WKU News

Over 3,300 students nationwide attended the 2024 Educators Rising National Conference held in Washington, D.C., from June 28 to July 1. Among them, six students from WKU's Educators Rising Collegiate chapter and participants in the Young Male Leadership Academy (YMLA) competed and achieved impressive results.

Mikayla Gambrel, Mia VanHoose, and Shelby Summers competed as a team in the Ethical Dilemma competition and secured first place, demonstrating their outstanding analytical and ethical decision-making skills.

Sydnie Dheel delivered a remarkable performance in the “Ted Talk” competition, earning second place. Additionally, the YMLA Top Ten finalists, including Ayden Page, Oliyadi Gishe, Cameron Bell, and McKinley Heard, placed eighth overall in the Inside our Schools Presentation Team event, making it to the national semi-finals.

Delanee McCormick and Grace Keyton showcased their creativity by creating teacher materials for the contest portion, although they did not place this year.

Each year, the Educators Rising National Conference brings together rising educators and teacher leaders from across the country. The event features over 40 breakout sessions, networking opportunities, and competitive events that allow students to develop and showcase their teaching skills. Attendees also have the chance to be inspired by keynote presentations from national education leaders.

The WKU College of Education and Behavioral Sciences is incredibly proud of our students' achievements and the dedication they have shown in their pursuit of excellence in education. These accomplishments highlight the talent and potential of our future educators.