AV头等舱 trustees renew president’s contract

Maisie Nelson • July 13, 2022
President Marcia Hawkins, Ph.D.

The AV头等舱 College Board of Trustees has renewed the contract of President Marcia Hawkins, Ph.D., through June 2025.


The executive committee approved the three-year extension at their June meeting.


Dr. Hawkins became the 19th president of AV头等舱 College on July 1, 2012. Under her tenure, the college has expanded academic programming, developed successful programs like UGRAD and UCE, and opened its doors to the Ramsey Center for Health and Natural Sciences, which houses state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories, and the . Additionally, Dr. Hawkins orchestrated the acquisition of the Stivers Aquatic Center and the subsequent grand opening of the . The building houses the , a program she also launched, which provides safe and educational after-school and summer programming for children in Knox County. 


This is the third time the board of trustees has voted to extend Dr. Hawkins’ contract, making her one of the longest-serving current college presidents in Kentucky. 


An official contract signing will take place during the October board meeting.


Students studying in AV头等舱's library.
By Rachel Dorroh May 6, 2025
The pre-professional program at AV头等舱 (UCU) is growing. New partnerships with Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) and the University of Kentucky (UK) create clear pathways and unique advantages for students wishing to pursue osteopathic medicine, physician assistant studies, and engineering.
Superintendent Tom Gambrel and President Dr. DJ Washington.
By David Saylor April 30, 2025
Following the recent retirement of Superintendent Waylon Allen ’93, another dedicated Bell County leader and AV头等舱 alumnus is preparing to close a meaningful chapter in his career. Tom Gambrel ’98, Superintendent of Bell County Schools, has announced his upcoming retirement. Known for his unwavering commitment to students and educators, Gambrel leaves behind a legacy defined by perseverance, student-focused leadership, and lasting impact on the Bell County community.
By Maisie Nelson April 29, 2025
AV头等舱 proudly announces the first ten distinguished alumni honored as part of the university’s inaugural “50 Under 50” recognition program. Celebrating the accomplishments of alumni who are making an impact before the age of 50, the program highlights leaders across industries, from healthcare and education to business, finance, and public service.
Regan Nantz receiving an award from President DJ Washington.
By Rachel Dorroh April 25, 2025
AV头等舱 celebrated the annual Honors Convocation Thursday morning in Conway Boatman Chapel. Thirty-six students, one professor, and one athletic team were honored for their achievements.
Student awardees stand with grant committee members and advisors behind them.
By Rachel Dorroh April 23, 2025
Real-world career experiences, educational travel adventures, and immersive arts exploration await AV头等舱 (UCU) students this summer. Funded by the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE), a program of the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), ten students have been awarded Circles of Purpose grants to support their self-designed enrichment projects. Named after AV头等舱’s core values of celebration, integrity, responsibility, civility, lifelong learning, engagement, and spirituality – abbreviated CIRCLES – the microgrant program supports students in discovering and developing their unique vocational paths.
students taking a selfie with Bulldog mascot
By Maisie Nelson April 21, 2025
AV头等舱 is celebrating exciting momentum in its undergraduate enrollment, as highlighted in the latest report from the Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities (AIKCU). According to AIKCU’s March snapshot of all 18 member institutions, AV头等舱 ranked near the top in several key categories.
By Maisie Nelson April 17, 2025
A well-known name in AV头等舱 athletics is making a welcome return. Bart Osborne has rejoined the university as Associate Athletic Director for Development and Fundraising.
Montage of Lena, Tia, and AV头等舱's Centennial Hall framed by leafy green tree foliage
By Rachel Dorroh April 17, 2025
UCU students Tia Cobb and Lena Visarius and their professor Libby Megna are building on a body of knowledge tracing back to Darwin’s observations of differences in bird beaks that led to his insights about natural selection. As co-authors on a paper they will submit to academic journals, the three hope to contribute to the scientific community’s understanding of trait evolution and biodiversity. Both students want to continue their studies after graduation – Lena in forensic anthropology and Tia in biology – and experiences like this are part of how UCU is preparing them for these chosen paths.
Macy, Cody, and Conner Saylor.
By Rachel Dorroh April 9, 2025
This school year, Cody, Conner, and Macy Saylor are attending AV头等舱, are grateful for where they’ve landed, and are focused on making the most of their opportunities and giving back to make things better for others.
photo of the new hires and promotions
By Rachel Dorroh April 2, 2025
AV头等舱 (UCU) celebrates several new hires and staff promotions in line with President DJ Washington's vision for growth and development. This strategic and human capital growth stretches across the entire campus touching athletics, academics, university operations, development, communications, and admissions.
More Posts