WKU News

 

Dear WKU Faculty, Staff, and Students,

 

As we bring the Fall 2025 semester to a close, I want to extend my sincere gratitude for the hard work, resilience, and commitment each of you has shown over the past months. This has been a semester filled with meaningful accomplishments, collaborative efforts, and moments that remind us of what it truly means to be part of the WKU community.

 

This fall, our students continued to demonstrate excellence in and out of the classroom. From the Mahurin Honors College students presenting original research at the National Collegiate Honors Council Conference, to our First-Generation Student Success initiatives culminating in WKU’s inaugural First-Generation Student Leadership Conference, the dedication to learning and leadership across our campus was unmistakable. We also celebrated strong enrollment growth in several key academic programs, including Computer Science, Nursing, and Organizational Leadership—growth made possible by your continuous innovation in pedagogy and student support.

 

Faculty and staff continue to shape the intellectual life of our campus in powerful ways. This semester, faculty and CITL collaborated closely to launch new tools and trainings sessions to help faculty continue to embrace innovative AI tools to empower student learning. I am also grateful to the many units that created meaningful learning opportunities for students. For example, the Gordon Ford College of Business and U.S. Bank hosted the WKU/U.S. Bank Idea Jam, an interactive innovation challenge designed to provide students with hands-on experience to tackle real-world business problems, and PCAL International Affairs Students along with Professor Rich presented research titled From Passion to Pragmatism: Economic Priming and South Korean Support for Reunification at the annual International Studies Association - Midwest Conference.

 

As we look to spring, we will build on this progress with renewed energy. We will continue investing in high impact teaching practices, strengthening academic advising, expanding support for faculty development, and advancing student success initiatives that ensure every Hilltopper has the opportunity to thrive and graduate.

 

As you take time over the winter break, I hope you find the rest, reflection, and connection you deserve. Thank you for the spirit of collaboration and care you bring to WKU every day. It is an honor to serve alongside you.

 

Warmest wishes for a restful break and a joyful holiday season. I look forward to seeing you in 2026.

 

Sincerely,

Robert "Bud" Fischer

Provost & VP Academic Affairs