WKU President Timothy C. Caboni

Dear Colleagues,

 

With the conclusion of the 2026 Kentucky legislative session yesterday, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the important work that takes place each year on behalf of WKU. Throughout the session, WKU leadership works tirelessly to advocate for our institution and to ensure that members of the General Assembly understand our priorities, our influence and the needs of our students and community. I would especially like to extend my sincere appreciation to Jennifer Smith, Assistant Vice President for Government and External Relations, for her leadership and dedication during the session. Her efforts are instrumental in advancing our voice in Frankfort.

 

As many of you know, this was a budget year for the Kentucky General Assembly, and legislators outlined funding allocations for the next biennium for all public colleges and universities in the Commonwealth. While there was, at one point, a budget reduction on the table for WKU, I am pleased to share that the General Assembly has adopted a budget that keeps funding flat for WKU and all public universities. We are thankful that the General Assembly recognized and affirmed the value of higher education through this funding decision. Please be on the lookout for a more detailed legislative update from Jennifer in the near future.

 

This time of year also offers meaningful opportunities to come together as a campus community to celebrate, connect and support one another and our students. As a reminder, on Wednesday, April 22 at 6:00 p.m., our baseball team will host Austin Peay State University at Nick Denes Field. Faculty and staff will receive two complimentary tickets, along with two vouchers for a hot dog and drink (soda or bottled water). Tickets may be picked up with a valid WKU ID at the E.A. Diddle Arena Ticket Office today through Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

Also, our Commencement exercises are fast approaching, representing a milestone moment in the lives of our graduates and a proud occasion for our entire university community. Commencement will take place on Thursday, May 7, with Topper Walk beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Avenue of Champions, followed by Commencement in Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. The following day, each of our five academic colleges will host individual college recognition ceremonies in Diddle Arena. You can learn more about all of our Commencement activities here: https://www.wku.edu/commencement/. I hope you plan to join me as, collectively, we celebrate our graduates and help usher them into the next chapter of their personal and professional journeys.

 

Thank you for your continued dedication to WKU and to our students.

 

Go Tops!

 

Best,

 

 

Timothy C. Caboni