Behind the Blue

 LEXINGTON, Ky. (February 20, 2026) – UK HealthCare is an academic health system made up of the University of Kentucky's hospitals and clinics — about 9,000 team members, more than 80 specialized clinics and 140-plus outreach programs — in fiscal year 2023 alone, it served Kentuckians through roughly 1.4 million outpatient visits. Suffice it to say, UK HealthCare is a driver for positive healthcare outcomes in the Commonwealth. On this week's episode of 'Behind the Blue', we're bringing you another installment of 'The Business of UK' — a special feature hosted by Dr. Eric Monday, the University of Kentucky's executive vice president for finance and administration, and Co-executive vice president for health administration.  In this conversation, Dr. Monday talks with Craig Collins, senior vice president and chief financial officer of UK HealthCare, and CEO of Beyond Blue — the affiliated organization that helps support and expand UK's work across the Commonwealth. Together, they break down what Beyond Blue is, why it exists, and how major initiatives like Project Blue-Connect and Integrate Blue are designed to strengthen systems, reduce risk, improve security, and ultimately help UK HealthCare serve more patients — closer to home. Listeners are encouraged to submit questions and ideas for future 'Business of UK' episodes by emailing businessofUK@uky.edu. Upcoming installments will focus on the university's $8.7 billion enterprise budget, how it is structured, and how resources are allocated across education, research, health care and service throughout the Commonwealth. 'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for this or other episodes of 'Behind the Blue' can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

 LEXINGTON, Ky. (February 13, 2026) – Artificial intelligence is moving fast — and Kentucky lawmakers are working to make sure the state can take advantage of new tools without sacrificing transparency, privacy or public trust. On this episode of 'Behind the Blue', Kentucky State Senator Amanda Mays Bledsoe — a Lexington native and University of Kentucky alum — joins host Kody Kiser to talk about her path into public service, what she's hearing from constituents in Senate District 12, and how she views UK's land-grant mission of service to communities across the Commonwealth.  Bledsoe represents parts of Fayette County along with Woodford, Mercer and Boyle counties. In the conversation, she points to infrastructure — including roads and aging water and wastewater systems — as a major concern for the region, while also highlighting the role higher education, signature industries and health care play in central Kentucky's future.  The interview also explores Bledsoe's emerging leadership on technology policy, including Kentucky Senate Bill 4, which she describes as a framework for "responsible AI governance" within state government. Bledsoe explains that the goal is not to regulate every minor use of technology, but to establish guardrails for higher-risk, decision-making tools — including creating transparency around where and how AI is used, and building oversight to ensure accountability.   "AI is not spellcheck," Bledsoe said, emphasizing the need for stronger scrutiny when government systems generate new outputs or influence decisions. She also discusses concerns around deceptive AI-generated political content and the importance of ensuring voters can trust what they see — particularly in the final days leading up to an election.  Looking ahead, Bledsoe points to a wide range of challenges and opportunities — from consumer protection and privacy to safeguarding minors online — and says Kentucky will likely need to keep refining its approach as the technology evolves. She also describes how institutions like UK can help shape the state's AI future through research, workforce preparation and teaching students to be critical, responsible users of these tools. 'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. This interview has been edited for time and clarity.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (February 5, 2026) – From College of Medicine research labs to the halls of UK HealthCare, Lindsay Ragsdale, M.D., has spent much of her career here at the University of Kentucky. Now the chief medical officer for Golisano Children's at UK, she oversees a growing team of specialists and subspecialists dedicated to providing the most complex care for the children of Kentucky. In this episode of "Behind the Blue," Ragsdale discusses her career at UK, the role of palliative care, the growth of the children's hospital and her own son's experience as a pediatric cardiology patient. As a "Woman of Impact" nominee for the American Heart Association's current fundraising campaign, she also highlights how AHA helps fund an important initiative overseen by a Golisano team – Project ADAM in Kentucky. Below are highlights from the conversation, and you can listen to the full episode through the media player at the top of the page. Building a foundation of pediatric palliative care A Tennessee native, Ragsdale attended Centre College in Danville, Kentucky, and came to UK for medical school and residency. She began her medical journey as a researcher, working in the UK College of Medicine's Department of Physiology and studying potential ways to prevent damage from heart attacks. "[Research] was really a helpful thing for me to test out; I love being curious about questions," she said. "'Why is this happening? Can we prove it?' So it was really the basis for my scientific mind, but I love people. And I think being in the lab really proved to me that I love teamwork, I love building teams, and I really wanted to get into clinical medicine."   Ultimately, Ragsdale chose to go into pediatric palliative care — a branch of medicine that focuses on pain relief, symptom management and quality of life for young patients with serious illnesses. After practicing at children's hospitals in Pennsylvania, Ragsdale was recruited back to UK HealthCare. At the time, a palliative care program for the children's hospital didn't exist, so developing this specialty for UK was a priority. "We really built this from the ground-up along the way," she said. "Our team is interdisciplinary - we have other physicians, a nurse practitioner, bereavement coordinator, pharmacist, nurse, and chaplain that all collaborate on patient care. And we have been able to establish an entire new field at the Children's Hospital. It's a different kind of medicine… We're kind of the creative thinkers, thinking outside the box about how we can help in multiple domains of life." While the average person might equate palliative care with end-of-life care, Ragsdale stressed that their role is not the same as hospice, and her team's goal is to help both patients and families deal with all aspects of a serious illness. "Palliative care can get involved at any point in the illness - even at diagnosis, really anywhere along the way where it's impacting their life," she said. "For us, we want to get involved and understand what makes a family feel whole and connected and grounded, and we can do that anytime along the illness. So don't be afraid if you hear palliative care coming in. Say, 'Yes, we want them!' They're the additional team that you would want on your side if you're really facing a lot of scary, serious things." The growth of UK Golisano Children's Opened in 1997, UK Golisano Children's (formerly Kentucky Children's Hospital) began as a single floor of the original UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital. Today, it's grown into a full hospital-within-a-hospital, with more than 200 pediatric physicians, more than 200 beds [AP1]  [LR2] and three specialized intensive care units. A significant part of this growth is recruiting more physicians with the ability to care for complex health problems in children.  "In the past we might've had one subspecialist in this one field; now we are adding multiple layers of subspecialties," Ragsdale said. "So when I say complexity, it's not that we just have pediatric surgery. We have surgeons that are interested in subspecialties of pediatric surgery. We have really been able to meet the needs of the children in Kentucky so they don't have to leave the state." Ragsdale was named chief medical officer for UK Golisano Children's in 2021 [AP3]  [LR4] . Even despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the children's hospital has continued to grow. "In a time in the past five years where some of the regional hospitals have not been able to maintain their pediatric inpatient teams, we have been able to grow and expand," she said. "I give a lot of credit to the leaders of UK HealthCare to seeing the Children's Hospital and being able to allow us to grow and flourish like we have." A 'Woman of Impact' and Project ADAM This year, Ragsdale was nominated to participate in the American Heart Association's Woman of Impact campaign, with the goal of raising awareness of heart disease and funds to support research, care and advocacy through the AHA. Ragsdale's platform for this campaign is personal — her son, Caston, was born with a congenital heart defect and was treated in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the very place she worked: UK Golisano Children's. "I worked the day that we had him; I did not expect it," she said. "We had a healthy pregnancy and had no signs that anything was going to happen. And he came out and really had trouble breathing right at birth and had pulmonary hypertension… And then we discovered he had a VSD [ventricular septal defect] — a hole in his heart. And all of this happening at once." Being on the other side of the physician-patient relationship gave her a new outlook on what the families of her own patients are going through, she said.  "I definitely feel empathy and a lot of love for families who go through things like this, because it can be traumatic," Ragsdale said. "I have just been really thankful to UK and to the NICU, to the cardiac team. They took amazing care of him. And now he's thriving, he's in school, he's doing great." Ragsdale's son is now nine years old, and the experience has given her an additional awareness of the importance of protecting children with heart issues. That includes the availability of automated external defibrillators, or AEDs. The AHA provides funding for Project ADAM, a national program that provides schools and other organizations with AEDs and specialized training for staff and students to act if someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest.  "Each organization that reaches out and says, 'We want to be Heart Safe,' it's at no cost to them," she said. "So that is really where the funding goes for Project ADAM. It's to pay for the infrastructure and the equipment needed to make sure that these organizations have what they need."  Project ADAM in Kentucky is overseen by a team from UK Golisano Children's, including Shaun Mohan, M.D., Tanya Edwards and Mindy Seeberger. When schools and organizations express interest in joining the program, this team oversees those efforts, including developing a response plan and running hands-only CPR and AED drills. "I think the important thing for families and organizations to think about is to have a plan, and that's really what Project Adam is here for," Ragsdale said. "Really, this is an extension of that cardiac care that we give with surgeries and treatments on the inpatient side. We want to make sure that the community sites are protected as well. I want my son to go to a school that it's heart safe, that has an AED, that has a plan. And I'm sure the same for you. If you have kids in your life or family members that are at risk, you want them to be at a place where if there's a crucial emergency, they have what they need." The AHA "Woman of Impact" campaign begins Friday, Feb. 6 at 9 a.m. ET and ends Thursday, April 9 at 9 p.m. ET. Visit Dr. Ragsdale's donor page on the AHA site to learn more about the campaign and donate.  'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. This interview has been edited for time and clarity.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (January 30, 2026) – Central Appalachia has powered the nation for generations — fueling industry, building cities, and supporting economic growth far beyond the region itself. But as coal and other extractive industries decline, communities across Appalachia are once again facing transition. The question, as many have learned through hard experience, isn't whether change is coming — it's whether that change will be just. On this episode of Behind the Blue, Shaunna Scott, a recently retired associate professor of sociology in the UK Department of Sociology and Kathryn Engle, an adjunct assistant professor of sociology and the director of the UK Appalachian Center discuss a new book they co-edited, Toward Just Transitions: Visions for Regenerative Communities in Appalachia.  Drawing on decades of scholarship, community-based research, and on-the-ground activism, the conversation explores what it means to move beyond extractive economies toward futures grounded in democracy, equity, health, and local control. Scott and Engle frame Appalachia not only as a region shaped by coal and industrial decline, but as a place already rich with grassroots innovation—from local food systems and youth leadership to cooperative ownership and Indigenous perspectives on land and stewardship. Together, they reflect on history, climate change, racial and economic justice, and the role institutions like the University of Kentucky can play in supporting community-led solutions across the Commonwealth. 'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for this or other episodes of 'Behind the Blue' can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. This interview has been edited for time and clarity.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (January 23, 2026) – The business of college athletics is at an inflection point, and leaders across higher education are grappling with a new reality: rising costs, shifting rules and a model many say can't hold. On this week's episode of 'Behind the Blue,' UK's Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration and Co-Executive Vice President for Health Affairs Dr. Eric Monday continues our Business of UK series with guest Erik Judson, founder and CEO of JMI Sports, for a wide-ranging conversation about the changing economics of college sports.  Judson, who has spent three decades in the business of sports, says the current landscape has moved from one of the most regulated systems to one that now feels chaotic and inconsistent. "As we sit here today, it's absolutely not sustainable," Judson said, adding that the rapid shift has made it difficult for institutions to keep up with mounting, often unfunded, costs.  Those pressures include new financial obligations tied to the House settlement, expanded scholarships, increased spending around name, image and likeness (NIL), and escalating salaries across athletic departments — from coaching staff to the broader operational ecosystem.  In response, Judson argues athletic departments must become more disciplined and business-minded — not by changing the student-athlete experience, but by professionalizing the way programs generate revenue and manage expenses. "It's not just a revenue problem, it's a cost problem," he said.  A key theme of the discussion is the need for clearer rules and enforceable standards. Judson calls for "guardrails" to reduce uncertainty across the sport — ideally with help from Congress — so schools can compete in a system everyone understands and is expected to follow.  Judson also points to creative policy options that could discourage runaway spending while preserving competitive opportunity — including the idea of a luxury tax model that penalizes programs that far exceed agreed-upon limits.  Despite the turbulence, Judson ends on an optimistic note: the passion that fuels college sports — among fans, communities and stakeholders — can also drive the momentum needed to build a healthier, more stable future. Listeners are encouraged to submit questions and ideas for future Business of UK episodes by emailing businessofUK@uky.edu. Upcoming installments will focus on the university's $8.7 billion enterprise budget, how it is structured, and how resources are allocated across education, research, health care and service throughout the Commonwealth. 'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for this or other episodes of 'Behind the Blue' can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  

LEXINGTON, Ky. (January 14, 2026) – Monday, January 19th, 2026 will mark Lexington's 53rd anniversary of the observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, a US Federal holiday that honors the birth, life and dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and is also the only national holiday designated as a national day of service to encourage Americans to volunteer for opportunities to improve their communities in a variety of ways. As part of the planning committee for Lexington's annual MLK Holiday Observance, Ja'Mahl McDaniel has helped shape one of the longest-running celebrations of Dr. King's legacy in the country. McDaniel is director of the University of Kentucky's Martin Luther King, Jr. Center — a hub for student opportunities in academics, civic leadership, and cultural exchange rooted in Dr. King's philosophy. This year's event will bring the community together around the theme, "The Right to Live, The Right to Choose: Health, Ballots & The Beloved Community," connecting Dr. King's work to present-day questions about public health, voting rights, and collective responsibility — and what it looks like to turn reflection into action. On this episode of 'Behind the Blue', McDaniel is joined by co-committee member Jay Alexander, the programming and music director for WBTF-FM in Lexington, to walk through  what to expect on MLK Day in Lexington — including the Freedom March and commemorative program — and talk about why the celebration still matters, what they hope people take away from this year's keynote message, and how the day's visual storytelling helps bring history into sharper focus. "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. "Behind the Blue" is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (January 8, 2026) – As we welcome students, faculty, and staff back to campus for the spring 2026 semester, this episode of Behind the Blue offers a moment to pause, reflect, and look ahead. In December, UK President Eli Capilouto sat down for a wide-ranging conversation about the year behind us and the momentum carrying the university forward.  On this episode of Behind the Blue Capilouto reflects on the close of 2025 and what it means to begin a new year with students back on campus—celebrating milestones like commencement, growing enrollment, and the continued success of first-generation and Kentucky students. He also discusses how the university has navigated a changing external landscape, staying grounded in core principles like dignity, respect, and a steadfast focus on putting students first. The conversation explores major moments of pride from the past year, including transformative philanthropic investments supporting children's health and the arts, the breadth of disciplines that make UK uniquely positioned to tackle complex challenges, and the continued physical transformation of campus tied directly to talent, infrastructure, and opportunity. President Capilouto also looks ahead—highlighting the Advancing Kentucky Together Network, UK's expanding role as a partner of choice in artificial intelligence, and the university's responsibility to lead with both caution and promise as new technologies reshape education, research, and healthcare. Throughout the conversation, one theme remains constant: the university's mission to advance the Commonwealth—to help build a Kentucky that is healthier, wealthier, and wiser—and the people across campus who make that work possible every day. "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. "Behind the Blue" is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (December 22, 2025) – College athletics is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history, as Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) opportunities and revenue-sharing models reshape how universities support student-athletes. This week on "Behind the Blue, our recurring feature The Business of UK continues with an in-depth look at BBNIL, the University of Kentucky's approach to NIL and its collaboration with JMI Sports.  On this episode, UK Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration and Co-Executive Vice President for Health Affairs Eric Monday is joined by Mitch Barnhart, UK's Athletics Director, and Paul Archey, president of JMI Sports. Together, they examine how NIL fits into the broader financial ecosystem of college sports and how UK is positioning its student-athletes for success in a rapidly evolving landscape.  Barnhart, who has led UK Athletics since 2002, outlines the dramatic changes of the past decade — from cost-of-attendance stipends and academic awards to the COVID-19 pandemic and the emergence of NIL. He explains that NIL opportunities exist alongside, but separate from, revenue sharing made possible through the House settlement.  Under the new framework, UK is participating fully in revenue sharing, with up to $20.5 million available annually, while also working to maximize NIL opportunities for student-athletes through education, partnerships and brand development. Barnhart emphasizes that the goal is both competitive excellence and long-term preparation. "We're creating really good rosters," he says, "and we're giving our young people the best opportunity to monetize and make money for themselves… while also preparing them for what comes next."   Archey describes BBNIL as a collaborative, holistic approach that goes beyond individual deals. "BBNIL is a collaboration between us as their multimedia rights partner and the university athletic department to create this structure in which we can provide opportunities — revenue and marketing opportunities — for student-athletes," he explains.  That support includes brand development, content creation, compliance navigation and access to long-standing corporate partners across Kentucky and beyond.  The episode also addresses common questions about restrictions and flexibility within NIL. Both Barnhart and Archey stress that student-athletes are not limited to a single pathway. Athletes may work through BB-NIL, pursue independent deals, or bring existing agreements to the university for review and support.   Throughout the conversation, Monday returns to UK's guiding principles — transparency, accountability and putting students first. He notes that UK's approach to NIL builds on earlier efforts such as financial literacy programs and academic awards designed to help student-athletes manage resources responsibly and leave the university prepared for life beyond competition.   Listeners are encouraged to submit questions and ideas for future Business of UK episodes by emailing businessofUK@uky.edu. Upcoming installments will focus on the university's $8.7 billion enterprise budget, how it is structured, and how resources are allocated across education, research, health care and service throughout the Commonwealth.  "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university.  "Behind the Blue" is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. 

LEXINGTON, Ky. (December 18, 2025) – Strategic partnerships play a critical role in supporting the University of Kentucky's mission, particularly in athletics, where revenue generation, fan engagement and long-term planning are increasingly complex. These complexities are well understood by Paul Archey, president of JMI Sports, the multimedia rights partner for UK Athletics and the university.  On this week's episode of "Behind the Blue," Archey joins UK Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration and Co-Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, Dr. Eric Monday, on another installment of The Business of UK, a recurring feature designed to give listeners a look inside the principles and processes that guide UK's financial and operational decisions.  Originally from Greenup, Ky, Archey speaks on how the partnership was formed, why it has continued to evolve, and how its structure supports both UK Athletics and the university as a whole. The conversation also highlights the deep Kentucky roots that underpin the relationship, including the legacy of Jim Host, founder of Host Communications and longtime UK partners who helped shape the modern multimedia rights landscape for college athletics.  Listeners are encouraged to submit questions and suggestions for future installments of The Business of UK by emailing businessofUK@uky.edu. Upcoming episodes will further explore the changing landscape of college athletics, including a conversation with Archey and UK Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart about the development of BBNIL (UK Athletics' Name, Image & Likeness strategy), and other topics including budget structure, tuition setting, capital projects and more.  "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university.  "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. 

LEXINGTON, Ky. (December 18, 2025) – Across the Commonwealth, the University of Kentucky fulfills its land-grant mission through teaching, research, service and health care — from students discovering their passions, to researchers making breakthroughs, to clinicians providing critical care in communities of every size. But behind the work that most Kentuckians see is a complex network of decisions, partnerships and operational systems that keep the university and UK HealthCare running every day.  This week, we're launching a new recurring feature on "Behind the Blue" called The Business of UK, designed to take listeners inside that part of the institution. The Business of UK will break down major business questions and explore the principles and processes that guide UK's financial and operational decisions.  Leading this new feature is UK Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration and Co-Executive Vice President  for Health Affairs, Dr. Eric Monday. From large-scale partnerships to everyday budget decisions, Monday will spotlight topics and welcome guests to help listeners better understand the frameworks behind the university's most significant business relationships and strategic choices.  Future installments of The Business of UK will explore the university's relationship with JMI Sports, the development of BBNIL (UK Athletics' Name, Image & Likeness strategy), and other topics including budget structure, tuition setting, capital projects and more.  Listeners are invited to participate in shaping the series by submitting questions and topic suggestions via email to businessofUK@uky.edu.   "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university.  "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. 

LEXINGTON, Ky. (December 11, 2025) – There's a first time for everything — and on Friday, 71-year-old University of Kentucky College of Education graduate Ellen London will experience a significant first: attending a graduation ceremony to accept a diploma. Ellen, who just earned her second master's degree, didn't attend the commencement ceremonies for her bachelor's or first master's degrees at other universities. She didn't even attend her own high school graduation, saying she was "too shy" to be in the spotlight. As she dons a cap and gown for the first time and readies herself to cross the stage at Rupp Arena, she'll be cheered on by friends and family, including two family members who are also part of the UK community: her daughter, Tessa London-Bounds, M.D., a cardiothoracic surgeon with the UK Gill Heart Institute, and her 10-year-old grandson, Harry, a cello player in the College of Fine Arts' UK String Project. In this episode of "Behind the Blue," this trio joins us to talk about their nomadic upbringing, love of learning, and how the University of Kentucky has been able to provide each one of them with a vastly different educational experience.  "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (December 5, 2025) – Kentucky has one of the nation's highest burdens of chronic lung disease, a challenge intensified by smoking prevalence, occupational exposures and limited access to specialized care in rural communities. As UK HealthCare looks to expand its services for those with advanced lung conditions, a new leader is helping to guide that effort. Dr. Edward Cantu recently joined the University of Kentucky as director of the UK HealthCare Lung Transplantation Program and the thoracic surgery division. A surgeon whose path has taken him from Columbia University to Duke University and the University of Pennsylvania, Cantu says his goal is clear: increase access, improve outcomes and build a patient-centered system of care for lung disease across the Commonwealth.  On this episode of "Behind the Blue," Dr. Cantu discusses the importance of advanced lung care in Kentucky, the role of early detection in conditions like solitary pulmonary nodules and the lifesaving possibilities provided by lung transplantation. He explains how surgical techniques, donor evaluation and anti-rejection medications have advanced over the past two decades — progress that has improved survival while opening the door to more patients who might benefit from transplant. Cantu also speaks candidly about Kentucky and Appalachia's significant health disparities. Many patients, he notes, face barriers not only in treatment but in screening, diagnosis and follow-up care. Expanding the lung transplant program means developing stronger networks with regional hospitals, improving access to diagnostic resources and ensuring patients can receive as much care as possible close to home. As the program grows, Cantu envisions UK HealthCare becoming a regional leader in lung care — a center known for high-quality transplant outcomes, early cancer detection pathways and coordinated partnerships that reach patients where they are. Ultimately, his vision is simple: better living and better breathing for every person with lung disease in Kentucky. "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (November 21, 2025) – As the cost of higher education continues to challenge students and families nationwide, the University of Kentucky is taking a different approach — one that goes beyond tuition and scholarships to equip students with long-term financial confidence. Since 2022, UK Invests has helped students earn up to $500 each year by participating in activities tied to wellness, engagement, employability skills and financial literacy, with funds deposited directly into individual Fidelity investment accounts. For Paul McKinney, UK's Associate Vice President for Student Financial Stability, the program represents the next step in the institution's commitment to supporting students both inside and outside the classroom. A veteran of more than 30 years in higher-education finance, McKinney joined UK after seeing the potential of UK Invests to not only educate students about budgeting and long-term investing, but to meaningfully shape their financial futures. Since its launch, the university has disbursed over $2.2 million to participating students, who show higher GPAs and retention rates compared to their peers. On this episode of "Behind the Blue," McKinney discusses the origins of UK Invests, the partnership with Fidelity and iGrad, and the program's unique focus on practical financial education — from understanding risk tolerance and compound growth to navigating AI-powered budgeting and investment tools. He also shares how UK Invests is influencing student behavior across campus, the lessons learned from its early rollout, and the program's potential to position a generation of graduates to make informed financial decisions that strengthen both their personal futures and the economy of the Commonwealth. "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (November 14, 2025) – THIS IS AN ENCORE EPISODE. When we think about children's health, we often picture checkups, vaccinations, and the day-to-day care families receive from their pediatricians. But in Kentucky, the conversation goes much deeper. From rural access to care, to systemic poverty, to the lingering effects of the opioid epidemic, children across the Commonwealth face challenges that begin long before they step into a doctor's office. At the same time, what was known as Kentucky Children's Hospital — now newly renamed Golisano Children's at UK, following a historic $50 million gift from philanthropist Tom Golisano — and the University of Kentucky are stepping up with bold strategies aimed not just at treating illness, but at building healthier communities from the ground up. The record-breaking gift, the largest in UK's history, will expand programs, research and statewide partnerships that ensure every child in Kentucky has access to world-class care close to home. In this encore episode of "Behind the Blue", we revisit our June conversation with Dr. Scottie Day, Physician-in-Chief of Golisano Children's at UK, and Dr. Bethany Hodge, Vice Chair for Population Health and Strategy in the Department of Pediatrics. They discuss the evolving needs of Kentucky's youngest patients, the original launch of the KCH Affiliate Network, and how a commitment to upstream care and community collaboration continues to shape the future of children's health across the Commonwealth.  Stay tuned after the interview for an update on the Golisano announcement and what it means for the future of pediatric care at UK HealthCare. 'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (November 7, 2025) – Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among young people in Kentucky, but University of Kentucky faculty and students are working to change that through a simple, yet powerful idea: communication saves lives. Sarah Geegan, assistant professor in the Department of Integrated Strategic Communication, and C.C. Rhein, a junior ISC major and Gaines Fellow, are leading outreach and education efforts promoting QPR — Question, Persuade, Refer — a national training program that teaches anyone how to recognize warning signs, ask difficult questions, and connect people in crisis to help.  Through a partnership with UK HealthCare, the QPR training is now available free of charge to all Kentuckians at UKHealthCare.com/QPR. The 30-minute online session provides practical tools that can prepare anyone to offer hope and immediate support to someone in need. On this episode of "Behind the Blue", Geegan and Rhein discuss how QPR works, why breaking stigma around mental health is essential, and how compassion and awareness can create a ripple effect of hope. Geegan reflects on her own experiences and research in suicide prevention communication, while Rhein shares how she has used her QPR training to help peers in real-life situations. Together, they highlight how every Kentuckian — student, staff, or neighbor — can be part of a lifesaving safety net. "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of "Behind the Blue" each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 30, 2025) – Kentucky continues to face one of the highest rates of lung cancer in the nation, but new advances at UK HealthCare are helping doctors shorten the time from diagnosis to life-saving treatment. Through the use of cutting-edge robotic systems, UK surgeons can now perform same-day biopsy and surgery for certain early-stage lung cancers — turning what was once weeks of waiting and anxiety into a single, coordinated procedure. Dr. Shari Meyerson, professor of surgery and division chief of thoracic surgery, and Dr. Mansi Shah, assistant professor in the Division of Thoracic Surgery, are leading this effort at the University of Kentucky. Their team is also the first in Kentucky — and among the first in the region — to perform thoracic procedures using the new single-port da Vinci robotic system, which allows complex operations through one small incision, helping patients recover faster and with less pain.  On this episode of 'Behind the Blue,' Drs. Meyerson and Shah explain how robotic technology is transforming lung-cancer care in Kentucky. They discuss the impact of same-day diagnosis and treatment, the benefits of single-port surgery for quicker recovery and reduced narcotic use, and the importance of encouraging more Kentuckians to take part in routine lung-cancer screening.  "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of "Behind the Blue" each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university.  "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 23, 2025) – The University of Kentucky Alumni Association started the Great Teacher Award program in 1961 to honor excellent teaching at the university. There have been more than 300 teachers honored since that first year. Nominations may only be submitted by current students. To receive the award, a candidate must: Hold the rank of full-time lecturer or above and have been a member of the faculty for the past three years at UK. Have superior knowledge of the subject matter. Have original and innovative classroom presentations. Demonstrate concern for students, both inside and outside the classroom setting. Not have been a recipient of the award for the past 10 years. A committee of the UK Alumni Association Board of Directors and a representative from the student organization Omicron Delta Kappa select the recipients based on objective rating and ranking of the eligible nominations submitted. This episode of Behind the Blue spotlights one of the six Great Teacher Award winners for 2025: Isabel Escobar, the Paul W. Chellgren Endowed Chair and a professor of chemical and materials engineering in the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering. Escobar has more than 20 years of experience in water treatment using membrane separations and she has taught an array of chemical and environmental engineering courses. Her research focuses on developing and/or improving polymeric membrane materials for water treatment and water reuse operations and fabricating and scaling tailor-made green membranes for difficult separations. She was part of an innovative research collaboration that created a 3-D printed membrane-filtered face mask that could inactivate the coronavirus. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university.  Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.  

LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 17, 2025) – Every fall, the University of Kentucky's Family Weekend offers a chance for students, parents, and alumni to come together and celebrate what makes the Wildcat experience unique. It's a time to reconnect, share stories, and reflect on the people who help students find their place — and their purpose — at UK. For this special edition of Behind the Blue, two College of Public Health students share how family and community have shaped their journeys.  Isabella Frost, a pre-dental sophomore from Knox County, discusses her goal of returning home to serve her rural community after dental school — a dream inspired by her father Jeff, a longtime educator and high school principal.  Ava Schatz, a Bachelor of Public Health student on UK's accelerated master's track, reflects on what she's learned from her parents, both UK alumni, including her father David, an archaeologist who studies how people and communities evolve over time. On this episode of “Behind the Blue,” the Frost and Schatz families talk about the power of encouragement, the lasting bond between parents and students, and how the values of service and discovery continue to connect generations of Wildcats across Kentucky. “Behind the Blue” is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. “Behind the Blue” is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 10, 2025) – Over his nearly 32 years with UKPD, University of Kentucky Police Department Chief Joe Monroe has watched the department evolve from a small campus police force into one of the largest law enforcement agencies in Kentucky — serving what he calls a “city within a city.”   Today, his team's mission extends far beyond patrols and parking enforcement, encompassing everything from crisis management and emergency planning to healthcare security and cutting-edge technology like drones and a network of more than 5,000 cameras across campus. On this episode of "Behind the Blue," Chief Monroe talks about the department's growth and modernization, the philosophy of safety as a shared community responsibility, and the partnerships and technologies that help protect and prepare the university every day. “Behind the Blue” is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. “Behind the Blue” is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 3, 2025) – When University of Kentucky alum Brian Cury, founder of EarthCam, placed the company's first webcam above Times Square for the 1996 New Year's Eve celebration, he thought it was a fad that soon would pass. Today, though, webcams are part of the culture. We watch eagles in their nests, bears in the wilderness, buildings under construction and scenes from cities around the world. This type of innocent voyeurism has “great appeal,” Cury said. Cury's EarthCam, founded in 1996 and headquartered in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, has cameras all over the planet, including looking down from the torch of the Statue of Liberty, outside Chicago's Wrigley Field and the crosswalk made famous by the Beatles on northwest London's Abbey Road.  “A lot of people actually have used our cameras as a destination,” Cury said. “They've traveled to London and made sure they walked in front of the (Abbey Road) camera and got a video clip of themselves. “Paul McCartney actually did it. He got in front of one of our cameras and waved.” Cury was one of 20 UK graduates inducted into the university's Hall of Distinguished Alumni in September. On this episode of “Behind the Blue,” Cury discusses EarthCam's beginnings, changes in technology that have helped and challenged the company's mission and how EarthCam has expanded its business offerings into areas like ensuring safety on building construction sites.  “Behind the Blue” is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. “Behind the Blue” is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (September 25, 2025) – The University of Kentucky Alumni Association started the Great Teacher Award program in 1961 to honor excellent teaching at the university. There have been more than 300 teachers honored since that first year. Nominations may only be submitted by current students. To receive the award, a candidate must: Hold the rank of full-time lecturer or above and have been a member of the faculty for the past three years at UK. Have superior knowledge of the subject matter. Have original and innovative classroom presentations. Demonstrate concern for students, both inside and outside the classroom setting. Not have been a recipient of the award for the past 10 years.  A committee of the UK Alumni Association Board of Directors and a representative from the student organization Omicron Delta Kappa select the recipients based on objective rating and ranking of the eligible nominations submitted. This episode of Behind the Blue spotlights one of the six Great Teacher Award winners for 2025: Channon Horn, a clinical associate professor in the Department of Early Childhood, Special Education and Counselor Education in UK's College of Education. Horn's professional career has focused on advocating appropriate educational opportunities for students with disabilities. She has experience in the field of special education as it relates to those with moderate to severe disabilities and those with learning and behavioral disorders. Horn's research interests include strategies to actively engage all learners in inclusive environments, the use of evidence based instructional strategies and the implementation of technology to positively impact learners with exceptionalities. She has served as a coach with the Special Olympics of the Bluegrass. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

 LEXINGTON, Ky. (September 18, 2025) – For more than a century, beginning in 1915, the University of Kentucky has marked Homecoming Week as a celebration of tradition, spirit and community. The week brings together students, alumni, families and friends to honor what it means to be a Wildcat. Homecoming 2025, held October 12–19, once again features the collaboration of the UK Alumni Association, Student Organizations and Activities, Black Student Union, National Pan-Hellenic Council, Student Activities Board, the Office for Student Success and other campus partners. This year, the Alumni Association will also welcome the Golden Wildcats from the Class of 1975 for a series of reunion activities, including their formal induction into the Golden Wildcat Society. A full schedule of events and registration details can be found on the UK Alumni Association's website. From the National Pan-Hellenic Council Step Show to the Lyman T. Johnson Awards Luncheon, Big Blue Day at Keeneland, the Alumni Commons Block Party, and the Homecoming Tailgate at the Tobacco Research and Development Center, the week offers opportunities for alumni of all ages to reconnect. The celebration culminates in the Homecoming football game against Texas on Saturday, Oct. 18. On this episode of Behind the Blue, UK Alumni Association Executive Director Jill Smith and incoming Alumni Association President Tom Mathews reflect on the importance of alumni engagement and the worldwide reach of the Wildcat community. Mathews, a 1993 chemistry graduate and Louisville native, shares his UK journey and career path, while Smith highlights the role of the Alumni Association in keeping alumni connected, supporting signature programs like the Hall of Distinguished Alumni and the Great Teacher Awards, and preparing for the future of a growing alumni base. “Behind the Blue” is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. “Behind the Blue” is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (September 11, 2025) – What began as a happy accident between two separate career fairs has grown into one of the most impactful workforce development events at the University of Kentucky. Now in its fourth year, the Kentucky Signature Industries Career Fair is welcoming a new major player — agribusiness — to its collaborative showcase of opportunity.  Hosted by the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the career fair was originally born from a coincidental overlap in scheduling between the college's Ag Equine Programs and the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits. Rather than competing, they joined forces to highlight two of Kentucky's most iconic industries — equine and distillation — for a single event that connects students with employers and opportunities they might never have previously considered. This year, the Department of Agricultural Economics is officially joining the fair to represent Kentucky's dynamic agribusiness sector, offering students an even broader view of potential careers across the state's signature industries. “Kentucky is very rich in agricultural history,” said Savannah Robin, a lecturer in career and professional development for Ag Equine Programs. “Being able to bring on our agribusiness employers is really important. Many of them overlap and cross collaborate…so that just seemed like a really natural fit to bring them all together.” The 2025 event — taking place September 25 from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Gatton Student Center — is open to students of all majors from across UK and beyond. Last year's fair drew job-seekers from 12 universities and over 80 different majors, including fields like engineering, business, communication, horticulture, data analytics, and computer science. “I think you're crazy as a student if you don't go to every one of these career fairs you can possibly go to,” joked Seth DeBolt, director of the Beam Institute. “You never really know what you don't know. You think, “I might not be interested in that career, but…you find yourself in front of a future employer saying “this, this might just change my mind, broaden my horizons…” In addition to job opportunities, the fair helps students explore internships, mentorships, and career readiness tools — with a new Student Resource Room debuting this year, including resume printing, wardrobe prep, and free professional headshots. The fair is also a reunion space for alumni now representing their companies — often returning just a year or two after attending as students. “One of my favorite things [is seeing our graduates] now on the other side of the table,” said Aslihan Spaulding, Department Chair and Professor of Agricultural Economics. “They can see, you know somebody that was in their shoes…I think that's validating for them.” On this episode of "Behind the Blue", Robin, DeBolt and Spaulding discuss the evolution of the fair, the strategic workforce development happening inside UK's signature industries programs, and how UK is helping students discover unexpected career paths while building a strong future for the Commonwealth. For more information on the Kentucky Signature Industries Career Fair, including student and employer registration, visit Handshake. “Behind the Blue” is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. “Behind the Blue” is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.  

LEXINGTON, Ky. (September 5, 2025) – September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and September 10th marks World Suicide Prevention Day — a moment to highlight the importance of open, honest conversations about mental health and the resources available to help those in crisis. On this episode of “Behind the Blue”, Dr. Lindsey Jasinski and Dr. Marc Woods, two of the key leaders behind the EmPATH program at Eastern State Hospital, discuss their decades of experience in behavioral health and suicide prevention, and share how their team is helping Kentuckians find hope during some of their most vulnerable moments. They discuss the alarming prevalence of suicide—particularly among young people in Kentucky—and offer actionable insight on how to support someone who may be struggling. They also explain how EmPATH, a low-barrier, 24/7 mental crisis emergency unit, is changing the way patients receive immediate, compassionate mental health care—and why that model is quickly gaining national attention. “Behind the Blue” is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. “Behind the Blue” is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. UK HealthCare's EmPATH unit (Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment, and Healing) is a new emergency unit dedicated to the treatment of patients experiencing a mental health crisis. Located on the campus of Eastern State Hospital at 1350 Bull Lea Road in Lexington, this unit is open 24/7, 365 days a year and is designed to provide immediate access to mental health care and resources. Referrals are not needed to come to EmPATH. You can also call or text 988, the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, to speak with a trained counselor — free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day. And for Kentuckians, free QPR training (Question, Persuade, Refer) is available at kyqpr.ukhc.org — a one-hour course that could help you save a life. To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (August 28, 2025) – The University of Kentucky Alumni Association started the Great Teacher Award program in 1961 to honor excellent teaching at the university. There have been more than 300 teachers honored since that first year. Nominations may only be submitted by current students. To receive the award, a candidate must: Hold the rank of full-time lecturer or above and have been a member of the faculty for the past three years at UK. Have superior knowledge of the subject matter. Have original and innovative classroom presentations. Demonstrate concern for students, both inside and outside the classroom setting. Not have been a recipient of the award for the past 10 years.  A committee of the UK Alumni Association Board of Directors and a representative from the student organization Omicron Delta Kappa select the recipients based on objective rating and ranking of the eligible nominations submitted. This episode of Behind the Blue spotlights one of the six Great Teacher Award winners for 2025: Douglas Klein, a First-Year Engineering senior lecturer and director of the Innovation Center at the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering. Klein teaches courses including engineering exploration, which introduces students to the innovation, design and problem solving involved in engineering and computer science. He is director of the College of Engineering's Innovation Center, a makerspace that offers tools to help students bring their designs to life for class assignments, team competitions and their businesses. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (August 21, 2025) – Now in his 15th academic year leading the University of Kentucky, President Eli Capilouto prepares for the start of the fall 2025 semester — a moment he often describes as among his favorite of the year. On this episode of Behind the Blue, Capilouto reflects on the renewed energy and momentum across campus as students, faculty, and staff begin a new year. He shares how UK continues to fulfill its mission of advancing Kentucky through education, research, service, and care; discusses key challenges and opportunities on the horizon for 2025–26; and outlines how UK's culture of innovation is being shaped by those who call the Commonwealth home. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university.  Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. This episode has been edited for time and clarity.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (August 14, 2025) – The University of Kentucky College of Medicine's Department of Neurology is marking its 60th anniversary, celebrating a legacy that began in 1965 with a single faculty member and has grown into a nationally respected center for neurological care, research, and education. The department, led by chair Larry Goldstein, M.D., has expanded to more than 70 faculty and built a reputation for advancing clinical care across numerous subspecialties — from general neurology, stroke, epilepsy, and movement disorders to neuromuscular diseases, multiple sclerosis/neuroimmunology, child neurology, neuro-ophthalmology, neuro-oncology and memory disorders. With a strong commitment to serving the Commonwealth, the department partners with hospitals and clinics statewide, including outreach to rural communities through its stroke care network and traveling pediatric clinics, ensuring Kentuckians have access to specialized care without leaving the state. On this episode of Behind the Blue, Dr. Goldstein talks about the department's origins and its evolution into a leader in patient care, education, and research; highlights some of its most impactful programs, including clinical trials and the neuroscience research priority area; and reflects on what lies ahead as the department looks toward its next six decades of innovation and service. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (August 7, 2025) – Fiction has long offered writers a veil—an opportunity to tell deeply personal stories while maintaining a layer of narrative distance. But what happens when that veil is intentionally thin? When the boundaries between memory and imagination, fact and fiction, are not just blurred but teased and twisted? That's the space explored in If You Love It, Let It Kill You, the latest novel from Hannah Pittard, acclaimed author and professor in the University of Kentucky's Department of English. Drawing from autobiographical threads, Pittard uses fiction to explore truths that might feel too complex—or too personal—for straightforward memoir.  On this episode of Behind the Blue, Pittard talks about the freedom and risk of writing autobiographical fiction, the influence of teaching and mentorship on her work, and the role that humor and discomfort play in crafting emotionally resonant stories. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university.  Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 31, 2025) – The University of Kentucky Alumni Association started the Great Teacher Award program in 1961 to honor excellent teaching at the university. There have been more than 300 teachers honored since that first year. Nominations may only be submitted by current students. To receive the award, a candidate must: Hold the rank of full-time lecturer or above and have been a member of the faculty for the past three years at UK. Have superior knowledge of the subject matter. Have original and innovative classroom presentations. Demonstrate concern for students, both inside and outside the classroom setting. Not have been a recipient of the award for the past 10 years. A committee of the UK Alumni Association Board of Directors and a representative from the student organization Omicron Delta Kappa select the recipients based on objective rating and ranking of the eligible nominations submitted. This episode of Behind the Blue spotlights one of the six Great Teacher Award winners for 2025: Sahar Alameh, an assistant professor of STEM education in the UK College of Education. Alameh's research encompasses two areas: supporting teachers and students in the construction and evaluation of scientific explanations within K-12 science classrooms and developing informed views of science and its nature, particularly within the context of socio-scientific issues.   She is part of a UK research team developing curricula to help students better understand diseases, pandemics and viruses using wastewater through wastewater surveillance. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 18, 2025) – Each year in the U.S., more than 350,000 people experience sudden cardiac arrest outside of a hospital. Survival in these moments depends on two critical factors: immediate bystander response and access to life-saving technology. Yet in many communities—especially in rural or under-resourced areas—those tools remain out of reach. At the heart of the solution is the automated external defibrillator, or AED. Small, portable, and easy to use, AEDs can drastically increase the odds of surviving cardiac arrest when paired with prompt CPR. But despite their effectiveness, these devices are still missing in far too many schools, offices, churches, and public spaces across Kentucky and the nation. On this episode of Behind the Blue, we speak with Dr. Shaun Mohan, an electrophysiologist and medical director of Project ADAM at Kentucky Children's Hospital. Dr. Mohan discusses the mission to expand AED access through education and grassroots community partnerships, and how programs like Project ADAM are working to certify schools as "Heart Safe"—ensuring that faculty, staff, and even students are trained and ready to respond in the moments that matter most.  ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 1, 2025) – The University of Kentucky Alumni Association started the Great Teacher Award program in 1961 to honor excellent teaching at the university. There have been more than 300 teachers honored since that first year. Nominations may only be submitted by current students. To receive the award, a candidate must:  Hold the rank of full-time lecturer or above and have been a member of the faculty for the past three years at UK. Have superior knowledge of the subject matter. Have original and innovative classroom presentations. Demonstrate concern for students, both inside and outside the classroom setting. Not have been a recipient of the award for the past 10 years. A committee of the UK Alumni Association Board of Directors and a representative from the student organization Omicron Delta Kappa select the recipients based on objective rating and ranking of the eligible nominations submitted. This episode of Behind the Blue spotlights one of the six Great Teacher Award winners for 2025: Matthew Kim, an assistant professor in the Department of Psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences. Kim leads the Developing Minds Lab where his research, funded by the National Science Foundation, examines the nature and development of motivation and self-regulation skills in K-12 and postsecondary students. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 26, 2025) – When we think about children's health, we often picture check-ups, vaccinations, and the day-to-day care families receive from their pediatricians. But in Kentucky, the conversation goes much deeper. From rural access to care, to systemic poverty, to the lingering effects of the opioid epidemic, children across the Commonwealth face challenges that begin long before they step into a doctor's office. At the same time, Kentucky Children's Hospital and the University of Kentucky are stepping up with bold strategies aimed not just at treating illness, but at building healthier communities—starting from the ground up. Through statewide partnerships, data-driven interventions, and a renewed focus on population health, leaders are rethinking what pediatric care can and should be. On this episode of Behind the Blue, we speak with Dr. Scottie Day, Chair of the Department of Pediatrics and Physician-in-Chief of Kentucky Children's Hospital, and Dr. Bethany Hodge, Vice Chair for Population Health and Strategy in the Department of Pediatrics. They discuss the evolving needs of Kentucky's youngest patients, the launch of the KCH Affiliate Network, and how a commitment to upstream care and community collaboration is shaping the future of children's health across the state. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 19, 2025) – THIS IS AN ENCORE EPISODE. On January 1st, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the ‘Emancipation Proclamation', but it wasn't until June 19th, 1865 that the last remaining enslaved African Americans – men and women in Galveston, Texas – learned they were free. Since that time, June 19th, or “Juneteenth”, has been celebrated annually in various parts of the United States to commemorate emancipation as well as celebrate African-American culture. Still, it took until June 17th of 2021 for the day to be recognized as a federal holiday, after becoming more widely celebrated among African-American communities and gaining more and more mainstream attention in the US.  On this episode of Behind the Blue, we're presenting an encore interview with Dr. Anastasia Curwood, director of The Commonwealth Institute for Black Studies (CIBS) and African American and Africana Studies (AAAS) at UK. In this conversation, originally from June of 2022, Dr. Curwood discusses the Juneteenth holiday, from her personal feelings and reflections on the significance of the day, to the importance of observance of the holiday by the university, and more. Behind the Blue is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  For more information about CIBS, including ways you can support, visit https://cibs.as.uky.edu/.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 12, 2025) – As the University of Kentucky continues to evolve – whether through expanding student housing, major medical center construction, or increased sustainability initiatives – so too must the systems that help people navigate it all. With summer offering a brief window for more intensive work, University of Kentucky Transportation Services is executing projects ranging from garage expansions and surface lot renovations to shuttle route adjustments.  “The worst thing to do is wait until [something] hits you and then be reactive. [We] always try to be proactive,” says Lance Broeking, Director of Transportation Services at UK.  Among the more major updates are: A significant expansion of Sports Center Garage, adding over 1,200 spaces through both vertical and horizontal expansion The transition of the Prall Street lot into visitor-only parking, which Broeking hopes will reduce confusion and citation rates The introduction of flexible permit zones to help alleviate overcrowding and adapt to fluctuating parking demand around Kroger Field, especially during game day relocations A new Wildcat Wheels bike shop location, further enhancing UK's alternative transportation options The upcoming switch to virtual parking permits in fall 2026, allowing users to manage their parking entirely through license plate recognition and mobile technology On this episode of Behind the Blue, Broeking returns to provide insight into the planning and decision-making that affects how students, faculty, staff and visitors get to, from and around campus. He also discusses how his team stays proactive, responds to feedback, and prepares for a more connected, sustainable future. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university.  Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 4, 2025) – The University of Kentucky Alumni Association started the Great Teacher Award program in 1961 to honor excellent teaching at the university. There have been more than 300 teachers honored since that first year. Nominations may only be submitted by current students. To receive the award, a candidate must: Hold the rank of full-time lecturer or above and have been a member of the faculty for the past three years at UK. Have superior knowledge of the subject matter. Have original and innovative classroom presentations. Demonstrate concern for students, both inside and outside the classroom setting. Not have been a recipient of the award for the past 10 years. A committee of the UK Alumni Association Board of Directors and a representative from the student organization Omicron Delta Kappa select the recipients based on objective rating and ranking of the eligible nominations submitted. This episode of Behind the Blue spotlights one of the six Great Teacher Award winners for 2025: Gosia Chwatko, an assistant professor in the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering. Chwatko's research lab focuses on understanding and developing sustainable separation processes and polymeric materials considering cradle-to-grave design. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 29, 2025) – Health isn't just about treating illness – it's about access. It's about education. It's about the quality of life in every community across Kentucky. In October 2024, the University of Kentucky's Board of Trustees made a bold statement: that UK should become the university that does more than any other in the country to improve the health of the state it serves.  The creation of a new initiative, the Advancing Kentucky Together Network, is the next step in UK's long-standing work to tackle health disparities, boost regional economies, and build a stronger, more resilient workforce—all through deep and sustained community partnerships.  The Network “builds upon years of work we've done on the healthcare side,” said Rob Edwards, UK's Vice President and Chief Strategy & Growth Officer for UK HealthCare, “building networks of healthcare providers and working together to improve clinical care for patients and to provide that care close to the patient's home.” The vision is rooted in Kentucky's land-grant mission and UK's history of stepping into real-world challenges with statewide impact. For Edwards, the concept is straightforward: “I would say we're taking a lot of long-time relationships that are built on trust…and so we've been able to find a model that works from both an expense standpoint and a health outcomes standpoint.”  On this episode of Behind the Blue, Edwards discusses the decades of partnership-building that laid the groundwork for this network, how strategic collaborations can meet local and statewide needs, and why UK is uniquely positioned to lead this effort. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 22, 2025) – As federal lawmakers continue to examine the future of Medicaid, universities and health systems across the country are monitoring potential policy shifts that could influence how care is delivered—especially in states like Kentucky, where Medicaid plays a foundational role in supporting healthcare access. At the University of Kentucky, Medicaid is more than a funding stream—it helps fuel a wide range of clinical services, community outreach programs, and care for underserved populations. Nearly 35% of patients served by UK HealthCare are Medicaid recipients, and many of them live in rural areas or face chronic health challenges that require consistent, high-quality care. Helping to lead the university's strategic and policy response is Mark Birdwhistell, UK's Senior Vice President for Health and Public Policy. With more than 45 years of experience in healthcare policy and administration, Birdwhistell has played a central role in shaping UK's efforts to communicate the value of Medicaid—not just in dollars, but in lives improved.  UK's participation in Kentucky's Medicaid Directed Payment program, which links funding to quality outcomes, has allowed the university to expand hospital access, reach patients in remote areas, and strengthen partnerships with providers across the Commonwealth. “We're using this opportunity to show accountability, improve outcomes, and demonstrate how a teaching hospital model can work,” Birdwhistell said. On this episode of Behind the Blue, Birdwhistell discusses how the university and its health system are adapting to a rapidly evolving Medicaid landscape, and why federal support remains essential to serving the state's most vulnerable.  ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 8, 2025) – THIS IS AN ENCORE PRESENTATION. The University of Kentucky Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging is celebrating 40 years of research and community impact. The center is world-renowned for its significant contributions to the field through the decades. As the UK-ADRC celebrates this milestone, we reflect on how the Center has evolved over the years and highlight some of its notable achievements. This episode of Behind the Blue features a conversation with Dr. Linda Van Eldik, Director of the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging and Alzheimer's Disease Center. Van Eldik highlights the 40-year journey of the Center, focusing on its origins, community engagement, and the evolution of Alzheimer's research.  The discussion covers the importance of understanding dementia through biomarkers, the significance of translational research, and the center's commitment to preventative strategies and lifestyle interventions. She emphasizes the need for community outreach, education, and the role of philanthropy in advancing research efforts.  Behind the Blue is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 1, 2025) – As the University of Kentucky prepares to celebrate its newest alumni during Commencement ceremonies on May 9th and 10th, each student walking across the stage carries a unique story of transformation and impact shaped by their time on campus. Earning a degree in any field demands dedication, perseverance and countless hours of study, but the experience of UK often provides much more, equipping students with skills and perspectives gained through community engagement, hands-on research opportunities and impactful experiences with the wider world, allowing them to go on to lead lives of meaning and purpose. Two such students are graduating this spring from the UK College of Public Health, with journeys that show how UK's supportive environment, coupled with their own initiative, has prepared them to tackle complex health challenges on a broad, even global, scale. Sophia Goodin, a Lexington native, and Sophie Ciaverelli, who grew up partly in Texas and Germany, were drawn to public health for its focus on making a difference at a population level, rather than through solely individual patient care. They both held a desire to use their skills to help entire communities and appreciated the unique viewpoint Public Health provided in getting to the root causes and solutions of certain problems. Another cornerstone of their UK experience has been the supportive and close-knit community within the college, along with the accessibility and passion of the faculty and staff. Goodin describes the community as “super welcoming,” and noted the ease of having “personal conversations” due to the college's smaller size. Ciaverelli added that the college made strong impressions on them by helping students feel “they want me here, I belong here, and they are celebrating the fact that that I'm here” right from the start. On this episode of Behind the Blue, Goodin and Ciaverelli reflect on their time at UK, their unique research and international experiences, and what's next as they prepare for graduation and embark on their future paths in public health. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 24, 2025) – University of Kentucky President Eli Capilouto often talks about the university's overarching mission to advance the state of Kentucky. A key part of that mission is educating more and more students to help expand the workforce across the Commonwealth.  Recent enrollment figures reflect this mission with record enrollment, as well as retention and graduation rates.  A team from the University of Kentucky recently earned the National Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education (NASPA) Excellence Award.  The presenting team — made up Dr. Kirsten Turner, Vice President for Student Success…Chief Analytics Officer Todd Brann…Dr. Molly Reynolds, Associate Vice President for Student Excellence…and Anne Marie Bickel, Student Analytics Team Lead, Institutional Research, Analytics & Decision Support (IRADS) — won the “Gold in 2025 Assessment, Persistence, Data Analytics and related category” for their Weekly Retention Meetings.  In this episode of Behind the Blue, two of those leaders, Molly Reynolds and Anne Marie Bickel, are taking a deeper dive into this unique strategy to explore how it works and why it's helping University of Kentucky students succeed. Behind the Blue is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 17, 2025) – THIS IS AN ENCORE EPISODE. For those who live and work in urban areas, transportation is often among the top challenges in their daily routines. For Lance Broeking, Director of Transportation Services at the University of Kentucky, addressing these challenges is a constant focus. He leads a department responsible for managing campus parking, transit, and alternative transportation options, working to navigate the complexities of a growing and evolving university environment. In this episode of ‘Behind the Blue', Broeking delves into the impact of campus growth and ongoing construction, the importance of collaborating with the city of Lexington, and the vital role communication and education play in addressing parking regulations, fees, and citations. He also explores the integration of new technologies within transportation services and the university's ongoing commitment to sustainability.  Behind the Blue is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university.  Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 10, 2025) – [THIS IS AN ENCORE EPISODE]  In the summer of 2020, UK Football player JJ Weaver lost both his father and high school football coach in successive months. Weaver, a graduate who plays outside linebacker, says he channeled his emotions into football until an injury later that fall sidelined him and left him with no outlet. Struggling with anger and grief, JJ began falling behind in class and regressing from his teammates, until the UK coaching staff pulled him aside to try and understand what was happening. From there, Weaver's path eventually led him to a senior capstone class with Nicole Breazeale, an associate professor of community and leadership development in the UK College of Agriculture, Food & Environment, where he shared his journey with fellow students.  As a final project in the class, Breazeale connected Weaver and two other students with Emily Johnson, the clinical programs manager at the Kentucky Center for Grieving Children and Families, where they developed a student-led peer support group, first with fellow athletes, and now moving out into pilot programs within the greater university community. On this episode of ‘Behind the Blue', Breazeale, Weaver, and Johnson discuss the beginnings of the program, the overwhelming need for these types of groups on campus, and the legacy they hope build by serving students in need.  This episode contains discussions of loss and grief. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, or facing mental and/or substance use disorders, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. For questions or comments about this or any other episode of "Behind the Blue," email BehindTheBlue@uky.edu or tweet your question with #BehindTheBlue. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page. To discover what's wildly possible at the University of Kentucky, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 3, 2025) – The following episode deals with sensitive subject material involving sexual assault, rape, stalking, and intimate partner violence. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact the VIP Center at 859-257-3574 or email vipcenter@uky.edu. April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, a time dedicated to education, advocacy, and support for survivors. At the University of Kentucky, the Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Center serves as a confidential resource for students, faculty, and staff impacted by interpersonal violence—including sexual assault, rape, stalking, and intimate partner violence. The VIP Center provides a welcoming space for survivors, advocates, and anyone seeking to learn more about prevention and intervention. On this episode of Behind the Blue, two professionals dedicated to supporting survivors and preventing violence on campus discuss the work of the VIP Center and the vital role of advocacy in the campus community. Natalie Tate is the Victim Advocate for the University of Kentucky Police Department's Special Victims Unit (SVU). A mental health professional pursuing her M.S. in Family Sciences with an emphasis in Couple and Family Therapy, Natalie brings extensive experience in crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, and community engagement. She works closely with survivors, providing support and guidance if and when they choose to navigate the criminal justice system. Natalie also collaborates with the VIP Center to ensure survivors receive holistic care, connecting them with advocacy, counseling, and other essential resources. Lenzi Dodgen works with the VIP Center, where she helps survivors navigate their healing journeys and engages the campus community in education and prevention efforts. With both her bachelor's and master's degrees in social work from UK, Lenzi has devoted her career to advocacy and considers her work at UK a “dream job.” Together, they discuss the resources available at UK, the importance of trauma-informed care, and how we can all contribute to a safer and more supportive community. If you or someone you know has experienced interpersonal violence, know that help is available. The VIP Center is here to provide confidential support, advocacy, and education. Behind the Blue is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university.  Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (March 27, 2025) – In December of 2024, long-time agricultural and extension services leader Laura Stephenson was named vice president for land-grant engagement and dean of the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Martin-Gatton CAFE). With a career spanning decades in Cooperative Extension leadership in both Kentucky and Tennessee, Stephenson has worked at every level of the system—from county agent to state director—helping to connect research with real-world solutions for farmers, businesses, and communities.  Now, as Dean, she's leading the college through a period of transformation, overseeing major facility upgrades, expanding workforce development programs, and strengthening partnerships that bridge agriculture, education, and public health. On this episode of Behind the Blue, Stephenson discusses her vision for the college, the evolving role of UK Extension in supporting producers of all sizes, and how agriculture touches every aspect of life in the Commonwealth—from farm to table, rural to urban, and beyond.  Behind the Blue is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university.  Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (March 20, 2025) – Each year in the spring, hundreds of UK students gather to stand for an entire day to support the patients in the DanceBlue Kentucky Children's Hospital Hematology/Oncology Clinic. This year, the organization will celebrate its 20th annual marathon. Students work all year to raise funds and share the mission to spread joy. On March 29-30 they will fill the floor of Historic Memorial Coliseum for 24-hours to participate in the no-sitting, no-sleeping marathon.   In 2006, the very first DanceBlue Marathon raised $123,323.16. The event has grown larger every year, becoming one of the greatest traditions at the University of Kentucky. In 2024, the organization raised $2.1 million, breaking the record for highest fundraising total. For 20 years, DanceBlue has strived to spread joy to those fighting, to persevere in memory of the lives lost, and to celebrate every victory until the battle against pediatric cancer is won. On this episode of Behind the Blue, two UK alumni who were previous members of DanceBlue's leadership committee share their thoughts and reflections on the program.  Amberlee Isabella, an entrepreneur in New York state, and Alex Wade, a Lexington native and local physician, both talk about the impact DanceBlue had on both their personal lives and professional careers, the importance of community service and support, and the emotional connections that have defined DanceBlue and the unique family it has created. Behind the Blue is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (March 13, 2025) – Last summer, University of Kentucky archaeologist Paolo Visonà, Ph.D., an adjunct associate professor in the University of Kentucky's School of Art and Visual Studies, announced a major archaeological discovery in Calabria, Italy.  Visonà and his team discovered Spartacus' first battlefield in southern Italy and Roman fortification systems built by Crassus to blockade Spartacus' army.  Through fieldwalking and geophysical and remote sensing techniques, Visonà's team followed the Roman lines for more than 1.6 miles in a dense forest and collected numerous fragments of broken weapons. Visonà has conclusively identified some of the weapon fragments as originating in the first century B.C. Visonà's team also found a complete bronze stud inside the wall at a depth consistent with Roman military equipment.  On this episode of Behind the Blue, Visonà discusses the path to his discovery and what it means for the field of archaeology and the University of Kentucky. Behind the Blue is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (March 5, 2025) — It's hard to believe it's been five years since the COVID-19 pandemic officially arrived in the Commonwealth – but on Friday, March 6, 2020, Gov. Andy Beshear confirmed the state's first COVID-19-positive patient and declared a state of emergency in Kentucky. And that first case was tested and diagnosed right here at the University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital. That day began a grueling, years-long grind for medical professionals across the state, the country, and the world. Hospital systems struggled to keep up with surges of severely ill patients coming through their doors. Shortages of personal protective equipment, ventilators, ECMO machines, inpatient beds, and even health care providers themselves led to a type of global health crisis not seen in more than a century.   In today's episode of Behind the Blue, you'll hear from eight longtime employees from the medical side of UK's campus, ranging from administrators to frontline health care providers to researchers. We asked them to reflect on those scary, early days of the pandemic, how it impacted their professional and personal lives, and some of the lessons learned from living through such a significant moment in history. Let's meet our guests for this oral history of the COVID-19 pandemic at UK and in the Commonwealth.   Jenn Alonso has been at UK HealthCare for 13 years and has worked in the medicine intensive care unit (MICU) as a registered nurse since 2014. As a MICU nurse, she works alongside a team of physicians, nurses, therapists and other providers to take care of some of the most critically ill patients who come to UK HealthCare. Alonso was working in the MICU the day UK's first COVID-19 patient was admitted and was directly involved in frontline care for the sickest COVID-19 patients day in and day out.   Kim Blanton, D.N.P., is the chief nursing officer for UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital. Blanton began her nursing career at UK in 1998 in the neuro-trauma ICU and worked her way up through several nursing positions, including rapid response nursing, working as a division charge nurse and managing the cardiovascular stepdown unit. After briefly leaving UK to help create and run an ICU at a local rural hospital, she returned in 2011 as a hospital operations administrator before becoming the UK HealthCare enterprise director for Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) and Quality and Safety. Blanton was serving in her IPAC role when the COVID-19 pandemic began and was instrumental in UK's COVID-19 response: She helped bring home UK students from abroad, called COVID-19 patients to help them navigate their care and quarantine, developed plans and processes for patient surges and PPE needs, and much more.   Kevin Hatton, M.D., Ph.D., is the chief medical officer for UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital. An anesthesiologist by training, he earned both his medical degree and doctorate of philosophydegree from UK. Including his time in residency, Dr. Hatton has worked at UK HealthCare for 21 years, serving in a variety of leadership roles in anesthesiology in critical care medicineprimarily for neurology and cardiovascular ICUs. When the pandemic began, he was serving as senior medical director for critical care services as well as was interim director for ECMO services. Initially, Hatton's role focused on training and preparing the anesthesia critical care team to help provide care for non-COVID ICU patients, as much of the medicine ICU staff's time was spent caring for COVID-positive inpatients. ECMO, the highest form of life support, is a machine that takes over function of a patient's damaged heart and/or lungs by removing a patient's blood, oxygenating it, and returning it into the body. Though ECMO is used on a daily basis at UK HealthCare, its use skyrocketed during the pandemic as patients whose lungs were severely damaged by the virus needed this highest form of life support. As interim director for ECMO services, Hatton and his team had to rapidly develop protocols and processes to use the limited number of ECMO machines to help the most patients possible.   Ashley Montgomery-Yates, M.D., has been physician in the UK Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine since 2013. As a critical care physician, she works primarily in the MICU setting taking care of the sickest patients – people on ventilators, with multi-organ failure, post-operative complications, and more. In 2013, she launched UK HealthCare's ICURecovery Clinic, which helps patients who have been in the ICU navigate the follow-up care and resources they need to recover. At the time, UK HealthCare's ICU Recovery Clinic was just one of three in the nation. Montgomery-Yates is currently the senior vice chair for the Department of Internal Medicine. When the pandemic began, she had recently become the interim chief medical officer for inpatient and emergency services. In this role and as an ICU physician, Montgomery-Yates and her colleagues were heavily involved in the day-to-day care of inpatients with COVID-19. She was part of the team that launched UK's successful Mass Vaccination Clinic out at Kroger Field, and her ICU teams also helped guide the creation of UK HealthCare's brand-new MICU, which opened January 2024.   Meg Pyper is a division charge nurse with the UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital Emergency Department and has been with UK HealthCare Emergency Medicine since 2010. As a charge nurse, her role is like air traffic control for the ED — taking calls from EMS and local hospitals about incoming patients and transfers, determining what services that patient will need upon arrival, and notifying interdisciplinary team members to be prepared when those patients arrive. As a nurse, she was drawn to emergency medicine after seeing her favorite nurse mentors be “the calm in the chaos.” Pyper began in this role just weeks before the pandemic arrived in Kentucky, and she and her team were the first line of care COVID patients received when they arrived at UK Chandler Hospital.   Lindsay Ragsdale, M.D., is the chief medical officer for Kentucky Children's Hospital and chief of the Division of Pediatric Palliative Care. Since arriving at UK in 2013, she has worked to build a robust program that helps seriously ill young patients and their families by caring for them holistically – looking at their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being, and helping them navigate the experience of being severely ill.  Ragsdale became the KCH CMO in 2021, right when the COVID-19 delta variant was beginning to affect children much more than previous variants had. She helped set up both the pediatric monoclonal antibody clinic that provided infusions to help protect high-risk pediatric patients, as well as the successful pediatric vaccine clinic, which provided COVID-19 vaccines for children in a playful, engaging environment.   Rob Sprang is the director of Kentucky TeleCare, a role he's held at UK since 1996. UK first began using telehealth services in 1995. Since then, telehealth has grown by leaps and bounds, but its use skyrocketed during the pandemic. Earlier days of telehealth were usually done facility-to-facility — however, the vastly improved technology and public acceptance of telehealth, along with new, more relaxed regulatory laws around its use has allowed telehealth to explode in popularity. When the pandemic hit Kentucky, Sprang and his team — along with countless ambulatory providers and staff – worked 24/7 for more than a week to get UK HealthCare clinics set up to offer telehealth so that patients could still see their providers without needing to go into the hospital or clinic. Telehealth was a critical element in helping to protect both patients and providers from potential exposure to COVID-19.   Vince Venditto, Ph.D., is an associate professor of pharmaceutical sciences in the UK College of Pharmacy with a background in chemistry, drug delivery, and vaccine development. In the early days of the pandemic, his work in blood analysis – looking for biomarkers for cardiovascular disease in up to 1,500 samples at a time – was adapted to do mass testing for COVID antibodies as a means of diagnosis. After PCR tests became the gold standard for diagnosing the disease, his work shifted again — this time to working with local pharmacies for surveillance of COVID out in Kentucky communities. Post-COVID, this project has evolved to include other infectious diseases and inflammatory conditions, and it focuses on increasing access to health care through Kentucky's network of pharmacies. It also has a new name: Pharmacy-based Recruitment Opportunities To Enhance Community Testing and Surveillance (PROTECTS). Venditto co-directs this project along with Brooke Hudspeth, Pharm.D., an associate professor of pharmacy practice and science. Venditto is also part of The Consortium for Understanding and Reducing Infectious Diseases in Kentucky (CURE-KY), which fosters multidisciplinary collaborations to address the burden of infectious diseases in the Commonwealth and beyond. This consortium was built on the heels of UK's COVID-19 Unified Research Experts (CURE) Alliance, which was quickly assembled in 2020 to support a full range of COVID-related research. -- Behind the Blue is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.  

LEXINGTON, Ky. (February 26, 2025) – As Lexington commemorates its 250th anniversary and the University of Kentucky marks its 160th, UK Libraries' Deirdre Scaggs helps listeners explore the intertwined history and evolving relationship between the city and its university.  Scaggs is associate dean for research and discovery and director of the Wendell H. Ford Public Policy Research Center in UK Libraries' Special Collections Research Center. She helps navigate UK's origins in Lexington, the challenges of growing UK and Lexington's symbiotic relationship, and the importance of the community built between the two.  A key part of that is UK's mission and charge as the Commonwealth's land-grant institution.  “Having a land-grant institution in your city is a big draw for development, for businesses to want to come here and invest in the area,” Scaggs said. “The public service mission of a land-grant institution is something that I think the university has always followed through with and has made such a difference — from the early days of agricultural extension to all of the health care, innovations and opportunities that exist here to help the entire state.” Learn more from Scaggs on the captivating history, challenges and triumphs that have shaped Lexington and UK, as well as the historical insights and pivot points that define the relationship between the two. Behind the Blue is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (February 20, 2025) – THIS IS AN ENCORE EPISODE. Fans, dressed from head to toe in their team's colors, swarm the stadium chanting fight songs and waving banners. It's game day, and the stakes feel monumental.  Sports rivalries are a cornerstone of athletic culture — sparking packed bleachers, passionate debates and unforgettable moments.  But what drives the fervor that fans feel for their team and the disdain for their rivals? Experts suggest the answer lies not just in the scoreboard, but in the human psyche.  According to Matt Moore, associate professor in the College of Social Work(CoSW) and Tarkington Newman, director of CoSW Sport Social Work Research Lab, rivalries are more than competition; they're a powerful blend of identity, emotion and instinct. The CoSW recently announced the launch of The Sport Social Work Collaborative — a partnership between the Alliance of Social Workers in Sports (ASWIS), the Sport Social Work Journal and the college's Sport Social Work Research Lab. The goal is to advance sport social work as a distinct specialization within the social work profession. The collaborative is focused on leading research, teaching and outreach efforts that seek to promote the healthy development of athletes, coaches and communities. The CoSW is also home of the International Institute on Sport Social Work. “The collaborative spans everything from community-based youth development programs, high school sports, to collegiate athletics,” Newman said. “But ultimately, the lab is committed to maximizing sports and promoting healthy experiences and development. It's a place for exploration — understanding what sports are, what they can be, and giving students the opportunity to engage and lead research experiences.” On this edition of “Behind the Blue,” Moore and Newman, who are both part of the collaborative, explore the psychology behind sports rivalries — why we love our teams as fiercely as we loathe the opposition, and why this drama keeps us coming back for more. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. For questions or comments about this or any other episode of "Behind the Blue," email BehindTheBlue@uky.edu or tweet your question with #BehindTheBlue. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 14, 2025) – It seems like foreshadowing that they met while playing the board game Life. Marietta Barton was 19 years old; Jeff Baxter was 21. Despite both growing up in London, Ky., they never crossed paths until they moved to Lexington for college. But within a few weeks of their chance meeting, they were in love—and engaged.   Now, 35 years into their marriage, Jeff has published a book chronicling their whirlwind romance, the life-altering health struggles they faced soon after, and their enduring commitment to one another.   He originally wrote the book, “Ten Dates Later: The Story of an MS Caregiver,” as a surprise gift for Marietta (now Barton-Baxter) in 2023. But after sharing the text with a few friends, they were encouraged to publish it to help others facing the challenges of chronic illness and caregiving. They also decided to donate the proceeds from the book to multiple sclerosis research at the University of Kentucky, where they both earned their degrees, and where Marietta has worked in health research for 37 years. She currently serves as the regulatory program director and biobank project director in the Center for Clinical and Translational Science. Jeff recently retired after serving for 28 years as a physical education teacher in the Fayette County Public Schools.  On this episode of Behind the Blue, Jeff and Marietta tell their story, which is inextricably intertwined with the University of Kentucky; from the beginnings of their romance, to their college educations, to the diagnoses and care for both of them, and to Marietta's impactful 37-year career in health research at UK.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (February 6, 2025) – [THIS IS AN ENCORE EPISODE] For over three decades, Everett McCorvey has been the driving force as director of UK Opera Theatre, which is part of the School of Music at the UK College of Fine Arts. The school has earned a national reputation for excellence in opera, choral and instrumental music performance, as well as in music education, music therapy, composition, theory, and music history. As the first African American to earn a doctoral degree in music from the University of Alabama, McCorvey is personally committed to creating opportunities for UK students from diverse backgrounds to thrive. One of McCorvey's most renowned projects is ‘It's A Grand Night for Singing!', a vibrant, high-energy musical showcase featuring hits from Broadway and beyond. Since its inception in 1992, ‘Grand Night' has captivated audiences with its Emmy Award-winning performances, highlighting the best of Broadway both past and present. On this episode of ‘Behind the Blue', McCorvey shares insights into his upbringing in Montgomery, Alabama, the experiences that motivated him to pursue both performance and teaching and offers a preview of this year's ‘Grand Night' lineup. Behind the Blue is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.