Gov. Andy Beshear appointed three distinguished community members to Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) Board of Regents. Appointees to EKU’s Board of Regents include Garth Bustle, Lori Cooksey and Teresa Trimble Hail. The new regents will be sworn in between now and the regularly scheduled board meeting on Nov. 14, 2024.
“EKU welcomes our new board of regent members,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “At the heart of our university’s progress and vision stands our board of regents. Their leadership drives us forward and shapes policies that empower our students, enrich our community and uphold our mission as the School of Opportunity. Regents are not just stewards of our institution; they are champions of our future."
Bustle, of London, Kentucky, serves as chief deposit officer and chief security officer at First National Bank of Manchester, where he was elected to the board of directors for both the bank and holding company. With a master’s degree in information systems and specialization in cybersecurity, Bustle’s past positions include vice president at LG Design and special deputy for the Laurel County Sheriff's Office. Bustle has received multiple honors, including recognition from the Kentucky State Senate for courage, leadership and professionalism in law enforcement. Bustle was appointed to serve on EKU’s Board of Regents until June 30, 2030.
Cooksey, of Ashland, Kentucky, is a seasoned banking executive with over 30 years of experience. She currently serves as senior vice president and Kentucky district manager at City National Bank. Overseeing 26 branches and leading a team of more than 100 employees, Cooksey is instrumental in business development, branch acquisitions and growing market share. She is actively involved in her community, working on boards such as Ashland Community Kitchen, CASA, Rotary and Pathways Bright Future Foundation. Cooksey was appointed to serve on EKU’s Board of Regents until June 30, 2028.
Like many of EKU’s students, Hail, of Somerset, Kentucky, is a first-generation college graduate. She has more than 21 years of experience in education ranging from K-12 to postsecondary, both in the classroom and board office settings. As co-owner of D.C. Trimble, Inc. since 2009, she provides leadership and direction to drive company growth. Her background includes educational technology and mathematics instruction and business experience in construction and banking. A dedicated community member, Hail has held leadership positions on several nonprofit boards and awarded local honors. Hail was appointed to serve on EKU’s Board of Regents until June 30, 2029.
As the governing body of the university, the EKU Board of Regents is comprised of 11 members, eight of which are appointed by the governor. Along with appointed members, the board includes a faculty representative, a staff representative and a student representative, each elected to serve by their respective peers.