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By: Stacey Walters | October 17, 2025
The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) has officially launched the public phase of its boldest endeavor yet—the “Reaching New Heights” capital campaign, a record-breaking $50 million fundraising initiative that promises to reshape the future of education, healthcare, athletics, and student success in Central Appalachia.
Having already secured remarkable momentum during a successful quiet phase, this transformative campaign is setting the stage for a new era at UPIKE—one defined by vision, growth, and impact.
The campaign’s three primary pillars are the creation of the Tanner College of Dental Medicine, the development of the Bear Mountain athletic complex, and a significant increase in endowed scholarships. This initiative represents the largest fundraising effort in the university’s history and will have a lasting impact on Central Appalachia and beyond.
“This campaign is about more than just buildings and programs; it’s about investing in the future of our students and the health and of our region,” said UPIKE President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D. “‘Reaching New Heights’ represents a bold step forward in our mission to provide world-class education and opportunity right here in the heart of Appalachia.”
The Tanner College of Dental Medicine will be the first of its kind in Central Appalachia. By training dental professionals locally, the college will address the significant oral health disparities in the region and provide crucial care to underserved communities. The dental school will feature 93 state-of-the-art clinics and labs, attracting top faculty and students dedicated to service.
The Bear Mountain athletic complex will create a premier, 550-acre training and competition environment for UPIKE’s student-athletes. Plans include a new football and soccer stadium, baseball field, softball field, archery range and other facilities to support the university’s growing athletic programs. Hiking and biking paths will be incorporated as well. This complex will serve UPIKE’s teams and provide a venue for local and regional sporting events, drawing visitors and boosting the regional economy. Beyond its primary purpose, the property is set to become a crucial center for disaster relief efforts across Eastern Kentucky.
Finally, the campaign will significantly increase endowed scholarships, ensuring that a UPIKE education remains accessible and affordable. Scholarships are a cornerstone of the university’s mission, and this initiative will provide a stable, long-term source of financial aid, empowering generations of students to pursue their academic dreams without the burden of excessive debt.
“This is our moment,” said Terry L. Dotson, Chairman of the UPIKE Board of Trustees and Co-Chair of the Capital Campaign Steering Committee. “Every gift—large or small—brings us closer to a stronger, more vibrant UPIKE. Together, we can build something truly extraordinary.”
The University invites alumni, friends, community leaders, and partners to join the movement and be part of this once-in-a-generation opportunity.
To learn more about the Reaching New Heights campaign or to make a gift, please visit upike.edu/giving/capital-campaign/ or contact the Office of Advancement at 606-218-5268 or advancement@upike.edu.