The Power of Collective Action: Lisa Abbott Guides Union Students on Quest for Change

Frank Osborne • April 24, 2024
Lisa Abbott

This week, Union students, faculty, and staff were honored to have a Leadership Conference with Lisa Abbott, a community organizer in the heart of Eastern Kentucky, who acts as a beacon of hope for racial, environmental and economic justice. Her efforts throughout her journey show that even the smallest acts of compassion can make a significant difference in the fight against injustice. With over three decades of leadership experience with the grassroots community organization Kentuckians For The Commonwealth, Abbott is currently a Senior Fellow at the JPB Foundation where she aims to strengthen multi-racial democracy in the United States.


Guided by three central ideas, Abbott’s first key point was that “what you do matters.” Drawing inspiration from the motto of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, she highlighted how the power of all individual actions effect meaningful change. Challenging the notion that systemic injustices are too vast to overcome, she urged that we should all adopt an “as if” mindset - to act as if all of our actions truly matter. By collectively embracing this perspective, we can act more effectively as a united force for justice.

“We are here on earth to see each other through the journey,” Abbott said. She emphasized the importance of building meaningful two-sided relationships and that by practicing solidarity within the pursuit for justice, we can provide mutual support and guidance for each other.


Abbott stressed the necessity of collective action, explaining that through collective power, we can more effectively build coalitions to effect systemic change. By understanding how power operates and leveraging it strategically, she believes that communities can drive meaningful progress.


As she continues her work as a community organizer, Abbott serves as a reminder that every act of compassion and every moment of solidarity contributes to a larger movement of justice. Through her unwavering commitment and steadfast belief in the power of collective action, she inspires others to join the fight for a more compassionate world. Lisa’s visit is the fourth in ULead’s monthly student leadership training series, featuring speakers from Kentucky and surrounding areas.


A joint project of the Spiritual Life & Justice Initiatives program, Athletics, and Student Development, ULead 360 focuses on developing emerging leaders in the areas of student development, introspective spirituality, vocational exploration, social justice, and global citizenship. Each speaker shares practical leadership advice and aims to inspire Union’s next generation of leaders. Everyone on campus is welcome, and student leaders are especially encouraged to attend.


For more information about ULead 360 or the Spiritual Life & Justice Initiatives program, contact College Minister & Executive Director of Spiritual Life & Social Justice Initiatives, the Rev. David Miller at (606)546-1291 or dkmiller@unionky.edu

Eli Sizemore and Cameron Winebarger standing with their poster on traveling to Montana.
By David Saylor May 19, 2026
This April, Union Commonwealth University’s Circles of Purpose grant program came to a close, completing a two‑year journey of vocational exploration made possible through funding from the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE), a program of the Council of Independent Colleges.
photo of students in their cap and gown walking in the processional
By Maisie Nelson May 13, 2026
Union Commonwealth University celebrated its 137th Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 9, as 287 graduates crossed the stage inside Robsion Arena to receive their degrees and begin the next chapter of their lives.
By Brandy Crase May 1, 2026
Union Commonwealth University and Rural Up recently celebrated a major milestone with the Presidential Fellows Showcase & Reception, recognizing the success of the first cohort of the UCU Presidential Fellows Program, powered by Rural Up. More than a student achievement event, the showcase highlighted what can happen wh
By Maisie Nelson April 30, 2026
Union Commonwealth University continues to build momentum through its Knox County Pathway initiative, awarding more than $2,180,197 to local students as part of its commitment to making higher education accessible and affordable.
By Maisie Nelson April 2, 2026
Union Commonwealth University strengthened its commitment to Barbourville and Knox County throughout the month of March, engaging students, families, and community partners through a series of initiatives centered on service, access, and meaningful connection.
photo of Karen Kelly with white background
By Maisie Nelson March 31, 2026
Union Commonwealth University (UCU) is pleased to announce alumna Karen Kelly as the commencement speaker for its May 2026 graduation ceremony.
The cast of Group Therapy: The Musical standing in a line on stage during rehearsal.
By David Saylor March 25, 2026
Shared vulnerability and musical storytelling take center stage in Union Commonwealth University (UCU) Theatre’s spring production of “Group Therapy: The Musical,” a semi-immersive work that brings audiences into a space of honesty, connection, and care.
By Maisie Nelson March 19, 2026
Union Commonwealth University (UCU) has announced the inaugural cohort of its Presidential Fellows Program, a new leadership initiative designed to prepare students for success through mentorship, career development, and hands-on professional experience.
Dr. Yukiko Fujimura on stage in Conway Boatman Chapel with her UCU piano class.
By David Saylor March 12, 2026
After a successful debut last year, the Southeastern Kentucky Piano Festival is returning bigger and better to Union Commonwealth University (UCU).
By Dr. Joseph Pearson March 7, 2026
Scholars, writers, and teachers from across the region gathered in the mountains of Southeast Kentucky this week as Union Commonwealth University (UCU) hosted the 54th Annual Kentucky Philological Association Conference.