Rothfuss family gives $10 million to UK, psychology department to bear family name

September 21, 2026 - 21:37

The University of Kentucky will rename its Department of Psychology following a $10 million donation from Rick and Cathie Rothfuss. The contribution stands as one of the largest single gifts ever made to the university's College of Arts and Sciences.

In recognition of the donation, the department will now carry the Rothfuss family name. University officials said the funds will support research, student scholarships and faculty development within the department.

Rick Rothfuss is a UK alumnus who built a career in business after graduating from the university. He and his wife Cathie have remained active supporters of the school over the years. The couple said they wanted to invest in a field they believe touches nearly every aspect of modern life, from mental health care to workplace behavior and child development.

Department leaders called the gift transformative. They said it will allow the program to expand research opportunities for graduate students and attract new faculty members at a time when demand for psychology courses continues to rise.

The university plans to formally celebrate the naming at a campus event later this year. Administrators said the gift reflects a growing trend of alumni giving directed toward academic departments rather than athletics or general funds.

The psychology department enrolls hundreds of undergraduate and graduate students each year and operates several research labs focused on cognition, behavior and mental health.