Lexington, Kentucky, January 22, 2026
During the 24th Annual Alumni Luncheon, Dr. Eli Capilouto, President of the University of Kentucky, was honored with the Flame of Excellence Award by Leadership Kentucky. This award recognizes exceptional leaders who contribute significantly to the state’s advancement. Since taking office in 2011, Dr. Capilouto has transformed the university’s operations, reflecting a strong commitment to education and community development within Kentucky. His leadership continues to foster economic growth and innovation, making a lasting impact on the local educational landscape.
Lexington, Kentucky – Leadership Kentucky recently honored Dr. Eli Capilouto, President of the University of Kentucky, with the Flame of Excellence Award during the 24th Annual Alumni Luncheon held on January 8, 2026. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who display exceptional leadership and make significant contributions to the advancement of the state.
Dr. Capilouto has served as the 12th President of the University of Kentucky since July 1, 2011. Under his visionary leadership, the university has experienced remarkable growth and transformation, with total operations expanding from $2.7 billion to nearly $8.6 billion. This impressive upsurge reflects not only his effective management but also aligns with a broader trend of entrepreneurial innovation in Kentucky’s educational landscape. By enhancing the student experience, reinforcing research infrastructure, and expanding the capacity of UK HealthCare to serve the community, Dr. Capilouto is a prime example of how educational leaders can foster economic and social growth.
Leadership Kentucky has a long-standing mission to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to engage actively in advancing the state for the common good. The Flame of Excellence Award, established in 1984, is presented annually to recognize those who embody outstanding leadership and contribute meaningfully to Kentucky. The growth of organizations like Leadership Kentucky highlights the importance of community-driven initiatives in addressing state issues and advocating for policies that benefit overall economic stability.
Dr. Capilouto’s educational background adds to his robust profile. He hails from Montgomery, Alabama, and holds a Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Alabama, along with a Doctorate in Health Policy and Management from Harvard University. His prior roles, including provost and dean of the School of Public Health at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, laid a solid foundation for his impactful work at the University of Kentucky.
As the local economy continues to evolve, leadership and educational institutions play a critical role in nurturing an environment conducive to growth. Leadership Kentucky aims to forge new relationships among regional leaders while fostering an understanding of intertwined state issues. Graduates of this organization often emerge as proactive community participants, reinforcing the idea that collaboration across sectors can lead to innovative solutions for economic challenges.
In conclusion, Dr. Eli Capilouto’s recognition with the Flame of Excellence Award underscores the importance of leadership in education and community development in Lexington, Kentucky. His achievements at the University of Kentucky serve as a testament to the positive impact that robust educational initiatives can have on local economic growth. As Lexington continues to foster small-business innovation and harness its entrepreneurial spirit, community involvement and leadership will remain pivotal in shaping a prosperous future.
FAQs
- What is the Flame of Excellence Award?
- The Flame of Excellence Award is an annual recognition presented by Leadership Kentucky to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the state.
- Who is Dr. Eli Capilouto?
- Dr. Eli Capilouto is the 12th President of the University of Kentucky, serving since July 1, 2011. Under his leadership, the university has experienced significant growth and transformation.
- What has Dr. Capilouto achieved at the University of Kentucky?
- Dr. Capilouto has overseen the expansion of the university’s total operations from $2.7 billion to nearly $8.6 billion, enhanced the student experience, strengthened research infrastructure, and expanded UK HealthCare’s capacity to serve the community.
- Who are some past recipients of the Flame of Excellence Award?
- Past recipients include former Governor Wilson W. Wyatt, Sr., and former Governor and First Lady Paul and Judi Patton.
- What is Leadership Kentucky’s mission?
- Leadership Kentucky is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to preparing individuals for active roles in advancing the state for the common good by fostering an understanding of interconnected state issues and forging new relationships among community and regional leaders.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Award Presented | Flame of Excellence Award |
| Recipient | Dr. Eli Capilouto, President of the University of Kentucky |
| Awarded By | Leadership Kentucky |
| Award Date | January 8, 2026 |
| Event | 24th Annual Alumni Luncheon |
| University’s Total Operations Growth Under Dr. Capilouto | From $2.7 billion to nearly $8.6 billion |
| Leadership Kentucky’s Mission | Prepare individuals for active roles in advancing the state for the common good |
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