Appalachian Gathering for Recovery Solutions returns May 22

Rachel Dorroh • May 14, 2024

Now in its third year, the Appalachian Gathering for Recovery Solutions brings people from across the addictions recovery landscape together to share ideas, resources, and hope. Since its inception, dozens of organizations have been involved as sponsors and presenters, and everyone interested in learning more about recovery is invited to attend on May 22, in person or online, free of charge.

“While most of our participants are professionals from across the recovery pipeline, everyone is welcome,” says event manager and mental health counselor at Union Commonwealth University Dr. Cosmina Noaghea.

New this year, the event will be held at the Corbin Center. Previously, Union had hosted the event.

“We decided to change the venue to accommodate a larger number of in-person attendees and to enhance their overall experience during the conference,” says Dr. Kathy Blaydes-Walczak, Director of the Appalachian Gathering for Recovery Solutions and Director of Addictions Studies at Union.

The gathering features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and informative displays representing various sectors, including addictions prevention, drug courts, treatment centers, educational institutions, and community and faith-based groups.

This year, two workshops have been added, as well:

• Trauma and Co-occurring Disorders, facilitated by President of the Kentucky Association of Addiction Professionals Geoff Wilson

• Grandparents Raising Grandchildren as a Result of Addiction, facilitated by President and CEO of Operation UNITE Tom Vicini

This year’s speakers include Van Ingram, Executive Director for the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy; Jonathan Philpot, Program Administrator of the Kentucky Recovery Housing Network; Dr. Al J. Mooney, author of “The Recovery Book”; and Geoff Wilson.

Afternoon panels will focus on prevention and recovery treatment programs, the role of community self-help groups and faith-based groups in recovery, support for building and living a healthy sober life, and legal issues related to addiction and recovery.

Professionals in the field will receive five continuing education credits (CEUs) for attending, pending approval from the Kentucky Board of Alcohol & Drug Counselors, the Kentucky Board of Professional Counselors, the Kentucky Board of Psychologists, and the Kentucky Board of Social Work.

The planning committee for the event includes representatives from Grace Health, Baptist Health, Support Centers International, and Union Commonwealth University.

Click the link below to register for the gathering or contact Cosmina Noaghea at (606) 546-1528 or ioana.noaghea@unionky.edu.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Promotional poster for UCU Theatre's production of The Apiary by Kate Douglas.

UCU Theatre Presents “The Apiary” October 21–24

By David Saylor • October 19, 2026

Scientific curiosity and dark comedy take center stage in Union Commonwealth University (UCU) Theatre’s production of Kate Douglas’ “The Apiary,” a play that explores scientific progress, human connection, and what people are willing to sacrifice to protect something they love.

seniors at Clay County High school sitting in auditorium chairs with their golden ticket

Union Brings Tuition-Free Pathway to Clay County High School

By Maisie Nelson • October 13, 2026

Union announced Tuesday that eligible graduates of Clay County High School will have the opportunity to attend Union tuition-free beginning in fall 2027, expanding the university’s initiative to a third county in just over a year.

Union to Host Homecoming Screening of Documentary on Nobel Laureate Phil Sharp

By Maisie Nelson • October 5, 2026

Union Commonwealth University will celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of one of its most distinguished alumni during Homecoming Weekend with a special screening of Cracking the Code: Phil Sharp and the Biotech Revolution on Friday, Oct. 16, at 6 p.m.

Childers Takes on Expanded Alumni Relations Role

By Maisie Nelson • October 1, 2026

Union Commonwealth University alumna Terra Childers ’04 is taking on an expanded role focused exclusively on alumni relations, helping the university strengthen relationships with graduates and create new ways for alumni to remain connected to their alma mater.

two hands holding a golden ticket that says Tuition Free Pathway

Union Expands Tuition-Free Pathway to Bell County

By Maisie Nelson • September 18, 2026

Following the success of its Tuition-Free Pathway in Knox County, Union Commonwealth University is expanding the initiative to Bell County, creating a new tuition-free pathway to Union for eligible graduates of the three Bell County high schools.

group photo of 25 students who make up the newest cohort of Presidential Fellows

Union Announces Second Cohort of Presidential Fellows

By Ford Edwards • September 17, 2026

Union Commonwealth University (UCU) has welcomed the second cohort of its Presidential Fellows Program, the leadership initiative designed to prepare students for success through mentorship, career development, and hands-on professional experience.

Union Extends Tuition-Free Pathway to Knox County Class of 2027

By Maisie Nelson • September 15, 2026

Building on the success of the Tuition-Free Pathway launched in Knox County last year, Union Commonwealth University is extending the initiative to the Class of 2027.

drone shot of football field during a game with crowd

Be Their Family: UCU Invites YOU to Family Day

September 11, 2026

On Family Day, students from around our region have parents and grandparents in the bleachers. However, our international students’ parents aren’t always able to make that trip. That's especially true of our men's and women's soccer rosters, where most players are from across the globe, and the games fall at the end of

4 students sitting on top of the campus spirit rock making a

Union Anticipates Largest Freshman Class in Institution History

By Maisie Nelson • August 6, 2026

Union Commonwealth University is preparing to welcome what is anticipated to be the largest freshman class in the institution's history as students return to campus for the Fall 2026 semester.

Photo of former First Lady Juanita Fhillips and President, Rev. Dr. Jack Phillips

Remembering Rev. Dr. Jack C. Phillips

By Maisie Nelson • July 27, 2026

Union Commonwealth University mourns the passing of former president, Rev. Dr. Jack Carter Phillips, who died on June 30, 2026, at the age of 91 in Brentwood, Tennessee.