EKU dedicated Gen. James Rainey Way on Oct. 3 in honor of Gen. James E. Rainey, ’87, a four-star Army general and accomplished alumnus who dedicated more than 35 years to serving the United States.
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) dedicated Gen. James Rainey Way on Saturday, Oct. 3, honoring one of the university’s most accomplished alumni and his decades of service to the United States Army.
The road in front of the Veterans Memorial at Carloftis Garden now bears the name of Gen. James E. Rainey, ’87, who was commissioned as an infantry officer from EKU in 1987 and retired in 2025 as commander of Army Futures Command.
“We are honored to dedicate Gen. James Rainey Way in recognition of his remarkable career and lasting connection to EKU,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “This dedication serves as a tribute to his success and the impact he has made on our university, our Commonwealth and our country.”
Rainey was promoted to four-star general in 2022, becoming one of only 265 four-star generals in U.S. Army history and the only known EKU alumnus to achieve the distinction.
During more than 35 years of continuous military service, Rainey held numerous leadership positions, including deputy chief of staff of the G-3/5/7 at the Pentagon and commanding general of the United States Army Combined Arms Center. He also commanded the 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry, during its deployment to Iraq and the 3rd Infantry Division. As commander of Army Futures Command, Rainey was responsible for designing and preparing the Army for the future.
Rainey came to EKU on a swimming scholarship and became involved in Army ROTC, an experience he has credited as the beginning of his military career.
“My Army journey started at EKU,” said Rainey. “I learned what right looks like from great leaders and made lifelong friends in ROTC. This recognition is humbling and is really more about soldiers, veterans and Army families, than me.”
Rainey’s connection to EKU extends beyond his military career. He and his wife, Tracy, ’88, met as students at EKU and have remained connected to the university. In 2024, EKU presented Rainey with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of his distinguished service to the public.
EKU’s commitment to those who serve and their families has earned the university the No. 1 ranking among large public universities in the nation for both 2026-27 Military Friendly® Schools and Military Friendly® Spouse Schools.
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