UPIKE hosts evening of events with local attorneys

By: UPIKE Public Relations | May 24, 2019

PIKEVILLE, Ky. –University of Pikeville alumni and friends recently reconnected with former classmates and colleagues sharing a specific common interest, public service in the judicial system. Attendees not only had the opportunity to visit during a reception at Pikeville’s newest tourism destination, Dueling Barrels Brewery and Distillery, but also to attend a Judicial Speakers Series event that immediately followed.

In attendance with guests were President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D., and First Lady Kay Webb, Ph.D., and Dean of KYCOM Dana Shaffer, D.O.

The reception at Dueling Barrels was a buzz of energy as colleagues and new friends connected over hors d’oeuvres. The idea for the reception came from UPIKE Alumni Association board member, Pikeville College alum and Pike Circuit Court Judge Eddy Coleman (’77). Coleman said he suggested the idea for the event in hopes to not only gather fellow attorneys who began their studies at the university but to honor a professor who inspired so many.

“I attended Pikeville College with several students who, like me, became attorneys,” said Coleman. “Our common connection was Virgil O. Turner who taught political science and had a background in law. He guided us into law school and broadened our perspective of government and politics.”

Following the reception, attendees then made their way to campus for a Q&A-style Judicial Speakers Series event sponsored by the Kentucky Bar Foundation. The event was held in UPIKE’s Health Professions Education Building and was well attended by students, faculty and staff, and community members.

Former Commonwealth Attorney and Pikeville College alum Rick Bartley (’77) led the discussion with a central theme of opportunities created by education. Bartley also spoke about how the legal profession is changing with technology.

“It was an honor to be asked to participate and speak to the UPIKE community,” said Bartley. “Many people were surprised when I told them my UPIKE connection began more than 60 years ago when I was born in the Allara Library! Of course, several attendees knew it used to be the Pikeville hospital but many of the students learned some history of the campus. My talk was divided between the path to a legal education and current legal issues, specifically the death penalty litigation at the state and national levels. I hope people there enjoyed themselves as much as I did. I certainly had a good time.”

Bartley was also honored during the event by the Kentucky Bar Foundation as a life fellow.

For updates on future alumni events, visit www.upike.edu, email alumni@upike.eduor call 606-218-5276.