The Bill Gatton Foundation

Through the support of The Bill Gatton Foundation, the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment would create a targeted scholarship program that would help educate the future leaders of agriculture in Kentucky, with special consideration given to students with 4-H, FFA and other agricultural backgrounds.

The program would focus primarily on need-based students, students from rural communities and underserved populations, and first-generation students, as part of a commitment to preparing students for lives of meaning and purpose. 

The foundation's gift also would provide funding for undergraduate student research experiences and support student leadership programs to equip graduates to play key roles in developing their local communities. 

Bill Gatton appreciated the importance of the human-animal bond, and many subject matter experts at UK are eager to address this theme. 

Through the support of the foundation, the college would partner with UK HealthCare and others to explore this bond and research the care and well-being of companion animals in relation to human health.

The foundation's gift would allow the college to secure program leadership and hire new faculty, as well as establish a companion animal science minor or certificate program. The college also would create a companion animal extension program for 4-H students, as well as expand partnerships in veterinary medicine. 

Foundation funding for the 21st Century Capital Projects and New Initiatives Fund would be available on an annual basis for support of capital projects and new initiatives. 

Opportunities would include funding innovative programs in partnership with the state’s agricultural producers, the larger agribusiness community, and the priorities of local communities. 

The foundation's gift would help establish multidisciplinary teams of scientists, students and staff to address contemporary challenges related to agriculture and society.

This funding also would help expand extension's partnerships to address communities' priorities of substance abuse, economic development and youth development.