News from The Mahurin Honors College

Jul 13th, 2026

WKU electrical engineering student and first-generation college student Carrie Updegraff earned a competitive NSF REU at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she's conducting solar energy research after saying yes to new opportunities.

Jun 22nd, 2026

WKU student Samantha Gerdes turned a campus tour into a life-changing journey, earning a prestigious Boren Award to study and intern in Taiwan after four years in Chinese Flagship.

Jun 1st, 2026

Gilman Scholar Jesse Ferguson is turning a dream into reality, heading to Taiwan to deepen his Chinese language skills and cultural understanding through study abroad.

May 26th, 2026

Morgan Hicks, a WKU nursing major and Gilman Scholar, will study public health in London and Amsterdam this summer, gaining global healthcare perspectives to support her future work with underserved and rural communities.

May 17th, 2026

WKU junior Lilian Branch turned uncertainty into opportunity through biomedical research, Chinese language study abroad, and mentorship that reshaped her future goals.

Apr 24th, 2026

Emma Thorn found community at WKU, transformed into a campus leader, and is now heading to pharmacy school—carrying forward lessons in balance, connection, and growth.

Apr 17th, 2026

Caleb Penick shifted from communication disorders to child therapy, finding purpose through coursework, camp work, and service—now pursuing grad school to support children’s mental health.

Apr 13th, 2026

Gilman Scholar Amarah Pryor-Wells is in the UK studying film and literature near historic sites like Bridgerton sets. She overcame an initial rejection, gaining confidence for her screenwriting career.

Apr 6th, 2026

MHC celebrated students and faculty for excellence in leadership, research, teaching, and service—highlighting standout achievements and honoring those who make Honors thrive.

Mar 30th, 2026

Curious and driven, WKU student Nora Windsor balances marketing, economics, and AI studies with campus leadership and nonprofit work, aiming to launch a marketing firm that supports mission-driven organizations.