Key Administrative Restructuring to Support Growth and Student Success
LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 14, 2025) — The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy has announced a series of organizational changes to better align responsibilities with the evolving needs of its academic programs and student community.
Following a comprehensive evaluation of its administrative structure, the College has refined several leadership roles to reflect more focused oversight across key academic areas. Effective April 1:
- Penni Black, PhD, has been named assistant dean for Professional Studies
- Holly Divine, PharmD, has been named assistant dean for External Studies
- David Feola, PharmD, PhD, has been named assistant dean for Graduate Studies
- Eric Welch, PhD, has been named assistant dean for Undergraduate Studies
All four assistant deans and associated staff will report to Frank Romanelli, PharmD, associate dean for Academic Programs.
In addition, Enrollment Management has transitioned from Academic Programs to Student Success, which is now led by Trenika Mitchell, PharmD, associate dean for Student Success. This move reflects the College's commitment to holistic student development and enhanced support services throughout the academic journey.
Mitchell’s team now includes the following units and personnel:
Office of Student Success
- Nicole Keenan, director of Student Success and Career Development
- Julianne Kravetz, coordinator of Student Success
- Hannah Luttrell, pharmacy program coordinator for Student Success and Wellness
- Unique Young-Nutter, pharmacy program coordinator for Student Success and Academics
Office of Enrollment Management
- Jason Edwards, director of Enrollment Management
- Taylor Campell, pharmacy program coordinator, pre-pharmacy
- Joshua Palmer, pharmacy program coordinator, recruitment specialist
- Candace Smigla, admissions officer
“These changes reflect more than just an internal realignment—they’re an investment in our people and in our future,” said Dean Kip Guy. “By clarifying responsibilities and building stronger support systems for our students, we’re positioning the College to lead boldly in pharmacy education, research, and service. It’s about empowering our team to do their best work so our students can thrive.”
“Our goal is to create a seamless, supportive experience for students from the moment they apply to the day they graduate,” said Mitchell. “Bringing together Student Success and Enrollment Management gives us the opportunity to collaborate more effectively and personalize support in ways that truly make a difference.”
The UK College of Pharmacy remains dedicated to innovation in education, research, and service. These updates will further empower employees to fulfill their mission.