2018 UPIKE Opening Convocation

For more than a century, the University of Pikeville has created opportunity through the promise of education. As UPIKE enters its 129th academic year, the Opening Convocation ceremony will be held on Thursday, Sept. 6, at 11 a.m. in the Health Professions Education Building, seventh floor. The community is invited to join faculty, staff and students as the university formally embarks on a new academic year filled with learning experiences.

This year’s convocation address will be given by Gregory and Kathryn Pauley. Married for 45 years, the couple met while attending Harding University in Searcy, Ark., After graduation, Kathryn began teaching high school English in Gallipolis, New Concord and Athens, Ohio. While in Ohio, she also taught at Muskingum University and finished her career as an English teacher in Franklin County, Kentucky. After serving in several faith-based organizations, Kathryn recently completed her term as Chapter President of the Alpha Delta Kappa International Honorary Organization for Women Educators.

Gregory began his career with American Electric Power (AEP) at the General James Gavin Plant in Cheshire, Ohio. He took on assignments in accounting, human resources and employee and labor relations, and government and environmental relations for AEP Kentucky. In addition, he held such roles as division manager for most of Southeast Ohio, and director of public policy for AEP headquarters before finishing his career as president and chief operating officer for AEP Kentucky.

Gregory has served on various community boards and national organizations. He currently serves on the University of Pikeville Board of Trustees, the Appalachian Regional Healthcare Board (Chairman) and the Frankfort Kentucky Country Club.

Although the couple relocated seven times throughout Gregory’s career with AEP, the Pauleys consider Kentucky home. They have three children and 10 grandchildren residing in Ohio, Tennessee and Stuttgart, Germany. The Pauleys are Christians and believe in giving God the glory for their marriage, children and careers. They are currently engaged in a mission outreach in Franklin County, Kentucky.