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

Union Reinforces Commitment to the Community Through March Initiatives

By Maisie Nelson • April 2, 2026
Union Commonwealth University strengthened its commitment to Barbourville and Knox County throughout the month of March, engaging students, families, and community partners through a series of initiatives centered on service, access, and meaningful connection.
photo of Karen Kelly with white background

UCU Announces Karen Kelly as 2026 Commencement Speaker

By 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.
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.