UPIKE recognizes employee donors

Students at the University of Pikeville (UPIKE) benefit from scholarships and other opportunities made possible by donors. Faculty and staff comprise a group of donors who are deeply invested in UPIKE’s mission to prepare students for the future while creating intellectual, cultural and economic opportunities for Appalachia. To thank employees who give of their financial resources, in addition to their time and professional contributions, the UPIKE Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations recently held a luncheon in their honor. 

During the employee donor appreciation event, attendees gathered in Bears Tower on campus to share a meal and hear messages of gratitude from Trustee M. Lynn Parrish, Provost Lori Werth, Ph.D., Assistant Vice President of Advancement Laura Damron and UPIKE Junior and Lexington, Ky., native Macen Witt. Witt is a double major in biomedical sciences and communication and an active member of the UPIKE Dance Team. 

Witt shared with employee donors how their philanthropic spirit has impacted her life.

“If it weren’t for the scholarships that I receive through academics and athletics, I wouldn’t be here today,” she said. “I am forever grateful for the financial support I receive that will help me fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming an orthopedic surgeon.”

Professor of Chemistry Thomas Hess, Ph.D., believes that support from donors is the best endorsement UPIKE can receive. 

“Education is the most important aspect of our society that we can support,” said Hess. “Through gifts of time, talent, and treasure, we support our students and change the world one graduate at a time.”

Damron noted the significant role that donors play in students’ success and the importance of thanking them for their investment.

“The University of Pikeville makes thanking all types of donors, including its very own employees, a key priority,” said Damron. “It is important to celebrate philanthropy on campus and illustrate to our employee donors the positive ways in which they’re impacting students’ lives through their giving.”

For more information about giving opportunities at UPIKE, visit www.upike.edu/giving.

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