Neal Hutchens: 2025-26 University Research Professor Q&A
Neal Hutchens, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation in the University of Kentucky College of Education, has been honored as a 2025-26 University Research Professor.
Hutchens’ research involves the intersections of higher education law, policy and practice. In addition to exploring legal issues in higher education, Hutchens has focused on free speech and academic freedom. His work looks at how open intellectual inquiry and free expression are essential to what colleges and universities are all about, creating the foundation they need to fulfill their missions of teaching, research and service.
Hutchens received the William A. Kaplin Award for his leadership in higher education law and policy. He is a co-author of “The Law of Higher Education: Essentials for Legal and Administrative Practice,” seventh edition, and in 2022 he contributed the chapter “Academic freedom protections in national and international law” to the International Encyclopedia of Education. His writing has also appeared in The Conversation, The Hechinger Report, The Chronicle of Higher Education and Inside Higher Ed.
Hutchens joined UK again in 2022 after initially serving as a faculty member here from 2009-2013. He spoke with UKNow about his latest honor as a University Research Professor in this Q&A.
UKNow: What does it mean to you to be recognized as a University Research Professor?
Hutchens: It is an absolute honor to be recognized as a University Research Professor, especially when I consider the amazing accomplishments of the other faculty members chosen. The selection represents one of the most rewarding moments of my academic career. My research sits at the intersection of education, law and policy, and this recognition validates the importance of crossing field and disciplinary boundaries to connect the work we do to audiences beyond our immediate circle of experts. Selection as a University Research Professor is an honor that also motivates me to work even more to engage in research that is impactful for the University of Kentucky, the Commonwealth and beyond.
UKNow: How will the professorships program advance your research?
Hutchens: Along with the opportunity to learn more about and be inspired by the work of the other faculty members selected, the financial support provided by the program will help to advance research for an upcoming project examining the implications of the increasing presence of law and legal standards in college and university life. This dynamic is what one scholar has referred to as the “legalization” of higher education. The project also comes at a moment when there is a basic reconsideration of the federal government’s role in higher education, such as providing support for research. An important goal of the project is to contribute to ongoing conversations and debates about the future of higher education and how the use of law and legal standards can support or hinder aspirations for colleges and universities to serve the public good.
UKNow: What inspired your focus on this area of research?
Hutchens: Colleges and universities have always fascinated me. They are at the edge of innovation and discovery, but are also places often concerned with tradition and history. When colleges and universities function at their best and live up to their ideals, they serve as institutions that can be transformational for individuals and society. We are currently at a moment when higher education is experiencing multiple challenges. At heart, much of my research is inspired to understand more deeply how we foster the conditions needed for colleges and universities to thrive as places of discovery, creativity and innovation that benefit individuals and the larger society.
UKNow: How does your research impact Kentucky?
Hutchens: One of the most important ways that my research contributes to Kentucky is through former and current students working in positions at two- and four-year colleges and universities throughout the Commonwealth, as well as in other settings, such as schools or nonprofit organizations. These former and current students are dedicated professionals helping their students thrive in educational pursuits and in life, which benefits the Kentucky communities where these individuals live and work. Rather than seeing a divide between research and teaching, my research makes me a better teacher, one who can challenge and support students so that they are better able to help the students, institutions and communities they serve.
About the University Research Professors
Each year, the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees approves a cohort of faculty as University Research Professors. The distinction recognizes excellence in work that addresses scientific, social, cultural and economic challenges in Kentucky and the world.
College leadership developed criteria for excellence within their area of expertise and then nominated faculty who excelled at these criteria. Each University Research Professor receives a one-year award of $10,000.
