Question: What happened to the UK faculty club? They closed it long ago for renovations and it never reopened. How can you have a top twenty institution without a gathering place for the faculty?

 Answer: In September 2004 we wrote in the Herald-Leader that the University of Kentucky’s Board of Trustees has tabled a controversial $4.4 million plan to renovate the faculty club, saying it needs more information.    

   In the article, President Lee Todd said the new space will allow for better fund-raising, but many faculty members say the money shouldn’t be spent in the middle of a budget crisis.

The project, which is being overseen by UK first lady Patsy Todd, would enlarge meeting rooms and the restaurant, as well as add a library and patio area. Half of the $4.4 million would come from new private donations, and half would be taken out of unrestricted donations, which can be used for any purpose.  

Todd said at the time that UK currently spends about $1.4 million on entertainment and conferences at area hotels. The renovation of the Hilary Boone faculty club will bring some of that business back to campus, allow parties of 300 to 400,create a sense of community, and allow for much more frequent fund-raising events on campus.  

  The club closed down in September 2004 and construction was supposed to start the next month. 

   I called Jay Blanton, executive director of University of Kentucky public relations office, about the current status of the project. He says that renovations are currently being completed with the goal of reopening the faculty club this spring.

Linda Niemi

Filed under: Uncategorized