Union Commonwealth University launches “Reimagining Our Residences” campaign to enhance student living spaces

Maisie Nelson • March 12, 2025

Union Commonwealth University is proud to launch Reimagining Our Residences, a $125,000 fundraising campaign dedicated to revitalizing student housing and elevating the residential experience for future Bulldogs. This initiative will fund essential upgrades to Lakeside, Pfeiffer, Stevenson, and Stewart Apartments, creating modern, comfortable, and welcoming living spaces that foster academic success and community.


For generations, these residence halls have been more than just a place to sleep — they have been the heart of campus life. They are where students have built lifelong friendships, pursued their academic dreams, and created cherished memories. Now, UCU is calling on alumni and friends to help refresh common areas, enhance lighting, upgrade furniture, and make other essential improvements that will transform these spaces for the next generation.


“We recognize that a student’s experience extends beyond the classroom,” said Dr. DJ Washington, President of UCU. “Residence halls play a crucial role in shaping that experience. Through this campaign, we have the opportunity to invest in future generations of Bulldogs by creating spaces that foster connection, learning, and personal growth.”

This effort builds on recent enhancements to residential facilities, including the installation of 60 high-efficiency washers and dryers across all housing units earlier this month. With improved laundry facilities already in place, the next step is to refresh traditional living spaces and ensure that every student feels at home at UCU.


How to Give

• General Donation: Support the overall dorm refresh by leaving the “Special Instructions” box blank. Your gift will be directed to the areas of greatest need.

• Specific Dorm or Item Donation: If you’d like to fund a specific dorm or item, please include your preference in the “Special Instructions” box.


“For many alumni, like myself, their residence hall isn’t just a building — it’s where lifelong friendships were formed, late-night study sessions were held, and, for some, where they met their future spouse,” said Maisie Nelson ’11, Interim Vice President of Development & Communications. “That’s why we’re inviting alumni to be part of this transformation, whether by supporting the overall campaign or designating a gift to the hall that meant the most to them.”


With various giving levels available, alumni and friends can directly impact students' daily lives and help shape the future of UCU housing.

Your Dorm, Their Future: Invest in the Next Generation

Learn More & Donate
By Maisie Nelson May 7, 2025
In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, Union Commonwealth University’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions provided 120 meal vouchers to teachers at Knox Central High School on Wednesday, May 7. The vouchers were redeemable at The Grub Hut food truck, which was set up on-site as a special thank-you to educators for their dedication and impact.
Students studying in Union's library.
By Rachel Dorroh May 6, 2025
The pre-professional program at Union Commonwealth University (UCU) is growing. New partnerships with Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) and the University of Kentucky (UK) create clear pathways and unique advantages for students wishing to pursue osteopathic medicine, physician assistant studies, and engineering.
Superintendent Tom Gambrel and President Dr. DJ Washington.
By David Saylor April 30, 2025
Following the recent retirement of Superintendent Waylon Allen ’93, another dedicated Bell County leader and Union alumnus is preparing to close a meaningful chapter in his career. Tom Gambrel ’98, Superintendent of Bell County Schools, has announced his upcoming retirement. Known for his unwavering commitment to students and educators, Gambrel leaves behind a legacy defined by perseverance, student-focused leadership, and lasting impact on the Bell County community.
By Maisie Nelson April 29, 2025
Union Commonwealth University proudly announces the first ten distinguished alumni honored as part of the university’s inaugural “50 Under 50” recognition program. Celebrating the accomplishments of alumni who are making an impact before the age of 50, the program highlights leaders across industries, from healthcare and education to business, finance, and public service.
Regan Nantz receiving an award from President DJ Washington.
By Rachel Dorroh April 25, 2025
Union Commonwealth University celebrated the annual Honors Convocation Thursday morning in Conway Boatman Chapel. Thirty-six students, one professor, and one athletic team were honored for their achievements.
Student awardees stand with grant committee members and advisors behind them.
By Rachel Dorroh April 23, 2025
Real-world career experiences, educational travel adventures, and immersive arts exploration await Union Commonwealth University (UCU) students this summer. Funded by the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE), a program of the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), ten students have been awarded Circles of Purpose grants to support their self-designed enrichment projects. Named after Union’s core values of celebration, integrity, responsibility, civility, lifelong learning, engagement, and spirituality – abbreviated CIRCLES – the microgrant program supports students in discovering and developing their unique vocational paths.
students taking a selfie with Bulldog mascot
By Maisie Nelson April 21, 2025
Union Commonwealth University is celebrating exciting momentum in its undergraduate enrollment, as highlighted in the latest report from the Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities (AIKCU). According to AIKCU’s March snapshot of all 18 member institutions, Union ranked near the top in several key categories.
By Maisie Nelson April 17, 2025
A well-known name in Union Commonwealth University athletics is making a welcome return. Bart Osborne has rejoined the university as Associate Athletic Director for Development and Fundraising.
Montage of Lena, Tia, and Union's Centennial Hall framed by leafy green tree foliage
By Rachel Dorroh April 17, 2025
UCU students Tia Cobb and Lena Visarius and their professor Libby Megna are building on a body of knowledge tracing back to Darwin’s observations of differences in bird beaks that led to his insights about natural selection. As co-authors on a paper they will submit to academic journals, the three hope to contribute to the scientific community’s understanding of trait evolution and biodiversity. Both students want to continue their studies after graduation – Lena in forensic anthropology and Tia in biology – and experiences like this are part of how UCU is preparing them for these chosen paths.
Macy, Cody, and Conner Saylor.
By Rachel Dorroh April 9, 2025
This school year, Cody, Conner, and Macy Saylor are attending Union Commonwealth University, are grateful for where they’ve landed, and are focused on making the most of their opportunities and giving back to make things better for others.
More Posts