Contact: Ralph Derickson

John Thelin

LEXINGTON, Ky. (March 22, 2005) -- The historic “town and gown” relationship linking Lexington, Transylvania University, and the University of Kentucky will be the subject of a special presentation by UK College of Education professor John Thelin at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 31, in the Niles Gallery of the Lucille Little Fine Arts Library and Learning Center on the UK campus.

The presentation also will feature an exhibit displaying the rich economic and cultural heritage behind the town/gown relationship. The contribution and impact on local communities are substantial, but the legends and lore as part of the civic life and local history are under-appreciated,” Thelin said.

There are many examples where town and gown relationships impart a rich historic tradition, one in which Kentucky should be justly proud. Exhibits showing significant events in Kentucky’s town and gown heritage and memorabilia specific to the contributions of colleges will accompany Thelin’s lecture.