LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 25, 2026) — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) and College of Social Work Alumni Association (SWAA) are inviting alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends to celebrate UK Homecoming 2026 with opportunities to reconnect, show their Wildcat spirit and engage with the College throughout October.
UK Homecoming takes place Oct. 4-11, culminating in Kentucky football’s Homecoming matchup against LSU at Kroger Field on Saturday, Oct. 10. CoSW will join the university-wide celebration with a mix of in-person and virtual activities designed to bring together members of the College community near and far.
“Homecoming gives us an opportunity to celebrate not only our connection to the University of Kentucky, but also the relationships that continue long after someone graduates from the College of Social Work,” said Summer Copley-Bryant, alumni engagement manager. “Whether you’re returning to Lexington, participating online or connecting with us for the first time in a while, we hope you’ll find a way to be part of the celebration.”
Throughout Homecoming week, students can look for CoSW representatives participating in UK’s Swag Cab, where students can catch a ride across campus, test their UK and CoSW knowledge and compete for prizes.
Those who can’t participate on campus can join the fun virtually. CoSW will share daily Homecoming trivia through its social media channels, giving followers an opportunity to answer questions about the College and university, learn more about CoSW’s history and enjoy opportunities to win College swag.
SWAA will also open its Homecoming Pop-Up Shop October 5 – 23, featuring exclusive College of Social Work apparel and merchandise for alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends looking to show their CoSW pride.
The College will recognize another important Homecoming tradition on Oct. 8 as members of UK’s Class of 1976 are welcomed into the Golden Wildcat Society, honoring alumni celebrating 50 years since graduation.
On Friday, Oct. 9, the College will also celebrate its 2026 honorees during the 35th annual Lyman T. Johnson Awards Luncheon. The annual university celebration recognizes outstanding alumni and students from across UK who embody the spirit and accomplishments of Lyman T. Johnson and have made meaningful contributions to their communities.
Homecoming week will conclude Saturday, Oct. 10, when members of the CoSW community gather ahead of the Kentucky-LSU football game for the UK Homecoming Tailgate Tent Party.
The celebration will continue beyond Homecoming week with a virtual Sport Social Work continuing education program from 11 a.m.-noon Thursday, Oct. 22. The event will explore the growing field of sport social work and feature CoSW experts discussing the intersection of social work, athletics and well-being. Attendees can earn 1.0 continuing education credit, and registration is required.
From celebrating decades of UK memories to creating new traditions with today’s students, CoSW’s Homecoming activities reflect the connections that continue to bring the College community together.
Visit the CoSW 2026 Homecoming page for event details, registration information and ways to participate throughout the celebration.
For questions about CoSW 2026 Homecoming activities or alumni engagement, contact Summer Copley-Bryant at s.bryant@uky.edu.