Lexington, Ky. – The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) and the College of Social Work Alumni Association (SWAA) invite alumni, students, faculty, and staff to participate in a week-long celebration of community, connection, and Wildcat pride during UK Homecoming 2025.
Taking place from October 13–18, the College’s events will include both in-person and online opportunities designed to bring together members of the CoSW community.
Homecoming Pop-Up Shop
October 13–27, 2025 | Online
The SWAA Homecoming 2025 Pop-Up Shop will feature exclusive College of Social Work apparel and merchandise. This online event provides an opportunity for alumni, students, faculty, and staff to show their Wildcat spirit and support the College. Items for purchase will be shipped directly.
Swag Cab (with UK Alumni Association)
October 13–17, 2025 | In-person and Online
Throughout the week, the Swag Cab will travel across campus, offering students a ride to class and a chance to win prizes by answering College of Social Work trivia questions.
Students and alumni not on campus can participate virtually by following the College’s Facebook and Instagram pages. Daily trivia questions will be shared through social media stories, and all participants who answer correctly will have a chance to recieve a unique piece of CoSW swag.
Lunch and Learn: Coming Home to Sport Social Work
October 16, 2025 | 12–1 p.m. (ET) | Virtual via Zoom
This virtual Lunch and Learn will introduce participants to the emerging field of sport social work. Using Homecoming traditions as a focal point, the presentation will explore how sport can serve as a platform for fostering belonging, connection, and community well-being.
The discussion will also highlight current initiatives within the College, including the International Institute for Sport and Behavioral Health and the Sport Social Work Research Lab, which are advancing research in college student-athlete mental health, developing new educational pathways such as the Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) concentration in sport social work, and creating community-based practicum opportunities.
Featured presenters include:
- Dr. Tarkington Newman, Director, International Institute for Sport and Behavioral Health
- Dr. Carlyn Kimiecik, Co-Director, Sport Social Work Research Lab
Participants may be eligible to receive 1.0 continuing education (CE) credit.
Registration for the event is required.
Golden Wildcat Society Induction Dinner and Pinning Ceremony (with UK Alumni Association)
October 16, 2025 | 6 p.m. | Longship Club at Kroger Field, 1540 University Drive
The Golden Wildcat Society Induction Dinner will honor members of the Class of 1975, recognizing 50 years of connection to the University of Kentucky. The evening will include a formal dinner, reception, and pinning ceremony.
Register here.
Lyman T. Johnson Awards & Luncheon
October 17, 2025 | In-person
The University of Kentucky will host the Annual Lyman T. Johnson Awards & Luncheon at the Gatton Student Center Grand Ballroom on October 17th, 2025. Two CoSW awardees will be recognized. Read more about this year’s CoSW awardees and their accomplishments in the full announcement: Social Work Celebrates 2025 Lyman T. Johnson Award Recipients.
Tailgate Tent Party (with UK Alumni Association)
October 18, 2025 | Tobacco Research Lawn, 1401 University Drive | Time TBA (Pending Kickoff)
The celebration will conclude with the Homecoming Tailgate Tent Party as the Wildcats face off against the Texas Longhorns. Attendees can enjoy classic tailgate food, entertainment, games, and performances by the UK Cheerleaders and Pep Band.
Register here.
Join the Celebration
For full event details, registration links, and updates, visit the College of Social Work Homecoming webpage.
