Registration open for the Self Defense Tactics and Risk Reduction (S.T.A.R.R.) Program
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 15, 2026) — The University of Kentucky Police Department has opened registration for the Self Defense Tactics and Risk Reduction (S.T.A.R.R.) Program, a free personal safety and self-defense training available to all members of the UK community.
The S.T.A.R.R. Program is designed to empower participants with practical tools and confidence to recognize, avoid and respond to potentially dangerous situations. Through hands-on instruction, participants learn techniques for awareness, prevention and physical defense.
“STARR is more than a self-defense class — it’s about building confidence and taking ownership of your personal safety,” said UK Police Chief Joe Monroe. “We encourage students, faculty and staff to take advantage of this opportunity to learn skills that can empower you with additional tools and knowledge to enhance your safety.”
The program supports the university’s Wildcat Ready campaign, a campus-wide initiative that promotes preparedness, personal responsibility and shared accountability for community safety.
Registration details
- Who can participate: All UK students, faculty and staff (no experience required)
- Cost: Free
- Location: Alumni Gym Mat Room
- Dates and times: 6-8 p.m. Feb. 25-27
In addition to physical techniques, S.T.A.R.R. emphasizes situational awareness, risk reduction strategies and available campus resources such as the SafeZone app.
By working together and taking advantage of safety programs like S.T.A.R.R., the UK community strengthens its ability to look out for one another.
For more information and to register, visit UK Police Department’s S.T.A.R.R. Program webpage or contact STARR@uky.edu.
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.