UPIKE Newsroom

Leaders from the University of Pikeville (UPIKE) recently traveled to Japan to explore partnerships and economic development opportunities for UPIKE and Eastern Kentucky.  President Burton Webb, Ph.D., Provost Lori Werth, Ph.D., and Vice Chairman of the Board, Lynn Parrish, met with five Japanese universities and the Japan/America Society of Kentucky (JASK) where they discussed the next phases of student exchange programs and industry collaboration.

As Japanese companies make up 49 percent of all international investments in Kentucky, UPIKE is focused on strengthening its relationships with Japanese universities such as Hosei University, Meiji Gakuin University, Tsuda University, Nagoya University of Foreign Studies and Hiroshima Shudo University, to prepare students for successful careers upon graduation.   

“We live in a global world where cross-cultural experiences such as student exchange programs build necessary skills for employment. International study and economic development go hand-in-hand, and UPIKE students are well positioned  for the challenge,” said Webb. 

A new partnership with JASK brings many benefits to the university and the region. JASK assists local communities in Kentucky by developing sister city relationships, fostering collaboration through better understanding and mutual friendship. 

“UPIKE has a long history of exchange programs in Japan because their education is exemplary. Japan is one of the safest countries in which to study, and their rich culture and modern technology is a beautiful blend of the past, present and future.” explained Werth.  UPIKE is committed to providing international opportunities that foster leadership, adaptability, empathy and self-confidence for long-term economic development.