LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 29, 2024) — Today signifies Leap Day, a rare event occurring once every four years on February 29. This day, originating from the complexities of the Julian and Gregorian calendars, serves as a corrective measure to ensure synchronization between calendar years and the Earth’s orbits around the sun.
Individuals born on Feb. 29 have the unique experience of celebrating their “real birthday” only once every four years, making it one of the most uncommon birthdays globally. According to estimates from the History Channel, around five million people worldwide share this birthdate.
In 2024, the institution has only 14 current students and eight staff members who can claim Feb. 29 as their birthday. Among the extensive network of over 280,000 documented living UK alumni, merely 157 individuals were born on Leap Day, representing a mere 0.05%.
One notable alumni member is Charles E. Whaley, a 1949 UK graduate, who, at 96 years old today, observes only his 24th actual birthday.
Whaley’s journey from a small farm town in Northern Kentucky to his academic pursuit at UK laid the foundation for a remarkable career in journalism and lifelong learning, illustrating the transformative impact of seizing opportunities and taking bold steps.
Originally from Williamstown, Kentucky, a community where higher education aspirations were often seen as unattainable, Whaley’s academic excellence at Williamstown High School caught the eye of the University of Kentucky.
As a first-generation college attendee, Whaley began his journalism studies at UK, immersing himself in a variety of experiences both inside and outside the classroom. His time at the university was characterized by significant accomplishments, including serving as the editor of the Kentuckian, being a member of Phi Beta Kappa, and holding leadership positions in several student organizations.
The year 1949 held special significance for Whaley as it coincided with a pivotal moment at the university when Lyman T. Johnson’s legal victory spurred integration at UK. While Whaley’s path did not directly intersect with Johnson’s at the time, their connection would deepen later on.
After completing his journalism degree, Whaley pursued a master’s program at Columbia University, where he developed a passion for theater and crossed paths with notable individuals like Nelle Harper Lee, the renowned author of “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
Following his military service during the Korean War, Whaley returned to his career at the Courier Journal in Louisville, setting the stage for a significant moment in his life — receiving the Marshall Scholarship.
In addition to being the oldest UK alumnus born on Feb. 29, Whaley is also the oldest living recipient of the Marshall Scholarship, a prestigious award that enabled him to study in the United Kingdom.
Whaley’s decision to apply for the Marshall Scholarship, inspired by a fortuitous encounter with a news release, led him to the University of Manchester, where he explored English literature and forged enduring connections with literary figures.
His time as a Marshall Scholar not only enhanced his academic pursuits but also exposed him to diverse cultural encounters and lifelong friendships, showcasing the profound impact of the program.
Upon returning to the U.S., Whaley resumed his journalism career at the Courier Journal, where he met his future wife, Carol Sutton, a pioneering journalist who broke barriers in the industry.
The couple’s shared dedication to journalism, advocacy for education, and coverage of significant events in Kentucky’s history underscored their lasting impact in the field. Following Sutton’s passing, Whaley’s commitment to public service continued through positions at the Kentucky Education Association and the American Lung Association of San Francisco.
Whaley’s relentless pursuit of knowledge, combined with his enthusiasm for life’s adventures, embodies a philosophy centered on embracing opportunities and treasuring the passage of time.
As he celebrates his remarkable 24th birthday surrounded by loved ones, Whaley’s story serves as a testament to the enduring influence of curiosity, perseverance, and the joy found in life’s unfolding narratives.