The University of Louisville (UofL) was abuzz with excitement as leaders celebrated a groundbreaking partnership with Kindred Healthcare. The initiative, aptly named The Hive, focuses on creating cutting-edge healthcare technology solutions, including mobile applications tailored to aging care.

Located near UofL’s Belknap Campus, The Hive fosters collaboration between Kindred professionals, UofL students, and faculty. Kindred President and CEO Benjamin A. Breier described the partnership as a model for community-focused innovation.

A Hub for Innovation

The 3,500-square-foot facility is designed to inspire creativity, featuring bee-themed decor and student-created designs from UofL’s Hite Art Institute. Outfitted with smartboards, computers, and technology donated by Cisco Systems Inc., the space embodies a distinct startup vibe.

The center, located at Floyd and Lee Streets, sits in the heart of UofL’s “North Quad,” a growing hub for university-industry partnerships. “To see the amount of innovation taking place here is tremendous,” said Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer.

Transforming Education and Industry

The Hive’s collaborative model offers UofL students valuable hands-on experience. For example, Will Rigby, a graduate of the J.B. Speed School of Engineering, worked with Kindred to develop its first mobile compliance app and is now a full-time programmer at the company.

“This partnership enhances education while fueling innovation,” said UofL Interim President Greg Postel. Projects in progress include a new app to help nurses assess hospice care eligibility and other impactful healthcare solutions.

“At Hive, students gain real-world experience while providing fresh perspectives for our professionals,” said Kindred CIO Charlie Wardrip, who highlighted the center as a talent pipeline. Currently, six UofL engineering students are working alongside faculty and Kindred staff on transformative healthcare initiatives.