UK Happenings

Former Lexington Mayor Gives Liberal Arts Lessons

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 26, 2011) − As the relationship between the city of Lexington and the University of Kentucky continues to grow, former Lexington mayor Jim Newberry is one person who can understand that success for one translates into success for the other.

Newberry will share his thoughts on the connection between campus and community, along with a few college lessons, in a talk sponsored by the University of Kentucky's College of Arts & Sciences titled, "Liberal Arts Lessons from a Lexington Leader: Things I Wish I'd Known in College" from 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28, in the Recital Hall of the Singletary Center for the Arts.

In 1978, as a senior political science major, Newberry might not have known that he would lead Lexington, but after a term as Student Government president and a diverse Arts & Sciences education, he was certainly well prepared for just such an endeavor.

“I am confronted on a daily basis with issues ranging from economic policy to social services to criminal justice to civil engineering,” he said. “My political science degree and liberal arts education exposed me to a multitude of disciplines, and those broad experiences as a student prepared me well for the broad demands placed upon me as mayor."

Newberry recalled a particular A&S professor and class that were highly beneficial and influential in his future.

“Dr. Robert Ireland, a now retired history professor, was one of my favorites. His Constitutional History class combined my love of both history and the law. The class was great preparation for law school," Newberry said. “The critical thinking and communications skills that I developed in the College of Arts & Sciences have been key components to my professional success."

Newberry's talk kicks off the College's Alumni Speaker Series, which will take place each semester.

The inaugural lecture is free and open to the public.