Union College is undergoing a significant transformation, reflected in the decision to change its name to Union Commonwealth University. Over the past decade, the institution's academic landscape has evolved considerably, with nearly half of enrolled students now pursuing graduate degrees. Research has shown that incorporating the word "University" into the institution's name can draw attention to its graduate programs, leading to increased enrollment at both the graduate and undergraduate levels.

Furthermore, the Board of Trustees has identified numerous compelling reasons why a new name would be beneficial for the school's future growth and stability. One major factor is the confusion that arises from sharing the Union College name with three other institutions in the United States. This confusion has resulted in alumni donating to the wrong school, scheduling errors for campus visits, and prospective students overlooking Union due to mistaken identity. By adopting the name Union Commonwealth University, the institution can distinguish itself and alleviate this confusion.

Additionally, the term "college" and its cognates refer to high school or vocational schools. In the U.S., most higher education institutions that use the word "college" typically offer only undergraduate degrees. This transition will accurately reflect who we are as an institution as we attract students from around the country and around the world. 

“This new name identifies Union as a Level IV graduate degree granting institution, thus appealing to a wider range of students,” said Mike Goss, a 1980 alum and Chair of the Board of Trustees. “We are embracing the future but will remain steadfast in meeting the needs of students in the region and our community.”

The name Union Commonwealth University signals our commitment to Union’s founding principles while proudly embracing our growth and expansion. “Union” retains our history, “Commonwealth” reflects our unique location and the spirit of our values, and “University” accurately describes what we are and aspire to be.

“Commonwealth” not only references our location in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, it captures who we have always been and will always be: an educational community dedicated to service and the common good. 

Tom Clark, Chair Emeritus of the Board and great grandson of founding member Governor James D. Black, made the motion to select the name, stating:

“Union College was established in 1879 as the first college in Kentucky’s Appalachian Mountains. James D. Black, a son of Kentucky’s earliest pioneer families, suggested the name, Union, to his co-founders of this school. It is my high and distinct honor as Governor Black’s great grandson to present this updated name that reflects Union’s storied past and bright future. 

“The history books remind us that the name Union was chosen to recognize the bringing together of citizens of Barbourville and Knox County in this common purpose. We value this heritage and honor the spirit of the act of creating “union" for the common good, and forever memorializing this spirit with the name Union. We now add the word Commonwealth to denote our history of service to the greater good for students and society, a distinguishing feature of this college. 

“For 145 years, the school has been true to the vision of our forebearers whose original mission was to bring an institution of higher education to the people of this region. Union Commonwealth University will continue on that path, with its expanded offerings in both its several graduate degree programs and its undergraduate liberal arts college. … We continue to refine our educational offerings to meet the demands of the present, while also remaining true to unfettered intellectual pursuit. …

“I know that Governor Black would be proud and supportive of our innovative spirit today, the same spirit he had in 1879. So with great pride in our mission and heritage - and with reinvigorated resolve - we are pleased to lead the Union Commonwealth University into the future.”

The rebrand to Union Commonwealth University is currently underway, as the new name is now in effect.

A timeline for larger changes, including a celebration of the transition, will be announced in the coming months.

To our May 2024 graduates, graduation holds immense significance, and as you embark on this milestone, you are poised to become the final graduating class of Union College. This distinction adds further weight to the occasion. 

Following the May commencement ceremony, your diploma, bearing the Union College name, will be mailed to the address provided on your graduation application by the Office of the Registrar.

Upon the completion of our transition to Union Commonwealth University, all alumni, will have the option to request a diploma reflecting the new institution's name, if desired. Further details will be communicated to all alumni in the coming months. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your contact information remains up-to-date with the alumni office.