WKU News

The Western Kentucky University Agricultural Education program has officially been named the Outstanding Postsecondary Agricultural Education Program by the Kentucky Association of Agricultural Educators (KAAE). This prestigious award reflects WKU’s commitment to preparing students through hands-on, experiential learning and leadership development.

Housed within the WKU Department of Agriculture and Food Science, which proudly serves more than 300 undergraduate students and continues to grow within the WKU Ogden College of Science and Engineering, the program pairs rigorous academic coursework with real-world teaching experiences. Through this approach, WKU is empowering students to lead and inspire in classrooms across Kentucky and beyond.

Students in the award-winning program build a powerhouse foundation in both agricultural sciences and pedagogical skills. The comprehensive curriculum spans plant and animal science, agribusiness, agricultural mechanics, and safety, all while immersing students in specialized education courses and critical field experiences.

What truly sets WKU’s Agricultural Education program apart is its deep-rooted emphasis on experiential learning. As undergraduates, Hilltoppers are out in the field participating in classroom observations, co-teaching, and completing full-time student teaching placements. These opportunities allow them to apply instructional strategies, manage agricultural education programs, and support FFA chapters and Supervised Agricultural Experience programs.

"I’m glad to see Dr. Kingrey’s hard work and dedication getting this recognition,” said Dr. David Brown, Dean of the WKU Ogden College of Science and Engineering. “I’m looking forward to how WKU Ag Ed continues to grow and shine."

As WKU celebrates this honor, the WKU Agricultural Education program remains committed to its mission: cultivating passionate, skilled educators who will shape the future of agriculture across Kentucky.