LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 6, 2026) — As the sports betting industry continues to expand in Kentucky and across the nation, University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) faculty member Glenn Sterner III, Ph.D., recently participated in a panel discussion hosted by the Lewis Honors College exploring the evolving landscape of sports betting.
The panel featured several experts from the University of Kentucky and the Commonwealth of Kentucky and covered topics surrounding sports betting regulations, how betting has changed the world of collegiate athletics and what could be next for the industry.
Sterner, associate professor of criminal justice, studies the effects of online gambling and sports betting. His research examines gambling behaviors, emerging risks associated with increased accessibility and opportunities to strengthen prevention and public awareness.
“Sports betting has become increasingly accessible, particularly through online platforms and mobile apps. Opportunities like this panel allow us to have important conversations with students about how the industry is changing, the potential risks associated with gambling and the importance of making informed decisions,” Sterner said.
Sterner recently released a new report on online gambling prevalence in Pennsylvania, the 2025 Pennsylvania Interactive Gaming Assessment: Online Gambling Report.
As the study’s lead researcher, Sterner helped examine online gambling participation and behaviors among Pennsylvania residents. The report found that up to 30 percent of Pennsylvania adults reported participating in some form of online gambling during the past year, compared with up to 20 percent in the previous year’s assessment.
Now in its sixth year, the annual assessment provides insight into gambling trends and potential public health concerns as online gambling continues to expand.
Sterner’s broader research focuses on community-based approaches to public health and safety, including substance use, human trafficking and gambling. Through partnerships with government agencies, researchers and community organizations, his work seeks to translate research findings into strategies that address emerging challenges.
In a Q&A with UKNow earlier this year, Sterner shared that his biggest recommendation for gambling responsibly is for people to educate themselves on the realities of winning.
“I recommend making sure that people educate themselves on the realities of winning — that earning money from gambling is not the likely outcome. I also recommend taking a breath and a moment before they continue to place bets, particularly if you are doing so online or in an app,” Sterner said.
As sports betting continues to evolve, Sterner’s research and participation in conversations like the Lewis Honors College panel highlight the importance of understanding its broader impact on individuals and communities.