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One hundred and thirty-six years ago, Kentucky State University was founded as a small normal school to train African American teachers. Each October, the University celebrates its history as the only public historically Black and the second state-supported institution of higher learning in Kentucky.

Kentucky State University will convene Friday, Oct. 14, at 10 a.m. in the Carl H. Smith Auditorium of David H. Bradford Hall for the 2022 Founder’s Day Convocation.

One of Kentucky State’s most treasured traditions, the annual Founder’s Day Convocation recognizes individuals throughout the decades – from our founding in 1886 to the present day – whose dedication has made an indelible impact on Kentucky State University and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Interim President Ronald A. Johnson encourages the Kentucky State community to seize this opportunity to celebrate the founding of the University by taking a deeper look at our history to understand our present – and forge our intended future.

“We honor the visionary commitment of individuals to Kentucky State University, to create lasting connections and to experience the transformational power of humanity, philanthropy, and intellect,” said President Johnson. “Each one of us can contribute to Kentucky State. This celebration is for all of us connected to this institution and what we will do to make KSU what it is today and what it will be tomorrow.”

Kentucky State University National Alumni Association President Richard Graves has requested that Kentucky State alumni, faculty, staff, and friends continue the tradition of an annual founding gift to the institution in honor of its existence.

“As we all reflect on 136 years of impact, we now have a chance to help ensure KSU continues its mission well into the future. So let us give a $136 gift to the area of greatest need or the fund of your choice by donating at www.kysu.edu/givenow,” said Graves.

The Golden Class of 1972 will be honored as part of its 50th anniversary, with Mr. James H. Atkins presenting a financial gift on behalf of the class.

Dr. Karen Townsend, a Kentucky State University alumna, will provide the Founder’s Day address.

Townsend is a thought leader who has educated professionals at every level and is well known for her approach to diversity education. Several of Townsend’s scholarly articles in this area have been featured in local, regional, and national publications. Townsend is also a certified diversity consultant, having received her training from the National Multicultural Institute in Washington, D.C. Before launching her consulting practice, she worked for fifteen years as a higher education professional.

Townsend received her bachelor’s degree in political science from Kentucky State University in 1985, her master’s in humanities from The Ohio State University, and her doctorate in educational and organizational leadership from the University of Dayton. She is an active member of her community through engagement and social services organizations such as the Tabernacle Baptist Church (Dayton, Ohio) and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (Beta Eta Omega).

Indoor masking is recommended at Kentucky State University regardless of vaccination status.

You can also view the event on Zoom or at www.kysu.edu.