Lexington, Kentucky – In a significant move to enhance educational facilities, Misdee Wrigley Miller, an esteemed equestrian and journalist, has pledged a $2.5 million donation toward the renovation of the University of Kentucky’s College of Communication and Information. This announcement was made during the UK board of trustees meeting on Tuesday and emphasizes Wrigley Miller’s commitment to advancing communication education.
The renovation will take place at Pence Hall, which is set to undergo a $32 million renovation with completion expected in time for the fall 2025 semester. In recognition of her generous contribution, the first-floor administrative level and the auditorium within Pence Hall will be named after Wrigley Miller.
Wrigley Miller, who is also the owner and CEO of Wrigley Media Group and LEX Studios, expressed her belief in the evolving nature of communication. “I think there’s more connectivity than ever in the world, and the ability to communicate well on different platforms is becoming more important than ever,” she stated. She further highlighted the vital role students will play in shaping society’s narrative in the future.
As part of her engagement with the university, Wrigley Miller also plans to offer internships and mentoring to students of the College of Communication and Information (CCI). She noted the importance of hands-on experience, which enables students to develop crucial skills and make informed decisions.
Jennifer Greer, the dean of the CCI, described the Pence Hall renovation as a “transformative” project that will foster collaborative learning environments, serving as a central hub for students, staff, and faculty alike. “We are so grateful for this gift from Misdee Wrigley Miller in helping us bring to completion a project years in the making,” she added.
Pence Hall, previously home to the architecture program, will also house various student media organizations including the Kentucky Kernel newspaper and KRNL magazine, along with the Office for Student Success and technology services. According to UK President Eli Capilouto, the renovated facility aims to bolster students’ educational experiences while enhancing the local workforce and economy.
Upon completion, Pence Hall will feature five classrooms, an auditorium, two computer labs, a whitebox studio for photography and video, and a podcast studio. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to create a “CI neighborhood,” improving connectivity among facilities dedicated to communication and information studies.
