UK recognized as one of Forbes’ Best-in-State Employers
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 22, 2025) — The University of Kentucky has been named to Forbes’ list of America’s Best-in-State Employers 2025, reflecting the university’s ongoing commitment to creating a workplace where employees feel valued, supported and empowered to succeed.
Now in its seventh year, the America’s Best-in-State Employers list is based on a survey of more than 160,000 employees nationwide, representing companies with at least 500 U.S.-based workers. The rankings consider factors such as compensation, opportunities for advancement, working conditions and overall employee satisfaction. The list highlights organizations that stand out as top employers in their state and region.
“This recognition is extremely rewarding because it’s rooted in the voices of our incredible faculty and staff,” said Melissa Frederick, UK vice president and chief human resources officer. “Together, we’ve built a purpose-driven community that creates a lasting impact for the Commonwealth. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to attracting and supporting the best talent from across the country. This honor is a strong reminder that UK is a place people want to work and where they are empowered to thrive.”
As the state’s flagship and land-grant institution, UK is dedicated to advancing Kentucky through education, research, health care and service. While students are at the core of that mission, UK also places strong emphasis on supporting the people who make that work possible.
That support includes a wide range of work-life and well-being resources designed to meet the needs of employees and their families. UK offers free, confidential therapy sessions, parenting resources, workshops on elder care and caregiver support programs. Benefits such as paid parental and elder care leave, flexible work arrangements and on-campus health and wellness opportunities further strengthen a culture of balance and belonging. Professional development programs and leadership workshops also ensure faculty and staff have opportunities to grow throughout their careers.
This recognition reflects not only the breadth of resources available, but also UK’s intentional culture — one that values belonging, well-being and professional growth as central to its mission. By fostering an environment where employees feel supported and engaged, the university strengthens its ability to serve students and the state at the highest level.
For the full list of America’s Best-in-State Employers 2025, visit https://www.forbes.com/lists/best-employers-by-state/.
As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and health care. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $476.5 million research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.