Exceeding interest and enrollment expectations
Purpose. Intellect. Integrity. These are the primary attributes that the second-largest class of incoming first-time first-year students will have the unique opportunity to develop as part of the University of Kentucky Lewis Honors College. Preliminary enrollment numbers indicate that this year’s cohort will be the most distinguished, well-rounded, and academically prepared group of scholars in Lewis Honors College history.
The Lewis Honors College is seeing rising interest from students who want to be part of its dynamic community. Applicants for the 2024–25 cycle came from every state in the nation, 115 Kentucky counties and 33 countries — underscoring the college’s wide reach and reputation for opportunity. Tony Colella serves as the Lewis Honors College director of recruitment and admissions. He credits a collaborative effort for this year’s strong recruitment outcomes.
“From restructuring how we host and engage visitors, to building more personal connections with prospective students, and involving faculty, staff, and student ambassadors throughout the process — it’s been a full team effort,” Colella said. “I couldn’t be prouder to be part of this remarkable college and team of professionals.”
Lewis Honors College offers an enhanced course of instruction for outstanding, highly motivated students from all academic programs. Honors students are innovative, intellectually engaged, and highly interested in creative and critical thought. Each application is reviewed holistically, considering academic preparation, strength of the application essay, leadership and involvement, and notable awards and achievements.
“Students from across the globe are identifying the UK Lewis Honors College as a premier destination to explore their purpose, develop leadership skills, and elevate their career readiness,” Colella said.
Lewis Honors College students benefit from:
- A 30-credit Honors curriculum, with class sizes capped at 25 students
- Dedicated housing in the Honors Residential Experience (Lewis and Haggin Halls)
- Priority course registration
- Access to the Center for Personal Development
- Special research, internship, and study abroad opportunities
- Distinguished Honors pathways in the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering and the Gatton College of Business and Economics
To learn more or register for an Honors Information Session, visit honors.uky.edu.