WKU News

 WKU is pleased to announce that Dr. Derick B. Strode has been named Director for Regional Campuses.

Strode has worked at WKU for 17 years and has extensive experience in student recruitment, advising, and academic services. He began his WKU career in 2004 as an admissions counselor, later becoming an international student advisor. In 2008, Strode accepted a position with The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky. As the assistant director of academic services and coordinator of research, internships, and scholarships, Strode led academics for the program as it topped national lists as the best public high school. He was honored with a WKU Staff Excellence Award in 2018.

“Dr. Strode brings valuable experience in academic leadership, program development, and collaborations to our regional campuses,” said Dr. Beth Laves, associate vice president extended learning & outreach and regional campuses.

“We are thrilled to have someone with his proven ability to develop student-focused programs and work with internal and external partners which are important aspects of this position,” she stated.

As director for regional campuses, Strode will oversee regional campus operations, including collaborations with WKU academic colleges and departments to provide strategic planning for instruction and programs to meet the unique needs of each community. He will also supervise regional campus staff and oversee daily duties of operating regional campus locations.

“I am excited to get to work with the WKU regional campuses and look forward to forming relationships with students, staff, and faculty, as well as partners throughout the regions,” said Strode.

“I plan to hit the ground running and ensure that WKU is the bright regional lighthouse throughout our entire WKU service region.”

Strode was born and raised in southcentral Kentucky and is a first-generation college graduate. He is a four-time WKU graduate with degrees in English (BA), Student Affairs in Higher Education (MAE), English (MA), and Educational Leadership (EdD). He will begin his new role in August.

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