By Gerard Flanagan, news writer and photographer, Office of University Communications
CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. - Bam Carney, who served as state representative for the 51st District from 2009 until his death in July 2021, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Public Service from Campbellsville University.
Members of Carney's family accepted the honorary degree on his behalf during a ceremony in the Betty Dobbins Heilman President's Home.
Carney graduated from Campbellsville College in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts in History. In 1997, he earned his teaching certificate for grades 9-12 from Campbellsville University.
Dr. Joseph Hopkins, who arrived as Campbellsville University's 12th president in Feb. 2022, never had the opportunity to know Carney. But, Hopkins said Carney's legacy “is so rich that I feel like I know him.”
“Clearly, our community is better and stronger because of Bam Carney,” Hopkins said. “This University is grateful for his service to Campbellsville, Taylor County, and the Commonwealth, and we are privileged to recognize his achievements in this way.”
Carney served as Majority Leader and chair of the House Education Committee.
Carney was an educator, having taught in the Taylor County, Campbellsville and Washington County school systems.
His brother, Mark Carney, who serves as Taylor County clerk, said, “We were very proud of Bam and continue to be proud of the legacy he has left behind. Our family appreciates very much the way in which Campbellsville University chose to honor Bam's commitment to our community.
“This special recognition is a very special way to carry on the legacy of Bam and his service.”
Campbellsville University is a widely acclaimed Kentucky-based Christian university that offers over 100 programs including doctoral, master, bachelor, associate and certificate programs. The website for complete information is www.campbellsville.edu.