Alumni Spotlights

November 10, 2025
Education has always been central to Bill Beaven’s mission of helping others. The first in his family to graduate from college, he created three scholarships at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work—the Beaven-Eidetik Doctoral Scholarship, the Beaven-Eidetik Graduate Scholarship, and the June Ashby Scholarship. These funds continue Beaven’s lifelong work of opening doors for others.
July 24, 2025
Long before globalization was a buzzword, Pat Givens was living it—serving communities across the world with empathy and insight. From child welfare in postwar Japan to international diplomacy in Boston, she facilitated deeper understanding between countries, communities, and individuals.
October 8, 2024
The University of Kentucky’s Center of Excellence in Rural Health in Hazard, KY, plays a critical role in supporting students balancing higher education with community commitments. Jessica Williamson, a Hazard native and College of Social Work alumna, reflects on her experience as both a student and advisor at the Center. Her story sheds light on the resources available to rural students and the Center’s continued dedication to student success, even as many programs move online.
Black and white image of June Ashby overlayed on Kentucky landscape

Finding a home: Bill Beaven leaves quiet legacy for communities across the southeast

Education has always been central to Bill Beaven’s mission of helping others. The first in his family to graduate from college, he created three scholarships at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work—the Beaven-Eidetik Doctoral Scholarship, the Beaven-Eidetik Graduate Scholarship, and the June Ashby Scholarship. These funds continue Beaven’s lifelong work of opening doors for others.

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Patricia Givens receiving the Imperial Decoration from the Japanese Government

From Kentucky to Tokyo: A Social Work Alumna’s Legacy

Long before globalization was a buzzword, Pat Givens was living it—serving communities across the world with empathy and insight. From child welfare in postwar Japan to international diplomacy in Boston, she facilitated deeper understanding between countries, communities, and individuals.

Read More »
UK Hazard Center for Excellence in Rural Health

Guiding Students in Hazard: Social Work Advisor Reflects on the Center of Excellence in Rural Health

The University of Kentucky’s Center of Excellence in Rural Health in Hazard, KY, plays a critical role in supporting students balancing higher education with community commitments. Jessica Williamson, a Hazard native and College of Social Work alumna, reflects on her experience as both a student and advisor at the Center. Her story sheds light on the resources available to rural students and the Center’s continued dedication to student success, even as many programs move online.

Read More »