Sibling Attachment and Adoption
2026-03-05 19:30 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
Sibling Attachment & Adoption provides parents with tools to promote healthy sibling relationships in foster and adoptive families. Parents will explore different ways in which families are formed and learn tips on helping children to explain blended families (biological, adopted, foster and step) when the need arises.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Articulate different ways children may become siblings and view sibling relationships.
Apply tools to facilitate healthy relationships between siblings, regardless of how these relationships were formed.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Keeping Families Strong
2026-03-08 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York)
Keeping Families Strong provides foster parents insight on how to keep partnerships, families and friendships strong while providing care to out of home children. It will also provide strategies for foster parents to build workable boundaries around these key elements to keep their core families strong while providing foster care.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Establish and maintain workable boundaries around key aspects of their families’ lives while providing foster care.
Articulate ways to partner with their foster care team to ensure the needs of the family and foster child’s are met.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

A Child’s Education: Rights and Responsibilities
2026-03-09 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York)
A Child’s Education: Rights & Responsibilities will inform parents of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The training informs foster and adoptive parents of the processes used to determine eligibility requirements for children with disabilities. In addition, this training will equip participants to ensure children ages three to twenty-one have access to the tools and services necessary to help them succeed in the least restrictive educational environment.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Recognize the 13 types of disabilities covered under IDEA
Utilize knowledge of tools and services to understand their rights and participate in ARC meetings

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Office of Faculty Advancement, Connect & Accomplish Online Co-working Sessions
2026-03-10 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-25 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-03 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
You are invited to join the Office of Faculty Advancement in
Connect & Accomplish: Online Co-working Sessions
These dedicated 2-hour blocks are back this semester, offering weekly opportunities at the CoSW for you to co-work with the College of Social Work Community. Sessions are open to all faculty, staff, and doctoral students.
Join our virtual session to get some writing, grading, scheduling, budgeting, or planning done. All projects are suitable for this dedicated time which offers several benefits:
• Ownership of goals and objectives
• Positive social influence
• Maximizing brain focus by minimizing context switching
• A sense of community
• Productivity
These sessions offer flexibility—feel free to come and go as your schedule allows. We will begin with an optional five-minute welcome at the start of the session for sharing goals and a five-minute closing at the end for sharing accomplishments. You may also check in and out via the chat by writing your intentions for the session when you join and providing updates on your progress when you leave.
To register for a C&A session, please use this link: https://uky.zoom.us/meeting/register/FqMceOd9QTyZ1hlkfr9Xy

De-escalation Training
2026-03-10 16:00 - 17:30 (America/New_York)
A focused overview of practical communication tactics to defuse tense encounters before they escalate. Grounded in the Surviving Verbal Conflict® framework and UKPD field experience, the session emphasizes tactical empathy, brief deflection language, and clearly stating the “why” behind requests.
Participants will learn to:

Spot early verbal and non‑verbal indicators of escalation.
Use respectful deflectors to acknowledge emotion and redirect behavior.
State policy and safety rationale using clear “commander’s intent.”
Offer options and fair consequences; confirm decisions.
Know when to disengage, call for assistance, and document.

The in person event will be facilitated by Officer Michael Culver and will be held from 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM in Room 191 of the Gatton Business & Economics Building.
Register to attend via the linked form.
Register for the virtual option via this Zoom link.

Impact of Trauma on Development (Trust Based Relational Intervention Caregiver Training) (3/10/26)
2026-03-10 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York)
Impact of Trauma on Development (Trust Based Relational Intervention Caregiver Training
March 10, 2026
5:30 PM-7:30 PM EST
Via Zoom
R. Alex Colston, LMFT
2 credit hours
This training is an introduction to Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) and is part of the TBRI® Caregiver Training series. This evidence-based approach to caregiving founded in research, theory and experience is developmentally respectful, trauma-informed, and attachment-centered. Parents will learn the areas of Child Development, gain an understanding of brain growth, become familiar with the Categories of Trauma, and be able to identify both risk and protective factors.
About the Trainer:

R. Alex Colston, LMFT is a relationship therapist and coach based in Lexington, KY. As a Trust-Based Relational Intervention® Practitioner,
Alex brings more than a decade of experience working with youth and families across community mental health, school-based services, and private practice. Known for his warmth, presence, and ability to hold space for healing, Alex integrates clinical expertise with a deeply relational approach. He has served not only as a therapist but also as a Clinician Educator, supporting both clients and professionals in understanding trauma, attachment, and family dynamics. In addition to his therapy and coaching work, Alex is a Clinical Consultant with the University of Louisville, where he supports Kentucky’s statewide Screening & Assessment processes for Child Welfare. His passion lies in equipping individuals, families, and practitioners with tools that foster connection, resilience, and meaningful change.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
For additional information about this session, please feel free to contact Melanie Parsons, the Foster Parent Training Program (FPTP) Program Coordinator, at Melanie.Parsons@uky.edu.
Please note each session is approved for ongoing, elective training credit for Kentucky Foster Parents. Basic & Advanced Foster Parents, Fictive Kin Foster Parents, Care Plus, or Therapeutic Foster Parents can all take advantage of the opportunity to fulfill their training hours. A reliable internet connection and computer/smartphone with webcam are required.

Services and Support for Foster and Adoptive Families
2026-03-10 19:30 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
Services & Support for Foster & Adoptive Families will inform parents about resources available to individuals with intellectual disabilities through the Michelle P. Waiver Program, which allows eligible individuals to remain in their homes with services and supports. In addition, participants will learn about SSI, finding biological parents, and the importance of planning for independent living for foster youth.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Describe the Michelle P. Waiver Program and Social Security (SSI) benefits.
Utilize available resources and independent living services offered through the Cabinet for Health and Family Services for youth aging out of care.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Creative Parenting: New Ways to Focus on Your Child
2026-03-10 19:30 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
Creative Parenting: New Ways to Focus on Your Child is designed to help parents recognize the value of seeking to understand the meaning behind a child’s behavior. It explores the importance of creating time to connect with children one-on-one, modeling appropriate coping strategies, having consistent expectations, praising desirable behaviors, and redirecting challenging behavior.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Identify ways to reframe challenging child behaviors.
Utilize positive discipline strategies.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

DSW Info Session
2026-03-11 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-03-25 18:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York)
Turn Your Goals into Reality
Explore our Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) program during an online info session. Registration link is below.
The UK Difference
Our Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) program was developed with practitioners in mind. This high-quality, rigorous program prepares practitioners to navigate the complexities of a contemporary practice landscape by providing education and experiences congruent with advanced practice proficiency among specialized populations.

Anywhere, Anytime
Courses are taught online through asynchronous models with the exception of residency week during the summer, which is taught synchronously. An asynchronous option is available for those who cannot be in attendance.

Multiple Concentration Options
Choose from one of five concentrations: Administrative Leadership, Clinical Social Work, Social Work Education, Military Behavioral Health, or Sport Social Work.

Unique Centers and Labs
Leverage our unique centers and labs, including the Training Resource Center, Interdisciplinary Research Center on Children and Families, Kentucky Kinship Resource Center, Self-Care Lab, Suicide Prevention and Exposure Lab, and Military Behavior Health Lab to enhance your learning and research.

Efficient
Using an innovative Core Plus Model, our DSW program affords you an efficient and affordable way to earn your degree. From start to finish, you can complete the DSW degree in two to three years, depending on full-time or part-time status.

Register through Zoom, or through the link below under ‘Website’.

Practicum Info Session
2026-03-11 15:00 - 16:00, 2026-03-18 15:00 - 16:00, 2026-04-01 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Launch your social work career through your practicum experience—formerly known as field education. Attend an information session to learn about the process, opportunities, and support available as you prepare for hands-on learning in real-world settings.
The UK College of Social Work is affiliated with approximately 3,000 agencies across the United States, offering flexible placements in schools, hospitals, with advocacy groups, and in many other settings. During your placement, you will gain valuable experience, build your professional network, and have the opportunity to explore specialized paths, including clinical social work, child welfare, and substance use recovery.
At the UK College of Social Work, students drive their practicum journey, with the ability to select or propose placement sites that align with their goals. Advising and mentorship are built in to help you succeed before and after graduation.
Register for an information session to learn how your practicum experience will support your goals and open doors to meaningful, impact-driven work.
REGISTER HERE

*Attendees should register for virtual Practicum Info Sessions in advance. All times are EST. Sessions occur on Wednesdays at either noon or 3:00 (they are not offered when the University of Kentucky offices are closed, and classes are not in session).

Healthy Boundaries in Teenage Relationships
2026-03-12 21:00 - 22:30 (America/New_York)
Healthy Boundaries in Teenage Relationships explores healthy and unhealthy dating behaviors. It is designed to assist caregivers in identifying warning signs that a teen may be involved in an abusive dating relationship and provides suggestions for talking to teens and/or their friends who find themselves involved in such relationships.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Identify signs that a teen is being abused in a relationship
Explain strategies to address when a teen is being abused in a relationship.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Autism: Understanding the Basics
2026-03-13 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
This comprehensive training provides a foundational exploration of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), offering participants valuable insights into the characteristics, challenges, and strengths associated with autism. Aiming to enhance awareness, promote empathy, and lay the foundation for creating inclusive and supportive environments. This training is designed for foster and adoptive parents committed to providing a loving and understanding home for children with autism.
Whether you are in the early stages of the foster or adoptive journey or seeking additional tools to support a child with autism, this training caters to your specific needs.
ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Medically Complex 2026 Spring Annual Training Conference
2026-03-13 09:00 - 2026-03-21 18:30 (America/New_York)
This is a hybrid-style training event with virtual sessions on Friday 3/13/26 (9:00am – 10:30am & 11:00am – 12:30pm) & Saturday 3/14/26 (9:00am – 10:30am & 11:00am – 12:30pm), and in-person sessions on Saturday, 3/21 from 11:00 am – 6:30 pm pm EDT at Embassy Suites Coldstream, 1801 Newtown Pike, Lexington, KY 40511. In-person check-in on 8/16 opens at 9:30 am EDT.
This event will provide DCBS and PCP Medically Complex Foster/Adoptive Parents the opportunity to obtain 12 hours of the ongoing training needed for recertification.
This event is for certified Medically Complex Foster Parents only. IF you are a certified Medically Complex Foster Parent, register here REGISTER NOW

Building Positive Relationships with Caseworkers and Community Partners
2026-03-14 10:30 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
Building Positive Relationships with Case Workers & Community Partners provides foster parents the information and tools needed to establish a positive working relationship with their caseworker and child’s caseworker, with the goal of providing the best possible continuum of care for the child.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Work in partnership with social service workers and community partners to ensure the needs of the child(ren) in their home are being met and align with permanency goal(s).
Utilize strategies to foster mutual respect, communicate effectively, and maintain appropriate boundaries.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Salt River Trail Citizen Review Pane
2026-03-17 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Chicago) | Salt River Trail Citizen Review Panel, 229 Douglas Ave, Versailles, KY, 40383, United States
Citizen Review Panels (CRPs) are groups of caring volunteers that work to improve the well-being of children, families, and communities across Kentucky. To learn more about CRPs or join a regional panel, please visit the CRP website or contact Tara Pulaski at Tara.Pulaski@uky.edu.

Changing Practice through Data: A Measurement Based Strategy for Clinical Care
2026-03-23 16:00 - 17:30 (America/New_York)
This session highlights a forward-looking, measurement-based strategy to support therapists in their clinical practice and improve service quality. Participants will learn practical tools for integrating outcome data into therapeutic decision-making, helping to bridge the gap between direct clinical care and data-informed strategies. This session will explore tools and strategies, such as introducing measures to clients, using results collaboratively in sessions, and integrating outcome measures into supervision, that enhance, rather than replace, the therapeutic relationship. By grounding outcome measures into clinical practice, this session demonstrates how data can strengthen client engagement, enhance the therapeutic alliance, and support progress monitoring within treatment. This session draws on lessons learned during the implementation process and offers participants strategies to adapt in their own settings to create a culture where measurement-based care supports clinical excellence, continuous quality improvement, and is responsive to the evolving needs of clinical practice.
Learning Outcomes
At the conclusion of this training, you will be able to:

Identify the key components of measurement-based care (MBC) and how they enhance therapeutic effectiveness while preserving clinical judgment.
Apply strategies for integrating outcome measures into supervision and client sessions to strengthen engagement, alliance, and treatment planning.
Examine tools that bridge clinical insights with outcome data to support progress monitoring and improve client outcomes.

Delivery Method
Synchronous interactive distance (live virtual)
Cost
$30
Credit Hours
1.5 (ACE)
Accreditation
University of Kentucky College of Social Work, Provider # 1377, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 9/29/25-9/29/28. Social workers completing this course receive 1.5 general continuing education credits.

Instructor
Dr. Carmen Rickman, DSW, LCSW-C
Dr. Carmen Rickman, DSW, LCSW-C, is the Evaluation Manager at the Center for Adoption Support and Education and an Adjunct Instructor at the University of Kentucky. She is a licensed clinical social worker and a Board-approved supervisor with experience in program development, implementation, and evaluation across behavioral health and child welfare systems. Her work focuses on advancing trauma-informed, data-driven practices that improve service delivery and outcomes for children, families, and communities.
Dr. Rickman owns a private practice that focuses on working with adults healing from trauma and adverse childhood experiences. She has presented nationally and internationally on program evaluation, measurement-based care, and trauma-informed systems change. With experience spanning direct clinical practice, evaluation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Rickman is dedicated to bridging the gap between research and practice to enhance systems of care.
How to Claim Credit
You must sign in and out of the training, attend the training in its entirety and complete the evaluation.
Cancellation/Refund Policy
If this course is canceled, you will be contacted and given the option of a full refund, or course credit to be used within 1 year.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
Questions
Contact Christina.Krantz@uky.edu with any questions regarding this course, registration assistance or to request accommodations.

Crime Scene Investigation Event
2026-03-24 16:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | https://uky.zoom.us/j/81606146305
Interested in Crime Scene Investigations? The Lexington Police Department will be on campus to discuss careers in investigative and forensic law enforcement. Officers and specialists will share insights into the work they do, the skills and education needed to enter the field, and the different career pathways within investigative policing.

The session will also include demonstrations related to crime scene investigation and forensic techniques, giving attendees a closer look at how evidence is documented and analyzed in real-world cases. This is a great opportunity for students interested in criminal justice, forensics, or investigative careers to learn directly from professionals and ask questions about the field.

This event will be in-person at Jacobs Science Building Room 321 on UKs main campus or virtually through Zoom.

If you have questions, please contact Dr. Kayla Powell at kayla.powell@uky.edu or Dr. Victoria Collins at victoria.collins1@uky.edu.
Please RVSP using the link under “Event Website” or by pasting this link into your browser:
https://uky.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_blWyYbxdYwUiM5M

Practicum Info Session
2026-03-25 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Launch your career through your practicum education! Attend an information session to learn about the process, opportunities, and support available as you explore hands-on learning in real-world settings.
The UK College of Social Work is affiliated with approximately 3,000 agencies across the United States, offering flexible placements in schools, hospitals, with advocacy groups, and in many other settings. During your placement, you will gain valuable experience, build your professional network, and have the opportunity to explore specialized paths, including clinical social work, child welfare, and substance use recovery.
At the UK College of Social Work, students drive their practicum journey, with the ability to select or propose placement sites that align with their goals. Advising and mentorship are built in to help you succeed before and after graduation.
Register for an information session to learn how your practicum experience will support your goals and open doors to meaningful, impact-driven work.
REGISTER HERE

*Attendees should register for virtual Practicum Info Sessions in advance. All times are EST. Sessions occur on Wednesdays at either noon or 3:00 (they are not offered when the University of Kentucky offices are closed, and classes are not in session).

MSW Info Session
2026-03-25 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York)
Explore our Master of Social Work (MSW) program during an online info session. Registration link is below.
The UK Difference
Our MSW program is an Advanced Generalist program that prepares students for social work practice across the micro-macro continuum with diverse populations.
Graduates of our program have the highest clinical licensing pass rates in Kentucky and routinely score above the national average, making our students uniquely poised to enter a competitive job market and make the most of forecasted growth within the social work profession.
Flexible Program Options
Choose from our regular (two year) or advanced (one year) standing options in a hybrid or fully online format.
Exceptional Career Support
Ensure a successful transition into advanced social work practice through our available career counseling, mentoring, and post-graduation support.
Unique Centers and Labs
Leverage our unique centers and labs, including the Training Resource Center, Interdisciplinary Research Center on Children and Families, Kentucky Kinship Resource Center, Self-Care Lab, Suicide Prevention and Exposure Lab, and Military Behavior Health Lab to enhance your learning and research.
Multiple Certificate Options
Earn specialized certifications in Clinical Social Work, Child Welfare, Military Behavioral Health, Integrative Behavioral Health, or Substance Use Disorder.

Register through Zoom or through the link below for ‘Website’.

BASW Info Session
2026-03-26 10:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York)
Are You Wildly Passionate About Social Work?
Explore the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) program during an online info session.
REGISTER HERE
The UK Difference
Graduates from our program are uniquely poised to enter a competitive job market and make the most of forecasted growth within the social work profession.
Our recent graduates are working in hospitals, community-based non-profits, K-12 schools, universities, residential treatment programs, the criminal justice system, and more.

Anywhere, Anytime
Whether you choose on-campus or online, you’ll receive the same high-quality support and service from our renowned faculty and staff.

Real-World Experience
With access to more than 1,000 practicum placement opportunities, you’ll gain on-the-job experience before you graduate.

Global Perspectives
Take advantage of opportunities to study abroad, engage in service learning, and complete the Diversity Certificate.

Strategic Academic Advising
Our advisors are overseen by a licensed social worker, providing you with a forward-looking career perspective throughout your educational journey.

Undergraduate Criminal Justice Info Session
2026-03-26 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
Pursue your Passion for the Greater Good
Explore College of Social Work’s newest Criminal Justice program during our online info session!
REGISTER HERE
The UK Difference
Graduates from our program are uniquely prepared to enter a competitive job market and make the most of forecasted growth within a wide range of career paths, including law enforcement, corrections, victim advocacy, cybercrime, homeland security and more.

Anywhere, Anytime
Whether you choose on-campus or online, you’ll receive the same high-quality support and service from our renowned faculty and staff.

Real-World Experience
With access to thousands of placement opportunities and connections across the Nation, you’ll get pertinent on-the-job experiences before you graduate.

Shaping the Future
This program is the perfect environment to nurture your passion for Criminal Justice and help you achieve your academic and career goals. Join us in shaping a brighter future for the field and making a positive impact on society!

Parole Board Event Talk with Ladeidra Jones
2026-03-26 16:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
The talk offers a comprehensive overview of the parole hearing process. It highlights the impact of rehabilitation, reentry, and victim input as it relates to the suitability of release for offenders.
This event will have a hybrid attendance option. In-person meeting will be held in the Gatton Business & Economics building, Room 127.
Register for the event at this link.
Register for the virtual Zoom option here.

Bio
Ladeidra N. Jones has over 20 years of experience in varying roles working with Justice Involved Individuals. Her career in the criminal legal system began at the Woodford County Detention Center in Versailles, KY and she later worked with Kentucky Department of Corrections Probation & Parole Office, District 9. Ladeidra has years of clinical experience in the field of substance abuse treatment and recovery. Being formerly certified as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Ladeidra has worked with in Fayette County Drug Court and Kentucky Department of Corrections, Division of Addiction Services. Ladeidra was a member of the strategic planning team that designed and implemented an out-patient styled substance abuse treatment program at the Henderson County Detention Center (KY). In recent years, Ladeidra has also provided bias awareness training to the Kentucky Department of Corrections Probation and Parole Pre-service Academies. Ladeidra earned a B.A in criminal justice from Kentucky State University, a BA certification in Criminal Justice Equity and Inclusion from Sam Houston State University and an MBA from Midway University. Ladeidra was appointed to the Board in December 2018 and further designated as Chair of the board in July 2021.

Reentry Through Their Lens: A Photovoice Experience
2026-04-02 16:30 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | 2024SocialWorkLobbyDay-40
The College of Social Work invites you to a powerful and immersive event exploring the lived experiences of individuals navigating reentry after incarceration.
The program will begin with a photo gallery and informal networking space, where attendees can engage with visual stories created by participants. This will be followed by a panel discussion featuring four individuals who will share their personal journeys, insights and reflections on reentry.
Grounded in Photovoice, a participatory research approach, this event highlights photography and guided dialogue as tools for storytelling and reflection. Participants have documented meaningful moments from their reentry experiences, offering a unique and deeply personal perspective.
By centering the voices of those directly impacted, this event creates space for connection, understanding and conversation around the structural and personal factors that shape reentry. Attendees will leave with greater insight and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the reentry process.
Thursday, April 2, 4:30-6pm EST
Lewis Honors College, Scholars Lounge
420 Hilltop Ave
RegisterSecure your spot here:https://uky.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eEQnpheqcuNgazA

Grief and Foster Care (4/6/26)
2026-04-06 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York)
This course offers an exploration of the distinctive and complex grieving experience inherent in foster care and adoption, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and emotions associated with this unique journey. The training will equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the intricacies of the foster care system, particularly focusing on the grieving process inherent in this environment. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of the unique grieving experience associated with foster care.
By exploring the multifaceted layers of grief experienced by both foster children and caregivers, this course will shed light on the emotional complexities and dynamics surrounding loss within the foster care context.
ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

ARC Meetings and IEPs: The Basics (4/6/26)
2026-04-06 19:30 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
ARC Meetings & IEPs: The Basics will help foster and adoptive parents understand the process of an ARC Meeting and gain a better perspective of what an IEP will look like. It offers strategies and ideas to help parents be prepared the ARC meetings. This training also offers sample IEP goals and objectives to give foster and adoptive parents some deeper understanding of what these will look like when an IEP is written for the child in their home.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Prepare for and participate in ARC meetings
Understand IEP goals and objectives to collaborate with school personnel in writing a child’s IEP

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.
