UPIKE Magazine Spring/Summer 2021

MAGAZINE Spring/Summer 2021

THRIVE DISCOVER EXPLORE

SUCCEED

IN T H IS ISSU E

T U RN I N G PA SSI O N I NTO PRO M I SE: TA MMY R I LEY CO M MENCEMENT GO D’S CALLI N G: SCOT R O BI NSO N

MAGAZINE STAFF David Hutchens

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations

President’s Letter 3

EDITOR Katie Ray

Campus News 4

ART DIRECTOR Kate Hensley CONTRIBUTORS Amy Charles Laura Damron MBA ’19 Michelle Goff Sherrie Marrs Kelly Rowe-Jones Brooke Thacker ’04 Stacey Walters PHOTOGRAPHERS Larry Epling Dusty Layne Matthew Lester Kayla Ratliff 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 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 ON THE COVER From left, KYCOM second-year students Nathan Pray ʼ19 and 2023 Class President Taylor Reardon take advantage of KYCOM’s research lab. Reardon was recognized at UPIKE’s Research Symposium for his work related to infant brain injury.

MAGAZINE Spring/Summer 2021 Volume 7, Number 2

Faculty & Staff News 10 Minor Change Major Success 16

TURNING PASSION INTO PROMISE: TAMMY RILEY Ledford Scholar: Nyla Gulley 20 Innovation in Diabetes Care: Preston Poag 22

CLASS OF 2021 COMMENCEMENT New Bear, Same Tradition 28 For the Love of the Game: BriAnna Burbridge 30 Research Symposium 32 KYCOM's Mini-Med School 36 KYCO Low Vision Clinic 37

GOD'S CALLING: SCOT ROBINSON Presbyterian Foundation 40 Opportunity through Adversity: Glen Senters 42 Class Notes 44

Zoe Ingram and other UPIKE undergraduate students enjoy all the modern amenities the Health Professions Education Building offers students like Chick-fil-A, Einstein Bros. Bagels, the P.O.D. and independent and group study areas, as well as some of the best views of campus.

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

Christian Sweazie, a member of the UPIKE Men’s Basketball Team, stands at the heart of campus, Benefactors Plaza. In addition to his leadership responsibilities as a student-athlete, the senior from Sterling, Va., is a business administration-sport management major.

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Letter from the President

I recently had the opportunity to have lunch with an inspiring double-alum who is serving Eastern Kentucky in a significant way as a physician. At that lunch, he told me that when he came to then-Pikeville College as an undergraduate student, he had an unclear vision of the future.

“I just wanted a challenge,” he said.

Growing up in Central Appalachia fosters a certain kind of grit, and by the time he reached the end of his undergraduate career, his grades were outstanding. He needed another challenge, and someone suggested medical school. He applied to the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM), not fully knowing what to expect.

When he received the letter telling him he had been accepted, there was another surprise. He had to send in a $1,000 deposit to hold his seat.

“I didn’t know where I could get that kind of money,” he explained. “All I had was the $3.27 I held in my pockets!”

Like most of us who call these mountains home, he had developed a network of friends and family. People from his church raised some money and other individuals took an interest in the future of a young man with potential. Before long, the money was raised and off to KYCOM he went, still not knowing what to expect.

We understand “not knowing what to expect.” All of us have just made it through, or nearly through, a global pandemic. These are the days of uncertainty, and yet, the university remains steadfast in its commitment to preparing students, just like the double-alum physician, for a life of meaning.

Students across campus are benefiting from a growing focus on academic research at all levels of the institution.

The inaugural campus-wide UPIKE Research Symposium was held in April to provide faculty, staff and students the experience of sharing academic scholarship in a professional setting. Additionally, a bright undergraduate student has been selected to participate in an upcoming research initiative, the Ledford Scholars Program. Faculty members are publishing research on critical topics, and a notable graduate from the Coleman College of Business is developing a product to benefit individuals with diabetes.

Campus is buzzing with scholarly activity, alumni are serving communities in critical ways during the pandemic and students are joining initiatives to protect the health of our community. These efforts, complemented by countless others, will impact lives in profound ways for generations to come.

As he walked into the anatomy lab at KYCOM for the first time as a student, my recent lunch guest told me, “I almost dropped out. Then I remembered what I learned on campus – that if you keep working hard and if you don’t give up, good things happen.”

“Now,” he said, “I owe everything to UPIKE and KYCOM! There is nothing good in my life that has happened, that I cannot trace directly to this place on the Hill.”

The pages that follow are bursting with stories of students, faculty, staff and alumni who highlight the best of UPIKE, especially while facing the unknown. When I am driving through the mountains and transiting a long tunnel, I love that moment that occurs just as you burst through the opening.

Sometimes the vista is unexpected, sometimes startling, but it is always a joy to be out of the darkness and back into the light. As a nation, we are starting to see the light at the end of a very long tunnel. Thanks in large part to our alumni and friends, exciting new vistas await on the other side!

Striving to serve, Burton J. Webb President

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Campus News

UPIKE students become part of global history After a lengthy screening and training process, UPIKE students from the Elliott School of Nursing, Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) and Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO) volunteered time from their rigorous schedules to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by administering vaccinations at Pikeville Medical Center’s drive-thru location.

KYCO Student Government President Jessica Johnson feels blessed by the chance to give back to the region and help others stay healthy.

“As future healthcare workers, many of us had been waiting for the opportunity to help more directly with the pandemic. It has impacted so many people we know in devastating ways; we wanted to jump right in,” said Lin. “As medical students, we are thankful to be able to continue our medical education throughout the pandemic.

I think we are all very excited to have been able to contribute in a positive way.”

First-year nursing student and Pikeville native Eli Rowe is proud to be making a difference at such a significant point in time.

According to KYCOM Student Government President Cindy Lin, students were eager for a shot at putting their skills to good use for the greater good.

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“All of us at KYCO consider the opportunity to help administer COVID-19 vaccines as a gift. This community has become our home and where we found our second families. The only thing we could hope for is that our loved ones stay strong, healthy and protected,” said Johnson. “Administering this vaccine enables us to ensure that comforting reality.”

“I am thankful for the opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder with my classmates, impacting the community in such a historic way,” said Rowe. “I know looking back, I will be able to say we were part of global history.”

Can you Bear the 99?

Approximately 80 people, ages nine to 75, came to campus on March 6, to spend a beautiful Saturday participating in UPIKE’s Bear the 99 5K. The race began in Benefactors Plaza and ended with the climb up the iconic 99 steps toward the finish line. Under the leadership of Alumni Association President Kay Hammond ʼ68 and with community and sponsor support, the 2019 and 2021 events raised more than $40,000, with all proceeds going toward the Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund.

This was the first 5K in Pikeville since COVID-19 halted events in 2020, with all City of Pikeville and Healthy at UPIKE COVID-19 guidelines being closely followed. Pike County Health Department Public Health Director Tammy Riley ʼ92 won first place in her age division and was pleased with the university’s efforts in keeping the public safe, while also having fun.

“It was my honor to participate in the 2021 University of Pikeville Alumni Association’s Bear the 99 5K event,” said Riley. “From a runner’s perspective, it was exhilarating to be able to participate in a live race with fellow runners. From a public health perspective, I was even more pleased with the attention to detail that the Alumni Association paid to public health protocols for the safety of all. It was a wonderful experience, and I look forward to many more years of participating in this event, which supports scholarships for the University of Pikeville.”

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UPIKE’s Weber Art Gallery exhibits appreciation of Black History Month In February, the University of Pikeville’s Weber Art Gallery, in collaboration with the Black Student Union (BSU), Allara Library, and music, art, theatre, religion and writing classes across campus, celebrated Black History Month by providing the community with an opportunity to acknowledge, embrace and learn Black history by launching an exhibit titled “Black Lives Matter.”

The exhibit included video monologues, artwork, contemporary photographs, manuscripts, original six-word poems and images pulled from the university’s archives.

UPIKE also offered the community an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussion about the exhibit by hosting a virtual Q&A presented by the Director of Bands and Faculty Advisor of the BSU Trevor Bailey, and Campus Chaplain and Instructor of Religion Robert Musick.

Bailey was incredibly excited for the students and the community of Pikeville to recognize and appreciate the unique exhibit.

“This event demonstrates that the only way for our society to mend the open wounds of discrimination, bigotry, hatred and systematic racism is for people to not only acknowledge, but work together each day to lift up people of color,” said Bailey. “I always tell my students that they need to be the change they want to see. Change happens when one person has an idea and has the determination to see that idea be fulfilled. This collaborative project celebrates the legacy of Black history here on the campus of UPIKE, and that’s not only a good thing … that’s a GREAT thing!”

CLICK HERE to view the gallery

KYCO’s Class of 2023 receives symbolic white coat The Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO) held its White Coat Ceremony for the Class of 2023 on Saturday, April 10, via livestream. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the event was closed to the public. After two years of a rigorous classroom and procedure lab curriculum, they will apply their knowledge in the clinical setting.

Second-year students at KYCO were “coated” in the presence of their peers and KYCO faculty by Cliff Caudill, O.D., FAAO, KYCO assistant dean of clinical affairs and associate professor of optometry, and Donald Egan, O.D., FAAO, DPNAP, associate dean for academic affairs and professor of optometry.

“The white coat symbolizes your commitment to serving humanity for the rest of your lives and you should use the opportunity given to you to make a difference in the world,” said keynote speaker R. Max Raynor, O.D., president of Southern Council of Optometrists International. “I’m sure you realize your learning doesn’t end once you move into the clinic, it doesn’t end once you graduate, nor does it end once you pass the state boards and begin practice. You are committing to a lifetime of learning.”

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Bears bring home the gold UPIKE Cheerleading was crowned 2021 UCA National Champions on April 28. They claimed the program’s first-

ever title in the All-Girl Open Event, defeating three other schools after a near perfectly executed routine. This is the third season the Bears have competed in the UCA College Nationals hosted at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World. They have improved in each consecutive appearance, placing fifth in 2019 and third in 2020.

“This team is something very special,” said UPIKE Head Cheerleading Coach Jeannie Stone. “I am extremely proud of the way they overcame all of the obstacles of a very challenging and unusual year. We are so excited to bring a national championship back to Pikeville!”

UPIKE Menʼs Bowling captured the Mid-South

Conference Men’s Bowling Championship for the second consecutive title and the fourth in program history.

UPIKE Womenʼs Bowling dominated their third

straight Mid-South Conference Women’s Bowling Championship and finished third in the NAIA Bowling Championships.

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Jessica Vickers

Hayden Word

Gavin Hunt

CAS student-faculty pairs earn paid research Three faculty mentor-student mentee pairs were recognized as inaugural members of the College of Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Scholars Program (CUSP) and the growing creative research community. The program, which was designed to support the emerging scholarly and creative works produced by College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) students and full-time faculty or staff, allowed the scholars to earn $12 per hour, up to ten hours per week, while working to complete their research projects.

The pairs concluded their research during the spring semester and presented their work at the UPIKE Research Symposium on April 9. The research included, A critical analysis of social issues and monster symbolism in literature, by Jessica Vickers and faculty mentor Dr. Amanda Slone; Micro Appalachia, by Hayden Word

and faculty mentor Byron Meade; and Trump, Twitter, and politics: A comparison of power words, by Gavin Hunt and faculty mentor Dr. J.R. Briscoe, with secondary mentoring by Dr. Rachel Messer.

The CUSP review committee consists of Assistant Dean of CAS and Associate Professor of Spanish Ella Smith-Justice, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Chemistry Ian Pimienta, Ph.D., and Assistant Professor of Psychology Rachel Messer, Ph.D., who serves as committee chair.

“Dean [Jennifer] Dugan made this program possible, and Bridgett Click was responsible for receiving, anonymizing, and forwarding the applications to the committee,” explained Messer. “With several well-qualified applicant pairs, it was difficult for the committee to choose only three.”

President Webb named to prestigious boards

University of Pikeville President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D., was elected as a new board member of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU), representing Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

NAICU board members set the association’s agenda on federal higher education policy, actively encourage support for the association’s priorities and initiatives, and oversee its financial administration.

Webb will begin serving on July 1.

In addition, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) selected Webb to serve on the Board of Trustees to guide the organization’s work and implement the accreditation process. SACSCOC is the recognized regional accrediting body in 11 states that include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.

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2011: A historic year for the university The University of Pikeville has a long history of defying expectations. The year 2021 marks the 10-year anniversary of some of the universityʼs most significant milestones.

In 2011, a period of changes began for UPIKE, starting with its evolution from Pikeville College to the University of Pikeville. The switch was part of a significant effort to expand the university’s tradition of providing students with a multidisciplinary education while maintaining a balance of intimate undergraduate programs and intensive, focused graduate programs.

Serving as president during that time, former Kentucky Governor and current Chancellor Paul E. Patton shared that throughout its history, the institution has evolved to provide for the needs of the region, which have increased over the years.

“To see young people come to this campus shy and reserved and leave as confident, outgoing adults ready to go out and conquer the world is a source of great personal satisfaction,” said Patton. “It’s like watching a flower bloom.”

The transition also resulted in Pikeville College School of Osteopathic Medicine being renamed the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM). The new and improved KYCOM has programming in both the

undergraduate and graduate colleges and is nationally recognized for graduating physicians who go on to establish practices in underserved communities across Eastern Kentucky.

The university encourages economic growth and development that will advance the Appalachian region.

Therefore, in August 2011, UPIKE responded to change by launching its first master’s degree program with a Master of Business Administration program through UPIKE’s Coleman College of Business.

Dean of the Coleman College of Business Howard Roberts, Ed.D., says quite a bit has changed in ten years including the program becoming fully online. Regardless of their location, the graduate students are connected by a shared passion for personal growth and commitment to learning.

“Ten years later, we are celebrating the acceleration of students’ careers and growth of business opportunities that are a result of UPIKE’s MBA program and nearly 200 individuals who have earned the UPIKE MBA,” said Roberts.

UPIKE’s commitment ensures that its students leave a lasting impression on the Appalachian communities by upholding its mission, vision and values and continuing to encourage, inspire or even dare students to believe in a whole new realm of possibilities.

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@UPIKEBears for up-to-date campus news.

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Faculty & Staff News KYCOM dean announces retirement Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) Dean and Professor of Family Medicine Dana C. Shaffer, D.O., FACOCP dist., FAOGME, announced his retirement expected to begin on June 30.

Shaffer joined the university as associate dean at KYCOM in 2013 and became the medical school’s third dean in July 2018.

Upon graduating from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) in 1985, Shaffer completed a rotating osteopathic internship at Des Moines General Hospital. For the next 22 years, he practiced the complete spectrum of rural inpatient and outpatient osteopathic family medicine.

In addition to his medical practice, Shaffer has been involved in teaching medical students for almost 30 years.

low compared to other private D.O. and M.D. medical colleges,” said Shaffer. “We have also added several new scholarship programs that will help further reduce the financial burden placed on KYCOM students to attend medical school.”

Shaffer has received numerous awards and accolades such as Fellowship and Distinguished Fellowship from the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, Fellowship from the Association of Osteopathic Graduate Medical Education, Physician of the Year from the Iowa Osteopathic Medical Association and Friend of EMS Award from the Iowa EMS Association. Most recently, he received the PCOM Alumni Association Certificate of Honor, which is the highest honor given by the PCOM Alumni Association.

Shaffer says he respects and cherishes the colleagues, faculty, staff and friends made during his time in Pikeville.

Throughout his career at KYCOM, Shaffer served on committees and task forces “I am proud of many things that, focusing on health information together as a KYCOM family, we technology, healthcare reform, have been able to accomplish. graduate medical education Despite many obstacles, the Dana C. Shaffer, D.O., FACOCP dist., FAOGME and access to primary and faculty and administration rural healthcare. He has continue to provide every lectured nationally and KYCOM student with the support internationally on innovations in medical education and resources they need to complete their degree and and physician assessment, social media and technology become a quality osteopathic physician, serving the issues impacting state medical boards, and published mission that the school was founded upon,” said Shaffer. internationally on raising the awareness of low dose CT “Serving as dean at KYCOM has been the pinnacle of scanning to detect lung cancer. my career as a medical educator, and I will be forever grateful to President Webb and the UPIKE Board of Of his many priorities at KYCOM, Shaffer says the desire Trustees for giving me this opportunity.” to increase the financial scholarship opportunities for students stands out the most.

“This is the reason that we have maintained the KYCOM Advantage Program. It provides incoming students with many of the resources they need to be successful, at no cost to them, while still keeping tuition very

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Shaffer has been married to his wife, Joan, for more than 44 years and they have two children and five grandchildren, all residing in Iowa. He plans to transition into his retirement by spending quality time with his family.

Welcome home

The University of Pikeville welcomed a familiar name back to the Hill in March as Gary Justice, ’96, MBA ’13, rejoined the university as Director of Planned Giving.

As a first-generation college student Justice said, “UPIKE wrapped their arms around me in August of 1992 when I enrolled, and my passion for the university continues to increase.”

Justice was hired at UPIKE in 2010 as the Director of Admissions and Financial Aid and was named Vice President of Enrollment Management in 2013, where he had record-breaking enrollment for five years and increased student retention. He graduated as Outstanding Student in the Master of Business Administration class of 2013, part of the program’s first graduating class, and went on to become an award-winning sales representative at Amgen, a multinational biopharmaceutical company.

Gary Justice, Director of Planned Giving

Due to Justice’s evident love for the university, Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations David Hutchens informed him about the available position and encouraged him to apply. He says Justice has been the perfect addition to an already exceptional and talented team in advancement.

“As an enthusiastic ambassador for UPIKE and the region, Gary is an excellent example of the caliber of alumni that this institution has nurtured since its humble beginning,” said Hutchens. “Through friend- and fundraising, I have no doubt he will continue to make an impact for not only current students on the Hill, but for generations of students to come.”

Justice says he is fortunate to have the opportunity to come back home to the university he loves to help it meet its mission of serving students in his new role.

“I look forward to helping the university, and most importantly the students,” said Justice. “I am excited to build and advance my skills in this position along with expanding the university’s community involvement.”

On top of his many accomplishments at UPIKE, Justice is also part of the Athletic Hall of Fame for his baseball career (1992-96). He says that is what motivated him to start the UPIKE Baseball podcast, which launched in November 2020.

The series allows fellow Bear baseball program alums to share their journey and favorite memories while wearing the orange and black. In February, Justice and Head Men’s Basketball Coach Tigh Compton launched the UPIKE Basketball podcast, which has proven to have an extensive reach of more than 3,000 audience members. Both podcasts are available on Apple and Spotify.

Messer named ACA board member After a competitive selection process, with applicants from 34 colleges and universities in Central Appalachia, Assistant Professor of Psychology Rachel Messer, Ph.D., was selected to serve as a board member for the new Appalachian College Association (ACA) Virtual Teaching and Learning Center.

Messer is leading the efforts of creating new methods of support to faculty and staff for virtual learning across our region. She has been working regularly on the board initiatives since the selection process and is pleased with how being connected with such an organization will provide key insights for moving forward. The board’s work focuses on a virtual platform for many different types of resources for ACA institutions.

“I am so very excited about our upcoming initiatives,” said Messer. “I feel that UPIKE faculty and staff will want to enthusiastically participate in what we have planned to help provide our students with the best possible education, both during this pandemic, and into the future.”

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Note from the president

by Burton Webb

KYCOM Professor conducts research for new tuberculosis vaccine Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) Professor of Microbiology Shumaila Hanif, Ph.D., M.Sc., MBA, is currently conducting analysis and research on developing new diagnostic methods, drugs and vaccines for tuberculosis.

In October 2020, Hanif published An Overview of the Development of New Vaccines for Tuberculosis alongside second-year KYCOM student Emma Whitlow and Professor and Faculty Chair of Medicine Abu Salim Mustafa of Kuwait University.

Vaccines is an international, peer-reviewed open access journal focused on laboratory and clinical vaccine research, utilization, immunization with an Impact Factor of 4.086 and is published online monthly by the Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute. Vaccines publishes high-quality reviews, research papers, communications and case reports.

Hanif is committed to advancing the teaching, service, mentoring and scholarly activities nationally and internationally.

“It is a great honor to be given the opportunity to publish with a high-impact journal,” said Hanif. “Mentoring my students and getting them published internationally is a great part of my service and scholarly activities at Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine.”

CLICK HERE to view the full publication 12

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For most people, academic life is a strange combination of esoteric minutiae that seems to lead in ever-growing circles of thought continuing to increase in complexity until the mind falls numb. Occasionally though, even in the world of the academic, great deeds are done that might seem obscure and arcane, but will feed the next generation of great discoveries. Usually great scientific breakthroughs come with strange titles. Watson and Crick’s paper, Molecular Structure of Nucleic Acids, might have been ignored by the mainstream press, but it has become the founding work for all of modern medicine and biology.

On a smaller scale and in the midst of a pandemic, nearly everyone is talking about vaccines. While the talking heads on your favorite news network might have mentioned the fact that both Pfizer and Moderna are RNA vaccines, you probably don’t know where that technology came from or just how transformative it will be in the next few decades.

For those of us who live in the scientific academe, both RNA and DNA vaccines have been studied in the world of experimental immunology for almost two decades. The basic science goes even further back to the paper I mentioned in the first paragraph, tracing a legacy of biomedical discovery and creativity with origins in the 1950s. However, as often happens in the sciences, tracing the arc of discovery from 1953 to 2021 is like placing a GPS on a honeybee. The path of flight is convoluted to say the least.

Now, thanks in part to UPIKE’s own Dr. Shumaila Hanif of the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, there is a clear path to understanding both the history and potential future of the use of both DNA and RNA in vaccines. In language and figures carefully created by the authors and shaped by the journal’s editor (Dr. Hanif) mRNA vaccines, published in the journal Vaccines, will provide the research scientist and the scientific novice alike a scientifically sound explanation for the use and efficacy of mRNA vaccines. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Hanif, both for her work and for the fact that she was selected to be guest editor - which is an honor as well.

KYCO faculty achieve FAAO status Kentucky College of Optometry recently recognized two faculty members who achieved the Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO) status.

Ryan Kern, O.D., FAAO, and Samantha Myers, O.D., FAAO, were evaluated against the highest professional competence standards through the American Academy of Optometry.

“Obtaining my fellowship was an important milestone for my own personal growth, which translates into better care for my patients and better education for my students,” said Kern. “This is a notable step forward that I intend to build upon over the course of a career.”

As with all medical professions, optometry is an evolving field that requires practitioners to pursue a path of lifelong learning.

“For me, becoming a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry was more than just adding a few letters to the end of my name,” said Myers. “It signifies that I have and will continue to practice optometry competently and stay up-to-date in the field. It is a pledge to be the best doctor I can be for both my patients and my students.”

KYCO professor authors textbook series As optometrists in training at the Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO), students learn to examine the eyes and detect and diagnose diseases. However, they must also understand light and optics, which is the essential foundation of their profession.

George Asimellis, Ph.D., MBA ’21, founding faculty, director of research, and associate professor of optometry at KYCO, authored a new textbook series, Lectures in Optics, with SPIE.org, the International Society of Optics and Photonics. The books are replete with comprehensive self-assessment quizzes and updated to the latest of optical science. Copious diagrams and striking photographs provide a visual appeal that entices readers to delve into the concepts.

The series comprises five volumes. Introduction to Optics, the first volume of the series, introduces basic optical phenomena and simple optical instruments. Volume two, Geometrical Optics, develops a thorough presentation of geometrical optics effects. The third volume, Wave Optics, provides a comprehensive representation of the wave optics effects.

Two more books, entitled Visual Optics and Ocular Imaging, are currently under copy-editing and will soon be published.

“SPIE is the leading international organization for optics and photonics organizations. It is a great honor to be

given the opportunity to publish with them,” said Asimellis. “These books are the pinnacle of my teaching career.”

CLICK HERE to view the publications

Asimellis is committed to advancing the teaching of optics during a career that began at the University of Athens and spans 25 years over two continents including a Ph.D., from Tufts University and a fellowship at Harvard University Medical School.

“Teaching optics is a significant challenge,” said Michael Bacigalupi, O.D., M.S., FAAO, FNAP, dean of KYCO. “Dr. Asimellis has created a series of books that guide optometry students carefully and consistently through this important topic area. He masterfully uses diagrams, images, photographs and stories to engage students while they are tackling the complexities of optics.”

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Amanda Slone named Assistant Provost Beginning July 1, UPIKE will welcome current Director of First-Year Experience and Associate Professor of English Amanda Slone, Ph.D., as the new assistant provost. Slone has served 15 years with the university in various positions and feels privileged to learn alongside brilliant students and talented colleagues.

“I admire the level of passion and dedication from everyone on campus,” said Slone. “I am both honored and excited to serve as the assistant provost and continue to collaborate to provide a community of academic excellence for our students.”

UPIKE Provost Lori Werth, Ph.D., welcomes Slone’s innovative leadership and significant experience in higher education to the office of the provost.

“Dr. Slone has contributed to the University of Pikeville campus for nearly 15 years in a variety of positions, including faculty in the humanities division, director of first-year experience, associate registrar and assistant dean for admissions,” said Werth. “We are pleased to have a leader with such diverse experiences joining the office of the provost.”

Open education and open resources UPIKE was well represented at the Open Education Conference, held virtually for the first time in 2020. Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Jennifer Dugan, Ph.D., and Assistant Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Associate Professor of Spanish Ella Smith-Justice, Ph.D., presented Striving for Affordability and Access: Reimagining Undergraduate Courses in Times of COVID-19, which focused on the transitional moves that various UPIKE colleges made to better serve and support students during the uncertain times of the pandemic.

Smith-Justice says faculty prioritized essential course outcomes and flexibility in learning so that students could have space to adapt to everchanging circumstances.

Dr. Ella Smith-Justice and Dr. Jennifer Dugan

Faculty Development Educator Katie Williams, M.S., M.A., and Faculty Development Manager Eric Werth, Ed.D., presented Fostering Rapid Institution-wide Curricular Change in Response to COVID-19, which explained UPIKE’s reasons for making all undergraduate course material free to students due to the disruptive force COVID-19 had on higher education. The presentation discussed the process involved to facilitate this change and the experience of those involved.

The pair also presented Self-Determination Theory as a Framework for Structuring OER-enabled Pedagogy, which focused on the findings of research conducted last fall by the office of professional development, with students who participated in a first-year studies class that used OER-enabled pedagogy.

Williams says this pedagogical approach put students at the center of the learning environment, where they created materials for a UPIKE Survival Guide to help future Bears acclimate to college.

Katie Williams and Dr. Eric Werth

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Rethinking curriculum with inclusion initiatives The University of Pikeville, with its medical and optometry schools, represents 48 states and 17 countries. To meet the needs of the changing landscape of UPIKE’s diverse student body, the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) hosted an Implicit Bias Workshop, via Zoom in late 2020, to educate faculty on how bias can unknowingly be present in curriculum. The overall goal was to create an environment that is more inclusive and equitable for all students at the university.

Academic and Cultural Enrichment (ACE) Project Coordinator Cecil Williams, MSW, CSW, attended both the initial workshop and the follow-up workshop aimed at evaluating how principles and ideals were applied to the classroom. He believes the results are encouraging as faculty and staff continue to rethink the strategies and programs being utilized in the classroom to better meet the needs of UPIKE’s diverse student population.

“The College of Arts and Sciences is active in supporting UPIKE’s goal to be an inclusive community. Participants in the implicit bias workshop are part of a growing community of practice that focuses on principles of diversity, inclusion and equity in the classroom and in our relationships,” said Dean of CAS Jennifer Dugan, Ph.D. “I appreciate the dedication of our faculty and staff in taking concrete steps in the right directions and helping CAS be equity-minded in all we do.”

UPIKE’s mission includes preparing students for the future and recognizing the inherent worth of all individuals. Workshops like these allow faculty the opportunity to make positive improvements in the classroom to better serve all students.

By definition, implicit bias refers to the attitudes or stereotypes that affect understanding, actions and decisions in an unconscious manner. This workshop presented information on how to make course syllabi more inclusive in terms of language and policies, as well as how to integrate more authorship diversity into course readings and materials, inviting faculty to selfevaluate bias in an educational way.

“While the ACE program does a tremendous job with inclusivity in enrollment and programming for students from various backgrounds and ethnicities, this training opened my eyes to the potential that exists to flip the script on how we market and advertise our program and its benefits to first-generation college students,” said Williams. “This change in thinking opens the door to potential opportunities that exist to engage more effectively with students academically and socially.”

“Designing curriculum responsive to student needs and our 21st century local, regional and global community is a priority for the University of Pikeville,” said UPIKE Provost Lori Werth, Ph.D.

UPIKE Business Office pushes forward The University of Pikeville Business Office strives to provide excellent service and support the needs of the university community while upholding the overall mission and providing financial and administrative support services to the students, faculty and staff.

getting the job done, but also maintains a welcoming and fun atmosphere.”

The business office’s longest standing employee, Carolyn Muncy, has shown dependability and loyalty to the university, serving 42 years in many different roles, but most recently as accounts payable coordinator. At the same time, most recent hires will finish their fourth year of employment by the end of this year.

UPIKE Vice President for Finance and Business Affairs Barry Bentley has served Back row (from left): Carolyn Muncy, Cadee Eisenman, Brandi Gollihue, Allen Hancock and Tiffany Thacker five years at the university Front row (from left): Kimberly Akers, Barry Bentley and and is honored to work with Jeannie Adams intelligent, hard-working and Associate Vice President conscientious staff who strive to do the right thing and for Finance and Business Affairs and Controller Brandi maintain good relationships across campus and keep the Gollihue is thankful for a staff that exhibits team effort financial books in order. and support to UPIKE’s daily operations.

“The business office intersects with every other office on campus at one time or another and touches every financial transaction, so high-quality work is a necessity,” said Bentley. “We’ve built a great team that focuses on

“The business office never ceases operations, even in a pandemic,” said Gollihue. “The commitment our staff demonstrates is a continued, combined effort and a critical component of university operations.”

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Minor change Major success

By AMY CHARLES

Students across the Commonwealth, and beyond, now have more options to focus on educational and career interests at UPIKE. The new information technology management (ITM) major is set to launch this fall. For the spring semester, the university also introduced a new global health minor.

The new ITM major is designed to produce graduates capable of competing in the rapidly changing technology industry as well as to provide students with management leadership skills in business. Based on trends and job growth projections, the curriculum was developed using market research and input from industry professionals to ensure students would be equipped with the in-demand skills needed to be successful in the field of technology.

This program combines core technical requirements and business courses to prepare students for IT-related careers.

Classes include networking, scripting, cloud computing, management information systems and customized internships. Combining strategic courses with relevant experiences creates graduates who enter the workforce ready to apply their comprehensive skill set to approach real-time challenges.

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Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Jennifer Dugan, Ph.D., believes UPIKE ITM students will be engaged in many dynamic and valuable learning experiences.

“Internship experiences and a broad-based curriculum with specialized courses will help equip students to articulate their value and succeed in the information technology field,” Dugan explained. “Through careful advising and individual attention, UPIKE ITM graduates will begin their tech-based careers ready to thrive on a local, national or global scale.”

Using a mixed-method approach, the global health minor is designed to leverage campus expertise alongside the work of UPIKE’s community partners to provide students with a distinctive, skills-based credential that is transferable across communities and health sectors. As the world is still coping with the COVID-19 pandemic,

UPIKE’s focus on global health has perfect timing, helping to build a culture of health across all communities.

“This minor affirms the ‘global as local’ philosophy and recognizes the world has become connected like no other time in recent history due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The commitment to the study of global health is important for students as they become responsible global citizens with the ability to think critically and creatively to solve problems,” explained Professor of Nursing and RN-BSN Coordinator Tauna Gulley, Ph.D. “Seeking to improve health outcomes, students will use what they have learned to develop and implement a capstone project in a community of their choice.”

For students intending to pursue careers in the health professions, the minor offers a distinctive credential in social, ethical and intercultural competencies. Students gain an interdisciplinary understanding of issues affecting the health of individuals and communities, while learning to recognize the importance of cultural belief systems and how they influence personal and communal health. Students learn from diverse perspectives, develop community-based connections, and produce individualized projects that probe questions about the state and future of global health. Instructors with expertise across different fields and from leaders in community health departments, mental health agencies, addiction recovery centers and child advocacy agencies educate students about health challenges on a global scale.

UPIKE Provost Lori Werth, Ph.D., is passionate about the growth of academic offerings as the university takes notice of career demands in the business climate and promptly responds.

“The University of Pikeville is committed to using the power of innovation to contribute to local businesses and the global markets,” said Werth. “Faculty have a vision of 21stcentury education that meets the needs of students and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across campus. I am so proud of our leaders and faculty who continue serving the UPIKE mission and commitment to excellence.”

Information Technology Management Major As a UPIKE ITM graduate, students will be able to: » Approach problem solving with an engineering mindset » Apply critical and abstract thinking, along with standards-based approaches to solve real-life challenges » Possess the skills necessary to make ethical decisions regarding relevant business information technologies, while demonstrating leadership qualities and professional confidence

Global Health Minor Using an interdisciplinary, mixed-method approach, the global health minor is designed to teach students to: » Recognize the importance of cultural belief systems and how they influence personal and communal health » Illustrate the different forms of health disparities and how social systems affect health outcomes » Recognize the relationship between economics, politics, and health policy and identify areas of health care change » Understand the research process and analyze data to promote evidence-informed health practices » Incorporate principles of ethics and social responsibility through civic engagement SPRING/SUMMER 2021 | UPIKE MAGAZINE

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Turning

into Promise 18

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Over the years, countless alumni have improved the world around them through their tireless efforts, ingenuity and compassion. For as long as she could remember, Pike County Health Director Tammy Riley ʼ92 wanted to pursue a career in an educational field. Thus, when she graduated from then Pikeville College (PC) with a bachelor’s degree in middle school education, Riley began traveling on a path of success that opened many doors, allowing her to achieve her dreams while making a community impact.

Riley consistently had a personal connection to the university that began in 1983 during early adulthood, where she attended PC on a math and science scholarship. A few years later, Riley returned to the university as a non-traditional student to finish her college education while juggling the responsibilities of a single parent.

“I have so many warm memories from my young adult years at UPIKE to my early professional career. The university feels like a second home to me,” said Riley.

“The connection to the university is almost as deep as my connection to the mountains of Eastern Kentucky.”

Upon graduation, Former Vice President of Student Services and Dean of Students Ron Damron offered Riley a position as a counselor for a federal grant program titled Educational Talent Search, a sister program to Upward Bound. She soon transitioned into the role of adjunct instructor and peer-to-peer tutoring lab coordinator for the university.

“Tammy has amazing leadership skills and wasn’t afraid to tackle any situation. She loved challenges. She knew with her work ethic and determination, she could succeed,” said Damron. “She would never settle for just ok; it had to be top quality. Tammy desires to help people and is always looking for ways to make things better.”

During her educational journey, several individuals from UPIKE played a significant role in Riley’s professional development and their carefully guided supervision helped her flourish.

“I could write papers on the influence of such professionals as Ron Damron, Brenda Maynard, Gene Lovel, Pam Scott, Russ McIntosh and Dr. John Scott,” said Riley. “They provided me with the resources to build a strong foundation and expand my horizons.”

In 1998, Riley took a leap of faith into the world of pharmaceutical sales and remained in the industry for a little more than eight years.

“UPIKE provided me with the skills to succeed in several different fields by improving my ability to think critically,” said Riley. “A strong foundation in writing, communication and creative problem solving were

instrumental in obtaining my diverse background.”

While a pharmaceutical sales representative in Eastern Kentucky, an opportunity arose for Riley to work in the college setting again as the Campus Director at American National University (ANU).

During her 13 years serving at ANU, Riley led two campuses and worked closely with accrediting bodies, regulatory boards, hospitals, and the general medical community while launching and promoting various allied health programs to expand opportunities for ANU graduates.

Riley’s overall experience helped her transition and led her professional career to serve Pike County in her current role as public health director.

“I enjoy serving in this position. It allows me the opportunity to help my fellow neighbors,” said Riley. “In my former professional roles, I have been able to help individuals improve their work environment, formal education and socioeconomic status. As public health director, I have the opportunity to help individuals, families and communities improve their health outcomes and behaviors, which is far more important than income and career.”

Now more than ever, Riley has become a familiar face between the growing connection of Pike County residents and the focus of transforming public health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Especially in the time of crisis, determination is the key to success. Tammy went the extra mile to create a safe Pike County, where people feel emotionally and physically secure,” said Pikeville Medical Center’s Medical Director of Infectious Disease and Infection Prevention Fadi Al Akhrass, M.D., FACP, MBA ’20.

Riley’s professional career is only one component of her accomplishments. On a personal level, she has finished three full marathons and 41 half marathons and has aspirations to participate in the New York City Marathon. She is motivated by women who achieve success by overcoming obstacles in their lives and says, “It is encouraging to see a young person make short-term sacrifices to obtain long-term goals.”

UPIKE has influenced Riley’s life in many ways and she says she is fortunate to have had the opportunity to study, learn and grow in such a beautiful part of the country.

“I often say that the first lesson I learned at UPIKE was compassion for others,” said Riley. “I would not be where I am today without the robust educational experience I received on the Hill and the belief that nothing comes without hard work.”

by Stacey Walters SPRING/SUMMER 2021 | UPIKE MAGAZINE

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UPIKE student selected as 2021 Ledford Scholar

By STACEY WALTERS

Each year, the Appalachian College Association (ACA) awards scholarships to support ongoing educational objectives. Ledford Scholars present their research from various fields of study, such as health sciences, social sciences or humanities, applying multiple methodologies, laboratory research, fieldwork, participant observation, interview/oral history or archival/library research.

The University of Pikeville was delighted to announce biology student Nyla Gulley as a recipient of the 2021 ACA’s Ledford Research Scholarship.

The undergraduate students awarded the scholarship are provided financial support, enabling them to work on a significant research project during the summer. Each student will receive assistance from a faculty mentor at their home institution. During the fall semester, the scholars will provide a video presentation of their research findings, which is recognized and made available for viewing on the ACA’s website.

UPIKE Professor of Biology Phillip Jen, Ph.D., is serving as Gulley’s mentor in determining the effects of specific neurotransmitters on breast cancer tissue.

“Ms. Gulley is an Osteopathic Medical Scholars Program scholar and one of the best overall students at the University of Pikeville,” said Jen. “Since she is on the path to becoming a medical doctor, it would be highly beneficial for her to gain some experience in medical research, especially a high-profile research project that is strongly supported by Pikeville Medical Center.”

Gulley is thankful he agreed to be her mentor for the Ledford Scholar program.

“Dr. Jen is an amazing mentor, and it helps that he has a passion for science. The classes he teaches at the university will help prepare me for medical school in the future,” said Gulley. “I am grateful he is taking time out of his summer to be my mentor.”

Since Gulley was able to choose the type of cancer tissue she wanted to study, she decided to research breast cancer tissues in memory of her grandmother, who passed from breast cancer in 2014.

Gulley has had research experience in the past, and the hard work and dedication she endured to gain this achievement are due to all the long nights spent studying and preparing herself for classes to maintain a 4.0 GPA.

“At the age of 19, I was selected for the Global Environmental Microbiology (GEM) summer course at the University of Southern California,” said Gulley. “Attending the GEM course helped me have an amazing opportunity working with different equipment and meeting new people.”

UPIKE is committed to excellence and leading in the areas of research and practice.

The program culminates with the Ledford Scholars’ presentations of their research findings at the ACA’s Annual Summit held in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. This is an opportunity to bring together faculty, staff

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“UPIKE has paved the way for me in many ways. I want to be the best person I can be, whether in or out of the classroom. My professors are very passionate about their students and science,” said Gulley. “This has made a huge impact on me to strive to be a good student and mentor to the lowerclassmen.” and administrative leaders from across the ACA to engage in ongoing collaboration and share information and best practices in the ever-evolving effort to prepare students for success.

The two-day program will showcase outstanding ACA members across a broad spectrum of teaching, research, and service and furnish opportunities to share proven strategies to implement in classrooms and work at institutions.

“I am grateful for being accepted and able to attend the ACA’s Annual Summit. I believe anyone interested in summer research should apply for the Ledford Scholarship,” said Gulley. “It is an honor to be given such a prestigious opportunity.”

Gulley plans to graduate with a bachelor of science in biology and aspires to enter medical school at the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine.

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Changing the Narrative Innovation in diabetes care

By KATIE RAY

Coleman College of Business student Preston Poag ’21 has set a goal to change the narrative of the diabetic industry.

As Chief Executive Officer of Appalach Medical, Poag has invented an auspicious product to do just that.

Poag was interested in business at a young age.

While completing two years of college in high school through dual enrollment, he also competed in Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) competitions. DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. The 21-year-old finished his degree in business administration, with a management emphasis, at UPIKE in two years.

with diabetes, Leichte insisted he enter the KY Pitch competition.

“Preston was very self-motivated. I basically helped him flush out his original idea, reviewed his submission and gave him encouragement along the way,” said Leichte.

“Students like Preston don’t need a lot of supervision. He knows what he wants to do and just needs me to keep him going in the right direction.”

Poag says it was sheer luck and the right timing that his idea made it to the competition.

“I really have to give all the credit to Dr. Leichte because I would not have known about the competition without him,” said Poag. “None of this would have been possible without his continued support and encouragement.”

Spending a great deal of time at his grandparents’ house with his type 1 diabetic grandmother, he says the idea actually came to him when he was 13-years-old.

Last October, Poag represented UPIKE in the largest “It seemed like she was always intercollegiate pitch competition having problems with sharp blood in Kentucky, KY Pitch, a program sugar drops,” said Poag. “She under KEENStart that offers would ask me to get her a Coke educational opportunities or candy from the pantry, then and programs around I would continue the cycle of entrepreneurship, design-thinking Preston Poag with his grandmother, Mona walking back and forth, bringing and innovation strategies. The her snacks, and watching her continue to check her blood KY Pitch competition is designed to inspire innovators sugar after eating.” and entrepreneurs by providing an inclusive platform for He noticed his grandmother had no clue how much future leaders to develop and pursue their ideas. sugar she was intaking and how the products she was As part of a New Venture Creation course taught by consuming would affect her blood sugar.

Assistant Professor of Business Clarke Leichte, D.B.A., “She was always playing the ‘guessing game,’” said Poag. students are tasked to create a product or service of “The idea hit me sitting on the couch, and I will never their own. After hearing Poag’s idea of dissolvable forget it because eight years later, I am developing it.” glucose tongue strips to regulate blood sugar for people 22

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The motivation comes from my grandmother.

I promised her I would make this a reality.

CLICK HERE to watch Poag’s KY Pitch video entry

Poag submitted a business model of his product, DiaStrip, which will come in a box of 30 strips with three compartments separating 5g, 10g and 15g glucose strips.

It will also include a table showing how many strips someone would need based on body weight and current blood sugar level.

“The product is placed on or under the tongue and dissolves within seconds, entering your bloodstream in the quickest means possible. It can be placed under the tongue of unconscious individuals as well,” said Poag.

“We are trying to help as many people as we can, and we believe that DiaStrip has the potential to save thousands of lives worldwide.”

Poag was chosen among 16 finalists and competed in the Exploratory Track, for newly formed ideas, against seven other businesses. Contestants then had to submit a two-minute People’s Choice Award Video explaining their concept.

In the competition’s final component, students were given the opportunity to pitch their business concept to a large audience composed of investors, community leaders and the public. The group of entrepreneurs had 10 minutes to present, followed by five minutes of questions from the panel of judges. On October 24, 2020, the winners were announced at a virtual ceremony.

Poag placed third, an outstanding achievement, winning

$1,500, which he is using to research and develop his product.

“I connected with a chemical engineer out of Iowa State University, and we are in the process of formulating the product,” said Poag. “At Appalach Medical, our mission is to improve the lives of others by providing affordable and effective solutions to fight the world’s health crisis.”

Leichte says great products come out of personal experiences.

“Preston is taking what he saw with his grandmother and developing a better way,” said Leichte. “I have no doubt that Preston will be a success with DiaStrip or anything else he decides to pursue.”

DiaStrip is currently in the developing stage and is not available for purchase yet. Appalach Medical has made it a priority to offer DiaStrip at an affordable price of $9.99 per box, including a monthly subscription option.

“I am trying to make life easier for people with diabetes; which is hard enough to deal with. I want to provide something that can ease the process of dealing with low blood sugar,” said Poag. “The motivation comes from my grandmother. I promised her I would make this a reality.”

Stay connected with the progress of DiaStrip by following Appalach Medical on Instagram and Facebook.

SPRING/SUMMER 2021 | UPIKE MAGAZINE

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Congratulations

CLASS OF 2021

The University of Pikeville held inperson commencement ceremonies for the Class of 2021 to recognize the academic achievements of students earning degrees in the health professions, and undergraduate and graduate studies. The celebrations were held over a three-day span at the Appalachian Wireless Arena in downtown Pikeville, as a safety measure in response to COVID-19.

Graduates and families who preferred to celebrate virtually were able to watch the ceremonies via livestream.

In his keynote address for the graduate and undergraduate ceremonies, Nate Morris, founder and chief executive officer of Lexington, Kentucky-based Rubicon, challenged students to join him in helping to build sustainable economic development opportunities for Eastern Kentucky.

Morris also promised seed funding to help UPIKE start a studentled conservation program with objectives, goals and deliverables.

“Together, we can be leaders in making great things happen,” said Morris. “We are the people who will find opportunity in unlikely places. Opportunity surrounds you, and yours could be waiting for you anywhere. Now is your time to think big and dream big.”

for her decades of dedication to the university’s faculty and students.

Simpson and Gilliam were the first female faculty members to receive the award. Dean of Kentucky Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) Dana Shaffer, D.O., FACOFP dist., FAOGME, also received the Presidential Medallion for his dedication to furthering KYCOM’s mission. All three faculty members have announced their retirement this June.

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program graduated its inaugural class, and commencement highlights for the College of Nursing and Human Services and the Patton College of Education included pinning new professional social workers, nurses and educators.

“This graduation is an incredible milestone for our School of Social Work, but more importantly it means that 10 advanced-level social work practitioners and servant leaders will be joining the workforce and changing lives across Central Appalachia and beyond,” said MSW Program Director and Chair of the School of Social Work Genesia Kilgore-Bowling, Ph.D., MSW, CSW. “I am so proud of these graduates.”

Mary Rado Simpson, Ph.D., RN, CNE Professor of Nursing

President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D., awarded the Presidential Medallion to Professor of Nursing Mary Rado Simpson, Ph.D., RN, CNE, for her significant contributions to nursing education at UPIKE, and Assistant Provost Pam Gilliam, Ed.D., MBA, 24

Simpson and Michael Holcomb, Ph.D., were honored as first- and second-place recipients, respectively, of the William Wade and Helen Record Walker Teaching Excellence Award.

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Ancil W. Lewis, chief executive officer of Big Sandy Health Care, Inc., delivered the keynote address at the health professions ceremony.

“Collectively, these graduates will make a major contribution to the healthcare delivery system in Kentucky and across the nation,” said Lewis. “What the University of Pikeville has accomplished is phenomenal. This is the community and people that move mountains.”

Pamela Gilliam, Ed.D., MBA Assistant Provost

CLICK HERE to view all of the commencement galleries

“UPIKE has helped me find myself, know who I am and also helped me build many connections. I have people who support me that I can turn to for advice and help when I enter my career field. My first meeting with Genesia (Chair of the School of Social Work) set me on this path. She opened me up to this career and I’m very grateful I had that experience. I learned that the true values I have in my life align with the values held in social work.

Values like dignity, worth, service for all people and selflessness. That is how I want to live my life.”

Cheikh Ndiaye B.S. in Social Work “As a business owner, this degree holds so much value. Through the curriculum, I was able to reevaluate my own business strategies and management styles. The advantage of this program is being able to do it at my own pace, on my own time. This means a lot to my future success going forward.”

Cullen Hall

Master of Business Administration

“My time at UPIKE has taught me so much about who I am. I have learned that I am capable of reaching any goal that I have set for myself. Our professors were amazing, and having a great team behind you helps keep you motivated. I was a student here when we switched from Pikeville College to the University of Pikeville, and that was a huge jump, creating a whole new campus.”

Ashley Branham Master of Social Work

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“After coming here from Florida to play softball, UPIKE taught me to be independent, being so far from home. Just being with my team and making lifelong friends has been so meaningful.

I feel prepared to enter my career because of all the networking I was able to do. Everyone here is so great at reaching out and making you feel included, and I believe I can apply those same skills wherever I go.”

Alysha Bolling B.S. Criminal Justice

“Being a nursing student, I have learned I am more of a people-person than I ever knew, and no matter what is thrown at me, I can adjust. After getting into clinicals, I realized nursing was natural for me. UPIKE has done a great job of preparing me to be a nurse. The university set up lots of hands-on experience at the hospital, making sure we are trained to be work-ready when we graduate."

Zachary Howell A.S. in Nursing

“My father is an optometrist and sparked my interest in the field at an early age. KYCO’s dedication to service, outreach and mission trips were my most admired memories of being an optometry student. The experiences that I have had at KYCO with rural optometry will benefit me going forward in my career. KYCO has prepared me with the expanded scope of optometry practice, and I have learned surgical procedures that will advance the future of optometry. I am forever grateful to KYCO for extending me the priceless gift of an optometry education and helping me to fulfill my long-term goals.“

Emily Williams, O.D. 26

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Kentucky College of Optometry - Valedictorian

“I have had a wonderful journey in pursuing my dream of becoming a physician. I always wanted a career that is intellectually stimulating and provides service to patients in the community. KYCOM offers many resources and equips students with all the skills that you need to be a successful physician. I am grateful for the deep connections I have made while attending KYCOM. My interest is working in radiation oncology with the goal of helping patients with cancer. There will be challenges, but if you have the right attitude, you will not only overcome them, you will grow from them.”

Mustafa Basree, D.O.

Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine “UPIKE has prepared me really well for my career, and I secured a teaching position immediately after graduation. I discovered I am not a very shy person, like I used to be, and I have come out of my shell more here. On the bowling team, my freshman year, we won the national title and that achievement will be forever in my memories.”

Erin Cosner

B.A. in Educational Studies

“UPIKE took me away from the distractions of the city and helped me to focus on my education. It made me feel like I could be a good student and get everything done.

During my time here and my involvement with student government and restarting the Black Student Union, I learned I have a large sphere of influence that I can use anywhere. Knowing there are people still here that can continue the work of the BSU is important to me. I will also really miss the soul food dinners hosted by the BSU at the president’s house.”

Will Wheeler B.A. in Communication

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NEW

BEAR

SAME TRADITION

by Stacey Walters

University of Pikeville Athletics was excited to usher in the next era of its athletic programs by announcing the release of a new brand identity in November 2020 that embodies vision and strength in the UPIKE Bear and The branding package is extensive, featuring all-new primary and secondary logos and an exclusive typeface, color palette and sport-specific pieces utilized to further establish the brand identity. Design elements that pay tribute to the community’s geography in the main Bear insignia, with mountain peaks etched in the jawline and a tree’s silhouette above the brow.

The re-brand’s objective began months prior to build upon the brand’s existing strength and create a cohesive system that will reflect the characteristics of the future UPIKE Athletics programs.

UPIKE Athletics, in collaboration with Oklahoma-based Old Hat Creative, brought to life the pieces that will represent the Bears for years to come. The process involved diligent attention to detail focused on refreshing the brand while maintaining the core identity of the program. A refined and attractive product emerged as UPIKE Athletics debuted the efforts via social media channels. The re-branding is a welcome refresher for the program, as the former logo held a point for the Bears for more than 20 years.

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A new Bear logo pilots the debut, featuring a modern touch that incorporates key traditional elements.

UPIKE Athletic Director Kelly Wells believes the re-brand will generate excitement in the student-athletes and the community.

“The interest in the re-brand came about to celebrate and honor our institution, region and sports programs and spark interest in the movement of our department.

The unique bear and lettering are exclusive to UPIKE and will become the mark of UPIKE Athletics for many years ahead,” said Wells. “Our goals were to develop a brand that spoke on our traditions of our mountain region, offer a proud and majestic outlook and resemble a more lifelike bear.”

UPIKE Director of Public Affairs Kelly Rowe-Jones says finding new ways to re-brand UPIKE Athletics communicates university pride, culture and legacy.

“Branding is so much more than a physical representation of our institution,” said Rowe-Jones. “It is more than a logo, set of colors or mascot. The brand embodies the mission, history and tradition of the university and is the emotional driver for the athletics program.”

Bears athletics has partnered with Under Armour to create an online apparel shop accessible via upikebears.com. The online store provides fans the opportunity to shop officially branded merchandise, updated with the new branding elements.

CLICK HERE to visit upikebears.com

UPIKE Sports Information Director Alek Morgan is excited to be a part of the athletic program’s growth.

“The redesign hit the mark perfectly, creating a fresh look while still maintaining our identity and tradition.

It’s an exciting process to be a part of and goes handin-hand with the continued growth of UPIKE Athletics,” said Morgan. “We can’t wait to incorporate these new elements into the campus community and bring the Bear to life!”

UPIKE alum and Men’s Basketball All-Time leading scorer for the Bears Bart Williams ’93 says the rebranding project is an example of the commitment UPIKE implements to stay connected to their former student-athletes.

“The re-brand of the UPIKE athletics program keeps current and former student-athletes excited and involved in the program,” said Williams. “Although I left the Hill in ’93, I can’t say enough about how UPIKE and individuals like Kelly Wells, Tigh Compton and Rick Bentley make me feel special and a part of the university even today.”

Bears athletics has partnered with Under Armour to create an online apparel shop accessible via upikebears. com. The online store provides fans the opportunity to shop officially branded merchandise, updated with the new branding elements. A unique feature of the online marketplace is the option to have sport-specific text and logos on customizable items.

Fans can see the new branding material fully integrated into UPIKE Athletics’ online presence and social media, followed by a campus-wide implementation.

Visit upikebears.com to stay up to date on the latest developments in UPIKE Athletics.

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For the love of the game

by Stacey Walters

The University of Pikeville’s very own BriAnna Burbridge ’21 fell in love with the game of basketball at the young age of six. As an only child growing up in Frankfort, Ky., basketball became a passion and a piece of her that she couldn’t imagine life without.

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Captivated by her energy and love for the game, Burbridge’s parents recall an early memory when they got a sneak peek of her playing basketball for Upward, where she couldn’t wait to play the Saturday games and take charge, passing to her teammates and scoring.

Burbridge began playing organized ball in elementary school but quickly realized in high school that her talent on the court could take her to college. She could hoop with the best and displayed versatility by playing in all five positions at one time or another.

During the summer of 2016, Burbridge took her first college tour at UPIKE and instantly felt at home. Coming from a small high school, she was attracted to the small class sizes and community feel at the university.

“I didn’t want to be a small fish in a big pond,” said Burbridge, “At UPIKE, I could form connections with students and professors. I wasn’t just a number, and the campus environment made me feel like this was my second family.”

Burbridge embraced the opportunity to play women’s basketball for the Bears and achieved the 2021 NAIA AllAmerican Honorable Mention Team; 2019 NAIA All-American Third Team; 1000+ Point Club; 2019 Comeback Player of the Year; 2020 UPIKE Women’s Basketball MVP and 2020 UPIKE Female Athlete of the Year. She also set career-high record points, rebounds and steals in a single game while playing at UPIKE.

During her sophomore year, Burbridge underwent surgery after tearing her ACL, MCL and meniscus. It was with tenacity, patience and determination that she came back to the court in 2019 and revealed her all-around skill set, making her one of the best players at UPIKE. Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach Shelby Wheeler says Burbridge is a special kind of basketball talent that demonstrates ambition on and off the court.

“Bri has an IQ and mind for the game. She’s grown her talent along with how she scouts and prepares for opponents. Her commitment to the team is demonstrated in action. She’s not a loud vocal leader, but she’ll raise our team’s energy in a game by working for a steal or finishing a tough and one,” said Wheeler. “I hope other

players have learned from her fortitude to come back after her knee surgery and her involvement with other groups at UPIKE.” Burbridge experienced challenges and growth, both personally and academically, at UPIKE.

“My experience playing at UPIKE was challenging in the beginning, but with the help of my teammates pushing me and encouraging me to do the best I could do, I was able to achieve the goals I had set for myself,” said Burbridge.

“I will always cherish the moments with my team and coaches. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to play basketball and study at UPIKE.” Serving as a mentor for Burbridge, UPIKE Professor of Psychology LeAnne Epling, Ph.D., says Burbridge is one of the most hard-working and dedicated students she has ever had the pleasure of knowing and teaching.

“BriAnna goes above and beyond not only on the basketball court, but more importantly, in the classroom as well,” said Epling.

“She is the epitome of what it means to be a student-athlete, and I know that she will continue to make me and UPIKE proud long after her graduation.”

Burbridge graduated with a double major in psychology and communication from UPIKE in May. She plans to take the graduate record exam and attend a clinical psychology graduate program.

As for what she believes students can learn from her journey, Burbridge said she hopes they will take advantage of all the available opportunities to expand their knowledge at UPIKE.

“Participate in the many different activities that campus hosts for students. They will help you grow out of your comfort zone and interact with professors, faculty and other students on campus. You’ll never know who you can meet, a best friend or significant other,” said Burbridge,

“UPIKE creates an opportunity for you to become the very best version of yourself.”

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48 presentations

UPIKE hosts campus-wide research symposium The University of Pikeville held its first comprehensive, campus-wide research symposium on April 9. Traditionally, the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) and the Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO) plan an annual research day. This year, the university collaborated to expand the program to the entire campus.

Assistant Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Associate Professor of Spanish Ella Smith-Justice, Ph.D., KYCOM Associate Professor of Pharmacology Kartick Pramanik, Ph.D., and KYCO Founding Faculty, Director of Research and Associate Professor of Optometry George Asimellis, Ph.D., MBA ’21, worked diligently to plan and execute this important event.

“I am glad to have worked closely with Provost Werth, Dr. Pramanik and Dr. Asimellis to help coordinate UPIKE’s 32

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first-ever symposium. The success of this inaugural event and its legacy are important to me. We built on the tradition established by KYCOM and KYCO to create a campus-wide event that is inclusive of all academic disciplines,” said Smith-Justice.

UPIKE President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D., welcomed the group and emphasized the importance of life and research.

Keynote speaker Medical Director of Infectious Disease and Infection Prevention at Pikeville Medical Center Fadi Al Akhrass, M.D., FACP, MBA ’20

45 students participants

“Life alone is not enough; for living, is a verb. The more I learn about living, the more I realize that learning is life,” said Webb. “On this day, and over the course of the next several weeks, we will celebrate the life of the mind in all of its diversity. Research teaches us to hold reality tenderly because, at any given moment, contradictions might hope to unseat us from our unwitting ignominious purpose. Come, be curious, learn, laugh, and come to know the UPIKE family in a different way - as a community of scholars desiring to grow in knowledge as we live and learn, together.”

Keynote speaker Medical Director of Infectious Disease and Infection Prevention at Pikeville Medical Center Fadi Al Akhrass, M.D., FACP, MBA ’20, has worked incredibly hard within Pike County and throughout the Commonwealth to combat the health challenges of pandemic. He has led cutting-edge research related to COVID-19 and treatments to support patients.

“Each vaccine, along with the discovery of better therapeutics, will be pieces of the puzzle that will make the picture of going back to normalcy almost complete,” said Al Akhrass. “We are in this together, and only together, we can get through these unprecedented times.

Lessons learned from this pandemic should allow us to be humble, fluid and change recommendations whenever they need to be tweaked, and better prepare ourselves for any potential harm.”

15 faculty participants

Assistant Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Associate Professor of Spanish Ella Smith-Justice, Ph.D.

Among the nearly 50 students who participated in the symposium, six were awarded for their poster and oral presentations. Among those six was Coleman College of Business student (at the time) Preston Poag ’21.

Poag presented his product DiaStrip, a new solution to treat hypoglycemia in type 1 diabetics. DiaStrip is an oral hyperglycemic agent in the form of dissolvable glucose tongue strips.

“The market for high blood sugar regulation such as insulin has been transformed over the past decade with breakthroughs in technology and treatment. Treatments and aids have remained the same for low blood sugar regulation for many years,” said Poag.

Smith-Justice says the symposium was a special opportunity to come together as a university community and celebrate the scholarship of students, staff and faculty.

“We are doing so many wonderful things at UPIKE, in all of our colleges,” said Smith-Justice. “It is rewarding and meaningful to learn about the ways in which our scholars are making their marks in Central Appalachia and beyond.”

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Associate Professor of Pharmacology Kartick Pramanik, Ph.D.

Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine KYCOM has been growing and sustaining a successful student- and faculty-centered research program. It is critical that osteopathic medical schools not only provide outstanding medical education to our future physicians, but also contribute substantially to the scientific biomedical and clinical advances required to improve healthcare. Clinical research is what allows doctors to decide how to best treat patients.

Pramanik says through KYCOM’s research program, students can develop their analytic and critical thinking skills, which are essential to integrate scientific discovery and clinical insight to inform patient care.

“To encourage the research culture, we organized a UPIKE Research Symposium. All students across the campus were eligible to submit an abstract and present their poster at the event,” said Pramanik. “KYCOM has invested generously in research over the past few years.

As evident, we increased our summer research fellowship to twofold.”

President of KYCOM Class of 2023 Taylor Reardon, OMS-II, won first place in oral presentations for his research on how hemoglobin induces oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs).

OPCs in the infant brain give rise to mature oligodendrocytes that myelinate CNS axons. OPCs are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress that occurs in many forms of brain injury. One common cause of infant brain injury is neonatal intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), which releases blood into the CSF and brain parenchyma of preterm infants.

Although blood contains the powerful oxidant hemoglobin, the direct effects of hemoglobin on OPCs have not been studied.

“We utilized a cell culture system to test if hemoglobin induced free radical production and mitochondrial dysfunction in OPCs. We also tested if phenelzine (PLZ), an FDA-approved antioxidant drug, could protect OPCs from hemoglobin-induced oxidative stress. OPCs were isolated from Sprague Dawley rat pups and exposed to hemoglobin with and without PLZ,” said Reardon.

“Hemoglobin induced oxidative stress and impaired mitochondrial function in OPCs. PLZ treatment reduced hemoglobin-induced oxidative stress and improved OPC mitochondrial bioenergetics. The effects of hemoglobin and PLZ on OPC proliferation were not statistically significant, but showed trends towards hemoglobin reducing OPC proliferation and PLZ increasing OPC proliferation. Collectively, our results indicate that hemoglobin induces mitochondrial dysfunction in OPCs, and that antioxidant therapy reduces these effects.

Therefore, antioxidant therapy may hold promise for white matter diseases in which hemoglobin plays a role, such as neonatal IVH.”

KYCOM student Matthew Talmage won third place in oral presentations for his research on factors influencing outcomes of the dysplastic hip in non-ambulatory children with cerebral palsy.

KYCOM student Christina Campbell won third place in poster presentations for her research on Phytochemicals in the prevention of metastasis in lung cancer with KYCOM student David Cline and Pramanik.

Pramanik says KYCOM research empowers scientists and physicians to be leaders in structured cross-disciplinary research programs to increase knowledge for improved patient health and quality of life in the rural areas of Appalachia, keeping with the mission statement of the university.

First Place Oral Presentation Winner President of KYCOM Class of 2023 Taylor Reardon, OMS-II

Kentucky College of Optometry The mission of research at KYCO is to support, coordinate and foster investigations of the visual system that advance clinical vision care dedicated to the enhancement of patient care through discovery and development of procedures and treatments for the detection, diagnosis and treatment of ocular pathology and the improvement of visual restoration.

“The pursuit of research excellence contributes to the overall mission of providing the highest quality, and most current knowledge, of basic clinical science as the essential, robust foundation for unsurpassed patient care,” said Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Professor of Optometry Donald Egan, O.D., FAAO. Vision is one of our most valuable senses.

Research allows improvement; improvement of clinical procedures and protocols. It will enable implementation; ability to implement functional therapies. Research is the opportunity to expand knowledge.

Founding Faculty, Director of Research and Associate Professor of Optometry George Asimellis, Ph.D., MBA 21 says research is the future of the optometry profession.

“Vision science is a rapidly evolving field. What we teach today may well be outdated just 10 years down the road,” said Asimellis. “Topics like advanced laser surgery, corneal biomechanics and retinal cell implantation may change the profession as we know it and for the best.”

percent, and width at 10 percent,” said Ault. “Metrics upon the MTF included the cutoff frequency. Results were correlated with visual acuity, depth of focus and known spherocylindrical error worn by the examinee.”

Asimellis, along with KYCO students Carrie Rippey and Maddison Smith, joined second place poster presentation winner, KYCO student Crystal Chan, to observe face mask use at six universities, including UPIKE.

“From September to November 2020, mask use was directly observed on six university campuses with mask mandates. Mask mandates at universities are associated with high rates of correct mask use, supporting the effectiveness of mandates to increase mask use,” said Chan. “Direct observation of mask use can provide rapid feedback to universities on the effectiveness of mask mandates. This work reports the contribution of the University of Pikeville in this project, which was directed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Correct, indoor mask use was 92.1 percent on campuses and 90 percent at nearby off-campus locations. Cloth masks were most commonly worn.”

Asimellis says research creates lifelong learners while pursuing the joy of discovery and is the breathing oxygen that keeps us at the forefront of the advancing science.

KYCO student Gabrielle Ault won first place for her poster presentation with Asimellis titled Double-Pass Measurement and Evaluation of PSF and MTF Shape in Young Adults - Correlation with Refractive Error.

Ocular examination with double-pass aberrometry is a novel approach to evaluating retinal image quality both in young/healthy as well as in elderly/pathology eyes.

“Using double-pass aberrometry, we evaluated the characteristics of two critical metrics of retinal image quality, namely the Point Spread Function (PSF) and Modulation Transfer Function (MTF). Metrics upon the PSF functions included the Strehl ratio, width at 50

Founding Faculty, Director of Research and Associate Professor of Optometry George Asimellis, Ph.D., MBA ’21

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Educating the youth of Appalachia with KYCOM’s Mini-Med School During the spring, the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) virtually hosted its annual Mini-Med School for kids, allowing Mullins Elementary students to learn the importance of preventive medicine and a healthy lifestyle.

The Mini-Med School aims to alleviate children’s fear of doctors, create a better understanding of medical equipment, foster positive role models and introduce children to career opportunities in the healthcare field.

KYCOM compiled footage of medical students performing different clinical exams, using diagnostic equipment, and explaining bones and organs into a video for the elementary school teachers to incorporate into their science curriculum.

Second-year KYCOM student and American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians Club President Karly Castellaw helped to initiate a pen pal and mentor program in the fall between the first-grade elementary school students and KYCOM students.

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Due to COVID-19, KYCOM created a virtual field day to teach students about science.

“Mini-med schools are designed to be casual, fun and informative while focusing on healthcare issues that are important to everyone,” said Castellaw. “It brings medicine, science and the importance of health to children in an interactive and exciting way!”

First-grade teacher at Mullins Elementary School Makynsi Pray ʼ19, says the pen-pal program was a wonderful experience for her students.

“My students have enjoyed participating in the pen-pal program and getting to know the KYCOM students. After a few exchanges, I began to notice when something exciting happened at home or school, my students would ask if they could write to their ʻdoctor friendsʼ and tell them about it,” said Pray. “This opportunity has provided a great incentive for my students to work hard and find community with someone who became such a positive influence in their academic lives. I am very thankful my class was able to have this experience.”

KYCO Low Vision Clinic: A better life in sight In addition to teaching optometry classes, Assistant Professor of Optometry Ben Konig, O.D., works in the Low Vision and Vision Rehabilitation Specialty Clinic at the Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO). Here, patients with vision impairments are examined to determine how the clinic can improve their sight. These patients most commonly have age-related macular degeneration, though some have glaucoma or other ocular conditions.

“Our goals are to help these patients have a better quality of life and to help them to be able to do the activities that they would like to do, but can’t due to their decreased vision,” Konig explained. “Appalachia is an area with one of the highest incidence of visual impairment, and our clinic is one of the few vision rehabilitation clinics within an hour of Pikeville.”

Pikeville College graduate and 91-year-old retired elementary school teacher Mary Spradlin ’60 is grateful to return to campus and visit the clinic, where she has received treatment to help improve her sight.

“Now that my vision is better, I am so excited that I can read the scripture in my Sunday School lesson book, and I can even read the phone book,” said Spradlin. “The staff at the Low Vision Clinic were so nice and took wonderful care of me. I appreciate being able to see things I couldn’t before.”

Patients at the clinic are also provided with education and instructions on assistive technology, such as the accessibility functions of computers, cell phones and tablets. Additionally, patients are educated on nearby services, such as the Kentucky Talking Book Library and the Blind Services Division of the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Appointments are made on a referral basis, either from an optometrist or ophthalmologist, or through the school system for students who need low vision rehabilitation.

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G O D ’ S

by STACEY WALTERS

T

he serene campus of the University of Pikeville sits atop a hill in Eastern Kentucky where one can marvel at a view of the Appalachian Mountains, open educational pathways and witness the beauty of God’s work.

That view from campus inspired a faith-journey and opened many doors for UPIKE alumnus Scot Robinson ’16.

Like many Eastern Kentucky students, applying for college can be overwhelming, but for Robinson, growing up only a stone’s throw away from campus, attending UPIKE felt like an obvious choice. Alongside receiving an alumni scholarship from the university, he thought that UPIKE showed a genuine interest in his success and helped guide the path of his calling to ministry.

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C A L L I N G While at UPIKE, Robinson had the opportunity to learn about religious traditions, but he also learned more about himself and explored his own theology.

“I’ll never forget the valuable experiences of attending interfaith panels, getting to dialogue with guest lecturers from other faith traditions, and even having the opportunity to visit the local Mosque to learn more about Islam,” said Robinson. “In my own life, this has taught me the invaluable skill of ‘holy envy,’ a phrase I heard termed

by Barbara Brown Taylor. This is the skill of being able to look at the different religious traditions of my neighbors and friends with generosity, curiosity and appreciation.”

As someone who grew up in a Christian context, Robinson was grateful for the chance to learn about other religions and interfaith dialogue while studying at UPIKE.

“Through historical-critical surveys on Biblical books, studying the history and development of Christian theology and tradition, hearing theology from the margins by voices different than my own, and listening to open dialogue between students in classes, I experienced major formative moments for me in my own faith journey,” said Robinson. “Learning the history, development, philosophy, and theology connected to my own tradition deepened my curiosity and appreciation of it.”

The professors in the religion department at UPIKE served as mentors for Robinson and had an integral impact on his academic journey.

UPIKE Professor of Religion James Browning, Ph.D., shared a few words that impacted Robinson during his journey through academia. Browning said, “Compassion is the root of wisdom,” which pushed him to seek knowledge and endeavors that inspire change and healing.

Although Robinson’s interests were in religion, he didn’t initially see himself becoming a pastor. When he began looking into graduate programs, he thought the Master in Divinity would be a stepping stone toward ordination or becoming clergy.

The first spark of his call to ministry happened his senior year when Chaplain Rob Musick asked if Robinson would deliver a sermon at the First Presbyterian Church in Prestonsburg. After reluctantly accepting and fighting back the nervous jitters, Robinson felt warmly embraced and welcomed by everyone at the sanctuary when he preached on the Good Samaritan.

“Inviting Scot to speak was a natural progression in Scot’s call. Being in class with him, watching him grow as a worship leader through campus worship and hearing his

heart for the Lord and others, it was evident that God was calling him to serve the church,” said Musick. “Scot’s sensitivity to the Spirit, the heart of others, and the injustices of our world made it clear that God was inviting Scot to lead in pastoral ministry.”

That moment, Robinson clearly saw what he had learned academically intersecting in his own faith and began his journey of ordination in the Presbyterian Church.

Upon graduating from UPIKE, Robinson attended Vanderbilt Divinity School in Nashville. During the time of his ordination process, an opportunity to serve as a guest preacher at the First Presbyterian Church of Pikeville presented itself, which quickly turned into being installed as the full-time pastor.

Former UPIKE Trustee and member of the Presbyterian Church Charles J. Baird immediately liked Robinson’s inspirational preaching and teaching style.

“There was never any doubt that we wanted him to serve as our pastor,” said Baird. “Scot has initiated new ways for the church to help others in the community and his messages are relevant and meaningful. We are very fortunate to have his family as a part of our church and look forward to having them with us for a long time.”

Robinson believes growing up in Pikeville, loving the area and seeking to serve its people made this the perfect opportunity. “As a few of my mentors have told me, this was definitely a ‘God thing,’ and it all came together amazingly,” said Robinson.

Though vocationally Robinson is in congregational ministry, his academic journey still inspires him to learn.

In 2020, Robinson wrote a piece on the intersections of healthcare and the church in Appalachia published in Unbound: Presbyterian Church U.S.A.’s Journal on Christian Social Justice and credits UPIKE for cultivating the achievement.

Robinson also had the opportunity to work alongside student street chaplains and doctoral students who offered pastoral care to the homeless and addressed systemic issues like poverty and racial justice.

“In my journey through ordination, I’ve learned about so many others who are serving God in amazing ways that are outside the box. The sky’s the limit,” said Robinson.

“Wherever you see a need for change or healing in the world, I believe there is room for Christ-centered work there.”

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“I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.”

The Celtic Cross, a symbol of the Presbyterian Church, can be seen on buildings across campus including here on The Coal Building. A Celtic Cross was also included as part of the Health Professions Education Building and Record Memorial. Women of the Presbyterian Church gave $100,000 to fund Record Memorial, which was dedicated in 1962.

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Presbyterian Foundation Partnership “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.” These words, from Psalm 121:1, are etched at the bottom of the iconic 99 steps that lead to the University of Pikeville. They embody the spirit of the group of Presbyterian ministers who in 1889 crossed the valleys and hills of the Appalachian Mountains on horseback and selected Pikeville as the location to establish a church and a school.

More than 130 years later, UPIKE continues to honor our vision by serving as a beacon of opportunity for any student who desires to embark upon an educational journey and by creating opportunities for the people of Central Appalachia.

Our recent partnership with the Presbyterian Foundation, which provided start-up funding via a $400,000 zero percent interest loan for our Master of Social Work (MSW) program, also embodies the spirit of those enterprising ministers and that of the Presbyterian Foundation.

“The University of Pikeville’s mission, as well as our commitment to servant leadership, perfectly align with that of the Presbyterian Foundation,” says UPIKE President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D. “The creation of a new program requires the expenditure of a great deal of start-up costs before we accept the first student. This business model and the Presbyterian Foundation’s collaboration allowed us to hire faculty and staff, purchase materials and supplies, and create curriculum. We are deeply grateful to the foundation for helping us establish a program that will serve our region.”

Indeed, UPIKE’s Central Appalachian service area is the center of the nation’s opioid drug epidemic. Our MSW program, which admitted the inaugural cohort of students in fall 2020, offers a specialization in mental health and addictions. In addition to giving behavioral health professionals a fuller understanding of human behavior, a master’s degree is required for careers as certified social workers, licensed clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor associates, and licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselors.

UPIKE’s MSW program is designed to prepare students for advanced practice in the field of social work and is delivered online with courses offered year-round to meet the needs of working professionals. The program offers two programs of study: a 30-hour Advanced Standing option for students who hold a degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and meet additional admission criteria; and a 60-hour Regular Standing program for students who have completed a baccalaureate degree in an area other than social work or completed a social work degree with a program that was not accredited by the CSWE.

Currently, faculty are delivering curriculum to 28 future behavioral healthcare professionals. All of this was made possible, in part, by the Presbyterian Foundation, which has been acting on behalf of such worthwhile projects since its incorporation on March 28, 1799, as the Trustee of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). The Presbyterian Foundation gathers, stewards and distributes funds for the mission of the church.

According to the foundation’s website, “We work hard to strengthen congregations and related mission and ministry efforts by developing gifts and managing funds on their behalf. We work with them to build communities of generosity among their members and constituents. And we provide all Presbyterians an avenue to realize their philanthropic goals through a variety of giving and investment options. In all our work, we remain focused on the reformed values that have guided our stewardship and investment for more than 200 years.”

by MICHELLE GOFF

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OPPORTUNITY

THROUGH ADVERSITY After a traumatic injury, Glen Senters ’17 (left), realized his lifelong dream of returning to the classroom could become a reality through a chance encounter.

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W

orking his way up from basic maintenance mechanic to supervisor, a 20-year career at a local factory was derailed after a traumatic injury left Glen Senters ’17 with little function in his hand. The unfortunate incident required him to be hospitalized for two weeks in 2007 while enduring eight surgeries, along with skin grafts and a year of physical therapy.

The events of that day set his life on a path toward realizing a dream that began in high school, when basketball was the only thing keeping Senters from dropping out and going to work in the mines like so many young men did during that time.

“I wasn’t a good student and only kept my grades good enough to stay on the basketball team,” Senters admitted. “I thought about maybe becoming a teacher and coaching basketball, but didn’t think it was an option for me with my low GPA and my parents not being able to afford to send me to school.”

Instead, Senters earned his industrial maintenance certificate from Mayo Technical College after high school and entered the workforce, putting his dream of becoming a teacher on hold.

After his injury, Senters tried to continue in his position, but with the damage to his hand being so severe, he was not able to do the job anymore. He struggled mentally, as well as physically, with having the plans he laid for his life and family upended, and worries of not being able to provide for his wife, Eugenia, and their two children.

It turns out, UPIKE’s Dean of Student Success Mathys Meyer, Ph.D., is Senters’ neighbor. He recalls their first conversation about him attending college. Meyer offered him the support he needed to take the leap into higher education.

A friend from church, UPIKE Chaplain Rob Musick, encouraged him to go back to school. He was dealing with feelings of depression and inadequacy and really was not sure he could do it.

“With counseling and prayer to help get my mind right, I was ready to do something different,” explained Senters. “I was struggling with wondering what I could do in my 40s.”

He enrolled in Big Sandy Community and Technical College and graduated with his associate of arts degree, where his greatest challenge was math. He felt like he might be ready to take the next step, but was still unsure.

Musick had a conversation with him about coming to UPIKE and took him on a tour of campus, with which he fell in love, but thought he could not afford it. With the help of the Pikeville Promise, a full-coverage scholarship that places an emphasis on academics and financial need, Senters was accepted and went on to graduate with a 3.4 GPA, earning his bachelor of arts in sociology.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better experience than I had at UPIKE. The faculty were all great and very encouraging, and I really enjoyed the relationships I had with my professors,” Senters said. “I found I could relate to some of the life experiences they shared because we were closer in age than most of the other students.”

While attending UPIKE, Senters was a full-time substitute teacher. The desire to teach remained strong within him and he knew he could not continue to ignore his true calling. Senters enrolled in an online program, earning his master of arts in teaching this past December, and is now teaching at Johns Creek Elementary, where he also drives a school bus.

“I had this dream when I was a senior in high school.

After I went back to college, I realized this dream might be attainable,” Senters expressed. “I’m so happy being a teacher and a bus driver. For some of these kids, I’m the first face they see, and I enjoy wishing them a good day and trying to put some smiles on their faces.”

His daughter, Karsyn, is a sophomore at UPIKE and a member of the marching band, and son, Keaton, is a freshman at Pike County Central High School. Both children, along with Eugenia who is a clinical support associate for UPIKE’s Optometry Clinic, are very proud of him for all he has accomplished and overcome.

During Musick’s and Meyer’s decade-long friendship with Senters, they have witnessed him rise above the personal challenges that came after his injury, work hard to continue to be a great dad and role model for his students, and stay faithful in his local church.

“Glen is a hardworking and radically honest man who symbolizes what UPIKE is all about. As a non-traditional student, Glen provided a helpful insight in the class and was willing to do the hard work of learning and growing,” said Musick. “Glen is a model for those in the community who may not believe that they can go back to school and rebrand themselves, yet Glen is proof that it is possible.”

“Like so many non-traditional students Glen had serious concerns about his ability to be successful, and all I could do was encourage him, provide support, and reassure him about UPIKE’s commitment to students and the community,” Meyer explained. “But in the end, it was his dedication and hard work that made him successful. I merely encouraged him. He worked through any doubts, fears and apprehension he might have had himself. I think that is testament to the transformative nature of higher education, and more specifically, UPIKE’s commitment to our community and extended family here in Central Appalachia.”

by AMY CHARLES

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Class Notes 1960s

A book of poetry, An Echo in the Wind, written by Dr. Marie Parsons ’64, was recently published by Main Street Rag Publishers. A few years ago, Parsons wrote and published a novel, “The Devil’s Back.”

Shelby Stanley Martin ’68 retired as a teacher of secondary and postsecondary English from Virginia Public Schools. Martin moved to Florida for the first six years of her retirement, but because of health issues, she recently moved to Spring Lake, N.C., where her son, his wife and daughter live. She says she loves the quiet and simplicity of living in a gated community located in the country. ________________________________________________________________

1970s

Dr. George Evans ’71 and his wife Barbara Gail (Boyd) Evans were the first to be married in the college chapel while attending then Pikeville College.

Having served three churches over a span of 40 years, Evans retired after serving 17 years at Cooks Creek Presbyterian Church in Harrisonburg, Va. The couple moved to South Carolina to be near their children and grandchildren.

James Burke ’71 is the owner of Burdisco Imports, LLC, in Greeneville, Tenn. The company is a major supplier of personal protection equipment during the pandemic.

After a 31-year long career with Kentucky Farm Bureau Randy Thomas ’74 is enjoying retirement in Frankfort, Ky. He says he is always amazed to see how much campus has changed since the ʼ70s. ________________________________________________________________

1990s

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Pike County Central High School English teacher Angela Lockhart ’96 won the Department of Kentucky Smart Maher VFW Kentucky Education Teacher Award for the 9-12 grade category. VFW Post 3769 nominated Lockhart for the award. The award contest recognizes three exceptional teachers for their outstanding commitment to teaching Americanism and patriotism to their students. Lockhart will be competing for the National Smart Maher VFW Teacher Award.

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2000s

After 15 years of being a successful trial attorney with the Department of Public Advocacy in Lexington, Ky., Bonnie Potter ’02 accepted a new position as an attorney in the Capital Trials East office. The Capital Trials East office represents defendants charged with capital murder throughout the eastern half of the state. Potter lives in Lexington with her husband, Roger Mullins ’01, and their two beautiful children.

Brittany Potter, MSN, ’08 joined the UPIKE family faculty as assistant professor of nursing in August 2020. She graduated with her bachelor of science in nursing from Chamberlain University in 2015 and earned her master of science in nursing from Western Governors University in 2018.

Potter worked at Pikeville Medical Center in inpatient rehab for eight years before transferring to hospital education for three additional years. ________________________________________________________________

2010s

Former UPIKE Assistant Sports Information Director/Athletic Assistant Lakia Bailey ’12 accepted a job as corporate sales executive for the Lexington Legends professional baseball team in Lexington, Ky. Last year, Cliff Bowers KYCOM ’13 was deployed to Iraq and Kuwait with the U.S. Army. After returning home, he opened a new, thriving direct primary care practice serving Greenville and Spartanburg, S.C., Carolina Health Direct Primary Care.

Trevor Hoskins ’13, MBA ’15, who played football for the Bears, received his master’s degree in business administration while he was a graduate assistant football coach at the university for the 2013-2014 football seasons. He returned to UPIKE in 2018 as a full-time assistant quarterbacks’ coach. Hoskins is now head football coach at Paintsville High School in Paintsville, Ky. Newly appointed City of Pikeville Office of Economic Development Business Retention and Expansion Manager Jeffery Justice ’15 says 2020 was a year of unexpected events, but it was still one of the best of his life.

He and Whitney Hogg ’09 were engaged on November 7, 2020.

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2010s

Former sports reporter for Mountain Top Media Makayla Meddings ’15 has accepted a job as associate producer on The Morning Show for News4Jax, a top-rated media outlet in Jacksonville, Fla. During her time at UPIKE, Meddings was a member of the softball team, dance team, Zeta Omega Chi, Chi Omicron Mu, president of the breast cancer awareness club and the first female to graduate with a major in film and media arts. She resides in Jacksonville with her husband, David, and their three beautiful children, Maleeah (7), Paxon (2) and Kayden (1). She says she has met some amazing people along her journey and without her time at UPIKE, she would not be where she is today. “Being grateful is an understatement.”

Brianna LeRae Blackburn ’18 is a financial advisor with Raymond James where she is deeply committed to helping her clients realize their longterm financial goals. She is also currently pursuing her Master of Business Administration online at UPIKE. Aaron Hedgecock ’19 works as a lab technician at Bluegrass Testing Laboratory where he tests asphalt samples for Louisville Paving in Louisville, Ky. Hedgecock was accepted as a Louisville Fire recruit and began fire school in May. Upon graduation, Matt Neace ’19 enrolled in the Appalachian College of Pharmacy in Grundy, Va., where he is currently a P2 student. Neace is the treasurer for the Student Government Association, president of the Fellowship of Christian Pharmacists and vice president of the Carter Christmas Foundation. He says attending and graduating from UPIKE truly prepared him for the road that he is currently traveling. Neace plans to seek a residency in oncology pharmacy from the University of Tennessee Health Center in Knoxville, Tenn., after he graduates.

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2020s

Shane Williams ’19 is currently working as a full-time dispatcher at the SDFAS UPS in Louisville, Ky., and is also enrolled part-time at the University of Louisville School of Public Health working toward completing a master of science in biostatistics.

MaKayla Wells Holbrook ’20 is working at the transportation cabinet in Prestonsburg, Ky. Holbrook started attending UPIKE in 2015, and after her first semester, she became pregnant with her son. While working full-time, she completed finals two-weeks after her son was born. She says she truly had a baby bear and is thankful for the role that her family, friends, UPIKE family and God has played in her life.

Kentucky College Coach and Service Member with the Kentucky AmeriCorps Program Trenedy May ’20, who was part of the cross country and track and field teams at UPIKE, has been named track and field coach for Belfry Elementary, Belfry Middle and Belfry High School in Belfry, Ky. May plans on bringing cross country to the elementary and middle school and back to high school. May will also be assistant football coach at Belfry Middle School. He is currently enrolled in the MBA program at UPIKE where he says he hopes to gain more knowledge to help run his family business.

Happily Ever After...

KYCOM Class of 2021 Vice President Adam Reitz, D.O., KYCOM ’21 and KYCOM Class of 2021 President Amber Sexton, D.O., KYCOM ’21 were married on April 17, at Ashford Acres Inn in Cynthiana, Ky. The couple met at KYCOM, and they say the rest is history. Reitz, who is from Columbus, Ohio, will begin his residency in internal medicine at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, and Sexton will begin her residency in anesthesiology at The Ohio State University.

Charles Mims ’15 and Lexie Stapleton were married on April 9. Mims is the director of operations and arts at Mountain Top Media in Pikeville and Stapleton is the 340B director at Williamson Health and Wellness Center in Williamson, W.Va.

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UPIKE Associate Professor of Accounting and Coordinator of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program Lois White ’04 and her husband Jesse welcomed their first child, Emmett Lee, on January 7, weighing 6 pounds, 13 ounces. The couple own and operate a small business, Independent Metal Works, LLC, in Prestonsburg, Ky.

Andrea McCullum Mejia, D.O., Pharm.D., KYCOM ’16 and her husband, Juan Carlos (J.C.) Mejia Garces, M.D., welcomed their son, Sebastian Andrew Mejia McCullum, on June 27, 2020, weighing 5 pounds, 10 ounces. After completing her internal medicine residency, Andrea is now training in a rheumatology fellowship in Hudson, Fla., and J.C. is a primary care physician for VIPCare in Lutz, Fla.

Support UPIKE with a new University of Pikeville License Plate!

If you have a vehicle licensed in Kentucky, please consider purchasing a UPIKE license plate at your local Department of Motor Vehicles Office. A portion of a UPIKE license plate purchase supports student scholarships and is an easy and effective way to help current and future students.

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UPIKE Associate Head Coach and Director of Football Operations Justin Lamb ’09 and his wife Brittany Lamb ’13, MBA ’16, owner of Hook, Line and Social Media Marketing Agency and The Mod Chic Boutique in Prestonsburg, Ky., welcomed their daughter, Evvy James, on February 1, weighing 6 pounds, 14 ounces.

CEO of Mountain Metal Recyclables in Prestonsburg, Ky., Mason McCoy ’14 and former TV news reporter for CBS affiliate WYMT-TV MaryAnn Fletcher ’16 welcomed their son, Theodore “Teddy Bear” Barron McCoy, on May 5, 2020, weighing 6 pounds, 13 ounces. The couple met in 2012 during an introduction to communication class at the university and reside in Pikeville. Fletcher says she is happy to raise her own little bear in the mountains.

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