Lexington, KY, December 16, 2025
The University of Kentucky held the Terry B. Mobley Philanthropy Awards luncheon, honoring individuals for their significant contributions to philanthropy in Lexington. Recognizing outstanding local leaders, the event showcased the impacts of personalized commitment in supporting the university’s mission. Award recipients included Kayla Thomas, Tressa Neal, Jonathan Furnish, and Jack ‘Goose’ Givens, each acknowledged for their exceptional roles in enhancing philanthropy within the academic community.
University of Kentucky Celebrates Philanthropy with Mobley Awards
Honoring Outstanding Contributions to Philanthropy in Lexington, KY
Lexington, Kentucky – The University of Kentucky recently held the 2025 Terry B. Mobley Philanthropy Awards luncheon, recognizing individuals for their exceptional efforts in advancing the university’s philanthropic mission. This annual event, hosted at The Manchester Reserve on December 11, continues to highlight the significant impact of local leaders and community members who drive charitable efforts, demonstrating how their hard work leads to thriving academic and cultural environments.
The Mobley Awards celebrate the spirit of community engagement and the essential role of individual initiative in fostering growth within Lexington. Less bureaucracy and more personal commitment have led to remarkable achievements in philanthropy at the University of Kentucky, showcasing the power of collaboration between the university, its alumni, and the wider community.
2025 Mobley Awards Recipients
Rising Achievement Award
Kayla Thomas, the Director of Philanthropy for the UK College of Fine Arts, received the Rising Achievement Award. Since her arrival in 2024, Thomas has made waves by raising over $3 million and successfully re-engaging alumni across the nation through focused outreach and personal connections.
Professional Achievement Award
Tressa Neal, the Senior Director of Donor Relations for the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, was honored with the Professional Achievement Award. Neal’s efforts in building relationships with alumni, donors, and partners have led to the development of individualized stewardship plans that resonate with the long-term goals of the college.
Impact Award
Jonathan Furnish, a Stewardship Officer within the UK Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering, received the Impact Award. Furnish has concentrated on fostering enduring relationships through thoughtful engagement and recognition of the significant stories behind each generous contribution.
Philanthropy Service Award
Jack “Goose” Givens, a storied UK basketball player who was key to leading the Wildcats to the 1978 NCAA National Championship, was presented with the Philanthropy Service Award. Givens continues to serve as an active ambassador for the university, engaging with fans as a sports analyst on the UK Sports Network.
About the Mobley Awards
Established in 2005, the Mobley Awards honor individuals who have taken significant steps to advance the philanthropic mission of the University of Kentucky. Named after Terry B. Mobley, a transformative figure in fundraising at the university, these awards reflect a commitment to recognizing the vital contributions of community members to the institution’s success and its impact on the wider state of Kentucky.
Key Features of the 2025 Mobley Awards
| Award | Recipient | Role | Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rising Achievement Award | Kayla Thomas | Director of Philanthropy for the UK College of Fine Arts | Raised over $3 million and re-engaged alumni nationwide through outreach and in-person connections. |
| Professional Achievement Award | Tressa Neal | Senior Director of Donor Relations for the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment | Strengthened relationships with alumni, donors, and partners, developing individualized stewardship plans. |
| Impact Award | Jonathan Furnish | Stewardship Officer in the UK Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering | Focused on strengthening lasting relationships among alumni, donors, and friends through thoughtful engagement. |
| Philanthropy Service Award | Jack “Goose” Givens | Celebrated UK basketball player and active ambassador for the university | Provides game analysis on the UK Sports Network and appears on “BBN Gameday” and “BBN Tonight.” |
Conclusion
The 2025 Terry B. Mobley Philanthropy Awards continue to shine a light on the significant impact of individuals dedicated to promoting philanthropy at the University of Kentucky. By highlighting personal initiative and leadership, these awards not only recognize past achievements but also lay a foundation for future civic engagement in Lexington. Community members are encouraged to support local events and get involved, fostering a culture of giving that strengthens both the university and the surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Mobley Awards?
The Mobley Awards, established in 2005, honor individuals who advance the University of Kentucky’s philanthropic mission. They are named after Terry B. Mobley, a 1965 graduate who transformed UK’s fundraising operation after joining the university in 1977 as chief development officer. Under his leadership, UK became the first public university in America to raise $1 billion.
Who were the 2025 Mobley Awards recipients?
The 2025 Mobley Awards recipients are:
- Rising Achievement Award: Kayla Thomas, Director of Philanthropy for the UK College of Fine Arts.
- Professional Achievement Award: Tressa Neal, Senior Director of Donor Relations for the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment.
- Impact Award: Jonathan Furnish, Stewardship Officer in the UK Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering.
- Philanthropy Service Award: Jack “Goose” Givens, a celebrated UK basketball player and active ambassador for the university.
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