UCU Celebrates Barbourville High School Seniors with Over $88,000 in Scholarships

Maisie Nelson • June 13, 2025

Union Commonwealth University is proud to recognize the achievements of seniors from Barbourville High School who have committed to continue their academic and athletic pursuits at Union. Together, these students have been awarded more than $88,000 in scholarships as part of the university’s commitment to supporting local talent and making higher education more accessible. 


Union took part in Barbourville High School’s Signing Day on May 2, where four seniors officially signed with the university:

·       Athletic Signings: Raegan Howard, Emma Broughton, Conor West

·       Academic Signing: Wendi Smith


These students were recognized again during Honors Night on May 15, where Union announced an additional scholarship recipient, Danni Jordan


Scholarship Summary for Barbourville Class of 2025:

  • Athletic Scholarships: $59,228
  • Academic Scholarships: $5,000
  • Union Distinction Grant: $19,080
  • Local High School Scholarship: $5,000
  • Total Scholarships Awarded: $88,308


“We are so excited to welcome this incredible group of Barbourville seniors to Union,” said Macy Yother, Admissions Counselor. “These students have already made their community proud, and we’re honored they’ve chosen Union as the next step in their journey.”

Union Commonwealth University remains committed to investing in the future of southeastern Kentucky through generous scholarships and a student-centered academic experience.



For more information about admissions and scholarships at Union, visit www.unionky.edu/admit.



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.
Faculty audience at the 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
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
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.
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
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
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.
December 9, 2025
Union Commonwealth University’s Board of Trustees unanimously approved the following appointments to its board during its annual meeting on October 24, 2025.