WKU is uniquely positioned to host the Carol Martin Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky on its campus.

The Center for Gifted Studies at WKU is unique in the state as it has a twenty-five year history in providing leadership in gifted education in the Commonwealth and the nation. Summer programming for middle and high school gifted students has been offered for approximately 425 students each summer since 1982. For 24 summers, the Summer Program for Verbally and Mathematically Precocious Youth (VAMPY) has provided the opportunity for seventh through tenth graders to take one intensive course (seven hours per day) for three weeks. VAMPY was Duke University’s first cooperative TIP program and the only one for seven years. The Summer Camp for Academically Talented Students (SCATS) provides a two-week study experience in which sixth, seventh, and eighth graders take four classes for six hours of daily instruction. Students from 16 states and four countries participated in VAMPY and SCATS in 2005.

Ogden College of Science and Engineering and its departments have a strong statewide reputation for involving undergraduates in mentored research projects. This focus on undergraduate student research and the Ogden Scholars provides evidence of support for undergraduate student research opportunities. The Applied Research and Technology Program of Distinction is committed to engaging students in substantial research projects under the direct supervision of professors, and this involvement will be extended to Academy students as well.

For several summers, the Department of Physics and Astronomy piloted a highly innovative summer research program in Astronomy for high school-aged gifted students. The program provided an intensive nine-week mini-course in general astronomy, and the participants were trained in the research methods used by astronomers. This training took the form of individualized research projects, culminating in oral student presentations to their peers and faculty members. Students presented at national conferences and published in scientific journals as coauthors.

“In order to continue to be academically challenged, I had to leave home and go to an out-of-state boarding school. I hated that I had to leave my family and friends behind in order to pursue my academic ambitions. I don’t regret my decision, but I hope future Kentucky students don’t have to sacrifice so much to pursue their educational goals.”

Jennie Berry Chandra,
Left public high school as a sophomore to attend private boarding school
Currently a lawyer working for Governor of California