UCU Announces Karen Kelly as 2026 Commencement Speaker

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.


Kelly, a 2003 graduate of Union with a Bachelor of Business Administration, currently serves as Chief of Staff for U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05), the Dean of the U.S. House of Representatives. In her role, she oversees legislative and Kentucky operations, including priorities on the House Appropriations Committee and international relations in Washington.


With more than 25 years of experience in public service, policy, and leadership, Kelly has played a key role in advancing initiatives across eastern and southern Kentucky. Prior to her current position, she served for nearly a decade as Congressman Rogers’ District Director, where she facilitated federal projects, coordinated disaster response efforts, and strengthened partnerships across local, state, and federal levels.

Kelly has also been instrumental in addressing some of the region’s most pressing challenges. She co-founded the National Rx and Illicit Drug Abuse Summit, now the nation’s largest collaboration focused on combating the opioid crisis, and previously served as President and CEO of Operation UNITE. In addition, she led Eastern Kentucky PRIDE, where she worked to improve water and wastewater infrastructure across a 42-county region while mobilizing thousands of volunteers.


In 2023, Kelly was recognized as one of Kentucky’s Notable Women in Politics and Government by the Kentucky Gazette and has received numerous leadership awards throughout her career.


A dedicated supporter of her alma mater, Kelly previously served as a member of the Union Board of Trustees from 2014 to 2020 and has been actively involved in alumni engagement.

“We are honored to welcome Karen back to campus as our commencement speaker,” said Dr. DJ Washington, President of Union Commonwealth University. “Having a high-caliber alumna like Karen return to share her experiences with our graduates speaks volumes about the impact of a Union education. Her leadership, service, and commitment to Appalachia make her an outstanding example for our students as they begin the next chapter of their lives.”


Kelly and her husband, John, have three children and remain deeply committed to supporting initiatives that uplift youth and families across Appalachian Kentucky.


Commencement will be held on Saturday, May 9 at 10:30 a.m. inside Robsion Arena. The ceremony is open to the public, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.


Union looks forward to celebrating the Class of 2026 and welcoming family, friends, and community members to campus for this special occasion. For more information about our May Commencement ceremony, click here.


The cast of Group Therapy: The Musical standing in a line on stage during rehearsal.

UCU Theatre presents “Group Therapy: The Musical,” March 25–28

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.

UCU Announces Inaugural Presidential Fellows Class

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.

Union to Host Second Annual Southeastern Kentucky Piano Festival May 1-2

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).

UCU Hosts 54th Annual KPA Conference

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.
Faculty audience at the State of Union Town Hall.

State of Union Town Hall

By David Saylor • March 4, 2026
On February 25, 2026, Union Commonwealth University hosted its State of Union Town Hall, bringing together faculty and staff in two dedicated sessions at Conway Boatman Chapel to discuss the university’s financial realities, strategic direction, and long-term sustainability.
Knox Central seniors pose after free tuition announcement

Union to Host First-Ever Registration Day for Knox County Seniors

By Maisie Nelson • February 25, 2026
Union Commonwealth University will host its first annual Registration Day exclusively for seniors from Barbourville Independent High School, Knox Central High School, Lynn Camp High School, and local homeschool students on March 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., giving area students a jump start on their college journey.
photo from the stage looking out at decorated tables

Union Announces 2026 Athletic Hall of Fame Honorees

By Maisie Nelson • February 16, 2026
UCU has announced the 2026 class of honorees for The Mackies, the university’s Athletic Hall of Fame and annual athletics awards ceremony. The event will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in Robsion Arena.
Conway Boatman Chapel.

Union Reinstating Once-a-Month Voluntary Chapel Services

By David Saylor • February 13, 2026
Beginning this Sunday, Union will reintroduce voluntary chapel services for students, faculty, staff, and community members; providing opportunities for worship and spiritual exploration.
external photo of Conway Boatman Chapel

UCU releases Fall 2025 Presidential Laureates and Dean's List

By Maisie Nelson • December 18, 2025
The Office of Academic Affairs is pleased to acknowledge students for their academic achievement throughout the fall 2025 semester. A total of 67 students were named Presidential Laureates while 269 students were honored with recognition among the Dean’s List.
photo showing crowd of students in the stands

UCU Welcomes BHS Students to Celebrate Academic Achievement

By Maisie Nelson • December 16, 2025
Union Commonwealth University celebrated community partnership and academic achievement as the Bulldogs men’s basketball defeated Alice Lloyd College 90–80 on Tuesday inside Robsion Arena.