Trust Bank Inc., was honored for the 11th consecutive year with the “Gold Lender Award” from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) as Kentucky’s Top Volume SBA 7a Community Bank Lender in the federal fiscal year 2018-19. The award was presented Nov. 15, 2019, at the SBA Lender’s Conference at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., to Terry Spears ’84, vice president/ small business banking officer. He says they plan to continue to use all lending tools available to help small businesses grow stronger and to create jobs in the communities they serve in Kentucky, West Virginia and Tennessee.

1990s

Joey Thacker ’97, head girl’s basketball coach for Franklin County High School (FCHS) in Frankfort, Ky., recently celebrated 400 career victories. Thacker came to FCHS in 1999, where he was the football and baseball coach and served as the assistant boy’s basketball coach. He took over the FCHS program in 2003 and is in his 17th year at the school. During Thacker’s tenure at FCHS, the Lady Flyers made three straight state tournament appearances in 2015, 2016 and 2017, finishing as state runners-up in 2016 and 2017.

Thacker is currently the president of the Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches, the first head girl’s basketball coach to hold the position, and is taking classes to receive his Rank I with plans to become a principal.

Send us your news!

We want to hear the latest on your business ventures, career moves, honors, awards and family news. Email your news, along with a high-resolution photo, to alumni@upike.edu.

Submit by October 2020, for the Fall/Winter 2020 issue of UPIKE Magazine.

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2000s

M. Florence King ’02, whose unique background also includes accounting and computer programming, has joined The Orlando Law Group in Orlando as a Senior Attorney.

She also co-founded Global Sports & Entertainment Group. Upon receiving her Juris Doctorate, she and her husband, Mark King ’02, relocated from Michigan to Florida. Mark is now the Director of Community Outreach at The Orlando Law Group. He is also the proud owner of the Florida Flight, a minor league basketball team that utilizes the platform of professional basketball to invest in the lives of others.

The team won the 2019 Florida Basketball Association Championship.

For his dedication and excellence in patient care, the exclusive medical society of Patient Preferred Physicians and Practitioners proudly named surgeon Chad Brashear, D.O., FACOS, FACS, KYCOM ’07 as a “2020 Patient Preferred Surgeon of the Year” for Kentucky. Board-certified and with more than a decade of achievements in his specialty, Brashear currently serves as the Chief of Surgery and Medical Director of Appalachian Regional Hospital (ARH)/ Restorix Wound Care, treating patients at the ARH Hazard Surgical Clinic and the Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center. Brashear specializes in laparoscopic surgery and surgical procedures to treat conditions affecting the abdomen and related structures, including hernias and tumors. His goal, he said, is to maximize a patients’ independence in all activities of daily living. Patients rate Brashear five-stars and praise his expertise, knowledge and bedside manner.

Robert “Brad” Nicholas ’08 married Paul Jason Tadashi Baker on November 16, 2019. In addition to getting married, Brad also beat testicular cancer.

2010s

Casey Keathley ’10 accepted a job as an attorney at Johnson Law Firm. They have offices in Pikeville and Whitesburg, Ky., and handle personal injury cases. Keathley resides in Jenkins, Ky., on a small farm with his family where they raise sheep and chickens.

After graduating in 2011 with a Bachelor of Business Administration, Marjorie Danielle Kelly ’11 earned her Master in Library and Information Science in 2018 from Kent State University, where her focus was on Academic Libraries and Library Management. She is the first in her family of five older brothers to earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Kelly began her UPIKE journey in the fall of 2003, where she did work-study in the Allara Library until 2006 when she was offered a full-time position as night circulation assistant. While attending UPIKE, she met her husband Anthony, who currently works at UPIKE as a help desk manager. They reside in Pikeville with their two boys, Eli (9) and Gabriel (6).

In January, Kelly accepted the position as the Medical Librarian and Liaison to the Kentucky College of Optometry.

Codie Kiser ’13 and Meghan Hamilton were married on March 7.

The couple resides in Redfox, Ky., where Codie completed his first year at Partners for Education at Berea College.

Hannah Lucas ’14 accepted a new job at Kentucky River Community Care Prevention Center as a youth empowerment specialist. Lucas is working toward her master’s in social work. She lives in Letcher County, Ky., and is currently enrolled in the advanced standing program at Campbellsville University.

Gabriel Penn ’14 MBA ’15 and his wife, Whitney, were married on February 27.

For more than five years, Gabriel has managed the Penn Group, an insurance agency. Whitney works as a therapist specializing in substance abuse at Hope in the Mountains, a women’s inpatient treatment center.

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Jackson Hussey ’16, who previously played for Wanneroo, Perth, Geraldton and Willetton in the State Basketball League (SBL), has joined the Rockingham Flames, a club based in Rockingham, Western Australia. He says he feels like joining Rockingham was a case of everything being at the right time and the right place for both parties. The shooting guard spent two years at UPIKE, where he averaged 8.6 points per game in his senior year and made more than 50 percent of his shots from the field. He hopes to secure an SBL championship with the Flames while providing leadership and believes his positive shooting game could help take the Flames to the next level.

Sierra Kiser ’15 married Matthew Patrick on June 22, 2019. They moved to Knoxville, Tenn., where she works as a special education teacher and head volleyball coach at Jefferson Middle School.

Katlin Massie ’15 accepted a position as an account executive covering the Lexington, Ky., market with Toast, Inc. Toast is an exciting company based out of Boston that is revolutionizing the restaurant pointof-sale tech space. Massie says she looks forward to networking and building lasting partnerships throughout the restaurant industry.

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UPIKE MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2020

Assistant Professor and Director of Optometric Services at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) Roya Attar, O.D., FAAO, MBA ’17 has been named the 2020 Young Optometrist of the South by the Southern Educational Congress of Optometry International. The co-author of several scientific presentations and publications in peerreviewed professional journals is a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and an active member of the Mississippi Optometric Association (MOA), the American Optometric Association and the Mississippi Public Health Association. In 2018, she became the first optometrist to be hired at UMMC, where she provides clinical services in addition to training and lectures for ophthalmology residents.

She is also the MOA’s 2019 Helen St. Clair Young O.D. of the Year. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she is committed to public service. She has volunteered with various non-profit organizations, as well as serving as a vision screening volunteer for high school athletes and employees at the Mississippi capitol.

Baby Bears J.C. Hensley ’04 and Brooke McGehee Hensley, D.O., KYCOM ’13 welcomed their daughter, Blakelynn Reece Hensley, on March 7, weighing 9 pounds, 10 ounces. J.C. is a financial advisor for Edward Jones and Brooke is a dermatologist at Dermatology Associates of Pikeville.

Cory Gannon ’14 MBA ’19 and his wife, Kasi, welcomed their second child, Kathryn Rayne Gannon, on February 27, weighing 8 pounds, 7.6 ounces. The family resides in Prestonsburg, Ky., with their firstborn, Harper Danielle, who turned 3 on May 2. Cory not only studied business at UPIKE, but is currently the assistant director of admissions. Kasi works as an occupational therapist at Pikeville Medical Center.

Jeff Grieme ’10 and his wife, Kayla, welcomed their son, Kyler Lee Grieme, at 2:31 p.m. on March 17, weighing 8 pounds, 2 ounces. The family resides in Lexington, Ky., where Jeff works in sales for Barrier Roofs and Kayla is a teacher.

Nissona Hounshell ’16 MBA ’19 and Evan Faulkner MBA ’18 welcomed their daughter, Blakelynn Rose Faulkner, on December 11, 2019, weighing 6 pounds, 8 ounces. The family resides in Pikeville, Ky., where Nissona is a gymnastics instructor at Flip Flop Gymnastics.

She is also a substitåute teacher and cheer coach at Mullins Elementary School. She is currently enrolled in the MAT program at the University of the Cumberlands and assists with UPIKE’s cheer team. Evan is the assistant men’s basketball coach at UPIKE and Blakelynn loves to watch UPIKE basketball games.

Jonathan Adams ’11 and his wife, Meagen, welcomed their daughter, India Blue Adams, on March 17. The family resides in Whitesburg, Ky., where Meagen is an algebra teacher at Letcher County Central High School and Jonathan is the Teacher for the Blind and Visually Impaired for Letcher County.

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