Upcoming Programs

The UKWF is excited to announce its annual in-person conference on December 9, 2025, at the Gatton Student Center. This year’s theme is “Leading with Intention: Finding Purpose in What You Do and Who You Are."

Call for proposals: 

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 September 22, via online submission. Notifications for selected presentations will be sent on Oct. 3.

Register here: https://vivenu.com/event/uk-wildcat-forum-annual-conference-yd8o7x?utm_source=chatgpt.com 

Registration is open until November 12th. 

To receive updates about this event, join the UKWF mailing list by emailing UKWF@uky.edu.

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.

Sarah Bennett Holmes was a distinguished dean of women at the University of Kentucky, who tirelessly championed the rights of women throughout her career. Widowed at a young age, Holmes raised four children while completing her education. She then began a successful career at UK where she inspired young women to persevere in the face of hardship and pursue their career goals. Among her accomplishments, Holmes developed work programs for women during the Depression.

The Sarah Bennett Holmes Team Award recognizes staff, faculty, graduate students, and teams who have shown efforts to promote the well-being and growth of women at the university and throughout the Commonwealth. 

For more information visit: Sarah Bennett Holmes Award Luncheon | Women's Forum