WKU News

BOWLING GREEN – The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky recently recognized 14 educators from across the Commonwealth for their support of high ability students. The educators were recognized at the program’s May 9 Commencement in Van Meter Hall.

The Gatton Academy established the Gatton Academy Educator Recognition Program in 2018 to acknowledge and celebrate the support students receive from teachers, counselors, gifted and talented specialists, and principals along their educational journeys. Educators play key roles in encouraging students to develop their strengths, explore topics of interest, and set lofty goals. Students often learn of the opportunities The Gatton Academy offers through educators who recognize their potential.

Gatton Academy graduates were invited to nominate one educator from a Kentucky school to be recognized at graduation. Selected educators received a certificate of recognition, a specific message of gratitude from their nominating student(s), and were invited to stand to be acknowledged as their names were read during The Gatton Academy commencement ceremony. The following educators were recognized by the Class of 2026:

Dulce Brown, John Hardin High School, Hardin County Schools

Bradley Fowler, Meyzeek Middle School, Jefferson County School District

Renee Goin, Henry Clay High School, Fayette County Public Schools

Kristen Hicks, Franklin-Simpson High School, Simpson County Schools

Elizabeth Hinton, Spencer County High School, Spencer County Schools

Brittney Israel, Camp Taylor Elementary School, Jefferson County School District

Kelli Lang, Randall K. Cooper High School, Boone County Schools

Nick Martinez, Crittenden County High School, Crittenden County Schools

Jackson Moss, Garrard County High Schools, Garrard County School District

Amar Patel, South Warren High School, Warren County Schools

Jason Rand, Trinity High School

Lindsey Vandiver, Arvin Education Center, Oldham County Schools

Brant Weiss, Hopkinsville High School, Christian County Public Schools

Jessica Willmes, Austin Tracy Elementary School, Barren County School District

About The Gatton Academy: Established in 2007, The Gatton Academy is Kentucky’s first residential two-year program for gifted and talented juniors and seniors. The Gatton Academy’s students enroll as juniors and are full-time WKU students pursuing their interests in advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The Gatton Academy is a recipient of the 2022 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from Insight Into Diversity Magazine and the Innovation Partnership Award from the National Consortium for Secondary STEM Schools.