UPIKE Newsroom

The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) announced today that its Reaching New Heights capital campaign has raised $40.2 million toward its $50 million goal, advancing the university’s mission to expand educational, healthcare, athletic and economic opportunities across Central Appalachia.

The milestone reflects the generosity of alumni, friends, corporate partners and foundations who believe in UPIKE and the difference its students and graduates make throughout the region and beyond. With $9.8 million remaining to reach its goal, the campaign enters its final phase with important work ahead.

“Reaching the $40 million mark is a tremendous achievement for the University of Pikeville, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who has invested in our future,” said UPIKE President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D. “These gifts represent more than financial support. They reflect a shared belief in the power of education to create opportunities, strengthen communities and make a lasting difference across Central Appalachia.”

Reaching New Heights focuses on four priorities that will shape UPIKE’s future and regional impact:

• Tanner College of Dental Medicine: Supporting construction, equipment and scholarships for Eastern Kentucky’s first dental school, which welcomed its inaugural class in June. By preparing future dental professionals, UPIKE aims to help address critical oral health needs.
• Bear Mountain Athletic Complex: Developing multipurpose facilities to support UPIKE’s increasing student-athlete population, provide opportunities for competition and create space for regional events that bring communities together.
• Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM): Expanding learning spaces to accommodate enrollment growth, providing scholarships, and preparing future physicians to care for patients in underserved areas.
• Endowed Student Scholarships: Making a UPIKE education more accessible and affordable for future generations of students.

“The generosity of our donor community brought us to this moment in Reaching New Heights, and we’re excited about what’s ahead,” said Laura Damron, MBA, vice president for advancement and marketing. “Every gift empowers students, prepares future professionals, and benefits the communities that depend on their knowledge, skills and service.”

As a UPIKE alumnus, board of trustees chair and campaign steering committee chair, Terry L. Dotson sees the Reaching New Heights campaign as an opportunity to change lives.

“Supporting this campaign was an easy decision, because I strongly believe in the university’s students and mission,” said Dotson. “Surpassing $40 million reflects the commitment our supporters are making to the future of UPIKE and Central Appalachia. We can’t stop now. UPIKE’s growing enrollment across its undergraduate and health professions colleges is increasing demand for resources, including housing, more than ever. Over half of our undergraduate students are athletes, and we have an opportunity to significantly improve their experience by constructing the Bear Mountain Athletic Complex. Each initiative supported by Reaching New Heights is critical. As we move forward in the campaign, we invite more alumni, friends and partners to join us and help us reach our goal.”

To learn more about Reaching New Heights, visit upike.edu/GiveCapital, call 606-218-5268 or email advancement@upike.edu.