WKU News
Leadership Announcement: The Gatton Academy’s Next Director
- Thursday, June 25th, 2026
Dear WKU Faculty and Staff:
First, I would like to personally thank the members of the Gatton Academy Director Search Committee for their time, dedication, and thoughtful engagement throughout this important search process. The committee devoted considerable effort to recruiting, evaluating, and interviewing an outstanding pool of candidates, and their commitment to identifying the right leader for one of WKU's signature programs was evident throughout the process. I am grateful for their professionalism, insight, and service to the university.
I am pleased to announce that Dr. Derick Strode has accepted the position of Director of The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky University, effective July 13th, 2026.
Dr. Strode brings a remarkable combination of institutional knowledge, strategic leadership experience, and a deep commitment to student success to this important role. Few individuals understand The Gatton Academy as thoroughly as Derek. He previously served at The Gatton Academy from 2008 to 2021, joining the program during its earliest years and helping to shape many of the experiences that have become hallmarks of the Academy today. During his tenure, he played a central role in developing and expanding the Academy's research, internship, and scholarship opportunities, creating transformational learning experiences that have benefited generations of Gatton students.
In addition to his extensive experience with The Gatton Academy, Dr. Strode has demonstrated exceptional leadership across a variety of areas at WKU. He has provided strategic vision for WKU's regional campuses, helping to drive significant enrollment growth and expand access to high-quality educational opportunities throughout the region. His leadership in dual credit and early college initiatives has strengthened pathways for talented students to begin their college careers at WKU and has enhanced the overall student experience through innovative programming and experiential learning opportunities.
Dr. Strode's career has also been characterized by a commitment to global engagement, student belonging, and experiential education. His scholarly work and professional leadership reflect a passion for creating environments where academically talented students can thrive both personally and intellectually.
As The Gatton Academy continues its tradition as one of the nation's premier residential programs for gifted and talented high school students, I am confident that Dr. Strode's experience, vision, and dedication will position the Academy for continued excellence and innovation for its next twenty years.
Please congratulate Dr. Strode on his appointment to this important leadership role. I look forward to collaborating with him as he leads The Gatton Academy into its next chapter of success.
Sincerely,
Bud Fischer
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Western Kentucky University
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Western Kentucky University
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