October 13, 2026 - A Morehead State University student is shining a light on the lives and experiences of Appalachian coal miners and their families through her recently published book.

Morehead State University graduate student Kenna Blankenship, who is pursuing a Master of Arts in School Counseling, recently authored the book "Lunchpail Manifesto."

A published author, Blankenship approached this work differently from her earlier publications. She describes "Lunchpail Manifesto" as "a book about coal miners and their families' personal experiences in local Southwest Virginia and Eastern Kentucky mines. It contains first-hand accounts and interviews completed this year."

According to the book's official summary, "Lunchpail Manifesto" is "a collection of stories from the Appalachian coalfields, told through the voices of the miners and families who lived them." At its heart, the book serves as "an act of preservation—a record of a way of life that is disappearing and a tribute to the people who carried it."

Blankenship plans to share copies of her newest work with Morehead State University and other regional colleges and universities that offer Appalachian Studies courses and programs. MSU has a longstanding connection to the communities of Eastern Kentucky and serves a large population of students who were born and raised in the region, many of whom have personal and family ties to coal mining.

"As a leader in rural education, the Volgenau College of Education understands the importance of preserving Kentucky's past while preparing the next generation of counselors, teachers and leaders for the future," said Dr. Nicola Mason (Class of 2007), dean of the Volgenau College of Education. "We are so proud of Kenna for bringing these important stories to light."

Through "Lunchpail Manifesto," Blankenship offers readers a better understanding of the people who worked in the coal mines and the families and communities shaped by the industry. Her work also offers future educators, school counselors and other professionals an important window into the history, culture and lived experiences of Appalachian communities.

"Lunchpail Manifesto" is available to purchase online here.

To learn more about the MSU's school counseling program, contact Dr. Lynn Spradlin, program coordinator, at l.spradlin@moreheadstate.edu or 606-783-2846.

To learn more about the MSU's Volgenau College of Education and its programs, please contact Dr. Nicola Mason at nfmason@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2162.