UCU Names Ten More Honorees in “50 Under 50” Recognition Program

Maisie Nelson • July 29, 2025

Union Commonwealth University is proud to unveil the next group of honorees in its celebrated “50 Under 50” alumni recognition program. Now in its fourth month, the initiative continues to spotlight Union graduates under the age of 50 who are making meaningful contributions to their fields, their communities, and society at large.


“This month’s honorees embody what it means to be a Union Bulldog,” said Maisie Nelson ’11, Vice President of University Relations. “They are bold thinkers and doers who bring passion and purpose into everything they do—whether it's building companies, serving in public education, practicing law, or advancing healthcare and public service.”


Representing industries from education to entrepreneurship, this newest class of ten showcases the breadth of impact Union alumni are having across the country.


The ten honorees for July are:

Liannie Parahoo ’01 Assistant General Counsel, Title IX Coordinator, Staff Attorney, and Assistant Director of the ONU Legal Clinic, Ohio Northern University

Liannie has practiced in areas including criminal defense, personal injury, and social security disability, and has served as a federal indigent defense attorney. A frequent speaker at legal education conferences, she currently helps train and mentor law students at ONU.

Justin Barrier ’06 Entrepreneur and Founder, Barrier Roofs

After a successful career in medical sales, Justin launched Barrier Roofs in 2017. In 2023, the company was acquired by Morgan Stanley. A former Union baseball player, Justin is part of a Team of Distinction in Union’s Athletic Hall of Fame.

Jeff Carper ’97  Entrepreneur and Investor; Co-Founder, Gentas Biotechnology

Jeff has over two decades of experience in venture capital and biotech entrepreneurship. His work has spanned international markets and industries, and he currently serves on the board of Enduring Hearts, a nonprofit supporting pediatric transplant research.

Adam Patin ’00 Financial Advisor, Edward Jones

A 23-year veteran in financial services and an Accredited Asset Management Specialist, Adam has been a consistent community leader and former Union Alumni Board member. He was named an Academic All-American during his time at Union.

Chris Stunson ’08 Director, Office of Professional Educator Services, Western Kentucky University

A former teacher and principal, Chris has built a reputation as an award-winning educator and mentor in the Bowling Green area. He currently serves on Union’s Board of Trustees.

Dr. Juston Pate ’00 President, Elizabethtown Community and Technical College

With leadership experience across multiple Kentucky community colleges, Dr. Pate has been recognized for driving innovation in higher education and workforce development. He is active on several local and regional development boards.

Jessica Terry Bergman ’98 COO, Bergman Enterprises; Philanthropic Consultant, Trek Advancement

Jessica is a dynamic leader in both philanthropy and entrepreneurship. Her work has raised millions for nonprofit organizations, and she also manages a successful real estate portfolio focused on Kentucky's tourism industry. She serves on Union’s Board of Trustees.

Dr. Brandy Howard ’10, '11 Chief Academic Officer, Bullitt County Schools

Dr. Howard has held numerous roles in education, including teacher, principal, and online learning coordinator. As Chief Academic Officer, she oversees instruction for one of Kentucky’s largest districts. She is a KASA member and a participant in the Kentucky Women’s Educational Leadership Cohort. Dr. Howard also co-authored “Sparking Innovation in Children Through STEM Exploration.”

Andi Hillard ’08, '10, '12  Principal, Barbourville Independent Schools

A decorated student-athlete and Union Hall of Fame inductee, Andi now leads academic success at the elementary level, where her school recently achieved a 32% Distinguished rating in reading under her leadership.

Frances Williams ’00 Area Sales Manager, D.R. Horton; Managing Broker, DRH Realty of Indiana

With more than 25 years of experience in the real estate industry, Frances has built a legacy of service and professionalism. She is a former Union Alumni Board member and a 2024 recipient of the University’s Alumni Service Award.

The “50 Under 50” program is designed to spotlight outstanding alumni who embody the values of Union Commonwealth University and inspire the next generation of students and leaders. The final ten honorees will be recognized in August.


To learn more about these alumni and read their full profiles, please click the button below.


50 Under 50
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