Over the past three years, Kentucky State University has entered one of the most significant periods of investment in our 140-year history. Through the leadership of the Governor, the Kentucky General Assembly, and countless advocates who believe in our mission, the Commonwealth has committed approximately $170 million to strengthen Kentucky's only public HBCU and 1890 land-grant university.

Today, university leaders appeared before the Kentucky General Assembly's Interim Joint Committee Appropriations & Revenue to provide an update on the University's financial, operational, and academic progress. During the meeting, the leaders expressed their appreciation for this historic investment and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring these resources create lasting value for students, taxpayers, and communities across the Commonwealth.

Across campus, that investment is already transforming the student experience. Students will move into a completely renovated Chandler Hall next week and will see new pavement in all south campus residence hall parking lots. Additional projects modernized Combs Hall, and will continue in Hunter Hall, Kentucky Hall, McCullin Hall, The Halls, Bell Gym, Bradford Hall, the Carl M. Hill Student Center, Exum Center, Hume Hall, Shauntee Hall, as well as nearly all campus roads, sidewalks, and critical infrastructure. These improvements are preserving Kentucky State's historic campus while creating modern spaces that support learning, research, student success, and campus life.

Looking ahead, the planned Kentucky State University Health Sciences Center represents another transformational milestone. The approximately 59,000-square-foot, three-story facility will unite our Nursing offerings, advanced nutrition sciences research laboratories, and an outpatient health clinic under one roof. Designed with state-of-the-art classrooms, simulation suites, clinical laboratories, collaborative learning spaces, and dedicated faculty areas, the center will prepare graduates for Kentucky's growing healthcare workforce while expanding research, innovation, and access to care throughout the Commonwealth.

These investments are about far more than buildings. They represent confidence in Kentucky State University's future and in the students whose lives are transformed through education. They strengthen our ability to fulfill our 1890 land-grant and HBCU mission of teaching, research, and service while positioning Kentucky State to serve the Commonwealth for generations to come.

The University's momentum is also reflected in student success. This spring, Kentucky State celebrated the largest graduating class in its recent history, awarding 428 degrees and credentials across the 2025–2026 academic year—a 28% increase over the previous year and more than double the number of graduates from just four years ago. These achievements demonstrate that the Commonwealth's investment is strengthening not only our campus but also the educational outcomes and workforce impact that benefit Kentucky for generations to come.

Thank you for your continued advocacy, support, and pride in your Kentucky State University. The momentum we are experiencing today is possible because of generations of Thorobreds who have championed Kentucky State University. Together, we are building a stronger future while honoring a remarkable legacy of nearly 140 years.

Onward and Upward!