2019 Commencement

The University of Pikeville honored the academic achievements of more than 270 graduates at the associate, baccalaureate and master’s degree levels and 120 Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree recipients from the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) during commencement exercises on May 4.

Jean R. Hale, who serves as president, CEO and chairman of the board for Community Trust Bancorp, Inc., delivered keynote remarks during the ceremony for undergraduate and graduate programs. She touched on leadership, the importance of lifelong learning and always being prepared.

Jean R. Hale received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree. A UPIKE alumnae, Hale is President and CEO of Community Trust Bancorp, Inc., and serves as the corporation’s Chairman of the Board.

“Being prepared gives you unlimited opportunities to have experiences better than your dreams,” Hale said.

In his keynote address during KYCOM’s ceremony, Lieutenant General Ronald R. Blanck, D.O., (U.S Army, retired) encouraged graduates to stay true to their osteopathic medical training.

Lieutenant General Ronald R. Blanck, D.O., (U.S. Army, retired) was presented with an honorary Doctor of Science degree.

“Remember that medicine rests on values which are not changing,” he said. “They are fundamental: Respect for the patient and your colleagues, honesty and integrity in all your dealings, and … selfless service.”

Hale and Blanck were presented with honorary degrees. David Slone, associate professor of education, and Bethany Sullivan, assistant professor of nursing, were honored as the first- and second-place recipients, respectively, of the prestigious William Wade and Helen Record Walker Teaching Excellence Award.