LEXINGTON, Ky. — College of Social Work (CoSW) Dean Jay Miller announced Tuesday a $1 Million donation to support students. The gift, which was made by Kathy Purcell of Paducah, Kentucky, establishes the Brian M. Reber Memorial Scholarship Fund. The scholarship, which honors Purcell’s late son, intends to ease financial hardships for students pursuing careers in social work.
Reber, a 1991 graduate of UK’s College of Social Work, was known for his warmth, wit, and unwavering dedication to helping others. After college, he worked at a shelter for unhoused communities in California, where he was one of the few employees with a college degree. His compassion, informed by his education, left an indelible mark on colleagues and clients alike. Tragically, Brian passed away from cancer in 2020.
For Purcell, establishing the scholarship was an act of both remembrance and purpose.
“Friends of Brian tell me if they were having a bad day and happened to see him, they always left feeling better.” said Kathy. “He was caring, and he had a great sense of humor. I think he would be very happy with the scholarship.”
Purcell, herself a model of service during her 35-year nursing career, has always understood the importance of lending a hand. Her colleagues describe her as a tireless advocate for her patients, a role she fulfilled with equal parts expertise and empathy. Those same values now underpin her philanthropy.
“Kathy Purcell is one of the most purpose driven, pragmatic people I’ve met,” shared Dean Miller. “She truly cares about supporting students and empowering them to create meaningful change in their communities.”
And the Brian M. Reber Memorial Scholarship Fund will provide that support.
The fund is deliberately structured to view students as more than their grades and test scores. Scholarships will be awarded to those who demonstrate resilience and dedication in their personal and professional pursuits.
Kathy said she’s aware that many students work while going to college, which can make it harder to maintain the top grades.
Purcell hopes her example will inspire others to contribute to causes they care about. Her decision to invest in education, she says, comes down to a simple truth: helping others succeed.
For more information about the Brian M. Reber Memorial Scholarship or to learn how to support the College of Social Work, contact Ramla Miller, Philanthropy Director, via email at Ramla.Miller@uky.edu or cell at 901-378-0610.
