PIKEVILLE — The University of Pikeville announced a new partnership with the Child Welfare Prepare, Retain, Engage and Partner Program, a statewide initiative to strengthen Kentucky’s public child welfare workforce.

The program, supported by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and a consortium of social work schools, provides tuition support, stipends and specialized training to students who commit to careers in child protection. At UPIKE, qualified undergraduates in the Bachelor of Social Work program can now receive up to four semesters of in-state tuition coverage, a $1,400 stipend each semester, paid field placements and coursework in child welfare practice.

Students in the program will complete training retreats, receive one-on-one advising and serve practicum placements with the Department for Community-Based Services. In exchange, graduates pledge at least two years of service in front-line child welfare roles.

“This partnership is an incredible opportunity for our students and the children and families of Eastern Kentucky,” said Ashton Bartley, director of UPIKE’s Bachelor of Social Work program. “Funded opportunities like this not only remove financial barriers, but they also give our students the training, advising and field experience they need to step into these critical roles confidently.”

Bartley added that the initiative is for students who are passionate about child and family services.

“At UPIKE, we’re looking for students who want to make a lasting difference,” she said. “Together, we are building a well-prepared workforce to meet the needs of Kentucky’s most vulnerable.”

For more information, prospective students can contact Bartley at AshtonBartley@upike.edu or (606) 218-5001.