The academic year at Gatton College of Business and Economics unfolds as a series of experiences that bring together students, faculty, alumni and industry partners. From Gatton Welcome to the Dean's Distinguished Speaker Series (and everything in between), each event reflects the college's commitment to developing principled leaders and fostering lifelong connections.The fall semester begins with new traditions and familiar favorites. Students gather for Gatton Welcome, explore opportunities during the Student Organization Fair, and hear from accomplished alumni during the Alumni Executive Speaker Series. Throughout September and October, the college hosts events such as the Graham Office of Career Management's Careers & Cane's networking series, faculty research presentations and leadership workshops that encourage students to connect classroom learning with real-world challenges.As the semester progresses, signature events—including the Accounting Internship & Career Fair, the Gatton Lecture Series, student competitions and various networking events—bring together employers, alumni and faculty in support of student success. Homecoming activities and alumni receptions provide opportunities for graduates to reconnect with classmates while seeing firsthand how the college continues to evolve.The Spring semester brings lots of activity to the college. Gatton Leadership Week, Blue Means Business Conference, Econ Games, and various sales competitions highlight the entrepreneurial spirit and collaborative culture that define the college. Student competitions, honors celebrations, scholarship recognitions and faculty lectures fill the calendar, culminating in commencement—a celebration that welcomes the newest graduates into the Gatton alumni family.Whether returning to campus as mentors, speakers, judges, donors or proud alumni, graduates remain woven into the fabric of these traditions. Alumni participation transforms annual events into dynamic networking and mentorship opportunities that continue to grow stronger with your involvement in the Gatton College community. Reach out to Sherry Thompson at sherry.thomposn@uky.edu, or anyone on the Gatton Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement team, to learn more about how we can help you connect.
