The Rollins family and the O. Wayne Rollins Foundation have contributed more than $38 million in support of major campus projects at the university.

University of the Cumberlands celebrated 50 years of partnership with the O. Wayne Rollins Foundation on September 22, recognizing five decades of generosity that have transformed the university and expanded opportunities for generations of students.

The relationship began in 1975, when O. Wayne Rollins, co-founder of Rollins, Inc., Orkin's parent company, made a $500 contribution to support student work scholarships. That initial investment marked the beginning of an extraordinary partnership rooted in a shared belief in education, opportunity, and service.

"Few organizations have shaped University of the Cumberlands as profoundly as the O. Wayne Rollins Foundation. For 50 years, their generosity has opened doors for our students, strengthened our academic programs, and helped create spaces where students can learn, grow, and prepare for their futures," said Dr. Quentin Young, president of University of the Cumberlands. "Their impact can be seen across our campus, but more importantly, it can be seen in the lives of generations of Cumberlands students who have benefited from their belief in the power of education."

To date, the Rollins family and the O. Wayne Rollins Foundation have contributed more than $38 million in support of major campus projects that have shaped the student experience and expanded Cumberlands' capacity to serve. Those investments include the O. Wayne Rollins Athletic Center, the Grace Crum Rollins Fine Arts Complex, the Rollins Family Learning Center, housing for the physician assistant program, and the university's science complex.

The Foundation's impact extends well beyond facilities. Through endowed support for key academic initiatives, including the university's workship program and business programs, the O. Wayne Rollins Foundation has helped sustain academic excellence while creating meaningful opportunities for students to learn, serve, and prepare for their futures.

"The O. Wayne Rollins Foundation's support has created spaces and resources that encourage students to think creatively, explore new ideas, and engage more deeply in their learning," said Dr. Jennifer Simpson, provost. "A recent example is the addition of an innovation lab and virtual reality simulator in the Rollins Family Learning Center, which gives students even more opportunities to collaborate, experiment, and experience learning in new ways."

Most recently, the Foundation made a historic $25 million commitment to the university's Cumberlands Commitment initiative, directly supporting scholarships and financial access for students across the institution through the R. Randall Rollins Endowed Scholars Program. The gift reflects the Foundation's continued belief in the transformative power of education.

"Being a Rollins Scholar carries a positive weight in my life and reinforces my pursuit of success: to be able to provide one day, to serve, to sing, and be the man I am called to be-and ultimately, to build a life that extends the same kind of opportunity to others," said Eli Dunn, a junior from Corbin, Kentucky.

At the heart of this enduring partnership is Amy Rollins Kreisler, executive director of the O. Wayne Rollins Foundation. Through her leadership and commitment to the Foundation's mission, Kreisler has helped ensure that the legacies of her grandfather, O. Wayne Rollins, and father, R. Randall Rollins, continue to make a difference in the lives of Cumberlands students.

In recognition of her support of the university and her commitment to advancing educational opportunities, Cumberlands' Board of Trustees has conferred upon Kreisler an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.

"It is an amazing recognition to receive this honorary degree from University of the Cumberlands. I am grateful to be a part of such a special community," said Amy Rollins Kreisler.

As University of the Cumberlands celebrates 50 years of partnership with the O. Wayne Rollins Foundation, the university recognizes a legacy that began with a commitment to students and continues today. Through five decades of generosity, the Foundation has helped expand access, strengthen academic opportunities, and create spaces where students can learn and grow. The Foundation's investment will continue to shape the Cumberlands experience for generations to come.

About University of the Cumberlands

University of the Cumberlands is committed to providing a quality, affordable education that prepares students for lives of responsible service and leadership. Located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and online degree programs designed to serve students at every stage of their academic and professional journey.

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