WKU News

From her first steps on campus, Diamond Nunez-Garcia recalls that she “immediately felt at home” on the Hill.

Fast forward to her sophomore year, and Nunez-Garcia is passing along her love for Western Kentucky University (WKU) to future Hilltoppers as a student ambassador for the Gordon Ford College of Business (GFCB) and WKU First Gen Hilltoppers.

“Getting to speak with prospective students and share my experiences is incredibly rewarding. I enjoy connecting with students and helping them see themselves here. My goal is to make a positive and lasting impression on everyone I meet,” Nunez-Garcia shared.

A first-generation college student from Lafayette, Tenn., Nunez-Garcia discovered a supportive community on campus and forged strong connections within the GFCB.

“I chose Western Kentucky University because it offers the perfect balance of being both personal and full of opportunity. It is small enough to build meaningful relationships, but large enough to provide many opportunities for growth. I have had so many positive experiences, from being part of the Business Living Learning Community (LLC) as a freshman to where I am now,” Nunez-Garcia reflected.

Within the Business LLC, first-year students can participate in unique social activities, take foundational classes together, live on the same residence hall floor and receive mentorship from upperclassmen and professors.

“My business and accounting courses have played a major role in preparing me for my future career. In my introductory classes, I learned how to build a professional resume and prepare for interviews. My accounting courses have strengthened my analytical and problem-solving skills. Additionally, working in teams and completing presentations has helped me build communication and professionalism that will be essential in my career,” Nunez-Garcia shared.

Initially pursuing a major in Business Administration, Nunez-Garcia discovered a passion for a different field within the GFCB.

“As I began taking more upper-level classes, I realized how much I enjoyed my accounting courses. I also had the opportunity to speak with my accounting professor [Heather Glass], who guided me through the decision-making process of switching my major. With her support, I felt confident in choosing accounting, and it was the right decision for me,” Nunez-Garcia shared.

She also found a mentor in Monica Duvall, a Business Living Learning Community Fellow and Director of Student Success within the GFCB.

“During my freshman year in the Business LLC, Monica Duvall played a key role in encouraging me to get involved. She consistently pushed students to step outside of their comfort zones and develop networking skills early on. Because of her encouragement, I became more involved on campus and began taking advantage of opportunities. Her influence has helped shape me into someone who values leadership and connection, and I hope to be someone others can look up to as well,” Nunez-Garcia explained.

Nunez-Garcia embodies those values through her involvement as a GFCB Ambassador, Outreach Coordinator for the Hilltopper Organization of Latin American Students (HOLAS), Admissions Tour Guide and GFCB Dean’s Student Council member. She is also part of the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program, which connects her with additional academic support, guidance for class registration, and scholarship opportunities.  

“The best part of my experience has been getting involved across campus. Being part of different organizations has allowed me to meet new people and build meaningful connections. These relationships have made my college experience more enjoyable and have helped me grow both personally and professionally,” Nunez-Garcia shared.

Reflecting on Nunez-Garcia’s journey, Duvall expressed pride in how far her student has come.

“Diamond has been a light since the moment she arrived at WKU as a Business LLC student. From her very first semester, her quiet nature was paired with an eagerness to learn and a genuine desire to succeed that immediately stood out. In the spring of 2025, Diamond decided to apply to become a GFCB Ambassador, and seeing her step into that opportunity and truly blossom has been incredibly rewarding. While she may be naturally reserved, Diamond has a warmth about her that makes it clear she truly does not meet a stranger. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to watch Diamond grow during her time at WKU, and I am excited to see all that she will accomplish in the years ahead,” Duvall shared.

Looking to the future, Nunez-Garcia highlighted the importance of passing it on to the next class of Hilltoppers. “Whether it is through mentoring students, fundraising, or participating in events, I strive to give back to the university and community. I also aim to represent first-generation and Hispanic students by showing that success is possible and encouraging others to get involved.”

She credits her family as her inspiration and motivation for pursuing her dreams.

“My parents have had the biggest impact on my decision to pursue this degree. They have always encouraged me to follow a path that I enjoy and that will provide stability in the future. Their support motivates me to keep pushing forward. They also taught me the importance of helping others, which is something I carry with me every day. I hope that one day I can become successful enough to give back to them and show my appreciation for everything they have done for me,” Nunez-Garcia said.

Learn more about the Gordon Ford College of Business at wku.edu/business.