By Molly Williamson

For nearly 40 years, Penny Robinson inspired University of Kentucky students, exciting them about mathematics, guiding them as an academic counselor and motivating them to achieve more in college.

“Penny believed in every single student that walked into her classroom, and by the time the students left her courses, she had them believing in themselves,” said Molly Reynolds, director of Transformative Learning. “She didn’t just encourage her students to succeed in class, she inspired them to become lifelong learners. She made a lasting impact on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.”

Now, her legacy continues. Robinson died Aug. 14. In her honor, her family, friends and colleagues created the Penny Robinson Memorial Scholarship Fund, which will continue to support students, particularly those who participate in the Academic Preparation and Placement Program, a division of UK Transformative Learning, where Robinson was assistant director of academic preparation and placement. 

In her latest position, she helped test and prepare students whose standardized test scores indicated that they were underprepared for college. Her division coached and tutored students so that they could excel in college-level classes. Additional scholarship support will allow these students to focus exclusively on their studies and remove any barriers to their academic success.  

In her 38 years at UK, Robinson also taught mathematics and served as an academic adviser in the College of Arts and Sciences. In 2012, she received a Teacher Who Made A Difference award.

To contribute to the Robinson fund, visit https://uky.networkforgood.com. In the search field, type “Penny Robinson Memorial Scholarship Fund” and then select “Donate to Penny Robinson Memorial Scholarship Fund.”  Donors can also send checks to UK Philanthropy, Attention: Penny Robinson Memorial Scholarship Fund, Sturgill Philanthropy Building, Lexington, KY 40506-0015.