Lewis Honors College

Happy National Sons and Daughters Day from the Lewis Honors College!

We are excited to welcome new and returning students to campus soon...

Congratulations to Dr. Pearl James, associate dean for academic affairs in the Lewis Honors College, on being selected as a 2026-27 SEC Academic Leadership Development Program fellow!

This prestigious program recognizes faculty who have demonstrated excellence in leadership, scholarship, and education, and prepares them for senior leadership roles in higher education. Through institution-based leadership development, SEC-wide workshops, and collaboration with peers across the conference, fellows strengthen the skills and networks needed to shape the future of higher education.

Dr. James teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in film and literature and most recently returned from leading an education abroad experience in Ecuador. She received numerous teaching awards, and she also serves as the President of the University of Kentucky Phi Beta Kappa Alpha chapter.

🎉 Congratulations to Dr. Ryan Voogt on being named a recipient of the University of Kentucky's 2026 Outstanding Teaching Award!

As director of undergraduate studies and senior lecturer in the Lewis Honors College, Dr. Voogt inspires students to think deeply, ask meaningful questions, and explore the world with curiosity and compassion. His classes challenge students to grow while fostering a welcoming environment where learning and community thrive.

We are grateful for Dr. Voogt's dedication to helping Honors students explore their purpose, develop intellectually, and lead with integrity. Join us in celebrating this well-deserved recognition! 💙

Read more: https://uknow.uky.edu/professional-news/2026-outstanding-teaching-awards-ryan-voogt

Class of 2030: The final day of Lewis Launch will be spent getting to know the Honors faculty and attending a resource fair. Bring your questions for the faculty and the student organizations on Wednesday, August 19.

In the meantime, visit our YouTube page to get a glimpse of what the foundational seminar, Honors 140: Knowledge and Society, is all about: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5tl4V_X8lMM

Class of 2030: Here's what your Tuesday during Lewis Launch could look like! You'll get a t-shirt to wear for your class photo, attend rotations that will include a student panel of Lewis Launch Leaders, and enjoy the festivities of Carnival.

What memories will you make during Lewis Launch?

Class of 2030: Lewis Launch is less than two weeks away! Check out what's in store for you from check-in to Playfair on Monday, August 17.

Remember to pick up your personalized schedule from 1-5 p.m. EDT in the Lewis Scholars Lounge. Also, let your family know to stop by for their souvenir (while supplies last).

Your Honors journey starts here.

Applications for the Lewis Honors College are officially open! Submit your application by December 1 for consideration and discover opportunities to explore, develop, and lead alongside a community of curious, driven students.

Learn more and apply: honors.uky.edu/admissions

Calling all Class of 2030 Honors Wildcats!

Join us for the last virtual meetup on August 3 at 5 p.m. EDT to prepare for Lewis Launch. Bring your questions and meet other students!

https://honors.uky.edu/student-engagement/lewis-launch/lewis-launch-welcome-launch-meetups

Honors students expanded their horizons through transformative education abroad experiences in England.

This summer, Lewis Honors College students explored England through two programs developed in partnership with UK Education Abroad that combined academics, career exploration, and cultural immersion. Thanks to generous donor support, these life-changing opportunities were more accessible than ever.

For “Leaders of a Global Society: Great Britain and Beyond,” the cost for all 18 participating students was reduced thanks to a $40,000 grant from the University of Kentucky Women & Philanthropy Network, secured by Dr. Laura Bryan and Dr. Sherelle Roberts.

Rising junior political science major Karmen Parker appreciated the opportunity to study British leadership where history unfolded.

“What makes British politics so interesting is the implantation of the royal family hierarchy that has dated back centuries,” Karmen said. “Through this study abroad trip, I was given the opportunity to learn about a vast number of British leaders and how their leadership skills impacted history.”

Meanwhile, rising junior Niki Chen explored healthcare careers through “UK Explore First: Careers, Cultures and Connections” in London. With support from the Kate Johnson Scholarship Fund, she visited healthcare companies, explored London's cultural landmarks, and discovered new possibilities for her future.

"This trip gave me access to learning experiences that I may not have been able to encounter otherwise," Niki shared. "It helped me grow both personally and professionally…and gave me more confidence as I think about my future career."

Honors students gained hands-on experience in the distilling industry through an education abroad program in Scotland.

This summer, Lewis Honors College students traveled to Scotland for “Interdisciplinary Projects in Distilling,” where they explored the Scotch whisky industry while collaborating with industry partners on real-world projects. The program was developed by Assistant Dean Sally Foster and James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits at the University of Kentucky Associate Director Ilka Balk with support from UK Education Abroad.

"For many students, this is their first experience abroad," said Sally Foster, who has led education abroad programs for a decade. "Students gain a great deal of self-confidence as they learn to navigate a different culture, transportation system, and daily routine. To witness their sense of awe and expanded worldview is such a privilege."

For rising senior Treanna Bridges, the experience extended far beyond learning about Scotch whisky.

“This program strengthened my time management skills,” she said. “Balancing distillery tours, cultural excursions, and work on our interdisciplinary project required me to plan each day effectively, stay focused, and make the most of every opportunity while still enjoying the experience.”

Treanna also saw direct connections to her future career. “As a future healthcare administrator, it will be essential for me to be able to work with colleagues from different fields and areas of life.”

Rising sophomore Lili Perkins also found the experience transformative. "Spending time in a new environment allowed me the opportunity to reflect on my interests, values, and goals," she shared. "I have more confidence in my identity and a deeper understanding of how I can find joy in my everyday life."

For Roxanne Hensler, her first trip outside the United States increased her cultural awareness. "I absolutely loved my time abroad with the Honors College… I hope to find more programs abroad during my time at UK."

Rising sophomore Caroline Rabinowitz appreciated the faculty-directed program. “It gave me two professors on campus who know me and whom I trust. I feel like they truly care about me, and our relationship we have now will help them help me grow while I am at UK and beyond.”