WKU News

During the business meeting of the Southeastern Association of Housing Officers (SEAHO) annual conference in Winston-Salem, North Carolina on Thursday, March 5, 2026 Western Kentucky University Housing & Residence Life (HRL) presented a Resolution of Appreciation to Lana Kunkel, former Director of Housing Operations. Doug Tate, WKU Interim Director of Housing Operations, presented the resolution to those in attendance, which states,   

“WHEREAS Lana Kunkel served SEAHO and her beloved Western Kentucky University for over 26 years. 

WHEREAS Lana served in many professional and leadership roles during her tenure at Western Kentucky University, including Director for Housing Operations in Housing and Residence Life, Advisor for the Learning Center, various residence director positions for Housing & Residence Life, and the Assistant Director for Center for Career & Professional Development. 

WHEREAS Lana’s work throughout her career impacted students, staff, faculty, athletes, coaches, friends and family of the university. She led humbly with grace and understanding, always looking for an opportunity to help others and provide teaching moments. 

WHEREAS colleagues within Western Kentucky University and the SEAHO network appreciate Lana’s years of service. In her retirement (Fall 2025), some of the thoughts expressed included, “Lana is a delight to work with,” “Lana is efficient and effective in everything she does,” “Lana truly puts the student interest first.” 

BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the Governing Council of the Southeastern Association of Housing Officers, on behalf of its membership, wishes to express its sincerest appreciation and highest esteem to the legacy of Lana Kunkel for her contributions to Western Kentucky University.”   

Additionally, Blair Jensen, Associate Director, was presented with a SEAHO Service Award. Each year, each SEAHO member institution may submit one person from its staff to receive the award. The awards are intended to offer the institution an opportunity to recognize a staff person who has made significant contribution to residence hall students and the housing organization.  

Dr. Catherine LaRoche, WKU Assistant Vice President of Student Engagement and Executive Director of Housing & Residence Life, nominated Blair for the award and shared, “Blair Jensen exemplifies the kind of leadership and dedication that strengthens our entire WKU community. Her ability to take initiative while also leading, guiding, and mentoring our residence life staff has had a lasting impact on both our team and our students. Blair consistently brings innovative ideas that enhance the residential experience, and she approaches every challenge with flexibility and a willingness to adapt to change. We are incredibly proud to see her recognized with the SEAHO Service Award, which reflects the meaningful contributions she makes to our housing program and the students we serve.” 

SEAHO is regional affiliate of the Association of College and University Housing Officers - International (ACUHO-I). The association represents the dedicated professionals of higher education student housing in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Learn more at https://www.seaho.org/.  

 Contact: kirsten.hooks@wku.edu, douglas.tate@wku.edu