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UK College of Education acting dean announced

University of Kentucky Provost Robert S. DiPaola named Danelle Stevens-Watkins, Ph.D., acting dean of the College of Education, effective Jan. 4, 2023. Stevens-Watkins is a professor in the Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, as well as the university’s associate vice president for research, diversity and inclusion. “I am honored … Read More

More College of Education News

Institute for Transformation of Sport hosts two webinars to close spring lecture series

Register now for the remaining two webinars in the Institute for the Transformation of Sport’s inaugural spring lecture series. Free and open to the public, the sessions are part of the institute’s launch in the University of Kentucky College of Education Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion. From 6 to … Read More

March 30: Education and Civil Rights Initiative hosts “You Can’t Teach That” webinar

Register now for the second in a series of virtual teach-ins on curricular challenges in K-12 schools. “You Can’t Teach That!” takes place online from 6 to 7:30 p.m. EST Thursday, March 30. The free webinar is hosted by the Education and Civil Rights Initiative at the University of Kentucky … Read More

March 21-22: Communication Director for Super Bowl Champions to Speak on Campus

The University of Kentucky College of Education Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion is launching the Institute for the Transformation of Sport with an inaugural spring lecture series, Critical Interrogations of Race and Gender in Sport. Register now for two free special events featuring Ted Crews III, executive vice president … Read More

UK College of Education faculty use humor, gaming to enhance mathematics learning

University of Kentucky College of Education faculty are part of a team designing artificial intelligence-based games to reach students learning mathematics. STEM Education colleagues Sahar Alameh, Ph.D., Molly Fisher, Ph.D., and Jonathan Thomas, Ph.D., connected with an education technology company, Alef Education, that had seed funding for a research-based project. … Read More

Education Week Talks to Dr. Heather Erwin on Classroom Physical Activity

Education Week talked with Heather Erwin, Ph.D., for her take on how students can get exercise during the school day without disrupting learning. Erwin, chair of the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion in the University of Kentucky College of Education, is editor of the Journal of Teaching in Physical Education. … Read More

March 9: Register for “You Can’t Teach That!” Webinar

Register to claim your spot for a free webinar, “You Can’t Teach That! Curricular Challenges & African American Studies Bans in Higher Education & Secondary School,” taking place online 2:30 to 4 p.m. Thursday, March 9. Featured speakers include Dr. Thandeka K. Chapman, Dr. Patrick Valdez, Dr. Cecilia Suarez, Dr. Neal Hutchens, and … Read More

Adrienne Dixson shares how research has power to improve educational equity 

University of Kentucky Professor Adrienne Dixson, Ph.D., says education research, when done well and with a focus on addressing inequity, can be quite powerful. Dixson is executive director of the Educational and Civil Rights Initiative at the UK College of Education and professor in the Department of Educational Leadership Studies. She … Read More

March 2: Screening and discussion of film on pay equity in U.S. Women’s Soccer, “LFG”

Register to attend a free screening and discussion of the film “LFG” at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 2 in the Worsham Cinema. This inside look at the historic fight for pay equity in U.S. women’s soccer is hosted by the UK College of Education’s Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion … Read More

UK College of Education alum Gail Dent shares career journey to NCAA

After launching her career as a communications professional at the University of Kentucky, and later with the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, Gail Dent landed a role with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Today, she is an NCAA associate director of communications. But in 1988, she was a Louisville … Read More

Feb. 21: Register Now for Athlete Activism Webinar

Register now to attend the Institute for the Transformation of Sport’s webinar, “Athlete Activism,” from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21 on Zoom. The institute is part of the University of Kentucky College of Education Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion. Panelists include Dr. Billy Hawkins, University of Houston … Read More

Next generation of scholars explore new answers to questions in our communities

As we look back during Black History Month, we also look to the future. Pictured with faculty mentors, these graduate students are among the next generation of University of Kentucky College of Education scholars exploring new answers to questions in our communities. UK College of Education Acting Dean and counseling … Read More

New grant helping research team engineer better mental health solutions

A group of University of Kentucky researchers have received a new National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to help them continue a critical mission. Sarah Wilson, an assistant professor in the Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering in the College of Engineering, and Joseph Hammer, associate professor and director of training … Read More

Stevens-Watkins helps lead $2 million NIH grant to support underrepresented faculty

University of Kentucky Professor Danelle Stevens-Watkins, Ph.D., is one of two principal investigators leading a five-year, $2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to support underrepresented minority faculty at predominantly white institutions across the U.S. “We want to equip faculty to not only cope, but to thrive, despite … Read More

Kentucky Teacher shows how UK and Fayette County Schools are building teacher workforce

A recent edition of Kentucky Teacher, a publication of the Kentucky Department of Education, featured the article “‘Hope and Action’: How UK and Fayette County Schools are building the Kentucky teacher workforce.” Preliminary data show the number of incoming aspiring teachers at the UK College of Education recently increased 83 … Read More

UK Sport Psychology Professor Talks Impact of Witnessing Damar Hamlin Cardiac Arrest

Editor’s Note: Watch news coverage of this story from Scripps National News, Buffalo News, 10news San Diego, WBKO, Lex18, and WNKY. Shocked teammates and fans watched as Damar Hamlin, a football player for the Buffalo Bills, collapsed on the field Monday and needed resuscitation. How do athletes and fans process … Read More

UK College of Education acting dean announced

University of Kentucky Provost Robert S. DiPaola named Danelle Stevens-Watkins, Ph.D., acting dean of the College of Education, effective Jan. 4, 2023. Stevens-Watkins is a professor in the Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, as well as the university’s associate vice president for research, diversity and inclusion. “I am honored … Read More

Insight Into Diversity Magazine Features UK College of Education Growth

The January/February 2023 issue of Insight Into Diversity magazine features an opinion article by Julian Vasquez Heilig, Ph.D., former dean of the University of Kentucky College of Education. Vasquez Heilig writes that recruiting more students to backfill the teacher pipeline amid a growing shortage in the U.S. is at the … Read More

Fall 2022 Dean’s List

For outstanding academic performance, 772 University of Kentucky College of Education students were named to the Fall 2022 Dean’s List. At the UK College of Education, students are prepared to inspire and lead, becoming well-prepared professionals, ready to address some of society’s most critical needs. To make the list, students … Read More

UK education students deliver final project at local schools

University of Kentucky College of Education students carried bundles of instructional tools into Fayette County’s Breckinridge and Cassidy elementary schools for the ultimate ending to their practicum semester. The seniors, majoring in elementary education and special education, spent the previous weeks gaining experience in classrooms across the school district and … Read More

$1.1 million FEMA grant supports study of firefighter injuries

Researchers from the University of Kentucky’s College of Education and College of Health Sciences have received a $1.1 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to serve as principal investigators on a new study to promote injury mitigation, better work outcomes and a reduction in financial burdens for … Read More

Kentucky School Leaders Prepare December Grads for Interviews, Teaching Careers

When University of Kentucky clinical instructor Joni Meade prepares to say goodbye to each class of teacher candidates from the UK College of Education, one of her final tasks is assembling a group of Kentucky school personnel. Together, the school personnel – principals and other district leaders – create a … Read More

Five College of Education students among first UNITE RPA predoctoral cohort

By Alicia Gregory The UNited In True Racial Equity Research Priority Area (UNITE RPA) welcomed its inaugural cohort of 18 graduate students from 6 colleges to the UNITE Predoctoral Research Enhancement Program. Five of the 18 students are from the College of Education. UNITE is led by Danelle Stevens-Watkins, Ph.D., … Read More

College of Education research team explores nation’s K-12 teacher needs

A new study designed at the University of Kentucky College of Education is gauging the types of supports teachers across the nation need in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on schools. It is supported by a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) grant from the National Science Foundation. “We … Read More

Faculty member shares advice, experiences as first-gen student

From being in the classroom to leading the classroom — first-generation students and graduates are an integral part of the University of Kentucky. In fact, nearly one in four incoming freshmen and one in three transfer students at UK are first-gen. Each year, Nov. 8 is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating … Read More

Incoming class of UK students steps up to fill teacher pipeline

The number of incoming students enrolling in programs that lead to teacher certification is growing at the University of Kentucky. Preliminary data shows the UK College of Education’s incoming Fall 2022 class of teacher preparation program students has: increased in size by 83% between Fall 2019 and Fall 2022, going … Read More

UK College of Education Hosts Dedication Ceremony for Elliott Family Outdoor Learning Lab

The Early Childhood Lab at the University of Kentucky College of Education recently opened a new outdoor learning lab, made possible by a gift honoring a family’s long history at UK and in the Lexington community. The Elliott Family Outdoor Learning Lab, established through a gift from Dr. Edward C. … Read More

New Faculty Bring Diverse Experiences, Research to the Classroom

The University of Kentucky College of Education’s newest faculty members bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and research interests to a team of distinguished researchers and educators addressing some of society’s most pressing issues. Department of Curriculum and Instruction    Jennifer Doyle, Ph.D. Visiting Assistant Professor Dr. Jennifer L. Doyle’s activist-oriented research focuses … Read More

Vasquez Heilig’s Dynamic Voice for Equity in Education Honored with Tillman Award

University of Kentucky College of Education Dean Julian Vasquez Heilig is the 2022 Linda C. Tillman Social and Racial Justice Award recipient. This top honor from the University Council for Educational Administration recognizes Vasquez Heilig’s dynamic voice for equity in education in the U.S. and around the world, while honoring … Read More

Kinesiology and Health Promotion Co-Hosts White Ribbon 5K to Support Research & Community Health

Support lung cancer prevention, screening, and survivorship in Kentucky by registering for the White Ribbon 5K Race for Research Saturday, Oct. 29 at Coldstream Park. The race is hosted by the University of Kentucky College of Education Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion (KHP) and Breath of Hope Kentucky. UK … Read More

Center for Applied Behavioral Supports Offers Sensory-Friendly Trick or Treat Oct. 28

A sensory-friendly trick or treat will take place 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28 at the University of Kentucky Center for Applied Behavioral Supports, located at 1737 Russell Cave Rd. The free event is open to all. It is hosted by UK College of Education Center for Applied Behavioral … Read More

STEM Education to Host Young Women LEAD Conference Oct. 25

The University of Kentucky’s Department of STEM Education will host the Young Women LEAD Conference presented by Toyota on Tuesday, October 25, at the Singletary Center on campus. “In addition to being an awesome space to highlight careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), this free event will help … Read More

$1.086 Million Grant to Support Healthy Aging Programming Across Kentucky

Could the game of bingo – with a twist – be part of healthier aging? A $1.086 million grant will help University of Kentucky College of Education researchers measure the impacts of increased exercise and social interaction for nursing home residents through a program called Bingocize®. The three-year study is … Read More

UK START program receives Golden Apple Award

In recognition of its strong commitment to student achievement, the University of Kentucky STEM Through Authentic Research and Training (START) program was honored with the Fayette County Public Schools (FCPS) Golden Apple Award. The Golden Apple Award recognizes high-achieving programs and organizations that partner with FCPS to advance education and … Read More

College of Education’s Hannegan-Martinez selected for national fellowship

University of Kentucky College of Education Assistant Professor Dr. Sharim Hannegan-Martinez has been selected for a National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) program. She is among 14 exemplary scholars from across the U.S. taking part in the NCTE Research Foundation’s 2022-2024 Cultivating New Voices Among Scholars of Color Fellowship. … Read More

Wilson named American Counseling Association Fellow

University of Kentucky College of Education Professor Dr. Keith B. Wilson is a recipient of the 2022 American Counseling Association Fellows Award. This distinction recognizes the significant and unique contributions Wilson has made to the counseling profession throughout his career, as well as serves as a call for continued service as … Read More

UK Alumna Gail Dent to Speak on NCAA Communications Career Sept. 15

Learn from National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) associate director of communications Gail Dent at the University of Kentucky College of Education’s Alumni Speaker Series, taking place 4 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15 in the Taylor Education Building auditorium (158 TEB). Dent will deliver an in-person talk focusing on her … Read More

Counselor Education’s Harley recognized as leader, pioneer

University of Kentucky College of Education Professor Dr. Debra Harley has been named the 2022 recipient of the Vernon Hawkins Pioneer and Leadership Award from the National Association of Multicultural Rehabilitation Concerns. The award recognizes the pioneering efforts, courage, leadership and advocacy Harley has taken on in her work in the rehabilitation counseling … Read More

Collaboration across colleges strengthens osteoarthritis research

Reported by UK College of Medicine When Michael Samaan, Ph.D., completed his postdoctoral fellowship in 2018, he was eager to find a university where he could apply his knowledge in osteoarthritis and enhance his research skills.I All the way in California, where he was living at the time, the collaborative … Read More

UK researchers highlight support efforts during Black Breastfeeding Week

As Black Breastfeeding Week is celebrated in the U.S. from Aug. 25-31, researchers at the University of Kentucky are highlighting research and outreach initiatives supporting Black mothers’ choices to initiate and continue breastfeeding. The university’s SPEAK project (Support Peers for Breastfeeding Expansion among African American Kentuckians) was designed by Dr. … Read More

Gaming in STEM Education Course Featured in Herald-Leader

The Herald-Leader is featuring five of the more “unique and unexpected” University of Kentucky courses — including one from the College of Education. A new undergraduate course, launched in Fall 2021, explores how gaming – from digital to board games – can be applied in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. … Read More

Cantrell Honored as a 2022-23 University Research Professor

Written by Meg Mills Susan Chambers Cantrell, a professor within the University of Kentucky’s College of Education’s Department of Curriculum and Instruction, is one of the 14 University Research Professors for 2022-2023. The University Research Professorship Awards honor faculty members who have demonstrated excellence that addresses scientific, social, cultural and … Read More

Black adults’ experiences with drug treatment charted in new study

Black adults share about their experiences in drug treatment in a new University of Kentucky study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment.  Until now, few studies have included the voices of Black people and their experiences withtreatment providers. Study authors hope it will inform changes to promote successful … Read More

“Behind the Blue” Podcast Features Neighborhood Healers Project

Listen to Dr. Candice Hargons, a licensed psychologist and associate professor in the UK College of Education Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, explain how the Neighborhood Healers Project works on the July 28, 2022 episode of the “Behind the Blue” podcast. It is available on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher … Read More

Sport Psychology Professor Receives National Teaching Excellence Award

Dr. Marc Cormier is recipient of the 2022 Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) Teaching Excellence Award. The award recognizes exceptional classroom educators in the field of sport, exercise and performance psychology. This marks the second AASP award for Cormier in as many years, as he was honored with the Early Career … Read More

Vaping Prevention Program to Empower Kentucky Youth Receives Continued Funding

An innovative University of Kentucky program that provides tobacco use prevention services to youth, families and community members across Kentucky has received continued funding from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. The research-based program, known as #iCANendthetrend, was developed by Melinda Ickes, Ph.D., UK College of Education faculty … Read More

Education Dean’s Latest Paper Focuses on School Finance Policy and Civil Rights

A newly published analysis of how dollars are distributed to schools in the U.S. posits that funding allocation models continue to disadvantage those in low-income communities, despite long-standing evidence that equitable funding is critical to students’ capacity to learn and achieve. The article, authored by University of Kentucky College of … Read More

Star Sprinter Abby Steiner’s Strong Academic Finish Sets Stage for Future Career

This past weekend, Abby Steiner won the U.S. Track and Field championship in the 200-meter dash. It was an all-dates collegiate best and the second-fastest semifinal and final double in American history (the record was set in 1988 by Florence Griffith Joyner). She will represent Team USA at the World … Read More

Thorpe Recognized as Equity Changemaker

Shemeka Thorpe, Ph.D., is a recipient of the University of Kentucky Center for Health Equity Transformation (CHET) 2022 Equity Changemaker Award. The award recognizes faculty and students conducting research that will help eliminate health disparities and inequities among marginalized and oppressed groups, and whose mentorship is contributing to the next … Read More

‘Great Teacher’ Beth Rous Treats Students as Her Future Colleagues

By Meg Mills and Kody Kiser Six of the University of Kentucky’s passionate and accomplished educators were surprised earlier this spring by student nominators and the UK Alumni Association as 2022 Great Teacher Award recipients. Beth Rous, Ph.D., is one of this year’s Great Teacher Award recipients. The UK College … Read More

College of Education Spring 2022 Dean’s List

Congrats to the University of Kentucky College of Education students named to the Spring 2022 Dean’s List for their outstanding academic performance. At the UK College of Education, students are prepared to inspire and lead, becoming well-prepared professionals, ready to address some of society’s most critical needs. To make the list, … Read More

Special Education Doctoral Scholar Wins National Research Award

Kaitlin O’Neill hopes earning a doctoral degree in special education at the University of Kentucky will help amplify her voice as an advocate for people with disabilities. She also hopes to reach others interested in becoming special education teachers, helping fill a national shortage. Already, O’Neill is making her mark … Read More

UK Faculty, Doctoral Scholar Release Video Focused on Positive Trans and Nonbinary Identities

Researchers at the University of Kentucky have released a 10-minute film, “Becoming Myself: Positive Trans & Nonbinary Identities.” It features narratives from the lives of seven transgender and nonbinary identified young adults, reflecting on their experiences navigating gender identity.   The film’s executive producers, based in the colleges of Arts & … Read More

Registration Open for Professional Learning Series

Take a workshop this summer in the University of Kentucky College of Education Professional Learning Series. The virtual and in-person workshops help participants level up their skills and earn digital badges by completing sessions. The series is open to anyone and is designed to bolster participants’ proficiency and marketability in … Read More

LEX18 Interviews Hargons on Healing After Racist Attacks

LEX18 interviewed Candice Hargons, Ph.D., a professor of counseling psychology in the University of Kentucky College of Education Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, about healing the mental health impact of racist attacks. The interview was in response to the May 14 shooting at a Buffalo, New York grocery … Read More

UK Research Team Uniquely Poised to Reach Black American Communities, Reduce Health Disparities

  By Amanda Nelson The populations Danelle Stevens-Watkins, Ph.D., seeks to help are often difficult to reach. It is a common predicament in health disparity research. One of her latest projects at the University of Kentucky requires asking Black Americans who use opioids to talk about their lives. Opening up … Read More

NBC News Reports on College of Education Opioid Study

  NBC News NOW has put the work of a University of Kentucky College of Education research team in the national spotlight. NBC correspondent Kathy Park visited campus to tell the story of how Dr. Danelle Stevens-Watkins and her team are using a $3.2 million grant from the National Institute on … Read More

Special Ed Teacher Advocates for Child, Students With Special Needs

By Meg Mills Everyone wants to find their purpose in life, whether that be to become an advocate, an educator or both. For University of Kentucky graduate Lyndsay McCullers, a special education teacher at Simon Kenton High School in Independence, Kentucky, her passion soon became her reality. *** From a young … Read More

May 11: CATalyze Education Talks

Join us for CATalyze Education Talks taking place at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 11 in the UK Federal Credit Union Esports Theater at The Cornerstone (located at 401 S. Limestone). This free community event features University of Kentucky College of Education faculty members giving brief talks on issues impacting health … Read More

UNITE Research Showcase Highlights Racial Equity

University of Kentucky College of Education faculty took part in the UNited In True racial Equity (UNITE) Research Priority Area’s inaugural research showcase today. The event centered on elevating and promoting the importance of racial equity research at UK, across the Commonwealth, and beyond. Throughout the showcase, researchers featured their … Read More

Support College of Education Students on One Day for UK

On Thursday, April 21, the University of Kentucky will celebrate its fourth university-wide giving day, “One Day for UK.” For 24 hours, the university will encourage donors around the world to give to the college, unit or cause they care most about at UK. Gifts made to the UK College … Read More

College of Education Professor Takes Covid-19 Research to Kentucky Schools

Sahar Alameh, Ph.D., is on a mission. She wants to prevent today’s middle and high school students from facing a common regret in adulthood — wishing they had paid more attention in school. Such regrets can emerge when a lesson from a long-forgotten class becomes relevant years later. In hopes … Read More

Summer 2022 Courses in the College of Education

The College of Education plans to offer an array of Summer 2022 courses. Students will find UK Core, required, and elective courses delivered online or in person. For more about Summer 2022, including the summer calendar and information about financial assistance, visit summer.uky.edu. Course ID Course Name Schedule/ Modality Who … Read More

April 7: Info Session for Overseas Student Teaching Program

Are you adventurous, academically able, independent, and ambitious? Interested in teaching in another culture? Overseas student teaching may be for you! Teacher education majors can apply to complete part of their student teaching requirements in an international school through the Consortium for Overseas Student Teaching with sites in 15 countries … Read More

Apply Now for Undergraduate Research Fellowships in STEM Education

A unique University of Kentucky program is accepting applications from undergraduate students interested in assisting with faculty research. Based in the UK College of Education, the program provides annual fellowships for eight students with an interest in STEM Education. It is open to undergraduates at any university within driving distance … Read More

Register Now to Hear College of Education Speakers at Concordia Summit

The University of Kentucky College of Education has worked with Concordia to develop the 2022 Lexington Summit. Taking place both digitally and in-person April 7-8, the event features two speakers from the College of Education – Julian Vasquez Heilig, dean of the college, and Joseph Barry, a doctoral candidate in … Read More

Free Registration: Education as a Civil Right Virtual Conference

Register now to attend the free virtual conference “Education as a Civil Right — Truth, Justice, and Equity for All,” taking place online April 7-9. The conference is an initiative of the University of Kentucky College of Education’s Education and Civil Rights Initiative, in collaboration with the NAACP. Registration is free thanks … Read More

Podcast Focuses on Teacher Shortage

As educators sound the alarm about nationwide teacher shortages, students and leaders at the University of Kentucky College of Education are focusing on what higher education and communities can do to help. On the latest episode of The Learning Project, a podcast of the UK College of Education, the conversation … Read More

UK Project Will Help Black Lexingtonians Access Mental Health Services

Historically, studies have shown that Black individuals are less likely to seek and accept mental health care due to concerns regarding stigma as well as mistrust of professionals caused by documented racial inequities in treatment. In Lexington, the Black population represents approximately 15% of residents, but in 2020, Black people … Read More

Q&A With UK Sport Psychologist Marc Cormier: What it Takes to ‘Win it All’

Written by Meg Mills, UKNow It’s basketball fans’ favorite time of year — March Madness. Whether it is the love of basketball, or the thrill of competition, every fan is rooting on a favorite team. What does it take to win it all? Marc Cormier, director of the Sport and … Read More

Grant Provides Funding for Students Pursuing Degrees in Applied Behavior Analysis, Special Education

The University of Kentucky College of Education has received $1,250,000 in funding from the U.S. Department of Education to provide tuition support to students pursuing interdisciplinary training in the Applied Behavior Analysis and Special Education – Moderate and Severe Disabilities master’s degree programs. “This grant will increase the number of … Read More

Rous Named 2022 Great Teacher

University of Kentucky College of Education professor Beth Rous is one of six UK educators named a 2022 Great Teacher by the UK Alumni Association. She is a professor in the Department of Educational Leadership Studies. Initiated in 1961, UK’s Great Teacher Award is the longest-running UK award recognizing teaching. … Read More

Kinesiology Student Named Scholar-Athlete of Year

Kentucky women’s track and field senior sprinter Abby Steiner, a sophomore kinesiology major in the University of Kentucky College of Education’s Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, has been named the Southeastern Conference Women’s Indoor Track & Field Scholar-Athlete of the Year by a vote of the league head coaches. … Read More

Doctoral Student Helping Peers Feel Supported in Online Programs

Online programs offered by the University of Kentucky College of Education attract students from across the globe. They are part of a college ranked No. 14 in the nation, and top in Kentucky, for online program quality on U.S. News and World Report’s 2022 list of Best Online Master’s in … Read More

UK Scholar Selected for National Educational Leadership Network

Stacey Love, an Educational Leadership doctoral scholar in the University of Kentucky College of Education, has been selected to participate in the Barbara L. Jackson Scholars Network. Love, who resides in University Heights, Ohio, is pursuing a Ph.D. online in the UK College of Education Department of Educational Leadership Studies. … Read More

Clinic Helps Students Become Lifelines for Families

As a busy working mother of two small children, Christina Hesley hesitated to walk away from her full-time job. Still, she dreamed of going to graduate school to expand her career by becoming a behavior analyst. Now, as a master’s trained, board-certified and licensed behavior analyst, Hesley is providing a … Read More

UK Ranks Among Nation’s Best Online Programs in Education

The University of Kentucky College of Education is No. 14 in the nation and the top-ranked school in Kentucky for earning an online master’s degree in education. In the specialty ranking section, UK’s online master’s program in special education is ranked at No. 7 in the nation. The “2022 Best … Read More

Spring Research Conference Proposals Due March 1

College of Education students with research in the proposal, in-progress, or completed stages are invited to present at the annual Spring Research Conference. This event provides students an opportunity to receive constructive feedback on their work, as well as their presentation skills. It is open to both undergraduate and graduate … Read More

New Grant Helps Train Early Childhood Educators and Applied Behavior Analysts Collaboratively

The University of Kentucky College of Education has received $1,250,000 in funding from the U.S. Department of Education to provide tuition support to students pursuing interdisciplinary training in the applied behavior analysis and interdisciplinary early childhood education (IECE) master’s degree programs. “Students from both programs will learn side-by-side to collaborate … Read More

Ranking of Nation’s Top Public Influencers in Education Features UK College of Education Dean

The 2022 ranking of the nation’s top public influencers in education features University of Kentucky College of Education Dean Julian Vasquez Heilig. The Rick Hess Straight Up Edu-Scholar Public Influence Rankings, published annually by the American Enterprise Institute, is designed to recognize scholars who use their work to move ideas … Read More

College of Education Alumna Named Scott County Elementary Teacher of Year

Submitted by Renee Holmes, Community Education Director, Scott County Schools University of Kentucky College of Education alumna Carla Prather is the Scott County Schools Elementary School Teacher of the Year. Prather is a kindergarten teacher at Anne Mason Elementary School. As the winner of the Anne Mason Elementary Teacher of … Read More

Podcast Features Faculty, Alumni Responding to Tornadoes

As news broke early Saturday about the level of devastation caused by tornadoes in Western Kentucky, the University of Kentucky College of Education community began to reach out to one another. “The first thing that morning, our dean emailed us to check on us and to check on our students … Read More

College of Education Dean’s Essay Featured in Public Education Book

A newly released book, “Public Education: Defending an American Cornerstone,” features a chapter by University of Kentucky College of Education Dean Julian Vasquez Heilig. Edited by David Berliner and Carl Hermanns, the book’s contributors focus on the essential roles that schools serve in society. The essay by Vasquez Heilig, “Scrutinizing … Read More

Counseling Psychology Students Show Research Making an Impact

Two counseling psychology students at the University of Kentucky College of Education gained experience sharing their research during the UK GradResearch Live! competition. The program challenges students to find ways to share their research succinctly and engagingly with a non-specialist audience. Rayven Peterson took second place in the pre- Three-Minute … Read More

Thelin’s Book Ranks in Forbes’ Top 10

University of Kentucky College of Education professor John Thelin’s book “Essential Documents in the History of Higher Education,” 2nd edition, made Forbes’ list of Best Higher Education Books of 2021. Thelin, a regarded authority on the history of higher education and public policy, presents a rich collection of primary sources … Read More

Winter Intersession Courses Offered

The College of Education has a number of Winter Intersession options to help students fulfill a UK Core requirement, take an elective, and more. Students are encouraged to consult with their advisor and register soon. Winter 2021-22 courses in the College of Education include: EPE/EDP 557-203 – Gathering, Analyzing & … Read More

UK Early Childhood Experts Instrumental in Developing AEPS-3

By Amanda Nelson The latest edition of a widely used tool for teaching and assessing preschool children was developed with the help of a University of Kentucky professor with extensive experience in early childhood education and the support of the UK Early Childhood Lab. UK College of Education’s Jennifer Grisham, professor in … Read More

Q&A: Melinda Ickes Discusses Importance of Tobacco Prevention

By Grace Colville November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Each year, the American Cancer Society names the third Thursday of the month as The Great American Smokeout — a day when people who smoke across the country take the first step toward a healthier life. According to the American Lung … Read More

New 2021-22 Faculty and Postdoctoral Scholars Bring Diverse Perspectives to Research

      Nelson O. O. Zounlome, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Department of Educational, School and Counseling PsychologyDr. Zounlome (he/him) is a first-generation college student, child of immigrants, and native of South Bend, Indiana. He is also a former McNair Scholar, Ford Foundation Fellow, Herman B. Wells Graduate Fellow, and Counseling … Read More

Research Grants Available for Doctoral Students

  The Arvle and Ellen Thacker Turner Research Fund was established to provide mini-grants in support of the research efforts of doctoral graduate students in the College of Education. Grants of up to $1,000 are available to College of Education doctoral candidates who have passed their qualifying examination and are … Read More

Instructional Systems Design Program Prepared Grad for Dream Job at Salesforce

Megan Reynolds is a Senior Learning Experience Designer at customer relationship management powerhouse Salesforce. She is a graduate of the Instructional Systems Design (ISD) master’s degree program in the UK College of Education and is currently pursuing a Ph.D in Educational Sciences at UK. Recently named to Learning 30 Under … Read More

UK Researcher’s New Project Aims to Help Preschool Teachers Get Quick Instruction Feedback

University of Kentucky College of Education researcher Collin Shepley has received a grant from the Institute of Education Sciences to develop an asynchronous online training for preschool teachers in inclusive classrooms that serve children with and without disabilities. The project aims to help teachers quickly determine if their instruction is … Read More

Latinx Voices – The Power of Education

In honor of Latinx/Hispanic Heritage month, five future and current educators share stories of being inspired to teach, overcoming challenges, and their commitment to having a positive impact on the lives they touch. Hear from: Melissa Merscham, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion; Onesimo Banda, a Ph.D. … Read More

Harley Recognized for Multicultural Research in Counselor Education

University of Kentucky College of Education professor Dr. Debra Harley has been named a 2021 recipient of the Bobbie Atkins Research Award from the National Association of Multicultural Rehabilitation Concerns. The award recognizes excellence in research in the rehabilitation field, with particular emphasis on research uplifting individuals with disabilities through a lens focused on multiculturalism and diversity. … Read More

UK’s Mary Tucker Wins Silver in Air Rifle Mixed Team

By Evan Crane University of Kentucky rifle star and Kinesiology major Mary Tucker has her Olympic medal as she along with USA Shooting star Lucas Kozeniesky earned silver in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics mixed air rifle competition. Fellow UK star Will Shaner placed sixth overall with teammate Alison Marie Weisz. Tucker/Kozeniesky … Read More

Youth Return to Campus for UK STEM Experiences Camps

Students in second grade through high school were back on the University of Kentucky campus this summer for in-person STEM Experiences camps. The program also hosted two weeks of virtual camps, giving students the chance to take part from any location. For 11 years, STEM Experiences camps have given youth opportunities to get a sneak peak of what it feels like to learn in … Read More

‘What School Could Be Academy’ Helps Schools Leverage Pandemic’s Impact 

A University of Kentucky team is linking with a nationally-known education innovator to help educators move beyond what school was before the COVID-19 pandemic.  The UK College of Education’s Center for Next Generation Leadership is offering the What School Could Be Academy. Supported by Ted Dintersmith, a leader in innovation, entrepreneurship, and education, the academy is open … Read More

Enroll Now in Workshop to Help Communities Address Critical Social Issues

Register now to enroll in a summer workshop offered by University of Kentucky College of Education assistant professor Dr. Kayla Johnson – a faculty member who focuses on working within communities to help address key issues impacting them. Complete the workshop to earn a digital badge from the UK College … Read More

Overseas Teaching Jobs Help Education Grads Explore, Bring Experiences Home to Students

During spring orientation for student teachers, Madison Lauer heard something she could not get off her mind. There were job opportunities in Sweden, a faculty member explained in the Zoom session full of graduating seniors. The STEM Education major from Campbellsville was unsure about making such a move, but decided … Read More

Free Workshop: Earn a Digital Badge and Professional Development Hours with Leading Voice in Racial Justice and Teacher Education

Take a free summer workshop with Dr. Cheryl E. Matias – a leading voice in racial justice and teacher education – and earn a digital badge from the University of Kentucky College of Education. Open to anyone (professionals, teachers, community members, and students), Matias’ fun and interactive workshop — Beyond the Black … Read More

‘Great Teacher’ Joseph Hammer Counsels Students Through Process to Do Good

Written by Meg Mills, UK Public Relations Six of the University of Kentucky’s passionate and accomplished educators were surprised earlier this spring by student nominators and the UK Alumni Association as 2021 Great Teacher Award recipients. Dr. Joseph Hammer is one of this year’s Great Teacher Award recipients. The UK … Read More