Union welcomes new employees

Rachel Dorroh • August 8, 2024
Headshots of new employees: Courtney Oliver, Rodney Haddix, and Meghann Chesnut


Ahead of the Fall semester, Union Commonwealth University (UCU) announces new additions to the Bulldog family, including Rodney Haddix, Meghann Chesnut, and Courtney Oliver.

 

New to the University, Rodney Haddix joins Union as the Head Men’s Basketball coach. He brings extensive experience, having coached at one of the nation's top prep schools, as well as at the University of the Cumberlands and Georgetown College.

 

"Rodney Haddix brings in an impressive background and extensive understanding of the game of basketball not only from a coaching standpoint but as a former player as well,” says Interim Executive Director of Athletics Clay Butler. “We feel that Rodney will do a great job developing our students into fine young men on and off the court. We could not be more excited about the future of the men’s basketball program." 

 

Meghann Chesnut, a 2007 alumni, now serves as the Special Advisor to the President. She has previously held positions in the Office of Admissions, Office of Advancement, and Office of the President. In her new role, she will support strategic advisement, grant and foundational support, community formation, and problem-solving. Chesnut, a Knox County native, comes from a long line of Bulldogs.

 

Courtney Oliver rejoins UCU as the Assistant Vice President of Development. Oliver will collaborate with the Advancement team to focus on major gift donors, supporting the university’s mission and strategic priorities. Oliver is a 2003 alumni and previously served as Director of Alumni Relations and Executive Director of Development.

 

“These new positions will enhance our ability to engage with the community, strengthen external relations, and support our giving initiatives,” said UCU Interim President Dr. DJ Washington.

 

Located in Barbourville, Kentucky, UCU is a private, liberal arts-based institution comprised of undergraduate and graduate programs, supporting a diverse academic environment for nearly 1200 students.

 

To learn about additional employment opportunities at UCU, see Employment Opportunities | Union Commonwealth University (unionky.edu).

UCU Announces Next Round of “50 Under 50” Honorees

By Maisie Nelson • June 25, 2025
Union Commonwealth University proudly announces the next ten distinguished alumni honored as part of the university’s ongoing “50 Under 50” recognition program. The initiative celebrates alumni under the age of 50 who are driving change and making a difference in their professions and communities.
Bill and Merrill Davies with the Union Mascot, Mack the Bulldog.

Bill & Merrill Davies — A Union of Service & Learning

By David Saylor • June 24, 2025
William “Bill” Davies ’66 and Merrill Johnson Davies ’64 were brought together by their education at Union College and their Baptist faith in 1962. Since then, they have built a lasting legacy of service, learning, and community impact — one that has spanned more than 56 years of marriage.

UCU Celebrates Barbourville High School Seniors with Over $88,000 in Scholarships

By Maisie Nelson • June 13, 2025
Union Commonwealth University is proud to recognize the achievements of seniors from Barbourville High School who have committed to continue their academic and athletic pursuits at Union. Together, these students have been awarded more than $88,000 in scholarships as part of the university’s commitment to supporting local talent and making higher education more accessible.
Lynn and Amanda with Union's mascot, Mack the Bulldog, all wearing caps and gowns on Union's campus.

Lynn Smith & Amanda Hensely — Like Mother, Like Daughter

By Rachel Dorroh • June 5, 2025
This past fall, Lynn Smith was appointed as Executive Vice President of Union Commonwealth University. She draws on her nearly 25 years of service and three Union degrees to oversee operations including business & finance, information technology, and human resources, among other responsibilities.

Summer Brings Improvements and Guests to Union’s Campus

By Maisie Nelson • June 4, 2025
Union Commonwealth University is proud to share several exciting updates as work gets underway on key campus improvement projects this summer. These initiatives, made possible through successful fundraising efforts, reflect Union’s commitment to creating a welcoming, well-maintained environment for students, visitors, and the broader community.

Eight Bell County Seniors Commit to UCU, Over $190,000 Awarded in Scholarships

By Maisie Nelson • June 4, 2025
Union Commonwealth University is proud to celebrate the accomplishments of seniors from Bell County High School who have committed to continue their academic journeys at Union. Together, these students have been awarded over $190,000 in scholarships, recognizing both academic excellence and athletic talent.

Union Offers Free Swim Days for Local Youth This June

By Maisie Nelson • June 2, 2025
Union Commonwealth University is inviting school-aged children to enjoy free swim days every Saturday in June, beginning June 7 at the Center for Health & Learning’s Stivers Aquatic Center. These open swim opportunities are a way to give back to the community and celebrate the start of summer with local families.
Miller standing beside the sign for Conway Boatman Chapel.

The Rev. David Miller retires after 21 years of ministry at UCU

By Rachel Dorroh • May 30, 2025
After 21 years as the chaplain of Union Commonwealth University (UCU), the Rev. David Miller is retiring this month. Since his first ministerial appointment in 1984, he has served as the pastor of several Kentucky congregations, has taken on leadership roles in multiple Kentucky organizations, and has led countless campus programs and groups dedicated to student development. He says supporting students to find their personal calling, however, has been the highlight of his career.

Union Celebrates Another Ten Honorees in its “50 Under 50” Recognition Program

By Maisie Nelson • May 27, 2025
Union Commonwealth University proudly announces the next ten distinguished alumni honored as part of the university’s inaugural “50 Under 50” recognition program. Celebrating alumni who are making an impact before the age of 50, the program continues to highlight exceptional leaders across diverse industries — from public service and business innovation to healthcare, marketing, education, and law.
Leadership Tri-County class of 2025 with Andra Butler and Tori Doyle standing at the far right end.

The essence of leadership at UCU

By David Saylor • May 22, 2025
Leadership is about more than a title, it's a commitment to personal growth, professional excellence, and something greater than yourself. For many, this may mean embracing new challenges or simply striving to make a meaningful impact. At Union Commonwealth University, however, leadership also means investing in the potential of others by creating opportunities for growth, mentorship, and collaboration at every level.
More Posts