Union Reinforces Commitment to the Community Through March Initiatives

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.

From hosting outreach events on campus to supporting efforts across the region, Union continues to live out its mission by investing in both its students and the community it serves.

Serving the Community

Union’s campus served as a central gathering place during Barbourville CARES on March 19, where the university partnered with local organizations who provided free food, health screenings, and giveaways to members of the Knox County community.

[IMAGE: Union's Men's Basketball team poses for a photo during SERVE Day.]

Just two days later, Union extended its impact beyond campus by participating in SERVE Day on March 21, student-athletes and coaches from the basketball and football programs worked alongside youth groups to complete service projects throughout the county.'

Supporting Local Students and Schools

Union further strengthened its presence in local schools through a series of initiatives aimed at supporting students and expanding access to higher education.

Union began by hosting a Knox County Pathway Early Registration Event on campus on March 21, where nearly 70 students from local high schools received early access to Fall 2026 course registration. With one-on-one support from faculty and staff, students were able to take important steps toward enrollment. The event was made possible through community partnerships, with First Baptist Church of Barbourville providing pancakes and Crave donating donuts. The Knox County Pathway program, launched last fall, allows eligible students to attend Union tuition-free, helping remove financial barriers and expand access to higher education.

Union also engaged directly with high school students through a series of Student Roundtable Discussions connected to the Knox County Pathway initiative. Sessions were held with students from Knox Central High School, Lynn Camp High School and Barbourville Independent Schools, each with approximately 14 to 15 participants, as well as a third session with current Union students who graduated from both schools. Conversations with high school seniors focused on interest in campus involvement opportunities, particularly for commuter students, while current students shared feedback on their experiences, transition to college, and ways Union can continue to improve student support and engagement.

[IMAGE: Student roundtable discussion at Knox Central High School.]

On March 26, nearly 120 students from Barbourville High School visited campus for a Mock Student Experience Day, where they participated in hands-on academic sessions, toured facilities, and experienced college life firsthand. Students explored programs including Nursing, Psychology, Biology, History, Human Performance, and Performing Arts, gaining valuable insight into both the classroom experience and potential career pathways.

Union’s involvement also extended into younger grade levels through participation in an Open House and Math Night at Barbourville Elementary School, led by alumna Courtney Clouse ’05. Union education students helped facilitate interactive learning stations, while Harper Coffey ’28, serving as a community engagement intern with ARH through the Presidential Fellows program, represented the hospital at the event. Mack the Bulldog also joined in, engaging with students and families throughout the evening.

[IMAGE: Student volunteers pose at the backdrop during Barbourville Elementary School's Open House and Math Nightl.]

Welcoming the Community to Campus

In addition to these efforts, Union launched $5 Fridays for the Community in partnership with Aramark, beginning March 20. The initiative welcomes community members to campus each Friday to enjoy all-you-care-to-eat meals in the university dining hall for just $5. Meal service is available for breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., offering an affordable and inviting opportunity for the community to connect on campus.

“Our mission extends beyond the classroom,” said Sarah Wahlstedt, Director of External Relations & Presidential Initiatives. “These efforts are about showing up for our community, creating opportunities for students, and building relationships that strengthen both.”

Union Commonwealth University continues to seek opportunities to collaborate with local organizations and expand its impact throughout the region. Community groups or organizations interested in partnering with Union for future events are encouraged to contact Sarah at swahlstedt@unionky.edu.

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