Union admissions team celebrates growth as 2024 draws to a close

Maisie Nelson • December 19, 2024
Undergraduate admissions team gathered in front of Speed Hall.

First Row (left to right): Debbie Ross, James Becknell, Kinsey Forgey

Second Row: Randy Greer, Tim Saunders, Macy Yother

As 2024 comes to an end, Union Commonwealth University (UCU) has plenty of reasons to celebrate—and one of the biggest is the incredible progress of its admissions team. The Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities (AIKCU) recently released its admissions report, and the numbers for UCU show promise for a strong future.


Applications to Union have surged by 37% and student acceptances by 64% compared to the same point in last year’s recruiting cycle. Looking back even further, the growth is even more impressive: compared to Fall 2020, applications have increased by 104%, and acceptances are up by 132%.


This success comes on the heels of welcoming Union’s largest freshman class in years earlier this fall. It’s a testament to the dedication, energy, and innovative strategies of the admissions team. Their efforts have not only contributed to these numbers but have also laid the foundation for continued growth and success.


“Reaching students and sharing Union’s story is about more than just numbers—it’s about finding individuals who will thrive here and become part of the Bulldog family,” said James Becknell ‘16, Vice President of Undergraduate Enrollment. “There’s a lot of momentum at Union right now, and under Dr. Washington’s leadership, exciting things are happening. It’s an amazing time to be a Bulldog, and we’re excited to see the results of our efforts.”


UCU’s Interim President, Dr. DJ Washington, also praised the team’s hard work and impact. “The transformation we’ve seen in our in both our graduate & undergraduate admissions process over the past year is phenomenal. This team is not only bringing more students to Union but also helping to ensure the long-term success of our university.”


The focus on relationship-building, personalized outreach, and showcasing what makes Union Commonwealth University special has been key to this success. From on-campus visits to traveling across the region to connect with prospective students and their families, the admissions team’s efforts reflect Union’s commitment to service, community, and opportunity.


As Union heads into 2025, the admissions team shows no signs of slowing down. They’re building on this momentum with a renewed focus on engaging future Bulldogs and further solidifying Union Commonwealth University’s place as a premier institution in the region.

If you’re interested in continuing your education at Union Commonwealth University, we’d love to hear from you! Schedule your campus visit, complete your free application, or request more information by emailing the admissions team at admissions@unionky.edu.


We also invite our alumni and the broader community to help amplify Union’s story and assist in recruiting efforts by sharing your own experiences and encouraging prospective students to explore all that Union has to offer.


Robin Hamilton.
By David Saylor October 17, 2025
Union Commonwealth University’s Student Support Services (SSS) program has been awarded a nearly $2 million TRIO grant from the U.S. Department of Education, securing funding for the next five years to support underserved and underrepresented students in post-secondary education.
Superintendent Messer, Superintendent Ledford, Wanda Clouse, and Dr. Lori Henderson with students.
By David Saylor October 8, 2025
Under the guidance of College Program Liaison and Coordinator Dr. Lori Henderson, the program that started out as a small group has nearly tripled in size with at least 90 students from Knox County
By Maisie Nelson October 3, 2025
Union Commonwealth University is strengthening its commitment to both students and the region by welcoming several new employees who are alumni or have strong local ties.
By Maisie Nelson September 24, 2025
Union Commonwealth University formally inaugurated Dr. D.J. Washington as its 20th president on Friday, September 19, in a ceremony that honored the institution’s history while celebrating a bold vision for its future.
By Maisie Nelson September 17, 2025
Union Commonwealth University has officially announced a bold new initiative that will make college more accessible for local students. Beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year, all graduating seniors from Knox County—including Knox Central High School, Lynn Camp High School, and Barbourville Independent.
By Maisie Nelson September 9, 2025
Union Commonwealth University will host a week of celebrations leading up to the formal installation of Dr. DJ Washington as the 20th President of the institution. The inauguration, set for Friday, September 19, will honor Union’s proud heritage while spotlighting a bold vision for its future.
s
By Maisie Nelson August 29, 2025
Union has received $780,000 from the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program to renovate a campus building into its first Live & Learn Dormitory.
By Maisie Nelson August 28, 2025
Union Commonwealth University is proud to unveil the final group of honorees in its celebrated “50 Under 50” alumni recognition program.
exterio
By Maisie Nelson August 12, 2025
Union Commonwealth University is making bold strides to strengthen and grow its academic foundation. As part of a reimagined academic structure, the University has introduced a new academic leadership team model, expanding from two colleges to four and aligning leadership roles to support innovation, accountability, an
images of the front of Shar
By Maisie Nelson August 8, 2025

Union Commonwealth University has announced a major restructuring of its academic leadership and college organization, ushering in a new era of innovation, agility, and student-focused growth under the direction of Dr. Joshua Wilkey, the university’s newly appointed Provost.