WKU News

In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the LifeSkills Center for Child Welfare Education and Research (LCCWEAR) at Western Kentucky University (WKU) will host the 2026 Child Welfare Expo on April 2, 2026, from 5:00–7:30 PM CST at the WKU Knicely Conference Center.

The annual Child Welfare Expo provides a unique opportunity for WKU students, community partners, and child-serving professionals to come together to strengthen collaboration and advance child welfare efforts across Kentucky. The event creates a platform for attendees to network, explore career opportunities, and learn about local and statewide resources that support children and families throughout the Commonwealth.

This year’s program will feature Miss Kentucky 2025, Ariana Rodriguez of Bardstown, as the keynote speaker. Crowned in June 2025 at the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center in Bowling Green, Rodriguez brings a powerful and personal perspective to her advocacy. Having experienced foster care herself, she refers to herself as “one of the lucky ones” and has turned her journey into a mission of service.

Rodriguez founded The Lucky Ones Foundation, an initiative dedicated to bringing hope, dignity, and empowerment to youth in foster care. The foundation works to ensure that every young person regardless of circumstance has access to dignity, joy, and opportunity. Through advocacy, community engagement, and practical education initiatives, Rodriguez aims to support children in foster care and empower youth to build strong futures.

The event will also include an awards ceremony recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to child welfare in Kentucky. LCCWEAR will present its Annual Child Welfare Awards, including:

• The LCCWEAR Student Award for Child Welfare Advocacy, which recognizes a WKU student who has made a meaningful impact on the child welfare community through service, advocacy, or leadership. (Western Kentucky University)
• The Angela Turner Community Award for Outstanding Leadership in Child Welfare, which honors members of the Kentucky child welfare community who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to improving the lives of children and families. (Western Kentucky University)
• The Dr. Austin Griffiths Service Before Self Award, which recognizes individuals who exemplify extraordinary dedication and selfless service in support of child welfare initiatives.

Community agencies and organizations are invited to participate in the expo by hosting an information table. Agency tables provide an excellent opportunity to share resources, recruit future professionals, and connect with child welfare practitioners, students, and community partners.

Event Details:
2026 Child Welfare Expo
April 2, 2026
5:00–7:30 PM CST
WKU Knicely Conference Center
Bowling Green, Kentucky

Organizations interested in reserving a table or learning more about the event are encouraged to contact LCCWEAR.

For more information or questions, please contact:
WKU LifeSkills Center for Child Welfare Education and Research (LCCWEAR)
Email: childwelfare@wku.edu