WKU News

On Monday, October 12, 2026, Western Kentucky University attended the Kentucky Association of Housing Officers (KAHO) Conference at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky. Over 70 housing professionals and student affairs vendors were in attendance representing 13 universities and colleges within the state of Kentucky. 

Reece Pratt, Area Coordinator, received the Mid-Level Professional Staff Member Award. This is awarded for outstanding contributions and service to his or her institution.  Recipients should mentor new professionals and graduate students. His nominations shares, “Whether navigating complex operational challenges, supporting student staff, or stepping into increased leadership responsibilities, Reece consistently approaches his work with a willingness to serve and a desire to strengthen the communities around him.” 

AJ McGillivray, Residence Hall Director, received the Graduate Student Award. This is awarded to the one recipient for outstanding contributions and service to their institution. Recipients are identified as a graduate student enrolled in their program for at least one year. His nominator shared, “As AJ prepares to graduate in Fall 2026 with his degree in Student Affairs, he leaves behind a record of meaningful service to WKU. From supporting individual residents and developing student staff to overseeing Living Learning Communities, contributing to newly renovated residential spaces, and supporting M.A.S.T.E.R. Plan, AJ has taken full advantage of his graduate experience to positively impact his institution.”  

Julia Johnson, Parent and Family Coordinator, received the KAHO Service Award for outstanding service to KAHO and their institution(s). Her work encompasses developing relationships with WKU families and coordinating events like Parent & Family Weekend. Julia’s nomination shared, “Julia goes above and beyond to ensure that students and their families have a positive and welcoming experience throughout their entire WKU journey—from the moment they first step on campus to the day they graduate. She understands the importance of building strong relationships with students and families and consistently demonstrates a genuine commitment to helping them feel supported, valued, and connected to the university.” 

Lexy Fuson, Resident Assistant in Bates-Runner Hall, received the KARH Student of the Year Award, given to one recipient for outstanding contributions to his or her institution and the Kentucky Association of Residence Halls. Her nominator shared, “She is always willing to go above and beyond to serve the residents as well as her fellow peers. She thinks outside of the box when it comes community engagement, planning hall programs that rival the attendance and engagement of our campus wide programs.” 

 The Kentucky Association of Housing Officers exists to provide opportunities of personal and professional growth for college and university housing and residence life officers across the state of Kentucky. Learn more at https://kentuckyhousingofficers.org/