The Eastern Kentucky University community is mourning the loss of Dr. Julie Duckart, a beloved educator whose kindness and energy left a lasting mark on students and colleagues alike. Duckart, who lived in Berea, Kentucky and hailed from Soquel, California, served as an associate professor in EKU’s Department of Occupational Therapy and earned her PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences from the University of Kentucky.
Students and colleagues remembered her as the department’s “social butterfly,” whose infectious personality brightened classrooms and hallways. “She believed in me when others didn’t, and her guidance shaped both my career and my confidence,” said one former student. Others highlighted her ability to listen, mentor, and uplift everyone around her, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
In addition to her academic achievements, Duckart was praised for her selflessness and dedication to her students’ growth, embodying the mission of occupational therapy by valuing care, empathy, and connection.
Her passing is being deeply felt across EKU and the wider community, prompting calls for prayers and remembrance. Faculty, students, and alumni continue to share their memories, ensuring her legacy of compassion, mentorship, and dedication to education endures.
Duckart’s influence, both as an educator and as a person, is a reminder of the profound impact a committed teacher can have on countless lives.