Introduction
Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of Eastern Kentucky, the University of Pikeville has been a beacon of higher education in the region for over a century. Established in 1889, this private liberal arts college has undergone many changes over the years, including several name changes and expansions of academic programs. Despite all the transformations, the spirit of the institution has remained constant: providing quality education to the people of Appalachia and beyond. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about the University of Pikeville that you may not know.
Home of the Bears
The University of Pikeville’s mascot is a bear, and the students take their role as bear enthusiasts seriously. In 2012, the university established a new tradition of welcoming freshmen by having them run through a giant inflatable bear that is set up on the football field. This tradition, known as the “Running of the Bears,” has become a highlight of the freshman orientation experience.
The university also has a live bear on campus, named “Bear III.” Bear III is a rescued black bear who has become a beloved campus celebrity. He lives in a specially-designed enclosure on campus, and visitors can come see him during regular hours. The university has even incorporated Bear III into its curriculum, with courses on Appalachian wildlife that include field trips to visit him.
A focus on healthcare
The University of Pikeville is well-known for its focus on healthcare education. The institution’s Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) is one of only two osteopathic medical schools in the state and is committed to training doctors who will serve in rural and underserved communities. In addition to the medical school, the university also has a school of nursing and a school of optometry.
One interesting fact about KYCOM is that the students get to use virtual reality technology to practice surgical procedures. The university has a state-of-the-art simulation center where students can practice on virtual patients before working on real ones. The school also has a program called “Medicine in the Mountains,” which allows students to gain experience working in rural clinics throughout the region.
A rich athletic tradition
The University of Pikeville has a long and storied athletic tradition, with successful teams in a variety of sports. One of the most notable is the men’s basketball team, which has won several national championships at the NAIA level. The team has produced several NBA players, including current star D’Angelo Russell.
The university also has a strong women’s bowling team, which has won multiple national championships. The team practices and competes in a state-of-the-art bowling alley on campus, which is open to students and the public alike. Additionally, the university has a competitive cheerleading squad that has won several national championships.
A commitment to service
The University of Pikeville is committed to serving the people of Appalachia and beyond. The institution has a strong culture of community service and encourages its students to get involved in volunteer work. The university has a program called “UPike Serves,” which organizes community service projects throughout the year.
One example of the university’s commitment to service is its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. On this day, students, faculty, and staff participate in a variety of service projects in the local community. Another example is the university’s partnership with the Christian Appalachian Project, a non-profit organization that works to alleviate poverty in the region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the University of Pikeville is a unique and vibrant institution with a rich history and a commitment to serving the people of Appalachia and beyond. From its beloved bear mascot to its cutting-edge healthcare programs, the university has much to offer its students and the community at large. Whether you are a prospective student or just a curious onlooker, there is always something new to discover about this remarkable institution. As the University of Pikeville continues to grow and evolve, it is sure to continue to make an impact in the lives of its students and the region it serves.
