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UK and Transylvania partner to fill healthcare shortage

UK President Dr. Eli Capilouto and Transylvania University President Dr. Brien Lewis announce partnership to fill healthcare void
Karyn Czar/WUKY
UK President Dr. Eli Capilouto and Transylvania University President Dr. Brien Lewis announce partnership to fill healthcare void

The University of Kentucky and Transylvania University are creating a partnership to train more students in the fields of medicine and pharmacy.

UK announced the Advancing Kentucky Together Network last year to address the state’s growing health needs, especially in underserved communities. Through the partnership announced Wednesday with Transylvania University, Transy undergraduate students will be able to seamlessly transfer to UK’s College of Public Health master’s program.

UK President Dr. Eli Capilouto said the state is facing pressing challenges that no single institution can solve alone.

“We believe that our Commonwealth’s future depends on collaboration,” Capilouto said. “On bringing together institutions that share deep commitment to education, healthcare and economic progress.”

Capilouto said despite Kentucky’s economic growth, critical workforce shortages exist in many areas, including healthcare.

“UK Healthcare alone, projects needing an additional 5,000 healthcare professionals over the next decade to meet growing health needs.”

Transylvania President Brien Lewis said this formal collaboration positions both universities to play a “critical role in driving Kentucky forward.”

“By combining Transylvania’s liberal arts foundation with UK’s research and professional programs, we’re creating unparalleled opportunities for our students and enriching our entire Commonwealth with a highly skilled and innovative workforce,” Lewis said.

Students will also be eligible for outreach efforts in Fayette County Public Schools, education abroad and internship opportunities.

Karyn Czar has been a journalist with WUKY since 2013 and is currently the Assistant News Director. She received her bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky and brings more than 30 years of broadcast experience to NPR. Karyn's work has been recognized with numerous Associated Press, Kentucky Broadcaster Association, Public Media Journalist, and Edward R. Murrow awards throughout her career.