Save the date for the UKWF annual conference
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 2, 2025) — The University of Kentucky Wildcat Forum (UKWF) annual, in-person conference will be 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at Gatton Student Center. The conference theme is “Leading with Intention: Finding Purpose in What You Do and Who You Are,” and promises to spark inspiration and reimagine what it means to lead with authenticity and heart. Purchase tickets early (Sept. 1-Oct. 15) for $15, or regular registration is $25 (Oct. 16-Nov. 12).
Call for proposals
The Wildcat Forum is a collaborative space where students and community partners come together to share insights, spark conversations and inspire one another. If you have an idea, story or expertise worth sharing, the UKWF would love to hear from you. Proposals will be accepted from faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners.
The conference welcomes speakers for workshops, panel discussions, roundtable conversations and presentations. Original research is not necessary to participate.
Proposals for workshops will be accepted until Sept. 22, via online submission. Notifications for selected presentations will be sent on Oct. 3.
Join UKWF for a day filled with purpose, connections and Wildcat pride.
Stay connected
To receive updates on this event and other news, follow UKWF on social media and join the mailing list (UKWF@uky.edu) for the latest updates, sneak peeks and speaker announcements.
The UKWF mission is to inspire, empower and advocate for UK employees. The committee was created in the spirit of Sarah Bennett Holmes, who was known for her efforts toward making the university a better place for all employees. Visit the UKWF website to learn more about the organization and its signature events and programs, including the annual conference, Sarah Bennett Holmes Award Reception and Employee Education Assistance Awards.
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.