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WKU in the News Archive

Here is a selection of stories about WKU:

November 11-28, 2023

Daily News

  • Nat's Outdoor Sports celebrates 50th anniversary: Nat’s Outdoor Sports this month celebrated its 50th anniversary with a grand event, giveaways and appearances from local city leaders, members of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, former employees and longtime customers. The store came from humble beginnings in 1971 as a “L&M Bookstore” located on Western Kentucky University’s campus. Love added a bicycle section to the store in 1973, the first sign of things to come, then outdoor clothing after a rough winter.
  • Warren County senators share early 2024 session thoughts on education: The legislative session is starting in a little over a month, and state senators representing Warren County are already thinking about what’s in store. Warren County state senators said that education is one of their top priorities.
  • What to expect in the 2024 legislative session: The election is over, and now Kentucky's political watchers are looking forward to January, when the legislative session will begin. This year is a budget session, meaning that one of the legislature's primary duties will be to pass a two-year budget to run the government and all its programs and agencies.

WBKO-TV

WNKY-TV

  • Light Up BGKY kicks off with ribbon cutting: Downtown BGKY started its weeklong holiday lighting tradition Monday with a ribbon cutting at Western Kentucky University’s Cherry Hall.
  • Throwback Thursday: Stitches in Time: The Kentucky Museum at Western Kentucky University has been one of our Throwback Thursday sponsors for years. One of the great things about the museum is that it’s always working on curating new exhibits or updating its current galleries. In September, the Stitches in Time exhibit officially opened. This week, we take a closer look at this exhibit and learn more about quilting in Kentucky.

WKU Public Radio

  • Helping the 'WABBLES' community: a look into the mission of WXorNot BG: A local weather enterprise based in Bowling Green has stepped away from traditional meteorology to provide community members with information that’s easy to understand. Landon Hampton is the founder, owner, and lead meteorologist of WXorNot BG (pronounced “Weather or Not BG”). The community-supported, hyperlocal digital weather service serves residents in Warren, Allen, Barren, Butler, Logan, Edmonson, and Simpson counties, or what WXorNot BG refers to as the “WABBLES” community. Hampton graduated with a degree in meteorology from Western Kentucky University in 2010.

Spectrum News 1

  • 9/11 hero gives an inside perspective of responding to the terror attack on the Pentagon: One Army veteran who now lives in Elizabethtown had an extraordinary military career that included saving lives on Sept. 11. Retired Army Sergeant Major Tony Rose has many military honors, awards and mementos in his home office. After leaving the service, Rose realized he had PTSD from his time in the service and wanted to better understand what was going on in his own mind. That led him to get his master’s degree in psychology at Western Kentucky University.

Murfreesboro (TN) Post

  • Local equestrian rider passes on knowledge: Local equestrian rider Katelyn Boykin, a world champion, passed on her knowledge and love of ponies to the next generation of riders recently at a show at Tennessee Miller Coliseum. She hopes to inspire girls to be the next champion rider. She is a 2023 graduate of Siegel High School and attends Western Kentucky University where she is a double major.

Hastings (NE) Tribune

  • At CooperCon, D.B. Cooper is a mystery, a passion and a community: Eric Knackmuhs has a favorite. He likes Richard McCoy, who got caught hijacking a plane a few months after Cooper, then escaped from prison and was killed when the FBI caught up to him. But he doesn't really think McCoy is Cooper. He just gravitates to the story. Anyway, Knackmuhs isn't at CooperCon to research the mystery. He's there to research the researchers. A professor of recreation and nonprofit administration at Western Kentucky University, Knackmuhs and two students flew into CooperCon because he's interested in why people are so interested in Cooper. They're surveying attendees and hoping for follow-up interviews.

October 18-November 10, 2023

Daily News 

  • WKU Innovation Campus to host third Summit of the South: WKU Innovation Campus’ annual Summit of the South will bring together entrepreneurs and business owners from across the region for its third year. 
  • Jennings Creek teacher wins prestigious Milken Educator Award: Shane Baker walked into work at Jennings Creek Elementary worrying if an assembly planned that day might throw off his reading lesson. To his surprise, he walked out with a $25,000 check and a national award. 
  • Stewart Richey Construction celebrates 50 years: Buster Stewart and his pal Bill Richey didn’t have many plans after they finished their time at Western Kentucky University in the early 1970s. “We came out of college and we didn’t know what we wanted to do,” Stewart recalled. That was until his father, the late Jimmie Stewart, asked the boys in 1973 if they wanted to open up a construction company together. 
  • WKU Regents discuss first enrollment increase in 7 years: Western Kentucky University saw total enrollment increase for the first time since 2016, growing by 5.8% this fall. 
  • City to light up for new week-long holiday event: Expanding on the early December tradition of “Downtown Lights Up,” when the heart of Bowling Green is set ablaze with Christmas lights, “Light Up BGKY,” announced Wednesday, will spread a warm, incandescent glow all around the city. The festivities begin at 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 27. Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni and WKU mascot Big Red will cut a ceremonial ribbon in front of a lit-up Cherry Hall. 

WNKY-TV 

  • How you can be sustainable this holiday season: The holiday season often sees a great deal of wasted food, plastic and cardboard, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be that way. Another big issue is the amount of food waste that accrues during the holiday season. The good news is, it is all compostable, even things like the turkey carcass, says Compost Bowling Green owner Charlie O’Connell. The WKU Farm-based operation helps residents keep the nutrients in the soil that would otherwise go to a landfill. 
  • WKU Homecoming set to help celebrate Veterans Day: While the Hilltopper football team gets ready to take the field on Saturday, the community is getting ready to celebrate Homecoming and an important holiday at the same time. 
  • Milken Foundation honors Jennings Creek Elementary teacher with $25,000 award: At Jennings Creek Elementary School, students are curious as to why their superintendent and the lieutenant governor are in the gym. What they and one teacher do not know is that his life is about to change. WKU graduate Shane Baker didn’t win $25, $250 or even $2,500. He won $25,000 from the Milken Foundation for being one of the top educators in the United States. 

WBKO-TV 

  • Local third-grade teacher Shane Baker wins $25,000 with a prestigious national award: On Thursday morning, Jennings Creek Elementary Teacher Shane Baker was given an award in a surprise ceremony with students, faculty and district leaders that came with a check of $25,000, unrestricted. The WKU graduate was awarded the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award, a national title that recognizes teachers for their excellence in education. 

Lane Report 

Science News Explores 

  • You can get involved in science during the 2024 solar eclipse: Data from the SunSketcher app “will allow us to precisely determine the shape of the sun,” says Gordon Emslie. This astrophysicist works at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green. Astronomers can use the timing of Baily’s beads to clock exactly how long it takes the moon to pass in front of the sun. They can then use that to calculate exactly how wide the sun is. 

NASA Science 

  • NASA’s Scientists and Volunteers Tackle the October 14 Solar Eclipse: Several NASA science teams and many NASA volunteers used the October 14 eclipse to collect data and test observation protocols, software, hardware, and logistics. The SunSketcher team gathered in Odessa, TX, together with other eclipse chasers,  to test their new cell phone app. This app will allow volunteers to help measure the size and shape of the Sun during April’s total eclipse. 

Science News 

  • Here’s how citizen scientists can help during the 2024 solar eclipse: With the SunSketcher app, you can help time the appearance of bright spots of light, known as Baily’s beads, that appear when sunlight shines through valleys on the moon just before and after the total eclipse. Data from volunteers who install the app “will allow us to precisely determine the shape of the sun,” says astrophysicist Gordon Emslie of Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • OPS continues to increase DEIB offerings in district: Owensboro Public Schools is continuing to offer more events and programs centered around diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB). David Phillips, director of DEIB for OPS, said there are several aspects that the district has been expanding when it comes to the initiative. “The ‘Grow Your Own’ staff program began two years ago with OPS sponsoring classified staff to obtain their masters degree in teaching,” he said. “One of those has completed, two will finish in December, two will finish in May and two are halfway finished.” Phillips said OPS has agreed to sponsor two more staff in the spring of 2024 through Western Kentucky University. 

Glasgow News 1 

Spectrum News 1 

Kentucky Today 

  • 9 appointed to Raising Hope Advisory Council: Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles announced Tuesday he has appointed nine individuals to serve on the inaugural Raising Hope Advisory Council, who will help direct mental health initiatives for farmers. Those named to two-year terms on the advisory council include Susan Jones, Bowling Green, professor emerita at Western Kentucky University School of Nursing and Allied Health. 

Beech Tree News, Morgantown 

  • Butler County Schools’ Hall of Fame: The Butler County School system recently announced the names of the first class of the Butler County School's Hall of Fame. The list includes Frank Cardwell, who received his Master's degree and Rank 1 at WKU; Dr. Sherri Kay Phelps, who received a Bachelor of Music degree from WKU; Bill Warren, who played basketball under legendary Coach Ed Diddle; and Douglas Van Fleet, a 1963 WKU graduate who where he studied trumpet with Bennie Beach Sr. 

October 6-17, 2023

Daily News 

WKU Public Radio 

WNKY-TV 

  • “Sleep Out For The Homeless” at WKU: On the South Lawn of Western Kentucky University, the Epsilon Theta chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. held their annual “Sleep Out For The Homeless” event where they collect toiletries to later deliver to shelters and ask their fellow students to join in outside for an overnight experience. 
  • Presidential speaker series: Dr. Robert Ballard: The new presidential speaker series envisioned by WKU president Timothy Caboni starts tonight with the keynote speaker Robert Ballard, the man who discovered the location of the Titanic and changed a great deal about how we understand chemistry, biology and the makeup of the deep sea. 
  • WKU team develops innovative app for pregnancy and postpartum support: In South Central Kentucky, two out of three women enter pregnancy overweight and 90% of pregnant women are not meeting the recommended physical activity guidelines. That’s why Dr. Rachel Tinius, an exercise science Associate Professor at Western Kentucky University, and a mom, created an app to solve that problem. 
  • Award-winning wood carver shows skills in art demonstration: Award-winning folk artist Willie Rascoe made a stop at the Pioneer Cabin on Western Kentucky University’s campus to display some of his creations and share some of his story with members of the community. 

WBKO-TV 

Lexington Herald-Leader 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Talkington fuels performance background into national Halloween attraction: Owensboro native Elliott Talkington is taking his theatre skills and the Halloween spirit to new heights portraying the role of Ichabod Crane in “The Sleepy Hollow Experience” attraction at Old Fort Harrod State Park in Harrodsburg. After graduating from Daviess County High School in 2012, Talkington received his bachelor’s degree in theatre from Western Kentucky University in 2016 and has been performing in a professional capacity ever since. 

Building Kentucky 

MoneyGeek

  • Tax-Friendly States in the Country: What tax implications should someone consider if they're moving from one state to another? What records would they need to show, if any? The implications will be different for entrepreneurs and companies than for regular families. Although tax laws vary from state to state, and sometimes these can get complex since taxes are collected at the state level and some at the local level, a regular family can consider three important taxes. The first one is the state income tax. Some states do not have income taxes, which will decrease a family's tax liabilities. – Dr. Sebastian Leguizamon, Director, WKU Center for Applied Economics
  • What is GDP?: Understandably, knowing what GDP is and how it works is essential from a macroeconomic level, but does the average American consumer stand to benefit from the same knowledge? Why or why not? As an educator, I believe that everyone would benefit from understanding GDP, maybe not in terms of one's day-to-day life, but in terms of understanding the economy. GDP is not the same as income, although they are correlated. GDP is the sum of all goods and services produced in an economy. This is a good indicator of how the economy is doing and what we can expect in the near future. – Dr. Sebastian Leguizamon, Director, WKU Center for Applied Economics

September 27-October 5, 2023

Daily News 

  • Teacher Hall of Fame inducts four local educators: The Governor Louie B. Nunn Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame at Western Kentucky University accepted four local teachers into its ranks. 
  • Alvaton Elementary teacher receives state achievement award: Of the 22 recipients of the 2024 Kentucky Teacher Achievement Award, Alvaton Elementary’s Amber Dwyer has likely been around the world the most. She hails from Butler County and received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Western Kentucky University, becoming the first of her family to graduate college. 
  • WKU students' app lets you aid eclipse research: A total eclipse in April 2024 will capture the attention of millions across North America, including parts of western Kentucky. But a team from Western Kentucky University’s XR Lab, composed mainly of students, wants people to do more than watch in awe. 
  • Caboni eager to host famous oceanographer for public event: Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni is as eager as anyone to get the Presidential Speaker Series started. The series, which will first invite famed oceanographer Robert Ballard to campus on Oct. 10, seeks to attract a wide range of well-known experts spanning various disciplines. 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU interior design students competing for the design of Mustang Speakeasy: Traveler’s Cellar Winery is launching a new business inside the old State Street High School Gymnasium. Western Kentucky University Interior Design Students are working to design a portion of the facility that will be the Mustang Speakeasy. 
  • Mobile sports betting is here, gamble responsibly: Sports betting is live in Kentucky and now you can do it on your phone through things like FanDuel or DraftKings, but doing so responsibly is just as important as having fun. Though it is enjoyable, you can let it get away from you if you’re not careful. Concerning this new fad in the Commonwealth, News 40 spoke to a professor of neuroscience and a sports betting analyst. Dr. Patrick Ledwidge an Assistant Professor of Neuroscience at Western Kentucky University sat down with News 40 to talk a little bit about gambling who said it’s much like drugs of abuse.  
  • Dr. Robert Ballard announced as first speaker in WKU Presidential Speaker Series: WKU President Timothy Caboni has invited the explorer who discovered the Titanic, Dr. Robert Ballard to speak as the first speaker in a new Presidential Speaker Series. 
  • How to protect yourself from the sun during Oct. 14’s annular solar eclipse: Oct. 14 is a big day for astronomers, but don’t feel like you’re left out either. The latest annular solar eclipse is set to take place from around 10:30 to 1:30. If you’re looking at the eclipse, make sure you have proper eye protection in the form of solar eclipse glasses. “Remember the little rods and cones in your eye that you learned about in elementary school? They can take only so much energy at any given time. If you stare at the sun, you are damaging them and that’s a long term damage,” Chris Chandler with WKU’s Hardin Planetarium says. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Price finds purpose in second career as historical novelist, children's author: When Eddie Price retired from being a history teacher at Hancock County High School in 2012 after 36 years in education, his career as an author was only just beginning. Price earned his master’s degree in history and education at Western Kentucky University and earned his Rank I certification for teaching. 
  • Owensboro in 'comfortable' position, Brake says: Over the past two years, Nick Brake has been studying 51 communities, including Owensboro, to see what causes some to excel and others to stagnate and wither. Since 2020, Brake has been director of the doctoral program in the School of Leadership and Professional Studies at Western Kentucky University. 
  • Bacon sharing his passion for Owensboro: Claude Bacon is passionate about his adopted hometown. On June 5, the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corp. unanimously chose Bacon, who had been vice president of administration, sales, marketing and e-commerce for LinGate Hospitality for nearly 16 years, as its new president. Bacon earned both his bachelors in public relations and marketing, and his masters in communications from Western Kentucky University. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Local student named national merit semifinalist: One local student was among 17 seniors from The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky have been recognized as Semifinalists in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program. 

Maysville Ledger-Independent 

  • Local student among Gatton Academy Seniors named 2024 National Merit Semifinalists: Seventeen seniors from The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky have been recognized as Semifinalists in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program. The local student that was listed on the 2023-2024 National Merit Semifinalists from The Gatton Academy are: Ethan Vietze of Maysville, Mason County High School. 

WPSD-TV, Paducah 

  • Calloway County High School student scores a perfect 36 on the ACT: A sophomore at Calloway County High School scored a perfect 36 on the ACT. Amber Wu is now part of the less than one percent of test takers to achieve a perfect 36. Although the test is normally reserved for juniors and seniors, Wu took the test in hopes of being accepted into the Gatton Academy at Western Kentucky University for her junior and senior year of high school.

September 14-26, 2023

Daily News 

  • Kentucky Museum seeks music memorabilia for upcoming exhibit: That Polaroid sitting in your attic from a night out in the 80s might actually belong in a museum. Curators are seeking community contributions to complete an upcoming Kentucky Museum exhibit exploring musical heritage of the surrounding region. 
  • WKU graduate presents app to better museum design: Madison Whittle was the first Western Kentucky University graduate whose degree read “user experience.” Whittle graduated in May and, with some help from her “Civic Imagination Team,” used her skills to put together Muser – an app that tracks willing museum attendees to map how they move about exhibits. 
  • Aviation Heritage Park Museum takes off: What began with lofty ambitions five years ago was celebrated Saturday with the grand opening of the Aviation Heritage Park Museum, and the enthusiasm from the people who piloted this project was sky-high. At the rear of the museum sat a NASA T-38 Talon two-seat supersonic jet trainer, displayed to illustrate the story of Russellville native Col. Terry Wilcutt, a veteran of four Space Shuttle missions. 
  • Four to join WKU's Hall of Distinguished Alumni: Four alumni will be joining Western Kentucky University's Hall of Distinguished Alumni during homecoming 2023.
  • GRREC gala raises funds for new educator scholarship: Educators and students from across the commonwealth joined the Green River Regional Educational Cooperative for a gala to raise funds for their inaugural educator scholarship. The new scholarship provides $2,000 each year of college – $8,000 in total – to a high school senior planning to attend Western Kentucky University to study education. 
  • WKU Big Red Band prepares to march on London: Western Kentucky University’s Big Red Band gathered Monday for what they thought was a group photo with President Timothy Caboni. Instead, they got a trip to London. 
  • North Warren Elementary announces new principal: Warren County Public Schools administrators and teachers welcomed the district’s newest principal to Smiths Grove. The district announced Wednesday that Nadina Alexander will be stepping into the position at North Warren Elementary after fall break. She received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Master of Science in library Media Education and Rank I in Educational Administration, all from Western Kentucky University. 
  • City of Bowling Green celebrates 178 newly naturalized citizens: Daniel Lopez, a graduate of Western Kentucky University, said he is excited to vote for the first time this November and feels a “bigger sense of pride” for the U.S. Alessa Lopez, a junior at WKU, said it was nice to finally change her status at her university. 
  • Former WKU provost and dean dies after cancer battle: Western Kentucky University Provost Emeritus Cheryl Stevens passed away Thursday morning. 
  • Famed oceanographer to speak at WKU: Oceanographer Robert Ballard has been around the world and to the depths of the sea. Now, he’s coming to Bowling Green. Ballard, most famous for discovering the wreckage of the RMS Titanic, will travel to Western Kentucky University in October to deliver his keynote address, “Deep Sea Exploration: Past, Present, and Future” – an exploration of his storied career, as the first speaker in the WKU Presidential Speaker Series. 

Spectrum News 1 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU Athletics award for Rich Pond librarian: Kimberly Posey, librarian at Rich Pond Elementary, got a surprise from members of the WKU Cheer team and Big Red at work Tuesday. 
  • Combating Seasonal Affective Disorder: Others such as Western Kentucky University have begun looking for more engaging yet passive ways to raise the mental health quality of their students. Dean Corinne Murphy of the School of Education and Behavioral Science works with Chip, a therapy dog that helps people when they are feeling down. 
  • The WKU Marching Band is Taking On London: The WKU big red marching band is going to London for the London new years day parade. 
  • New principal announced at North Warren Elementary: A new principal was sworn in today at North Warren Elementary School in Smiths Grove after they had been using an interim principal. Nadina Alexander graduated from WKU in 2005 and has been working in elementary education ever since. She has held a variety of positions throughout her career but said she always wanted to be in administration, the fact that the school has a small town atmosphere makes it even better. 

WBKO-TV 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • WKU band accepts parade invitation in London: The WKU Big Red Marching Band has received an invitation to perform in the 2025 London New Year’s Day Parade.
  • Long-time physician to retire at month’s end: Dr. Paul Gerard, who has been known to deliver a baby and care for them throughout their life until death, is retiring after practicing medicine in Elizabethtown for more than 45 years. Dr. Gerard is a Bowling Green native who did his undergraduate work at Western Kentucky University. 

Lane Report 

WDRB-TV, Louisville 

Golfdom 

WSON-AM, Henderson 

  • Brian Newman named vice president at German American Bank: Brian Newman has been named the vice president of commercial banking at German American Bank. He earned a Master of Science degree in agronomy and a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural business and animal science from Western Kentucky University. 

DIY Photography 

  • NASA wants you to shoot the April 2024 total solar eclipse: A total solar eclipse will cross North America on April 8, 2024. I’m sure many of you will take photos, and NASA wants you to help them do what you do best. The Agency’s recently funded initiative will use the eclipse to advance science while engaging the public. And yes, you can be among those who will be involved and contribute to science with your photos. Isn’t that great? The initiative is named SunSketcher 2024, and it will be one of NASA’s citizen science projects. The leader will be Gordon Emslie, a professor of physics and astronomy at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green. 

Wallet Hub

  • States Most Affected by Student Loan Payments Moratorium Ending: Is it good or bad that the student loan payment moratorium is ending? The U.S. Department of Education responded to the COVID-19 crisis by setting interest rates to 0% and suspending payments for eligible student loan borrowers, a relief measure that lasted over three years. Unfortunately, for some borrowers, this beneficial initiative will conclude, as the agency recently announced the resumption of regular student loan interest rates on September 1, 2023, with student loan payments restarting in October. – Dr. Monica Galloway Burke, Professor, WKU Department of Counseling & Student Affairs
  • What is APR?: What is the biggest misconception people have about annual percentage rates? The biggest misconception is that interest is charged annually. In fact, interest in most cases is charged monthly and compounded either daily or monthly. – Golnaz Motie, Assistant Professor, Gordon Ford College of Business

September 1-13, 2023

WKU Public Radio 

Daily News 

  • WKU students volunteer for NY Fashion Week: A few Western Kentucky University students will rub shoulders with international fashion designers in the hopes of jumpstarting their post-college career. 
  • WKU ROTC to host 13th Yates Memorial Run: Western Kentucky University's Army ROTC program will host its 13th annual Eric D. Yates Memorial Run on Sept. 16 to raise funds for the Yates Memorial scholarship. 
  • Kentucky Museum exhibit features WKU photographer: If you are ever on Western Kentucky University’s campus, you might catch a glimpse of university photographer Clinton Lewis at work, capturing moments of campus life through the lens of his camera. To celebrate Lewis’ 15 years on the Hill, the Kentucky Museum is hosting “The Lewis Lens,” an exhibit of his work, through March 2024. 
  • City schools students developing 'bag of tricks' thanks to cave research: Spindly-legged crickets and friendly orange cave salamanders have learned to share their home with a determined group of young researchers from Bowling Green City Schools. A multi-year partnership between Western Kentucky University, Mammoth Cave National Park and BGISD has given several middle and high schoolers the chance to spend time among the gypsum flowers of Great Onyx Cave, mapping the cavern’s waterways to earn valuable research experience. 

NASA 

  • 2 New Eclipse Projects Receive NASA Funding: Ahead of the total solar eclipse crossing North America on April 8, 2024, NASA has funded two more proposals that will use the eclipse to advance science while engaging the public. The new projects were awarded via NASA’s Heliophysics Innovation in Technology and Science (HITS) program. Led by Gordon Emslie, a professor of physics and astronomy at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, SunSketcher 2024 will become NASA’s newest citizen science project.  

WNKY-TV 

  • Feeling Fall: With fall fast approaching and the already unseasonably cool temperatures hanging around this week, many people may begin to think it is time to go and partake in their favorite fall activities. The good news is the leaves may begin changing very soon, especially out east, Shane Holinde of the Kentucky Mesonet and Climate Center predicts. 
  • WKU professor discusses how pop culture plays a role in politics: American Popular Culture Professor at Western Kentucky University, Dr. Tony Harkins, says, “Politicians want to seem like they are both sophisticated people, but also, of the people. So, the use of popular culture, or rather the integration of politics and popular culture, has a very long history.” 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

WDRB-TV, Louisville 

WAVE-TV, Louisville 

WCLU-FM, Glasgow 

London Sentinel-Echo 

  • Hamilton Joins Elder Law Guidance as Associate Attorney: Elder Law Guidance, The Elder Law Practice of Scott E. Collins, PLLC, announces that Tressa Root Hamilton has joined the practice as an associate attorney. Hamilton completed her undergraduate studies at Western Kentucky University receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Spanish. 

Sentinel News, Shelbyville 

WTOP-FM, Chevy Chase, MD 

  • What a College Minor Is and Why It Matters: While students may want to find a minor that complements their major, they should also consider how it will help them develop skills and experiences that could be valuable in their careers, says Fabián Álvarez, assistant English professor at Western Kentucky University.

Wallet Hub

  • Changes in Inflation by City: What are the main factors currently driving inflation? The same factors that led to the spike in inflation last year: (1) Supply chain issues, (2) Tight Labor market, (3) Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. That said, all three major factors are easing. – Alex Lebedinsky, Interim Associate Dean and Professor of Economics, WKU’s Gordon Ford College of Business

  • 2023's Best & Worst States for Teachers: How can local officials attract and retain the best teachers? The best way to attract and retain teachers is to make the job more human scale again. Schools should drop pseudo-therapy programs like social and emotional learning and focus once again on academics, insisting that families and the larger society do their part to help support students' emotional and social growth and the economic challenges that undermine academic success. – Dr. Gary W. Houchens, Director, Educational Leadership Doctoral Program, and Professor, School of Leadership & Professional Studies, WKU

August 11-31, 2023

Daily News 

  • Augmented reality company cuts ribbon on new regional headquarters: Western Kentucky University welcomed another burgeoning tech company to its Innovation Campus in Bowling Green. MyXR Inc., a software development company focused on engagement and augmented reality, held a ribbon cutting Tuesday to mark the opening of its regional headquarters on the campus. 
  • Vigil held for WKU student killed at Muse: Ayanna Morgan should have been enjoying her last year at Western Kentucky University. Instead, a vigil took the 21-year-old’s place at Guthrie Bell Tower on Tuesday. 
  • African American Museum reopens after 'generous' community help: Watheta Buford was supposed to return to work at Bowling Green’s African American Museum around two weeks after a tornado damaged the building in December 2021. But an electrical fire delayed her plans. “Our building was totally damaged,” said Buford, the museum’s project manager. “The building had to be totally remodeled, and this is Western Kentucky University’s building, so they had to redo everything.” 
  • WKU takes close look at research with one of world's largest microscopes: If you want something engraved into a human hair, a jolly German scientist named Martin Klein is the man to see. Klein is the inventor of one of the world’s largest electron microscopes, housed within Western Kentucky University’s Center for Research & Development. 
  • 10K Classic back for 44th year: The Med Center Health 10K Classic, known as "The Race for Everyone," is returning on Sept. 23 for its 44th year. The event, which begins outside of Houchens L.T. Smith Stadium, includes the 10K Classic, Children's Classic, 10K Wheelchair Race and the 5K Run/Walk. 
  • Locals share ideas for new Jennings Creek park: Dr. Jason Polk, director of Western Kentucky University’s Center for Human GeoEnvironmental Studies (CHNGES), was among the first to arrive in the area following the storm on Dec. 11. CHNGES was allotted twin $10,000 grants from the A.M. Rotary to install educational signage, a 3D stream model and a real-time water quality monitoring station at the park. 
  • Caboni says WKU can be BG's 'talent magnet': Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni dreams of a Bowling Green “Knowledge Town.” 
  • WKU board approves shared transportation contract with city: Western Kentucky University’s Board of Regents approved two new contracts last week, including one that will merge WKU transportation with the city of Bowling Green’s. 

WKU Public Radio 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

  • MyXR opens new regional headquarters in Bowling Green: A new, unique business is making its way to the WKU Innovation Campus. MyXR, an augmented reality based company, is opening a new space in Bowling Green, bringing 60 new jobs to the community. 
  • Ayanna Morgan Vigil Service: Students and community members gather under Guthrie Bell Tower on WKU campus to honor their friend and classmate Ayanna Morgan who was murdered last month at the Muse Apartments. 
  • WKU and GO bg Transit work to further align: If you heard about changes to coming to the bus system in Bowling Green and Western Kentucky University, they’re going live now. 
  • African American Museum in BG hosts grand reopening: The African American Museum in Bowling Green is reopening after suffering damage from not only the 2021 tornado, but also an electrical fire that effectively gutted the inside of the structure. 

NPR 

Spectrum News 1 

Morning Ag Clips 

  • New executive director hopes to lead S.C. Botanical Garden to even greater heights: When Martin Hamilton first laid eyes upon the South Carolina Botanical Garden (SCBG), he was impressed by the diverse plant collection spread across nearly 300 acres throughout its mix of formal and natural areas. Hamilton earned a bachelor’s degree in 2000 from Western Kentucky University before going to work at Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest where he had previously undertaken a summer internship. 

Grayson County News 

  • Schools spotlight apprenticeship program: Grayson County Schools recently shared the details of its apprenticeship program for students wishing to pursue a career in teaching. A 2021 Grayson County High School (GCHS) graduate, Ashley Dotson started her apprenticeship in November of 2019, and currently attends Western Kentucky University (WKU) to obtain her dual certification in Elementary Education and Special Education while also working with GCHS Family and Consumer Sciences teacher Cody Mooneyhan through her apprenticeship. 

August 2-10, 2023

WKU Public Radio 

  • Western Kentucky University introduces Narcan to all student housing ahead of fall semester: Western Kentucky University will begin keeping Narcan, a life-saving drug used to treat drug overdoses, in residence halls and Greek life houses during the fall semester. All WKU fraternity and sorority houses and student dormitories will be equipped with the drug, which will be stored in an accessible space for students or resident assistants to easily access during the event of an overdose. 

Daily News 

  • Four WKU programs receive support from Abound Credit Union: Four programs at Western Kentucky University have received support from Abound Credit Union. 
  • WKU PBS receives two Ohio Valley Regional Emmy awards: WKU Public Media staff members Joshua Niedwick and Jeff Petrocelli received Ohio Valley Regional Emmy Awards on July 29 at the 59th annual Emmy Awards Gala in Lawrenceburg, Ind. 
  • Honky-tonk haven to bring Nashville action to BG: A new business venture on Fountain Row is trying to lasso a slice of Nashville’s Broadway nightlife for downtown Bowling Green. Business owners Jackson Washer, Chris Gipson and Amber Pendley have spent the summer converting the former Ramen Bar location at 927 College St. into an old-fashioned country honky-tonk fit for any sized hoedown. “I think we’re here to deliver the Broadway experience at home,” said Gipson, a senior at Western Kentucky University. “I think that’s what it boils down to. Trying to save people an hour drive and (giving them) a safe way to get home.” 
  • Local school counselors selected for state advisory council: Three local school counselors have been selected to serve on this year’s School Counselor Advisory Council to provide input to Kentucky’s Department of Education. Courtney Benefield of Glasgow High, Alecia Bush of North Warren Elementary and Chesley Craine of Franklin Elementary — all graduates of Western Kentucky University — were three of the 27 new members announced July 24. 

WBKO-TV 

  • WKU residence halls and Greek life houses equipped with Narcan: According to the Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center, over 2,000 Kentuckians died from a drug overdose in 2022. While Western Kentucky University officials say no students contributed to that number, this fall they won’t be taking any chances. 

WNKY-TV 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Abound Credit Union supports four WKU programs: Western Kentucky University administrators and staff gathered Wednesday with representatives of Abound Credit Union on Wednesday to recognize the financial institution’s support of four areas on campus. 
  • Lakewood Elementary has new principal days before school starts: Lakewood Elementary School teacher and former assistant principal Angela Pike will serve as the school’s leader. Pike is a graduate of Elizabethtown Community and Technical College and Western Kentucky University. She earned a master’s degree and two principal certifications from WKU. 

Spectrum News 1 

WTVQ-TV, Lexington 

  • Kentucky Mesonet opens new site in Lexington: On Wednesday, the Kentucky Mesonet revealed another mesonet site here in Kentucky which makes the 79th one in the state. This one is located on the north side of Fayette county on the University of Kentucky’s north farm. 

National Weather Service, Louisville 

  • New Kentucky Mesonet site: A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held this past Wednesday to celebrate the installation of Kentucky Mesonet's latest automated weather station. The site is located north of Lexington at the University of Kentucky's Spindletop Farm and is a joint venture between Western Kentucky University and UK. 

WDKY-TV, Lexington 

WTNH-TV, New Haven, CT 

July 19-August 1, 2023

Daily News 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Spectrum News 1 

WLKY-TV, Louisville 

  • Kentucky school districts introducing new programs to combat teacher shortages: "We fully recognize this is not a K through 12 problem, this is a K-20 problem. If we do not prepare the next generation of teachers, universities will not have the next generation of highly prepared students," said Corinne Murphy, dean of college of education and behavioral sciences at Western Kentucky University. 

Kentucky Lantern 

  • Displaced students find educational refuge in Kentucky: Lauren Reyes is the assistant director for international student success at Western Kentucky University. She said that 15 WKU students received funding from the scholarship in spring 2023; according to Reyes, WKU has a robust international population due to Bowling Green’s status as a refugee resettlement city. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

Lane Report 

KY NSF EPSCOR 

  • KY NSF EPSCOR Project At WKU’s SKyTeach Program Fosters STEM Teacher Development With Industry Partnerships: According to a 2020 report by Global Trade Magazine, Bowling Green, Kentucky was ranked number two out of twenty American cities for manufacturing. It is critical that our STEM teachers are well-prepared to educate students and encourage our youth to consider careers in STEM disciplines. The STEM Teacher Industry Partnership (STEM-TIP) was funded by the KY NSF EPSCOR to foster relationships among university STEM faculty, STEM teacher leaders, and manufacturing professionals in WKU’s service area. 

WDKY-TV, Lexington 

Corydon (IN) Democrat 

  • Camm joins Harrison County Purdue Extension office: Ariel Camm began her job as agriculture and natural resources educator with the Harrison County Extension Office on May 15, but she’s no stranger to the job. Camm worked as the office’s summer intern for two years — 2021 and 2022 — while she was a student at Western Kentucky University. 

WVEC-TV, Norfolk, VA 

July 8-18, 2023

Daily News 

Spectrum News 1 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Glimpsing the future: Hartz researching AI impact on human resources in companies: Seth Hartz, a 2020 Daviess County High School graduate, is exploring what potential impacts artificial intelligence could have on human resources within businesses. Hartz, a senior at Western Kentucky University, is participating in an internship at Owl’s Head Alloys BG in Bowling Green and has been tasked with researching how the AI program ChatGPT can help — or hinder — HR within the company. 

WLEX-TV, Lexington 

WKMG-TV, Orlando, FL 

June 27-July 7, 2023

WKU Public Radio 

Forbes 

  • Finding Tomorrow’s Teachers Among Today’s Students: “When I ask 1st and 2nd graders, 90 percent say they want to be a teacher,” explains Dr. Corrine Murphy, Dean of Western Kentucky University’s College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. “But then I go into a middle school and nobody raises their hand. What happens between those two times in a student's experience that we lose the excitement to become an educator?” 

Daily News 

  • Kentucky colleges react to SCOTUS affirmative action ruling: The Supreme Court on Friday issued a landmark decision ending affirmative action as a factor in college and university admissions processes. Kentucky universities say the decision will have little impact on their admissions. “At Western Kentucky University, our admission decisions were already based on an applicant's academic achievement, and those decisions didn't incorporate demographic characteristics, which would include race, when determining applicants' eligibility for admission," said Jace Lux, WKU spokesperson.  
  • Senior living care sees dramatic shortage of workers: If college-age students' interest in working within senior living services continues to decline, 10 to 20 years from now there won’t be enough workers to take care of those in senior living communities. “If staffing keeps declining the prices of these communities are going to skyrocket because there's going to be so much need and not enough care. Also quality of care would suffer,” said Riley Tagatz, a Western Kentucky University health care administration graduate.

WBKO-TV 

  • Kentucky’s inconsistent drought conditions expected to continue improving: Drought conditions across Kentucky have been inconsistent recently. Farmers will experience lower hay production which raises the cost of running a farm due to the upkeeping of livestock and crops. “If you look at hay supplies, the winter precipitation really helped with that first kind of pay. But then with April and May dryness, we saw hay, pretty much stuff growing and so that second cutting of hay just wasn’t there. That hay wasn’t growing,” said Kentucky State Climatologist, Dr. Jerry Brotzge, “and so now, even though it’s raining again and hays growing again, there is a dearth of the hay that we would have had otherwise.” 

WNKY-TV 

  • Teachers from Warren, Logan counties win teacher achievement awards: Two teachers, one from Warren County and one from Logan County, have been recognized as 2024 Teacher Achievement Award winners. According to the Kentucky Department of Education, Amber Dwyer of Alvaton Elementary School and ​Brandi Violette of Olmstead Elementary School are some of the 22 outstanding Kentucky educators chosen as recipients of the awards. Dwyer holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in education from Western Kentucky University. Violette holds a bachelor’s degree in exceptional education from Western Kentucky University.

Spectrum News 1 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Lakewood principal accepts role in HCS central office: Lakewood Elementary School Principal Shelee Clark has been asked to serve as the new director of education development and student support for Hardin County Schools. She is a graduate of Central Hardin High School and Western Kentucky University and holds a master’s degree and Rank I in educational leadership from WKU. 

WPSD-TV, Paducah 

  • College students biking across country to raise money for Alzheimer's: On May 20th, 12 college fraternity brothers from Western Kentucky University set out on a 3,600 mile bike ride across the country from San Francisco to Virginia Beach. The group, called Bike4ALZ, has a sole purpose of raising money and awareness for Alzheimer's Disease. 

June 8-26, 2023

WKU Public Radio 

  • Western Kentucky University breaks ground on a new multi-million dollar school of business: Western Kentucky University broke ground Wednesday on a new facility for the Gordon Ford College of Business. Construction on the new $74.4 million dollar facility is expected to begin this summer and will replace the current home of the business school, Grise Hall, which was built in 1967. WKU officials say the College of Business, the university’s fastest-growing program, needed upgraded facilities. 

Daily News 

  • Basil Griffin lake named for parks & rec pioneer: The lake at Basil Griffin Park now has a name, ensuring that a key figure in the history of Warren County Parks & Recreation is remembered forever. Dozens of relatives and friends of the late Jesse W. Thornton gathered by the 33-acre lake that now bears his name Thursday to honor the county’s first-ever director of parks and recreation and the man who laid the groundwork for the program more than 50 years ago. Jesse came back to Warren County and earned his bachelor’s and master’s at Western Kentucky University. 
  • Vaughn moves over to fill Warren East Middle's top spot: Jonathan Vaughn won’t have to walk very far to get to his new job. Vaughn was named the next principal of Warren East Middle School on Wednesday, relocating him by a mere 150 yards across the parking lot. Vaughn was a Hilltopper all throughout his higher education, achieving a bachelor’s in social studies, a master’s in education and certifications in administration, all at Western Kentucky University. 
  • 'Mr. Western' celebrates turning 101: Lee Robertson, a World War II veteran who has been dubbed “Mr. Western” for his allegiance to Western Kentucky University, celebrated his 101st birthday surrounded by friends and family at Mission BBQ Thursday afternoon. 
  • WKU alumna creates app to help detect breast cancer: While taking a shower before a class in 2003, Jessica Baladad, a freshman at Western Kentucky University, found a lump in her breast. Shortly after, she had the benign tumor removed but it put her in the habit of conducting a monthly breast self-exam which ended up saving her life in 2018 and lead to the creation of her app, “Feel For Your Life.” 
  • New Richardsville Elementary principal named: Lyndsey Thomason was named Richardsville Elementary School principal Tuesday afternoon. She will assume her new responsibility July 1. Thomason is a Bowling Green native. She attended elementary, middle and high school in the Warren County public school system before attending Western Kentucky University. 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU offers teacher apprenticeship program: A newly created teacher apprenticeship program invites aspiring teachers to learn while they earn. The apprenticeship program is in collaboration with Western Kentucky University and identifies future teachers in high school. More than 100 teachers and school leaders were on campus Thursday to learn more about the new pathway for educators. 
  • Local businesses honored at Good Business summit: Several local businesses have been honored for their social and environmental impact. According to Western Kentucky University’s Innovation Campus, Logan Aluminum, Kobe Aluminum Automotive Products and Mike Murphy of Murphy Construction Group were honored by Canopy, a Kentucky nonprofit whose mission is to grow Kentucky businesses to positively impact people, our planet and our future. Bingocize was also among those recognized. 
  • Kentucky students gather at WKU SCATS for lessons on clowning, other creative interests: Summer camps are in full swing across the area, and Friday we found a few campers clowning around on the Western Kentucky University campus. 
  • Gordon Ford College of Business groundbreaking ceremony held today: Construction has begun on a new building on WKU’s campus. The highly anticipated new Gordon Ford College of Business building was dedicated this morning, which will be complete by the fall of 2025. 
  • WKU PD to purchase updated body armor, pistols with grant: This fall, Western Kentucky University will be better protected after the campus police department received more than $48,000 to upgrade weapons and equipment. 
  • Leah Renfrow named new principal of Allen County Primary Center: Superintendent Travis Hamby has announced Leah Renfrow has been named as the new Principal of Allen County Primary Center. A proud graduate of Western Kentucky University, Renfrow earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, as well as a master’s degree and rank 1 in school counseling. She further added to her qualifications by obtaining principal certification through WKU. 
  • Dr. Lyndsey Thomason named as new principal of Richardsville Elementary: Dr. Lyndsey Thomason has been selected as the next principal of Richardsville Elementary. Thomason completed her bachelor of arts in teacher education in physical education and her master of arts in physical education from Western Kentucky University. 
  • Kentucky Mesonet at WKU adds station in Russell County: The Kentucky Mesonet at Western Kentucky University is branching out. On Tuesday, a ribbon cutting celebrated a new weather and climate monitoring site in Russell County. 

WBKO-TV 

Frankfort State-Journal 

  • Mika to spend summer interning in Quarles' office: A Frankfort student has earned a summer internship in Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Ryan Quarles’ office. Gracie Mika, who attends Western Kentucky University, will work alongside KDA employees learning the various programs the department is involved allowing them to gain insight into considering a future career within the ag industry and with KDA.

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Hardin County Schools names new Cecilia Valley principal: Cecilia Valley Elementary School will have a new leader to start this next school year. Assistant Principal Casey Goodman will begin his service as the school’s new principal on July 1, according to a news release from Hardin County Schools. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Western Kentucky University. 

Lane Report 

  • Logan Aluminum wins Canopy ‘Good Business’ award, 3 others honored: “The WKU Innovation Campus is proud to partner with dynamic companies and entrepreneurs who are making positive impacts and elevating their communities through collaboration and innovation,” said Buddy Steen, Innovation Campus CEO. “By connecting, engaging, and recognizing forward-looking thinkers and innovators, we are better prepared to tackle challenges and grow the strengths and diversity of our region’s economy.” 
  • WKU breaks ground on new Gordon Ford College of Business building: Western Kentucky University broke ground Wednesday for a new state-of-the-art building to house the Gordon Ford College of Business. 

RFD-TV 

May 31-June 7, 2023

WKU Public Radio 

  • An "unexpected turn": WKU student from Ukraine adjusts to life in southern Kentucky as her nation fights against Russia's invasion: It’s been 15 months since the invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces, forcing thousands of Ukrainians to seek safety in other countries, and setting off a global crisis and displacing thousands. One of those displaced Ukranians is Mariia Novoselia, a native of the southern city of Odesa, a port city that sits on the Black Sea. Novoselia is also a student at Western Kentucky University. She came to Bowling Green as part of a global student exchange program, in January 2022 but those plans changed as she learned the invasion of her country had begun. 

Daily News 

WBKO-TV 

  • WCPS announces new principal of Richardsville Elementary: Warren County Public Schools announced Lyndsey Thomason as the next principal of Richardsville Elementary school at an event Tuesday night. Thomason completed her Bachelor of Arts in Teacher Education in Physical Education and Master of Arts in Physical Education at Western Kentucky University. 
  • Hughes & Coleman Hometown Hero: Chris Patterson: If you’ve ever been to sporting events at Western Kentucky University or Simpson County schools, odds are you’ve heard the voice of Chris Patterson enthusiastically cheering on our local teams. 
  • Locals visit Duncan Hines Exhibit at Kentucky Museum ahead of ‘Duncan Hines Days’: The Kentucky Museum on the campus of Western Kentucky University is displaying the Duncan Hines Exhibit as part of the leadup to ‘Duncan Hines Days’ in Bowling Green. 
  • View from the Hill reporter changing her view: After 15 years of writing, producing, shooting, editing and airing View From the Hill, reporter Amy Bingham is hanging up her microphone. Prior to her 15 years at WKU, Bingham spent 15 years with WBKO News, at one time or another filling every position in the department. 
  • WKU Art Department hosts 2nd annual Professional Development Day for area art educators: Western Kentucky University’s Art Department hosted its second art-specific Professional Development Workshop at the Ivan Wilson Fine Arts Center. 
  • The history behind the Duncan Hines: With the upcoming return of the annual ‘Duncan Hines Days’ celebrations, many are celebrating the iconic baking brand’s roots in Bowling Green. However, few know the history of the man behind the logo, and his beginnings as a traveling salesman. An exhibit at the Kentucky Museum on Western Kentucky University’s campus chronicles Hines’ life in detail, from his birth in Bowling Green to his rise to fame. 

WNKY-TV 

  • Kentucky Museum hosts Duncan Hines: A Food Odyssey: At the Kentucky Museum on WKU’s campus, Duncan Hines: A Food Odyssey took place. This 45-minute presentation was given by Duncan Hines Expert Jonathan Jeffrey featuring his research behind the newest exhibition, “Recommended by Duncan Hines”. 
  • Professional development at WKU: Local art teachers from local public schools, and just a few from Tennessee, visited Western for some fun and education.

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Hamilton creates mobile laundry service: You would think that with three children between 16 months and 4 years old, Alix Hamilton would have more than enough laundry to do. But in April, the Chicago-area native opened Blue Laundry Co., a mobile laundry service that’s already gaining support. She came to Kentucky to study long-term care administration at Western Kentucky University. 
  • Grigsby named new principal at East View Elementary School: Daviess County Public Schools announced Wednesday that Jo Beth Grigsby will serve as principal of East View Elementary School beginning July 1. In 2006, Grigsby graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor of science in elementary education. 

Spectrum News 1 

  • New teacher, student appointed to Kentucky Board of Education: The Kentucky Department of Education has named a new teacher and student to serve on the state board of education. Alissa Riley, a 9th-12th grade teacher at Gateway Academy of Innovation and Technology in Christian County, will hold the teacher seat for the upcoming term. Riley received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 2007 from Western Kentucky University, then served as a primary grade teacher for the first 13 years of her career. In 2016, she earned her master’s degree in teacher leadership, with an endorsement in WKU’s elementary math specialist program. 

WKDZ-FM, Cadiz 

  • Gateway Academy’s Riley Selected For One-Year KBE Appointment: A local teacher has been selected to be a non-voting member of the state’s board of education — one with Hopkinsville and Christian County ties. Revealed Tuesday by officials from the Kentucky Department of Education, Alissa Riley is a 9th-12th grade leader at Gateway Academy to Innovation and Technology. She will serve a one-year term. Riley received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 2007 from Western Kentucky University, then went on to serve as a primary grade teacher for the first 13 years of her career. 

WTVF-TV, Nashville 

May 12-30, 2023

Daily News 

  • Homesteading and Preparedness Festival comes to Bowling Green: Three friends are bringing their love of homesteading to Bowling Green. They are hosting a Homesteading and Preparedness Festival that will be free to the public at the L.D. Brown Ag Expo Center on Oct. 28-29 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. 
  • First public library for neurodiverse opens at LifeWorks: The first library dedicated to the neurodiverse population in Kentucky opened Tuesday morning at LifeWorks at Western Kentucky University through a partnership with the Warren County Public Library. 
  • Sculpture coming to SKyPAC as part of public arts push: The man chosen to capture all that was figurative sculptor Russ Faxon, a product of Western Kentucky University who was raised in Bowling Green. 
  • Warren East's Cloyd picked to lead South Warren Middle School: After 23 years of service at Warren East Middle School, David Cloyd decided it was time for a change. Cloyd was introduced as South Warren Middle School’s next principal on Wednesday, filling the role left by new South Warren High School principal Matt Deaton. A Western Kentucky University graduate, he began his career as a math teacher at WEMS in 2000 — also working as head football and basketball coach — before earning the assistant principal position. 
  • Bristow teacher honored for being a 'lighthouse': Wilmurth, a 2022 Western Kentucky University graduate in her first full year of teaching fourth grade English at Bristow Elementary, went on to become one of 10 teachers to win the inaugural award. 

WKU Public Radio 

WNKY-TV 

  • New work of art to be installed in front of SKyPAC: The Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center will soon be home to the newest work of a world renowned artist. The Public Arts Project was announced today in front of SKyPAC, where Bowling Green native Russ Faxon’s bronze sculpture will be installed. 
  • Sunrise Spotlight – WKU Summer Media Workshops: For today’s edition of Sunrise Spotlight, we sit down with Ryan Dearbone from Western Kentucky University to tell us about the fun opportunities the WKU summer media workshops offer. 
  • Warren County Public Schools names new principal of South Warren Middle School: David Cloyd has been selected as the next principal of South Warren Middle School. Cloyd earned his bachelor of science degree in middle grades education from Western Kentucky University, graduating magna cum laude. He also earned his master of arts in education administration and leadership, level II education administration and leadership and rank I supervisor of instruction, all from WKU. 
  • Devore named principal at Barren County Schools’ Hiseville Elementary School: Jonathan Devore has been named principal of Hiseville Elementary School. Devore earned his bachelor of science in middle grades education from Western Kentucky University. He continued at WKU to earn his master of arts, also in middle grades education, and his rank I in education leadership. 

WBKO-TV 

The Lane Report 

  • Three Kentucky middle school teachers selected as 2023 National STEM Scholars: Three Kentucky middle school teachers are among ten teachers from eight states who have been selected to participate in the prestigious National STEM Scholar Program, a unique professional development program providing advanced STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) training, national network building and project support for middle school science teachers nationwide. 
  • Education: Kentucky’s New Education Landscape: Western Kentucky University conducts academic program reviews on a five-year cycle, looking at the currency and sustainability of curriculum, innovation and revision opportunities, said Evelyn Thrasher, senior associate dean and professor of analytics and information systems at WKU’s Gordon Ford College of Business. 
  • $1M awarded to encourage carbon-efficient tech innovation along I-65, I-75 corridors: Western Kentucky University, together with a team led by the University of Kentucky and with partners across Kentucky and Tennessee, has been awarded $1 million from the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines, or NSF Engines, program. This team’s proposal, “Advancing carbon-centric circular economy technologies for advanced manufacturing solutions (KY, TN),” is led by a coalition named Generate Advanced Manufacturing Excellence for Change (GAME Change). 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Stapleton fulfilling dream of impacting next generation: Taylor Stapleton recently graduated from Central Hardin High School and has known since she was 7 years old that she wanted to be a teacher. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA while taking dual-credit courses at EC3, the fulfillment of that dream now is in sight. Stapleton plans to attend the Elizabethtown campus of Western Kentucky University. 
  • Jury named HCS director of high school curriculum, instruction and assessment: Bluegrass Middle School Principal Tanya Jury is the new Hardin County Schools director of high school curriculum, instruction and assessment. Jury is a Washington County High School and Western Kentucky University graduate. 
  • West Hardin's new principal has ties to school: Christin Swords has been selected to serve as the next principal at West Hardin Middle School and will leave her job at the central office. Swords graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor of science degree in middle grades education. 
  • Johnson to retire from Lincoln Trail ADD after 38 years: After planning to be around for only a few years, Sherry Johnson is retiring from the Lincoln Trail Area Development District after 38 years of service to the region. After graduating from Western Kentucky University and working in public administration, Johnson did an internship at Green River ADD. She came to the Lincoln Trail ADD about three months after she completed her master’s degree. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • 'Never give up': Stites retiring from OPS after 14 years as fine arts coordinator: Tom Stites, fine arts coordinator for Owensboro Public Schools, will retire from his position after 14 years at the end of this academic year. Stites attended Western Kentucky University, where he majored in music. 
  • OCS names new chief education officer, K-3 principal: Tracy Conkright, who most recently served as principal of the 4-6 Campus, has been appointed OCS’ chief education officer. Conkright attended Western Kentucky University, where she received a B.A. in elementary education, a master’s degree in elementary education and her Rank 1 certification in instructional leadership. 

Spectrum News 1 

  • Everything is pretty in pink for owners of a top online boutique: Chris Gerbig is the co-founder and president of Pink Lily, a women’s boutique clothing company. Gerbig and his wife Tori started the company in their kitchen in 2014 to make some extra cash. Both he and his wife went to Western Kentucky University and thought Bowling Green would be a good place to set up shop. 

Madisonville Messenger 

  • Coleman named president of BHDM: Alisa Coleman has been named the new president of Baptist Health Deaconess Madisonville. She has served as the interim president since Robert Ramey left last winter to become the president of Baptist Health Hardin in Elizabethtown. Coleman has a Master of Science degree in Healthcare Administration from Western Kentucky University and is a native Kentuckian. 

WKDZ-FM, Cadiz 

  • Kentucky Mesonet Working On Expansion Plans: The Kentucky Mesonet program is looking to expand, even after a recent setback in western Kentucky. Shane Holinde, the Outreach Manager for the program that operates through Western Kentucky University, tells Your News Edge they have been busy lately. 

Live Science 

MegaBites 

  • Universities Around the World Compete to Improve Accessibility using Anthology Ally: “While we’ve been actively supporting faculty and staff in centering inclusivity in their online courses for years, this will be our first year participating in Fix Your Content Day,” said Dr. Hannah Digges Elliott, Senior Instructional Designer at Western Kentucky University. “We’re excited about the opportunity to encourage a little competition among our faculty and staff and ultimately continue to highlight the importance of more accessible content.” 

April 21-May 11, 2023

Daily News 

  • Documentary filmmaker to speak at Capitol: Documentary filmmaker and Western Kentucky University graduate Brett Culp will be speaking about his award-winning career at The Capitol at 7 p.m. Friday. 
  • WKU's 2024 budget calls for tuition increase: Western Kentucky University plans to increase tuition by 3%, which would mark the second time in as many years the institution has raised rates. 
  • 'Operational costs' vanquish city, university's e-bike program: Western Kentucky University and downtown Bowling Green’s electric bike service has come to an abrupt end. 
  • Region's musical traditions focus of future museum exhibit: Musicians – from Ragtime artist Ernest Hogan and "Newgrass" pioneer Sam Bush to homegrown hip-hop group Nappy Roots and rock band Cage the Elephant – have provided the soundtrack for southcentral Kentucky for more than a century. And now those pickers, crooners and rappers will be honored in an upcoming Kentucky Museum exhibit to be called "Sonic Landscape." 
  • Bowling Green refugees share experiences in adapting to new home: A trio of refugees got to share the challenges and successes – big and small – of adapting to life in Bowling Green Monday evening. The panel, held in the Knicely Conference Center on Western Kentucky University’s South Campus, came about in collaboration between WKU’s Office of Global Learning & International Affairs and the City of Bowling Green’s International Communities Liaison Division.
  • Major donation establishes chair position in history for WKU: A new chair has been added to the table thanks to a generous donation to Western Kentucky University. Formerly the Frockt Family Professorship in History, the endowed faculty position was elevated to chair status last week after a gift of $500,000 from WKU alumnus Richard Frockt.
  • Mills selected as principal of W.R. McNeill Elementary: Emily Mills has been selected as the next principal of W.R. McNeill Elementary School. She has earned a bachelors degree, Master of Arts, Elementary Math Specialist endorsement and principal certification from Western Kentucky University. 

WKU Public Radio 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

  • Metcalfe Co. seniors participate in Educators Rising National Signing Day: Today, four Metcalfe County High School seniors participated in the 2023 Educators Rising National Signing Day. Metcalfe County Schools says the event was held for all upcoming graduates who have shown commitment to a postsecondary degree in education. Ada-Kathryn Bennett plans to attend Western Kentucky University and concentrate on agriculture education. Aidan Grindle, also committed to WKU, intends to study music education. Logan Phelps will attend WKU to pursue his career in elementary education. 
  • Leah Kate Pniewski named principal of North Jackson Elementary School: North Jackson Elementary School in Glasgow has named Leah Kate Pniewski as its new principal. Barren County Schools also says Pniewski received her bachelor of science in elementary education from Western Kentucky University in 2011.
  • Emily Mills selected as principal of W. R. McNeill Elementary: Bowling Green Independent School District superintendent Gary Fields has selected Emily Mills to serve as the next principal of the school. According to the school district, she has earned a bachelor’s, master of arts, elementary math specialist endorsement and principal certification from Western Kentucky University. 

Bluegrass Today 

WDRB-TV, Louisville 

  • New program provides Hardin County seniors with tuition help in return for guaranteed teaching positions: In a special ceremony Wednesday, seniors from various Hardin County high schools lined up to sign a contract, saying that HCS will pay them $350 per class they take wherever they go to college for as long as they're working on a bachelor's degree in education. In return, that student must teach for HCS for a least three years after graduation. And if they attend Western Kentucky University, WKU will pay for another $350 toward each class, meaning two-thirds of the cost will be covered. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Seven local students graduate from Gatton Academy: The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science graduated 90 students, including seven from either Hardin or LaRue counties, from across Kentucky in its 16th graduating class. 
  • Cooper always offers a hand up: Susan Cooper’s desire to see the disadvantaged rise above their circumstances led her to the bush of Africa and, more recently, to the position of director of grants and contracts for Elizabethtown Community and Technical College. After earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Western Kentucky University, Cooper taught and coached woman’s basketball at Berea College. After a couple of years, she joined the Peace Corps and headed to Africa. 
  • HCS students 'sign' on to teacher education initiative: In a ceremony traditionally reserved for student athletes, Hardin County Schools students have penned their commitment to their future career. The students signed letters of intent on becoming educators and return to their home district to begin their careers. Jeremiah Diaz will be attending Western Kentucky University to become a mathematics teacher.
  • Adams moves on as agent to work on farm full time: For almost a decade and a half, Matthew Adams has worked at the Hardin County Cooperative Extension Service as an extension agent for agriculture and natural resources. Now, he’s resigning from his position to focus on his dream of farming full time. His last day at the Extension service is May 3. Adams worked as an agent for 13 years. He found his way into the position after first earning a program assistant position in 2010, shortly after graduating from Western Kentucky University. He then applied for and earned the agent position within months. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Smith named OPS fine arts coordinator: Owensboro Public Schools announced Tuesday that Kara Smith has been named the district’s next coordinator of fine arts. Smith earned a bachelor of arts in music education from Western Kentucky University. 
  • Greer receives WKU educator award: Owensboro High School theater teacher Carolyn Greer received the Western Kentucky University Distinguished Educator Award for Visual and Performing Arts on Monday. 
  • 'It's been awesome': WKU-O graduates 30: Friends and family members filled the Donald J. Blandford Lecture Hall inside the Humanities Building on Owensboro Technical & Community College’s campus Tuesday to celebrate the accomplishments of Western Kentucky University-Owensboro’s 30-student graduating class. 

Owensboro Times 

  • Greer receives WKU Distinguished Educator Award: Owensboro High School theatre teacher Carolyn Greer was surprised Monday morning with the Western Kentucky University Distinguished Educator Award for her work in Visual and Performing Arts. 

WFIE-TV, Evansville, IN 

  • Owensboro teacher receives WKU Distinguished Educators Award: An Owensboro High School teacher was surprised with an award from Western Kentucky University Monday morning. Longstanding theatre teacher, Carolyn Greer, received one of the university’s “Distinguished Educator awards for Visual and Performing Arts”. 

Leader-News, Central City 

  • Sisters publish children’s book decades in the making: Sisters Linda Wade and Leigh Ellen Stewart sat at the dining room table in their mother’s house. A book signing at a local coffee shop last month for their book, “Herby’s Friend”, had been a surprising success. Linda, the author, was more surprised than Leigh Ellen, who illustrated the book. Their paths had diverged many years ago, after leaving home. Leigh Ellen studied Commercial Art and then Art Education at Western Kentucky University, while Linda was a stay-at-home mom living in Clarksville, Tennessee, with her military husband Stewart and two small children.

WJRS-FM, Russell Springs 

Wallet Hub

  • What to Do After a Car Accident: Should a driver always report an accident to their insurance company, regardless of the scale? From an Economics point of view, this decision should be evaluated by considering the costs and benefits of such action. -- J. Sebastian Leguizamon, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Economics, Gordon Ford College of Business

March 28-April 20, 2023

Daily News

  • Mandrapa, Sales earn chamber awards: Sales took home the Athena Award that goes to a female business leader who provides service to the community and helps other women achieve success. A Franklin native, Sales has earned bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees at Western Kentucky University and now serves as WKU dean of students and assistant vice president of student life.
  • 'Mission's accomplished.' Veterans center named after Col. Robert E. Spiller, Korean and Vietnam War vet: Col. Robert E. Spiller had two missions in life – taking care of the poor and needy and getting a veterans nursing home in Bowling Green. Spiller lived a life of service. He moved from his hometown of Philadelphia to Bowling Green to attend Western Kentucky University, where he graduated with a degree in history in 1949. 
  • WKU students to put on Western-themed fashion show: Put on your cowboy hat, dust off your boots and head on over to the Charleston on Monday, April 24, for a Boots and Buckle Fashion Show. At 7 p.m., Western Kentucky University fashion merchandising students will present a Western-themed fashion show at the downtown venue. The event is free and is expected to last a little over an hour.
  • New home for WKU business college unveiled: Renderings have been unveiled for Western Kentucky University’s future business building, which offers a nod to the old and a look to the future.
  • WKU alum, published author returns to where writing career took flight: A published Hilltopper stopped by her old stomping ground this week to share her writing with students. Erin Slaughter was a member of the first cohort in WKU’s creative writing MFA program, graduating in 2017. She is the editor and co-founder of literary journal “The Hunger” and just finished her PhD at Florida State University.
  • Augmented reality company to make WKU Innovation Campus regional HQ: A San Francisco-based software company specializing in augmented reality and immersive technologies is setting up its regional headquarters in Bowling Green. MyXR, which creates platforms on which these kinds of technologies can be used, will be the newest addition to Western Kentucky University’s Innovation Campus. The move will create 60 full-time jobs. 
  • Gaines lecture tackles representation in media: Listening, not just “covering,” was the focus of this year’s John B. Gaines Family lecture series. The event brought three women of color in journalism to Western Kentucky University’s Jody Richards Hall on Wednesday night to talk about the importance of representation in news media.
  • Top NYC fashion photographer to give talk at WKU: New York City-based fashion photographer Bell Soto is set to visit Western Kentucky University this month to give a talk and work with fashion students.
  • Deaton tabbed as South Warren High School principal: South Warren High School has chosen a longtime Spartan for its next principal. Matt Deaton, who has served as the principal of South Warren Middle School since 2021, was announced as the high school’s next leader on Wednesday. Deaton is a Hilltopper, completing his bachelor’s in social studies with secondary certification at Western Kentucky University.
  • Unique future teacher program gets underway: Nelson County School District high schoolers participating in a unique teacher education program with Western Kentucky University got a taste of the college experience Tuesday.
  • 'Permanent pipeline' the goal of new teacher apprenticeship program: Western Kentucky University is collaborating with Nelson County Schools in a unique apprenticeship program to combat the state’s teacher shortage. 

WKU Public Radio

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

  • Beshear names Bowling Green Veterans Center in honor of the late Col. Robert E. Spiller: Gov. Andy Beshear joined veterans, state and local leaders and veteran service organization representatives on Wednesday to announce the new Bowling Green Veterans Center will be named after the late Col. Robert E. “Bob” Spiller, USA Retired. Spiller was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and came to Bowling Green to attend Western Kentucky University, where he met his wife of 66 years, Bowling Green native Cora Jane Morningstar. Spiller graduated from WKU in 1949 with a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in history in 1950.
  • BG Chamber of Commerce announces winners of 2023 Excellence Awards: The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Excellence Awards ceremony today, highlighting small business owners and celebrating women in business. Dean of Students and Vice President of Student Affairs at Western Kentucky University, Dr. Martha Sales, was the recipient of the Athena Award.
  • WKU 1 of 11 schools to beat TVA investment challenge: The Tennessee Valley Authority announced Tuesday that nearly 50% of the 25 university teams participating, including WKU, in the agency’s Investment Challenge Program (ICP) beat the S&P 500 Total Return Index for the calendar year 2022.
  • WKU in Glasgow announces students accepted into Fall 2023 Early College Program: WKU in Glasgow has announced the inaugural Early College at WKU in Glasgow class. Seventy-three students from seven partner high schools have been admitted and will begin this August.
  • 31 WKU students selected as 2023-24 Spirit Masters: Thirty-one Western Kentucky University students have been selected as Spirit Masters for the 2023-24 year.
  • WKU unveils plans for the new home of the Gordon Ford College of Business: WKU’s Board of Regents unveiled plans for the new home of the Gordon Ford College of Business.
  • Bowling Green welcomes “emerging technology” with MyXR, Inc.: A new tech company will be coming to Bowling Green soon. MyXR, Inc. is set to arrive in the early summer, and bring in over 60 jobs. The company specializes in augmented reality and engagement platforms for businesses. The company will be housed in a 1,200-foot space at the Western Kentucky University Innovation Campus Headquarters, all part of a city effort to bring emerging technology to Bowling Green.

Lane Report

  • Hargrove Firm LLP is pleased to announce that Watson has been named partner: Ramsey Steele Easley Watson has been named partner at Hargrove Firm LLP. She has focused her practice on high-net-worth estate planning and trust and estate administration for nearly a decade. Ramsey graduated from Western Kentucky University with a double major in Psychology and Political Science. 
  • WKU unveils plans for new Gordon Ford College of Business building: Western Kentucky University unveiled plans today for a new state-of-the-art building to house the Gordon Ford College of Business, a 113,000-s.f. structure that will transform undergraduate and graduate business education in the region and fulfill an important component of WKU’s 2021-2031 Campus Master Plan. 
  • MyXR Inc. to locate regional headquarters at WKU innovation campus: Augmented reality and engagement software company MyXR Inc. has committed to locating its new regional headquarters at the Western Kentucky University Innovation Campus in Bowling Green and will create 60 full-time positions. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • Robbins follows in family’s footsteps: With a heart for serving children, especially those with special needs, Hannah Robbins is pursuing a career in early childhood education and by doing so, is following in the footsteps of her family before her. After high school, Robbins plans to attend Western Kentucky University at the Elizabethtown campus. Robbins said that Hardin County Schools teamed up with Western Kentucky University to offer tuition assistance to students currently enrolled in the early childhood education program. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer

  • White named OPS director of alternative programs: Owensboro Public Schools announced Monday that Rocky White will be the district’s next director of alternative programs beginning July 1. White earned his masters in exceptional education from Western Kentucky University.
  • Owensboro native senior VP with Walmart: In 1995, Glenda Fleming Willis, a graduate of Owensboro High School and Western Kentucky University, was an electrical engineer at Bowling Green Municipal Utilities, making $15 to $17 an hour. Flash forward 28 years and she’s now a senior vice president for 900 Walmart supercenters in eight states, including Kentucky. 
  • DCPS announces Bishop as County Heights principal: Daviess County Public Schools announced Wednesday that Brandy Bishop will be the principal of Country Heights Elementary School beginning July 1. Bishop graduated from Western Kentucky University in 2013 with a masters of arts in educational leadership. 
  • Storm selected as director of OPS' multi-tiered systems of support: Newton Parrish Elementary School principal Alicia Storm will become director of multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) for Owensboro Public Schools on July 1. She has a masters in education administration and Rank I from Western Kentucky University.

Talking Biz News

  • Fashion Dive hires Deppen as a reporter: Industry Dive publication Fashion Dive has hired Laurel Deppen as a reporter. She is a graduate of Western Kentucky University, where she was editor in chief of the student newspaper, the College Heights Herald. 

KET Kentucky Edition 

March 11-27, 2023

Daily News 

  • SOKY Bookfest brings inspiration, personal connection: The Knicely Center conference room is silent, save for the hum of the building and the scratching of pen on paper. It’s Saturday morning, at the 24th annual SOKY Bookfest, and a group of about 30 writers are building worlds and the characters that live within them. 
  • More than $93,000 raised at 9th annual Dance Big Red: Western Kentucky University students raised $93,522.45 to benefit pediatric cardiovascular services and pediatric cancer care at Norton Children’s Hospital at the ninth annual Dance Big Red in the Raymond B. Preston Health & Activities Center on Friday night. 
  • WCPS announces 2023 Hall of Distinguished Alumni: Warren County Public Schools will induct seven alumni into its Hall of Distinguished Alumni on May 5. Members of the 2023 WCPS Hall of Distinguished Alumni Class include John. H. Bailey Jr., Paula L. Barnes, J.D., C. Daniel Benson, M.D., Dr. Alfred Leland Crabb, Meliha Hrustanovic-Kadic, Ret. LCDR Jason Thomas, USN and Brig. Gen. Todd Wiles. 
  • 'World needs more Marie Smiths': After graduating from Warren County High School and studying at Bowling Green Business University and Western Kentucky University, Smith was looking for work in 1964. 
  • Recreation for all: Levis creates opportunities for disabled populations: Levis, special populations coordinator with Bowling Green Parks and Recreation, is the third generation of his family to work in the discipline, creating opportunities for people with physical and intellectual disabilities to participate. His grandfather taught kinesiology, recreation and sport at WKU for the entirety of his career, leading Levis’ mother – Betty Jean “BJ” Little Levis – to enter the field as well. 
  • Sales pro Webb still selling Bowling Green: Webb’s path to business ownership almost took a detour. After graduating from Edmonson County High School in 1962, he studied economics and sociology at Western Kentucky University and completed teacher certification. 
  • Passing down the paranormal: WKU retiree collecting university's ghost stories: Western Kentucky University has its fair share of spooky tales, and one longtime Hilltopper has made it her mission to document and preserve the Hill’s paranormal history. Since her retirement from the university, Dr. Tamela Smith has been working as a full-time paranormal researcher, conducting over 80 interviews with folks sharing their own ghostly encounters at WKU to compile a history book on the subject. 
  • Tyreon Clark: a mentor, coach and visionary: In 2021, he co-founded Jonesville Academy with Aurelia Spaulding to pay homage to the former Jonesville community that once existed on WKU’s campus. Jonesville Academy operates 14 Saturdays a year, empowering young Black men to know that they can and will be successful with specialized education. 
  • WKU program seeks to build bridges for refugee students: When Afghanistan's government fell to the Taliban, Ataullah Tahiri fled. In November 2021, after several stops and weeks of processing, he arrived in Bowling Green, considered a safe place for young refugees coming to America with nothing, Tahiri said. 
  • 'It's a game-changer': WKU grad student named first recipient of MIT fellowship: Western Kentucky University folk studies graduate student Lamont “Jack” Pearley was named the first recipient of the MIT OpenDocLab Kentucky-based fellowship last week.

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

  • African American Museum training to restore damaged artifacts: The Bowling Green African American Museum was created in 2006 to preserve black culture and honor the many achievements and contributions of people of color in Bowling Green and South Central Kentucky. 
  • WKU hosts goat yoga session to help students: Western Kentucky University held their second goat yoga session for this school year. Goat Yoga takes the medicinal benefits of yoga, like increased flexibility and blood flow, and adds the serotonin boost of getting to play with goats. 

Kentucky Teacher 

Kentucky Standard, Bardstown 

  • Nelson County unveils teacher apprenticeship: Tuesday, Nelson County Schools announced a first-of-its-kind teacher apprenticeship program to students and community members alike. The new apprenticeship program is in partnership with Elizabethtown Community and Technical College and Western Kentucky University. 
  • Bardstown student selected for West Point: Bardstown High School’s Reagan Phelps continues to go above and beyond in pursuit of purpose due in part to her recent acceptance of appoint to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. In her senior year at Gatton Academy at Western Kentucky University, she said she owes all her next steps to her time at the school.

WDRB-TV, Louisville 

  • Nelson County Schools, WKU partnering for teacher apprenticeship program: A Kentucky school district is leading a new program that could be a national model for communities wanting to address a teacher shortage. Nelson County Schools partnered with Western Kentucky University (WKU) to create a K-12 teacher apprenticeship program through Tech Ready Apprentices for Careers in Kentucky. 

KET Kentucky Edition 

People 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • LaRue County teacher inducted into YMCA Hall of Fame: Kendrick Bryan is a history and social studies teacher at LaRue County High School, but his influence carries far beyond the classroom. Bryan was recently inducted into the YMCA Hall of Fame. Bryan graduated from Western Kentucky University in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in history and social studies. 

London Sentinel-Echo 

  • Scholarship opportunity for Student Fellows program at SCC: If you have ever wanted a career as a teacher, there is no better time than now. If you have ever wanted a scholarship to help you become a teacher, there’s no better place to begin than Somerset Community College (SCC). The college has funding available to support students pursuing the Elementary Education Teacher transfer program to Western Kentucky University (WKU). The Student Fellows program offers a scholarship for up to two years at SCC, before transferring to WKU for a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education. 

The Delta, Sigma Nu Fraternity 

  • A Life Well Traveled, John Ludwig (Western Kentucky) – A Brother That Still Has Many Miles To Go: Growing up in Rahway, New Jersey, during his teens, John often went to a small grass airfield to take flying lessons in a J-3 Piper Cub, paid with money working after school hours at the local Dairy Queen. Becoming a pilot was John’s ongoing ambition. After graduating High School, John eventually attended Western Kentucky University, graduating (Jan of 1968) with a B.A. in Psychology and Sociology. 

Lebanon Enterprise 

  • Marion County student has planned her future: Most high school students have no idea what they will be doing a week from now, much less what road they want to travel in their lives. It takes just a short conversation with Marion County senior Ericka Hoppes to realize she is not like most of her counterparts. Since the beginning of her junior year, she has been attending The Gatton Academy on the campus of Western Kentucky University. 

March 2-10, 2023

Daily News 

  • WKU among those concerned by Maddox shell bill to allow guns on campuses: Kentucky’s college campuses have long been gun-free zones. Under current law, postsecondary educational institutions are allowed to limit possession of deadly weapons on their property, including concealed carry. Western Kentucky University’s Chief of Police Mitch Walker testified to the House committee in opposition to the bill. 
  • WKU updates student conduct policy to match state legislation: Western Kentucky University’s Board of Regents affirmed WKU’s admissions and student conduct policies at its quarterly meeting Friday, the latter of which has been revised to include provisions laid out by 2022’s House Bill 290. 
  • Walk for autism April has multiple events: The Suzanne Vitale Clinical Education Complex at WKU is a place where families are accepted and supported while navigating unique challenges that others may not understand. The CEC enhances socialization and communication skills while enriching the quality of life for individuals and families impacted by autism, developmental delays and disabilities. The CEC is comprised of the Renshaw Early Childhood Center, the Communication Disorders Clinic, the Family Resource Program, the Kelly Autism Program, and LifeWorks at WKU. 
  • Lt. Gov. Coleman promotes administration's Education First Plan: Lucas Firkins, Western Kentucky University teacher education major, spoke at the event. He said that the low pay is something every college student who wants to become a teacher has to consider before making career decisions. 

WKU Public Radio 

  • Ban on Kentucky college 'gun free zones' added to unrelated bill advances: Kentucky colleges and universities wouldn’t be able to ban concealed guns from campus buildings under a surprise bill advanced by state lawmakers Tuesday. Mitch Walker, police chief at Western Kentucky University, said he was concerned people carrying firearms on campus wouldn’t have enough training or store weapons safely. 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU students host international potluck to encourage connection: International students are making connections and finding a sense of belonging at the dinner table. Students gathered for an international potluck Monday night. The event hosted by WKU’s Language Greenhouse program encourages students from the U.S. and abroad to share their culture and experiences through food. 
  • Gatton Academy student accepted to West Point Military Academy: A Gatton Academy student has been bestowed a high honor. Reagan Phelps, who is currently a student at Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science, has been appointed to West Point Military Academy. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Hamilton named Young Farmer Association’s Member of the Year: When it comes to farming, Cole Hamilton has always considered himself an underdog. Hamilton, a 2014 Daviess County High School graduate, earned his associate’s degree from Owensboro Community & Technical College’s agricultural program before receiving his bachelor’s degree in agronomy from Western Kentucky University in 2017. 

Spectrum News 1 

  • Republicans advance measure to ban gun-free zones at Kentucky colleges, universities: Mitch Walker, chief of police at Western Kentucky University and president of the Kentucky Association of University Law Enforcement Administrators, spoke at the committee meeting. Walker told lawmakers his organization opposes the bill. In a letter to lawmakers, the organization stated that, “Any legislation allowing for the introduction of guns into the campus may create an unsecure campus environment.” 

WCLU-FM, Glasgow 

February 18-March 1, 2023

Daily News 

WBKO-TV 

WKU Public Radio 

  • Overdose reversal drug coming to WKU dormitories: Students at Western Kentucky University will soon have access to Narcan. The nasal spray capable of reversing the effects of opioid overdoses will be available at all 15 dormitories on campus by the fall semester. 

WNKY-TV 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • E’town teacher, native focuses on first grade: At Morningside Elementary School, first-grade teacher Victoria Lynn’s students are listening and are focused, but she’s also conversational with them. For eight straight years, Lynn has taught first grade. She said she enjoys teaching that foundational level of education. Lynn earned the 2023 Elizabethtown Independent Schools WHAS-11 ExCEL Award presented by LG&E KU. Lynn graduated from Western Kentucky University with her bachelor’s in elementary education. 
  • HCS to provide aid to graduates going into education fields: Hardin County Schools is enacting a new program to help with the ongoing teacher shortage in the area. However, the partnership between HCS and Western Kentucky University will pay more for these graduates if they enroll at WKU since the university will match the HCS contribution. 

WLKY-TV, Louisville 

WHAS-TV, Louisville 

Grayson County News 

  • Snyder eager for opportunity with WKU football: Kole Snyder’s love for football and coaching is taking him to the sidelines of the Western Kentucky University program. Snyder, 17, will graduate in May from Grayson County High School, and, about a month before school begins this fall, he will start in the program as a student equipment manager. 

Paducah Sun 

  • Graves teen aiming for pharmacy school: Aubrey Morse, 17, wants to apply to pharmacy school by 19 — not unrealistic with the right grit and opportunity. Morse attends The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science, an early-college entrance program at Western Kentucky University. 

February 10-17, 2023

WKU Public Radio 

KET 

Daily News 

WNKY-TV 

  • What Happened to Jonesville? exhibit on display at WKU: Jonesville was a vibrant African American community in Bowling Green from 1881 to the 1960s.  “It’s amazing how many people were like I had no idea that this happened to this particular community here in Bowling Green,” said Kentucky Museum Executive Director Brent Bjorkman. 

WBKO-TV 

  • WKU awarded $460,000 to upgrade research equipment: Western Kentucky University will receive $460,000 in federal funding through the Fund to Improve Post Secondary Education (FIPSE) to upgrade instrumentation and equipment in five research centers in the WKU Applied Research and Technology Program (ARTP). 
  • WKU economics professor details effects of Kentucky H.B. 1: As a result of eliminating the state income tax, the Kentucky sales tax could increase to make up for lost revenue. This is something that Dr. Sebastian Leguizamon, associate professor of Economics at Western Kentucky University, said the state could benefit from. 

WCLU-FM, Glasgow 

Building Kentucky 

  • Renowned folklorist Lamont Jack Pearley joins the WKU Innovation Campus: Lamont Jack Pearley knows a thing or two about storytelling.  Host of the weekly African American Folklorist segment on WKU Public Radio and inductee in the New York Blues Hall of Fame, Pearley’s deep drawl and deliberate speech lure you into his tales, enticing you to lean in to capture every word. The story of how and why this New York native picked up and moved his family to Bowling Green, Kentucky to hone his craft – eventually securing a partnership with MIT and the WKU Innovation Campus to share the tales with the world – is the stuff of folklore in its own right. 

KOMO-TV, Seattle 

  • Impulse buying could increase if stores arrange their products this way, study says: The study's lead author said he got the idea for the research during a trip to Walmart with his wife a few years ago. "The idea is that we make shopping a more pleasurable experience for customers by making it more efficient, by making it more intuitive – just like online retail," said Gihan Edirisinghe, the study's lead author and a former WSU Ph.D. student. He's now an assistant professor at Western Kentucky University. 

Marketplace 

Wallet Hub

  • Best Credit Cards: What tips do you have for someone trying to find the best credit card for their needs? I would say the most important thing is to do your research. Ask yourself why you want a new credit card and then look online for the best credit cards for that purpose. -- Golnaz Motie, Assistant Professor, Gordon Ford College of Business, WKU

January 28-February 9, 2023

Daily News 

WNKY-TV 

  • Local educators respond to the Education First Plan: News 40 also spoke to the Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences at Western Kentucky University to get some input. Dr. Corrine Murphy said that one of the biggest issues causing teachers to leave is due to the extra stress of the job. 
  • WKU celebrates Black History Month: Western Kentucky University’s Intercultural Student Engagement Center is filling February with events to celebrate this Black History Month. 

WBKO-TV 

Kentucky Living 

  • Renee Shaw’s 25 years at KET: Her Western Kentucky University professors encouraged Shaw to get her doctorate and teach at her alma mater, but supported her journalism path in 1997 when she applied for a job covering the state legislature for KET. 
  • Four stops on the route to higher education: College nights are a good resource for prospective students, says Western Kentucky University’s Scott McDonald, who is assistant vice president for enrollment management. “Take time to visit with the representatives, ask questions and learn about different schools,” he says. “I wish students would take more advantage of that.” 

Teknovation 

  • Inside the Innovation Campus at Western Kentucky University: What was once a shopping mall is now a thriving facility for entrepreneurs and innovators in Bowling Green, KY. “We are really good at leveraging things,” explains Buddy Steen, President of the Western Kentucky University (WKU) Research Foundation, Programs Director for the Central Region Ecosystem for Arts, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (CREATE), and Chief Executive Officer at The Innovation Campus at WKU. 

Kentucky Today 

  • Teacher shortage, turnover presenting problems: The teacher shortage in Kentucky was the hot topic of discussion during a meeting of the House Education Committee on Tuesday, the first committee meeting when lawmakers returned to Frankfort for part two of the 2023 General Assembly. Education Commissioner Jason Glass told the panel that over the past 10-15 years, there has been a nationwide decline of about a third in the number of people entering teacher education programs, although there has been some stability in Kentucky in recent years. “The University of Kentucky and Western Kentucky University have increased in numbers, while other programs around the state have largely dropped in enrollment.” 
  • Gifted Education Month recognized at Capitol: A ceremony was held at the State Capitol on Wednesday to mark February as Gifted Education Month in Kentucky. Dr. Julia Link Roberts, executive director of the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky, explained why these students are so important to Kentucky. 

Lane Report 

  • Education: Strategies for Success: Western Kentucky University Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management Scott McDonald said unofficial enrollment figures for 2020, 2021 and 2022 were 17,518, 16,750 and 16,495 respectively. “COVID did hit us as we were not able to really get back into the high schools to recruit in person until late last spring,” he said. “Our campus tours and visitors were also down, but we have seen those numbers comparable to before COVID.” 
  • Accounting Services: The Talent War: The Gordon Ford College of Business at Western Kentucky University revised the core requirement for its degrees beginning with the fall 2022 cohort, said Mark Ross, chair of the accounting department. 

Princeton Times Leader 

  • Hilltoppers retire jersey of '60s basketball star Dwight Smith: A strong delegation of current and former Princeton residents were in Bowling Green on Saturday, Feb. 4 to applaud the jersey retirement of the late Dwight Smith, a standout basketball player at Princeton Dotson and then at Western Kentucky University. 

January 12-27, 2023

Daily News 

  • Famed sports photographer speaks at WKU: Photojournalism students packed into Western Kentucky University’s Jody Richards Hall auditorium Wednesday night to learn from a decorated sports photographer.
  • U.S. News gives WKU online programs high rankings: Western Kentucky University’s online bachelor’s program is one of the best in Kentucky and the nation, according to new U.S News & World Report rankings. 
  • Waller named to BG school board: The Bowling Green Independent School District Board of Education on Thursday appointed Cierra Waller to fill a vacant seat on the school board. Waller is the assistant director for the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning at Western Kentucky University and the mentor coordinator for Jonesville Academy. 
  • WKU spending returning to pre-COVID levels: Western Kentucky University’s budget is showing signs things are returning to pre-pandemic levels for the institution. 
  • Bumgarner sworn in as commonwealth's attorney: Addressing a packed courtroom at Warren County Justice Center that included several former colleagues and members of law enforcement, newly sworn Eighth Circuit Commonwealth’s Attorney Kori Beck Bumgarner pledged to uphold and enhance the legacy of the office. A Bowling Green native and graduate of Western Kentucky University and Salmon P. Chase College of Law at Northern Kentucky University, Bumgarner was appointed commonwealth’s attorney for the 8th Judicial Circuit last month by Gov. Andy Beshear, succeeding Chris Cohron, who won election for a circuit judgeship. 
  • WKU-themed beer to debut next week: Western Kentucky University-themed beer is getting a second chance. Beginning Wednesday, the newly brewed 1906 Lager will be available at WKU athletics events, in select retail stores and at restaurants and bars throughout Bowling Green. 
  • Med Center Health assumes management of WKU clinic: Med Center Health, not Graves-Gilbert Clinic, will be providing aid to Western Kentucky University students, faculty and staff when classes resume next week. 

WKU Public Radio 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU students getting a chance to learn from the best: The company Canon has a program called “Explorers of Light” that helps bring world class photographers to college campuses, and this week WKU students get a turn. 
  • U.S. has hit the debt ceiling- how does this affect you?: The United States has hit the debt ceiling, a limit of $31.4 trillion. How is this going to affect you? The short answer is it’s not going to affect you and your money right now. Democrats and Republicans must now work together to reach an agreement of how much to raise the debt limit. If they can’t agree and ‘default’, the results could be catastrophic. “It’s so bad that we think no politician whether on the right or left in their right mind would let it get to that point. But it is worth pointing out that if the government gets to that point it could be extremely, extremely bad,” said WKU Assistant Professor of Finance Christopher Biolsi. 
  • Cancer survivor shares story during Dance Big Red’s week in Commonwealth Cup: Dance Big Red at Western Kentucky University is participating in the Commonwealth Cup for the first year ever. 
  • WKU fashion students to volunteer at New York Fashion Week: Lights, camera, fashion. “I mean this is New York Fashion Week, this is the key fashion week for the United States and one of the top 3 fashion weeks across the entire world,” said WKU Fashion Merchandising Program Instructor Seth Howard. A group of fashion merchandising students at WKU are heading to the Big Apple. 
  • Pub by Novo rolls out red carpet for Hilltopper inspired beer: Now, exciting news at one Bowling Green restaurant! Lexington’s famous craft brewery, West Sixth Brewing, crafted the beer to celebrate the university, its fans, and the community. 
  • Employees with autism at WKU Bookstore break the stigma: A duo of unique individuals are making a difference on the campus of Western Kentucky University, one bookstore transaction at a time. 
  • WKU Sports launches beer ‘1906 Lager’ with West Sixth Brewing: Western Kentucky University Athletics has partnered with West Sixth Brewing to launch a new beer.  

WBKO-TV 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Moving Forward: Edds-Ellis looks to build community with Greater Owensboro Leadership Institute: For years, Stacy Edds-Ellis has spent much of her adult life working in the world of higher education. And now, she’s looking to use her experiences and skills to help mold future leaders as the executive director of the Greater Owensboro Leadership Institute. After graduating from McLean County High School in 1996, Edds-Ellis attended Western Kentucky University for both her bachelors and masters degrees with a focus in organizational communication. 

Casey County News 

  • Adams finds a love for faith in the military: Adams served with the National Guard until 2005 when he decided to go back to school. He attended Western Kentucky University to get his bachelor’s degree in 2006 and a master’s degree in 2008. 
  • Chansler competes in state DYW competition: Casey County High School senior Madison Chansler recently competed in the state Distinguished Young Women competition in Lexington on Jan. 7-8. Madison plans to attend Western Kentucky University when she graduates. She wants to major in Biology with a focus on pre-med. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Skaggs makes 40 under 40 list in RV industry: A recreational vehicle industry leader in Hardin County recently was recognized in a national RV publication. Alexis Skaggs was selected for RV Pro’s Top 40 Under 40 list. Skaggs attended Western Kentucky University where she earned a bachelor’s of science in agriculture and a bachelor’s of arts in communication. 

Lexington Herald-Leader 

  • Kentucky theater world mourns ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ director who nurtured artists: Many people in the Kentucky theater community spent the last few days of 2022 mourning the death of Mike Thomas, a tireless theater artist who touched communities from his native Maysville to Bowling Green and many stops in between. Facebook was filled with tributes from Lexington area performers sharing fond memories of Thomas, but he also spent years working in other communities such as Bowling Green, where he graduated from Western Kentucky University and later returned to direct the Public Theatre of Kentucky for four seasons in the 1990s and later as the administrative managing director of the Capitol Arts Center from 2005 to 2007, according to his obituary. 

Owensboro Times 

  • Evans named new OPD public information officer, excited to continue brand: After 5 years on staff, Dylan Evans is now the Public Information Officer for the Owensboro Police Department. Though he has a degree in broadcasting from Western Kentucky University, Evans said he wanted to be a part of the police department — and now he is merging both passions with his new position. 

Indianapolis Recorder 

  • Wheeler’s new CEO fell in love with organization’s DNA: Perry Hines knows the word “calling” is tossed around a lot in the corporate and nonprofit worlds, but the incoming president and CEO of Wheeler Mission believes the oft-used term is appropriate in this case. Hines grew up in rural Kentucky and was a first-generation college graduate, earning a journalism degree from Western Kentucky University and a master’s degree from the University of Minnesota. 

Food Management 

  • 5 tech things: University expands mobile-order-only retail dining program: Western Kentucky University adds another dining venue to mobile-order-only option. The WKU Restaurant Group, which operates campus dining at Western Kentucky University, has announced that the campus Moe’s Southwest Grill outlet is the latest campus retail dining venue to move to mobile ordering only using the Dining Sidekick app, beginning this semester. 

Medical Marketing & Media 

  • Rural seniors benefit from pandemic-driven remote fitness boom: Participants in Bingocize — a fall-prevention program licensed by Western Kentucky University that combines exercise and health education with bingo — can use a printed copy of the game card mailed to them by AgeOptions if they lack the proficiency to play on the game’s app. Either way, they’re required to participate on video. 

Wallet Hub

  • January 2023 Fed Rate Hike Probability & Analysis: Should the Federal Reserve continue to raise its target interest rate? No. CPI is not growing anymore. PPI (nearly all versions – All goods, transportation, manufacturing, retail industries) are falling or flat. -- Alex Lebedinsky, Department Chair & Professor of Economics, Gordon Ford College of Business

January 4-11, 2023

Daily News 

  • WKU alum to lead federal agency: Western Kentucky University alumnus Shailen Bhatt has been confirmed as the 21st administrator of the Federal Highway Administration. Nominated by President Joe Biden, Bhatt was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on Dec. 8. 

WNKY-TV 

  • Local artist honored during Governor’s Awards in the Arts: The Governor’s Awards in the Arts honors individuals and organizations who have made extraordinary and significant contributions to the arts in Kentucky. Maxine Ray is a Western Kentucky University graduate and a key artist in the recent creation of the Jonesville mural. 
  • WKU Professor helps design float for Rose Bowl Parade: If you were watching the Rose Bowl parade on TV and admired the beautiful floats, we have news for you- a WKU professor helped to design one of them! Clinical Assistant Professor of Horticulture Roger Dennis has designed a float for the parade since 2006. 
  • Gatton Academy Girl takes on Washington, D.C.: A Greenwood High School senior and Gatton Academy student just won an award for top presentation at the Kentucky Academy of Science’s latest annual meeting. 
  • WKU students remember the impact of Dr. Kay Meggers: Western Kentucky University students and staff are mourning the loss of beloved professor Dr. Meggers. 
  • Kentucky to the World nonprofit expanding to Bowling Green: How do you teach the world about the amazing people and achievements of Kentucky? A local nonprofit says the answer is in the cards. “How do we tell those stories to a national and international audience and help people understand how the Kentucky roots of these folks play a part in who they are and what they’ve done?” said Kentucky to the World Board Member Sam Ford. 
  • Sunrise Spotlight – Dr. Carl Kell: For today’s Sunrise Spotlight, brought to you by German American Bank, we sit down with local Author Dr. Carl Kell, to hear all about his new book! Today, he discussed with us his book, “Goodnight…Whispers of the Heart”. Kell retired from the Department of Communication at Western Kentucky University in 2016 after 43 years. 
  • Warren County Antique Tractor & Engine Club hosting indoor show: At the L.D. Brown Expo Center, the Warren County Antique Tractor & Engine Club will host an indoor show for attendees. 

WBKO-TV 

Kentucky Today 

  • Pastor marks 25 years of service to Ky. Baptist church: Bellevue Baptist Church celebrated the 25th anniversary of Greg Faulls being its senior pastor on Sunday. A native of Louisville, Faulls earned a bachelor’s degree from Western Kentucky University and started ministry work as a youth director at Eastwood Baptist Church in Bowling Green. 

WDRB-TV, Louisville 

Inside Radio 

December 15, 2022-January 3, 2023

Daily News 

  • Wiseman to lead St. Teresa Ministries: Kelly Wiseman, a former partnership director at the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, has been hired as executive director of St. Teresa Ministries and will lead it through an upcoming move from the Plaza Shopping Center at 1561 U.S. 31-W Bypass. A Western Kentucky University graduate, Wiseman is a past director of marketing and public relations at TriStar Greenview Regional Hospital who has done volunteer work at local nonprofits and faith-based organizations. 
  • Bumgarner appointed commonwealth's attorney: Kori Beck Bumgarner, who has served as an assistant commonwealth’s attorney since 2012, is the new commonwealth’s attorney for Kentucky’s 8th Judicial Circuit that includes Warren and Edmonson counties. A Bowling Green native who graduated from Bowling Green High School and Western Kentucky University, Bumgarner was appointed Thursday by Gov. Andy Beshear to fill the vacancy left by the departure of Chris Cohron. 
  • Gala to raise funds for WKU pianos: A fundraiser designed to raise money for the purchase of new pianos for the Department of Music at Western Kentucky University will be held next month. 
  • WKU professor and author David Bell cracks New York Times bestseller list: David Bell is a Western Kentucky University English professor, prolific adult fiction writer and most recently, a New York Times bestselling author. 
  • Lost River Sessions LIVE! ready for new season of concerts: Lost River Sessions LIVE! is returning for its 2023 season of monthly concerts on. Jan. 19 at the Capitol Arts Center. The 11-time Emmy award-winning television, concert and radio series was launched by WKU PBS and WKU Public Radio. 

WKU Public Radio 

WNKY-TV 

  • Sunrise Spotlight: WKU Piano Studio Gala: For today’s Sunrise Spotlight, brought to you by the German American Bank, we met with Katie Drybrough. She spoke to us about an upcoming fundraiser gala to raise money for WKU musicians to get new instruments. 
  • Food inflation up 11% this year… what’s in store for 2023?: Federal reports show us that food prices typically increase 2 percent each year. But over the last year, we’ve seen inflation spike food prices by around 11 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. WKU Center of Applied Economics Director and Associate Professor of Economics says Dr. Sebastian Leguizamon, “The figures we saw in 2022 weren’t seen in 40 years.” 

  • New graduate on the block: local 74-year-old CEO finally gets his college diploma: “First off I’m going to meet all the other graduates. I’m three times the age of everybody in that room and they’re like what are you doing here and I’m like I’m graduating!” said Layne. In the 1960s, he moved to Bowling Green to work for SKF in Glasgow. They also paid for him to go to school at Western Kentucky University. 

WBKO-TV 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • WKU professor continues to give back, fight inequality: Dr. Donielle Lovell is a first-generation college graduate from the rural town of Salamanca, New York, which lies within the Allegheny Indian reservation. Grateful for her rich heritage in community service and political activism, Lovell said wanting to give back comes naturally for her. 
  • Feeding America announces new board member: Feeding America, Kentucky’s Heartland recently announced a new board of directors appointment. Sergio Beltran of Warren County will serve the organization for six years, helping to address the needs of those facing hunger across the 42 counties that FAKH serves. Following graduation, he went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Western Kentucky University. 
  • Jones love of communication inspires a new scholarship: For Judy Jones, a love of school and learning grew to a love of communication thanks to her experience at Western Kentucky University and now she has found a way to give back through her estate plans.

London Sentinel Echo 

  • Local senior scores perfect 36 on ACT: Getting a high ACT score is the goal for any high school student planning to attend college. A perfect score is hard to come by, with less than one percent of all test-takers earning that 36. Joaquin Santiago C. Pauig, 17, is now in that elite group. The London senior, who attends the Gatton Academy for Mathematics and Science on the Western Kentucky University campus in Bowling Green, recently learned of his perfect score after taking the test on October 25. 

Northern Kentucky Tribune 

  • CPE receives National Association of System Heads grant to improve student transfer process: The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education will get some extra help to improve the student transfer process, thanks to a national education group that is recognizing best practices for student success. The National Association of System Heads (NASH) announced last week that CPE was in the first round of awardees for its newly established Catalyst Fund. CPE’s proposal builds on work with Western Kentucky University (WKU) and Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) that grew out of an earlier NASH project. 

MSN.com 

  • The Simpsons Actors You Forgot Passed Away: Charles Napier is probably best known for his tough-guy roles in television and movies, although his most memorable part was Tucker McElroy in "The Blues Brothers." Napier also did a lot of voice work during his acting career that spanned five decades. Napier voiced three characters in four episodes of "The Simpsons," playing the recurring role of the Warden. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Napier was born in Kentucky to a tobacco farmer and a housewife and joined the army after graduating high school. After his time in the Army, Napier got a bachelor's degree in art from Western Kentucky University. 

December 1-14, 2022

Daily News 

  • WKU Regents select new health provider, approve inflation bonus: At the close of the 2022 fall semester, WKU’s Board of Regents approved a new health contract, made a one-time inflation adjustment payment to a share of employees and accepted a national award for WKU’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. 
  • Bowling Green's third Chick-fil-A opens Thursday: Chick-fil-A, the Atlanta-based fast-food chain that already had two high-performing locations in Bowling Green, is opening a third on Thursday. The new location at 667 Campbell Lane, tucked into a 2.11-acre site on what had been a parking area at the Western Kentucky University Innovation Campus, adds to the stores at 1766 Campbell Lane and 3162 Scottsville Road. 
  • Nearly 1,000 graduates honored at WKU fall commencement: WKU awarded 967 degrees in its first fall graduation ceremony in three years on Friday at Diddle Arena. 
  • 'Kentucky to the World' coming to Innovation Campus: It’s home to creative companies and organizations like the technology-heavy Eyeconic and the Metals Innovation Initiative, and yet the cutting-edge work at Western Kentucky University’s Innovation Campus on Nashville Road is largely going unnoticed by locals. That could soon be changing. 
  • 'One second of joy.' WKU group gifts books to kids affected by tornadoes: Over two dozen kids sat expectantly in front of Jennings Creek Elementary’s giant Christmas tree Thursday morning, waiting for their first presents of the holiday season – hand-picked books from WKU’s Literacy Ambassadors. 
  • A Greek Christmas: WKU fraternities, sororities give back to community kids: On Christmas morning, 34 Parker-Bennett-Curry Elementary School students will find presents under their tree personally picked out and wrapped by Western Kentucky University’s Greek community. 

WKU Public Radio 

  • WKU Regents approve new on-campus healthcare provider, one-time payments for some employees: Western Kentucky University will soon have a new healthcare provider on campus. In a meeting Thursday, the school’s Board of Regents approved a ten-year contract with Med Center Health to provide health care to faculty, staff, and students beginning January 1, 2023. Graves-Gilbert Clinic, whose contract recently expired, has run campus health services since 2014. 

Spectrum News 1 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU professor and author makes New York Times best seller list: To our avid readers out there, you might want to check out a new novel by one of our local authors. David bell’s new book titled ‘She’s Gone’ just made the New York Time’s best seller list. It’s a goal bell has been hoping to reach since 2008. 
  • Therapy dog ‘Professor Chip’ visits WKU students during finals: What better way to take the stress away during finals than spending time with a puppy? “Even the ones who were heading out the door for a statistics exam said,” Can I pet the dog?’ and then ‘this will make a difference’,” said WKU Dean of College of Education and Behavioral Sciences Corinne Murphy. 
  • Jennings Creek Elementary tornado victims receive new books: The gift of a single book can make a world of difference to kids still recovering from last year’s tornadoes. “It’s not the first thing you think of. It’s not clothes or a roof over your head or things like that,” said Western Kentucky University Associate Professor of Literary Education Nancy Hulan. 

WBKO-TV 

RFD-TV 

McLean County News 

  • Preaching Priorty: Midkiff pastoring Beech Grove church for 35 years: Jim Midkiff, who has been pastor of Beech Grove Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), just recently celebrated his 35th year with the congregation back in September. Midkiff graduated from Fordsville High School in 1971 before getting his degree in agricultural education from Western Kentucky University in 1975 — a field that was close to his heart. 

Federal Highway Administration 

November 10-November 30, 2022

Daily News 

  • Growing El Mazatlan chain adds WKU location: Western Kentucky University students and staff as well as downtown Bowling Green residents won’t have as far to go now for their nachos and chimichangas. El Mazatlan, the Mexican restaurant chain that already had four locations in the city and had expanded one of those just last year, has opened a fifth store at 268 Alumni Ave. on the WKU campus. 
  • The best $1,000 I spend: WKU Sisterhood awards nearly $100,000 in grants: When Grace Stephens arrived at Western Kentucky University, she knew she wanted to be a journalist; she just didn’t know which type. She tried print, photojournalism and broadcast, but none quite fit. Then she found video. 
  • Sly as a (Lobby)Fox: Picking out the successful entrepreneur at Monday’s Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting could’ve been challenging for the business-suit types at the Western Kentucky University Innovation Campus. 
  • Russellville native takes on Netflix's "The Mole" using family lessons: Kesi Neblett doesn’t watch reality television. It wasn’t allowed in her Russellville home growing up so that she could focus on her academics and athletics, and the habit stuck. Which makes Neblett’s titular role as “the mole” in Netflix’s newest reality competition show all the more surprising. The opportunity to be cast as the mole seemed to fall right into Neblett’s lap. The day after quitting her job as a Goldman Sachs software developer, a former classmate from the selective Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science sent her a message telling her she should apply for the show. 
  • Gift to help LifeWorks continue growth: His company’s success is allowing Jeff Fields to contribute to the growth of one of Bowling Green’s newest and fastest-expanding nonprofit organizations. Fields, founder and CEO of Cheetah Clean Auto Wash, was recognized Tuesday for his $100,000 gift to the LifeWorks at WKU nonprofit that helps young adults on the autism spectrum make the transition to independence and employment. 
  • Two inducted into Hall of Fame at annual WKU Veterans Day ceremony: On Friday, Western Kentucky University honored two veterans and former WKU ROTC cadets who embodied the “gold standard of a life well-lived.” 
  • Zaczek hired to lead workforce participation: Joshua Zaczek cut his teeth on data analysis while studying political science, economics and legal studies at Western Kentucky University. Now the 2021 magna cum laude graduate will get to apply those research skills in a role that is more than academic. Zaczek was announced Tuesday as the choice to fill the new workforce participation lead position that was created as a partnership between WKU's Innovation Campus and the South Central Workforce Development Board. 

WNKY-TV 

  • Sunrise Spotlight – WKU Winter Festivities: For today’s edition of Sunrise Spotlight, brought to you by German American Bank, we met with Dr. Paul Hondorp. He spoke to us about a few upcoming holiday festivities happening over in WKU’s music department this season. 
  • Life-size Jamarion Sharp Lego sculpture built by WKU professor: 7 ‘5 Western Kentucky University basketball player Jamarion Sharp now has a life-size sculpture of him…made entirely out of Legos. WKU Civil Engineering Professor Jason Wilson used 22,000 Legos to construct a spitting image sculpture of Sharp. 
  • From Russellville to Netflix: Kesi Neblett is the youngest daughter of civil rights veteran Charles Neblett. Over the years, she attended Russellville High School, went on to Gatton Academy at Western Kentucky University, then made her way to Columbia University, playing division 1 volleyball and majoring in computer science engineering. 
  • LifeWorks Transition Academy receives $100,000 for scholarships: LifeWorks Transition Academy received $100,000 Tuesday to help fund scholarships for young adults with autism. 

  • WKU’s Angel Tree: Tonight on the campus of WKU, students in Greek life made sure to look out for some kids in the community for the second year in a row. 

WBKO-TV 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • OPS teacher receives 2022 Kentucky Milken Award: Newton Parrish Elementary School third-grade teacher Charlotte Buskill thought Thursday’s assembly was going to be for student recognition, but little did she know she would be receiving $25,000 and a Milken Educator Award. Buskill received a master of arts in literacy education from Western Kentucky University in 2020. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Youravich appointed to Kentucky Infrastructure Authority: Hardin County Water District No. 2 General Manager Shaun Youravich has been appointed by the Gov. Andy Beshear for a state commission. Youravich, a Western Kentucky University graduate, has worked at HCWD2 for almost 31 years. He was named general manager in 2020. 
  • Keys make $100,000 gift to enhance WKU scholarship fund: Jeff and Mary Key recently made a gift of $100,000 to enhance the Jeff and Mary Key Scholarship and ensure Western Kentucky University students receive a substantial scholarship, according to a news release from the university. 

Kentucky Today 

  • Honoring a pioneer: Statue of Nettie Depp unveiled in ceremony at Capitol: The first statue of a woman to grace the state Capitol was unveiled during a Thursday afternoon ceremony honoring Nettie Depp, the first elected female public official in Kentucky. Born in Barren County in 1874, Depp earned her degree in education at the Western Kentucky State Normal School, now known as Western Kentucky University in 1908.

Spectrum News 1 

Forbes 

  • College In High School: How One School District Is Giving ‘College-Ready’ New Meaning: In Bowling Green, KY, school leaders have taken bold steps to more effectively bridge the gap between the high school and college experience. Western Kentucky University sits within the district’s bounds and is a major destination for Bowling Green High School grads. Bowling Green Superintendent Gary Fields said that a conversation with Western Kentucky University administrators about challenges that BGHS alumni faced once enrolled got him and his team thinking. 

WDRB-TV, Louisville 

Lane Report 

  • Asbury names Powers Provost and Chief Academic Officer: Asbury University President Dr. Kevin Brown announced Dr. Sherry Powers as the school’s new Provost and Chief Academic Officer. She was previously a professor, Associate Dean and the Director of the School of Teacher Education in the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences at Western Kentucky University. 

The Sentinel, Carlisle, PA 

  • 5 Questions: Boiling Springs native receives teaching award: Boiling Springs native Charlotte Searle Buskill was completely surprised by an assembly of cheering students, colleagues, state and local dignitaries and the media. A third-grade teacher with Owensboro Public Schools in Kentucky, she is one of 40 educators across the country to receive a 2022 Milken Educator Award. In 2020, Buskill earned a master’s degree in literacy education from Western Kentucky University. 

Transport Topics 

  • Senate Panel Backs FHWA Nominee Shailen Bhatt: With a voice vote, the Environment and Public Works panel advanced to the floor of the chamber Shailen Bhatt’s nomination for the top role at FHWA. Senate Democratic leaders have yet to schedule a vote in the full chamber during this lame duck session of Congress. An executive at infrastructure consulting firm AECOM, Bhatt is a graduate of Western Kentucky University. 

Berea Citizen 

Wallet Hub

October 27-November 9, 2022

WKU Public Radio 

Daily News 

  • BG Trolley test drive raises expectations: If the intent of Monday’s test drive of the new Bowling Green Trolley was to raise expectations for the red-and-green vehicle’s potential impact, then it was a success. On an abbreviated trip through downtown and the Western Kentucky University campus, the diesel-powered trolley counted local tourism leaders, city and county officials and WKU President Timothy Caboni among the passengers that taxed its 33-person capacity. 
  • Disaster Science Operation Center to strengthen WKU's emergency response program: On the second floor of Western Kentucky University’s Environmental Sciences and Technology Building, students toggle between several computer screens, maps of all kinds projected on the walls in front of them. It’s the first fully operational week of the new Disaster Science Operation Center (DSOC), which brings faculty, staff and students from the meteorology, emergency management disaster science and homeland security sciences programs to improve the university’s capacity to prepare for and respond to disasters like last year’s tornadoes. 
  • WKU business college dean earns award: Christopher Shook, dean of Western Kentucky University’s Gordon Ford College of Business, has been awarded the James G. Hunt Sustained Outstanding Service Award from the Southern Management Association. 
  • Heavy metal: Local nonprofit to spur state's metals industry: If a newly formed nonprofit organization based in Bowling Green meets its goals, the Bluegrass State will soon be associated as closely with steel and aluminum as it now is with thoroughbreds and sipping whiskey. The Metals Innovation Initiative, launched in September and housed at Western Kentucky University’s Innovation Campus at Nashville Road and Campbell Lane, has brought together industry leaders, educators and government officials who share the goal of rebranding Kentucky into the preeminent destination for metals innovation. 
  • WKU residence hall dedicated to Munday, first Black student: The legacy of Western Kentucky University’s first Black student, Margaret Munday, was enshrined Friday with the dedication of a residence hall in her name. 
  • 'Full circle:' WKU farm-to-campus program feeds, educates campus: Soon, Western Kentucky University students might notice a difference in the quality of campus food. After several years of preparation, the university has launched a farm-to-campus program, which transfers meat, produce and dairy products from the WKU Farm to students’ plates. 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Spectrum News 1 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • McClure serving as next spokesperson for DCPS: Maddie McClure has been named the new public information officer for Daviess County Schools. Born and raised in Bowling Green, McClure graduated from Western Kentucky University in 2020 where she majored in public relations with a double minor in agriculture and event planning. 
  • Tichenor named to WKU's National Alumni Board: Owensboro resident Eddie Tichenor has been selected for a seat on the National Alumni Board for Western Kentucky University. 
  • Finding Fulfillment: Wilkerson finds purpose as independent artist: Owensboro native Madeline Wilkerson spent a lot of time going to Nashville with her family growing up, attending shows at The Grand Ole Opry and Bridgestone Arena. While music has taken a back seat for the time being due to her focus on starting her speech pathology program at Western Kentucky University, Wilkerson has no plans to ever stop. 

Owensboro Times 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Summit of the South returns with local guest speakers: Local entrepreneurs are invited to a Bowling Green event that could possibly help them in their business pursuits. The second annual Summit of the South will be held Nov. 17 at the WKU Small Business Accelerator at the WKU Innovation Campus.  

Lexington Herald-Leader 

Frankfort State-Journal 

Paducah Sun 

  • Pace to be inducted into Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame: The late Wilma Pace of Hardin will be inducted into the Louie B. Nunn Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame at Western Kentucky University on Friday, Nov. 4. She will be honored for her career teaching within the Marshall County school system, benefitting many students with her desire to teach and passion to learn. 

Kentucky Today 

  • Church planter ‘laser-focused’ on serving Jennings Creek community: Hussung said Logsdon’s desire for the Jennings Creek community is immeasurable. He and his wife are renting a house in the community and looking to buy one. He has ties to Kentucky Baptist life, also serving with the Baptist Campus Ministry for five years at Western Kentucky University. 

US News & World Report 

  • How to Get Good Grades in College: "We really want our students to work with us to define what they think good grades are for them to be successful. At a bare minimum, it's going to be a 2.0 (grade point average)," says Chris Jensen, assistant vice president for student success at Western Kentucky University. "That's what they need to graduate, but we want our students to strive for more than that." 

Newsweek 

WYTT-FM, Weldon, NC 

  • Simpleview and Stroll work to further support technology development for DMOs: Founded in 2019 by John Mark (J.M.) Eberhardt and Dr. Charleson S. Bell, the Stroll app helps destinations engage visitors and residents with local businesses by enabling them to discover or be discovered based on interests and current location. Eberhardt serves as CEO of Stroll and is a graduate of Western Kentucky University. 
  • Rive Video Presents: Artist Johnnie Mikel Uses Music to Benefit Children and Charities: Gearing up to release his debut album, things couldn’t be better for Johnnie Mikel. He’s an accomplished singer, songwriter, musician, and performer with multiple appearances in the Billboard Charts, all while remaining a completely independent artist. Mikel is currently studying Political Science and Economics at Western Kentucky University to further merge his artistic message with his activism. 

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association 

  • Kentucky Aviation Hall of Fame honors Collins: Longtime AOPA journalist and photographer Mike Collins was posthumously enshrined in Kentucky’s Aviation Hall of Fame for his contributions to aviation. He graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1984 and worked as a newspaper photographer and editor before helping to launch The Southern Aviator. 

UTSA Today 

Tennessee Department of Military 

  • Todd Wiles promoted to brigadier general: Col. Todd Wiles was promoted to the rank of brigadier general during a ceremony held at Berry Field Air National Guard Base in Nashville, Nov. 5. Tennessee’s Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Jeff Holmes, presided over the promotion ceremony. Wiles began his military career when he entered the Air Force in June 1995 as a Distinguished Graduate of Western Kentucky University’s Air Force ROTC program. 

Sidelines Equestrian Magazine 

  • No Limits of Artistic Expression With Cara Van Leuven: It was less than five years ago when Cara Van Leuven made the decision to leave the corporate world to pursue art full time. Much of her teenage years was spent at horse shows throughout the Midwest, but when it came time for college, she made the heartbreaking decision to sell her horse in order to attend Western Kentucky University. Cara earned her bachelor’s degree in photojournalism, and it took over a decade before horses once again became a part of her life. 

September 29-October 26, 2022

WKU Public Radio 

Daily News 

  • Halloween's Hometown: How director Carpenter's Bowling Green ties led to Michael Myers: If Halloween icon Michael Myers was looking to go home, he’d likely pack up his knife and head to Bowling Green. While the masked slasher terrorized the fictional small Illinois town of Haddonfield in the original 1978 “Halloween” film, director John Carpenter has made no secret of how his experiences growing up in Bowling Green influenced him, and the groundbreaking film. Carpenter was born in 1948 in Carthage, N.Y. When he was 5, his family moved to Bowling Green where his father, the late Dr. Howard R. Carpenter, started teaching music at Western Kentucky University. 
  • WKU to offer high schoolers early college experience in Glasgow: On the 20th anniversary of its Glasgow campus, WKU not only looked back at the past, but also toward the future. At the celebration, President Timothy Caboni announced the fall 2023 launch of Early College at WKU, a new program that will allow high school juniors and seniors from seven regional school districts to earn a year’s worth of WKU college credit before their high school graduations. 
  • New $100,000 WKU scholarship to further rural health equity: Health insurance company Anthem Medicaid is looking to address the hospital workforce shortage in rural Kentucky, and Western Kentucky University is its latest stop. 
  • Local hospitals, WKU get creative to fix critical nursing shortage: There is no such thing as a crazy idea anymore. That is, at least when it comes to methods to fix the critical nursing shortage facing Kentucky and the broader U.S., said Tony Bohn, vice president and chief human resources officer at Med Center Health. 
  • Kentucky Museum exhibit to honor Jonesville legacy: In a new Kentucky Museum exhibit, Western Kentucky University is reckoning with its role in the destruction of Jonesville, a thriving Black neighborhood, over a half-century after its final property was sold. “Honoring Jonesville: Our People, Our Community, Our Legacy,” opens Oct. 27 and features a “What Happened to Jonesville?” exhibit, including oral histories from Jonesville residents and descendants 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU celebrates Homecoming all week long: It’s almost Homecoming on the Hill! Western Kentucky University’s Homecoming is this Saturday. WKU is celebrating the whimsical, family-friendly “Nightmare on Normal Street” theme throughout the week. 
  • LifeSkills employees given statewide recognition: A full-time college student at WKU and only 21 years old, Princess Reed has received statewide recognition for the mental health work that she does. 
  • WKU launches farm-to-campus initiative: student-farmed food to WKU restaurants: WKU campus faculty and students have grown vegetables at the school’s farm for nearly two decades now for educational and research purposes. Now, WKU announces their all new farm-to-campus initiative, meaning Hilltoppers campus-wide can enjoy the fruits… or rather vegetables, of their peers’ labor. 
  • Anthem Medicaid awards WKU healthcare students $100K scholarship: Kentucky Hospital Association reports our Commonwealth is facing 13,000 nursing vacancies. To encourage students to fill the 22 percent of all nursing jobs that remain empty here in Kentucky, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicaid in Kentucky awarded $100,000 of endowment scholarships toward WKU health science majors and graduates.

Spectrum News 1 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • LaRue educator to be inducted into Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame: LaRue County High School teacher Katy Cecil is getting inducted into the Gov. Louie B. Nunn Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame. The 2022 Hall of Fame members, chosen by a statewide selection committee, will be inducted Nov. 4 on the campus of Western Kentucky University. 

WCLU-FM, Glasgow 

Kentucky Law Enforcement Magazine 

  • Building Relationships: Located in the rolling hills of Bowling Green, Western Kentucky University is teaming with students, staff and faculty members whose background are as diverse as the degree programs the school offers. Tasked with keeping the peace is the Western Kentucky University Police Department. Chief Mitch Walker said policing on a college campus is much different than in a municipality. 

People 

  • Kentucky Judge Who Once Ran for Governor Dies in House Fire After Getting Wife to Safety: Tom Emberton, a former Kentucky appeals court judge and Republican gubernatorial candidate, died in an early Thursday morning house fire after helping his wife to safety, the Associated Press reports. Emberton, who was also an alum of Western Kentucky University and was inducted into the WKU Hall of Distinguished Alumni in 2016, was recognized by many state officials as they shared tributes and extended their thoughts and prayers to his family on Twitter. 

September 17-28, 2022

Daily News 

  • Warren to lead Contractors Licensing Board: In a called meeting Monday evening, the board voted unanimously to hire current Contractors Licensing Board office manager Holly Warren for the executive director position that Bob Appling retired from in June. A Clinton County native who graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1997 with degrees in chemistry and biology, Warren came to the contractors licensing board through her role as construction supervisor at Minit Mart Foods. 
  • Downtown BGKY Harvest Festival returns Oct. 15: The WKU Student Alumni Ambassadors will decorate the Heritage Trail between the parks and Warren County Public Library will set up a Story Trail, also between the parks, Angel said. 
  • "Civic imagination incubator" launches, aims to envision change through storytelling: A diverse cohort of media creators began exploring their civic imaginations through storytelling at the official launch of WKU's first Civic Imagination Incubator on Thursday, Sept. 15, at the university's Innovation Campus. 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Barren County Progress 

  • 100 years of greatness – KY Veteran and former BC Superintendent honored: The cheers and excitement became louder and more prominent as World War II, U.S. Army Veteran, Lee Robertson entered the “Homecoming Celebration” at Louisville International Airport on Wednesday, September 7, 2022 around 10:40 p.m.  His smile was vibrant and his handshake was strong as he greeted the massive crowd that was waiting to welcome him and 81 Veterans “home.” 

Dairy Agenda Today 

WTOP-FM, Washington, DC 

  • What a College Minor Is and Why It Matters: While students may want to find a minor that complements their major, they should also consider how it will help them develop skills and experiences that could be valuable in their careers, says Fabián Álvarez, assistant English professor at Western Kentucky University. WKU requires students in certain bachelor’s degree programs to complete a minor. 

August 27-September 16, 2022

Daily News 

  • Mammoth Cave celebration begins with 'mammoth' mapping project: WKU professor Chris Groves shared the sense of possibility. “It seems like everything’s already been discovered and found and used up,” Groves said. “And to some degree, it has – there’s no new mountains. But every single month, CRF has expeditions and people are going into new places that no human’s ever been before. There’s really not that many places in the world that you can still do that.” 
  • Caboni talks compensation at Senate meeting: Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni said Tuesday an 8% raise pool for faculty and staff to match the current inflation rate isn’t feasible. 
  • Service One expands again, plans new BG location: Once confined largely to the Western Kentucky University campus, Bowling Green’s Service One Credit Union is continuing to grow outside and within its home city. 
  • Four-year wait culminates in Commons at Helm Library ribbon-cutting: The main floor’s a coffee shop, the basement’s a food court and the second floor’s a library. Wide windows flood the area with natural lighting as conversations coalesce at the building’s center – the original center circle of Western Kentucky University’s old basketball court used from 1931 to 1963. 
  • Caboni addresses WKU approach to challenges: “We’re back, and we’re back big-time.” That’s Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni’s motto for the 2022-23 academic year, he said in an interview with the Daily News last week. 
  • NAACP state convention heading to Bowling Green: Kentucky NAACP members will descend on Bowling Green next month as the local chapter of the civil rights organization hosts the state convention. The state convention will be Sept. 16-17 at Western Kentucky University with most events at the Downing Student Union. 

WKU Public Radio 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Caboni advocates for changes in student loans: Timothy Caboni, president of Western Kentucky University, spoke at the Owensboro Rotary Club meeting on Wednesday, advocating for changes in higher education and student loans. 
  • 4 OPS students part of Project Launch Plus: Four Owensboro Public Schools students participated in Project Launch Plus, a program through the Jacob K. Javits Gifted and Talented Students Education Program grant. The Center for Gifted Studies at Western Kentucky University announced 34 districts in Kentucky and Tennessee would be participating in this project. 
  • Tech Savvy: Coke helping farmers use data to improve yields: Kahlan Coke has gone from helping raise chickens to guiding farmers about how to use the latest agricultural technology. Coke, 24, is an integrated solutions consultant for Wright Implement who grew up on her family’s farm in West Louisville. And by the time she was a senior at AHS, Coke knew she wanted to major in agriculture in college. She earned her bachelor’s degree in ag business from Western Kentucky University. 

Owensboro Times 

McLean County News 

Metropolis (IL) Planet 

  • PSO welcomes violin professor in key role: An acclaimed violinist will take the spotlight this weekend at The Carson Center, as the Paducah Symphony Orchestra opens its 2022-23 concert season for the community and officially welcomes Dr. Ching-Yi Lin as its new concertmaster. Lin, an associate professor at Western Kentucky University, began learning violin at a young age, and has since performed around the world. 

WJRS-FM, Russell Springs 

  • RCMS participates in Project Launch Plus at WKU: Russell County Middle School was one of several schools in Kentucky and Tennessee that participated in the Center for Gifted Studies’ Project Launch Plus at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green this past school year. 

Wallet Hub

  • No-Fault Insurance: What are the advantages of no-fault insurance laws? -- Sebastian Leguizamon, Associate Professor, WKU

August 11-26, 2022

Daily News 

WBKO-TV

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU students react to Biden’s announcement on debt relief: President Biden is saying that he will be following through on his campaign promise, and relieve some student debt. News 40 took to the campus of Western Kentucky University to get students’ reactions. 
  • WCPS encourage students to be teachers at ‘Welcome Back WKU’: Welcome back Western Kentucky University students! Dozens of local businesses and organizations gathered in tents on South Lawn for ‘Welcome Back WKU’…. presenting giveaways, prizes and playing games with students. 
  • Get ready for class with Big Red Backpack: Western Kentucky University is making it a little easier for students to be prepared for the first day of class this year. Introducing the new Big Red Backpack. Students can sign up to have all the books they need for every class put together by the bookstore. They then pick everything up, all at once.

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Owsley keeps history alive: Bob Owsley knows all there is to know about The Cecilian Bank. And he should. He has worked there since Sept. 2, 1958, and has done nearly every job there is to do there. After growing up in Rinevyille on a dairy farm, he attended Western Kentucky University, initially to become a pharmacist. Three semesters in, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. 

Louisville Courier Journal 

MIT Technology Review 

  • Bolstering innovation in the heart of America: When people think about Kentucky, they often picture bluegrass, horses, and bourbon—not necessarily a vibrant ecosystem of entrepreneurs and startups. As executive director of the nonprofit AccelerateKY, WKU graduate Sam Ford is aiming to change that. “Everyone’s always excited to talk about bourbon, but Kentucky’s also a major leader in electric batteries,” says Ford, a graduate of MIT’s Comparative Media Studies (CMS) program. “We have advanced manufacturing, metals, software development, ag tech.” 

Owensboro Times 

  • Ward receives award for contributions to field of engineering and community: Owensboro’s Dylan Ward was recently named the co-recipient of the 2022 New Professional of the Year Award sponsored by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). Ward received his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 2013 from Western Kentucky University where he also received the Ogden Foundation Scholar Award. He went on to obtain a Master of Public Administration Degree from WKU in 2018 while working full-time. 

Spectrum News 1 

  • Online, hybrid learning still prevalent for Kentucky college students: The University of Louisville, Western Kentucky University and University of Kentucky on Monday welcomed students back on campus for the first day of classes. However, campuses might not see as many students walking around as enrolled because recent data show more and more people are opting to take online classes. 

Macon County (TN) Times 

  • PHS grad, WKU student Colovos begins NASA internship: Portland High School graduate Zachary Colovos, the 2020 valedictorian at the school, is in the beginning of a unique opportunity as an intern at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Colovos is among a crew of about 20 interns at the space center. He began his paid internship Monday, and he said if all goes well, at the conclusion of his time there with a degree in mechanical engineering in hand from Western Kentucky University, he will have a full-time job. 

July 28-August 10, 2022

Daily News 

  • Planetarium's Science Fun Day to showcase Webb Telescope: NASA launched the James Webb Telescope into space on Dec. 25. To educate the public about it, Western Kentucky University’s Hardin Planetarium will host a Science Fun Day with activities for all ages. 
  • County COVID-19 cases rise as school returns: David Oliver, director of environmental health and safety at Western Kentucky University, announced in a universitywide email Wednesday that WKU does not anticipate starting the year with a mask requirement or by limiting indoor capacities. 
  • More players getting involved in Lost River Cave suds investigation: Since last week, a testing team comprised of the Department of Water, the city of Bowling Green environmental office and Western Kentucky University has “been working nonstop on this,” Lansden said. 
  • WKU Regents decline to dismiss professor: Western Kentucky University’s Board of Regents voted 8-0 on Friday to not dismiss Dr. Jeanine Huss, a tenured professor in the School of Teacher Education, after an all-day hearing to decide if she was to be dismissed. 
  • First responders take part in active shooter training: Emergency personnel and members of several law enforcement agencies have converged on Western Kentucky University’s campus this week to take part in training exercises to aid in their response to a potential active shooter. 

WNKY-TV 

  • TVA contributes Recovery Funds to African American Museum of Bowling Green: The Tennessee Valley Authority contributed recovery funds to the African American Museum of Bowling Green during the Shake Rag Festival, on Saturday. John Hardin, a member of the Board of Trustees for the African American Museum, says they plan to use the money to restore many artifacts that are currently being held at Western Kentucky University. 
  • WKU offers early housing to students affected by eastern Kentucky flooding: Western Kentucky University has open arms for students affected from the flooding in eastern Kentucky. 
  • WKU active shooter training: Today began active shooter training at WKU for the week. Local agencies came together this morning to coordinate search and rescue procedures along with strategic communication in order to prepare for a situation in which an active shooter enters a dorm. 
  • Are we in a recession? What you should worry about: “We may already be in a recession,” said WKU Assistant Professor of Economics Jon Handy. Many people are worried about what’s coming next for the economy. Is a recession looming? 

WBKO-TV 

Fast Company 

  • Kyla Scanlon explains the economy, inflation, and the stock market so you can actually understand it: Scanlon, like many of her Robinhood generation peers, started trading stocks as a teenager. But instead of taking her cues from Reddit forums like WallStreetBets, she went to Western Kentucky University (on a full scholarship) to study finance, economics, and data analytics, and then joined a West Coast investment manager after graduating. She envisioned a future as an economics professor. Then the pandemic intervened. Out of boredom, she started posting TikTok videos in 2021 and soon found her niche: A rapid-fire daily synthesis of market trends and economic news, delivered with the authority of a central banker and the absurdist humor of a Gen Z native, all in less than 60 seconds. There is no one doing anything like it.

Portland (TN) Sun 

  • Portland native doing internship at NASA: Western Kentucky University junior and 2020 Portland High School graduate Zac Colovos has been accepted in the NASA Pathways Internship program at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. 

Owensboro Times 

  • Ball named CEO of Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine: Ginny Ball, with over 18 years of experience in health care administration and over 12 years as a managing executive in the Owensboro community, recently took over as the new CEO of Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. Ball earned her bachelor’s degree in health care administration at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green. 

Barren County Progress 

  • Muhlenkamp chosen as Glasgow’s Superintendent: Dr. Chad Muhlenkamp has been named superintendent for Glasgow Independent Schools. He attended the University of the Cumberlands, earning a bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education, and obtained a master’s degree in Elementary Education Curriculum and Instruction and School Administration along with other certifications from Western Kentucky University. 

July 15-27, 2022

Daily News 

  • WKU summer strings camp back after COVID break: Rhythmic applause can be heard this week down the hallway at the Ivan Wilson Center For Fine Arts at Western Kentucky University as 4-year-old children take their first steps in learning how to play the violin as part of the WKU Summer String Institute weeklong program. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • North Hardin grad back in home state for TV news gig: Building a career in TV journalism, Paxton Boyd has had multi-station opportunities that led him back home to Kentucky. Boyd, a 2004 graduate of North Hardin High School, went to Western Kentucky University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in broadcasting and had a minor in psychology. 
  • Strength and conditioning coach mentors athletes: After serving in the U.S. Army and working with college athletes, Dominique Adams began working with youth in Hardin County to help prepare them for the next level in athletics and whatever they do in life. Originally from Indianapolis, Adams, 35, came to Hardin County in 2006 when he was stationed at Fort Knox. He was there until 2008. He served eight years in the Army. After that he went to college at Western Kentucky University and, as he was getting his master’s degree, Adams became a graduate assistant strength and conditioning coach for WKU Athletics. After graduation, was hired as assistant strength and conditioning coach. 

WBKO-TV 

  • Teacher incentives provided by the state and WKU amid teacher shortage: WKU is aiming to pave the way in tackling the nationwide teacher shortage. “Western is poised to be the national model for enrollment in educator preparation,” said Dr. Corinne Murphy, the Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences at Western Kentucky University. 

WNKY-TV 

  • Voices of Honor – Lee Robertson: Last month Lee Robertson, known to many as Mr. Western, celebrated his 100th birthday. On this week’s Voices of Honor, Robertson tells us about his service with the 44th Tank Battalion in World War 2. 

Lane Report 

  • New collaborative aims to address healthcare workforce shortage: The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education announced its Healthcare Workforce Collaborative, a new partnership with colleges and universities, state agencies, the healthcare industry and the K-12 education system to address Kentucky’s critical healthcare workforce shortage. Healthcare Workforce Collaborative Advisory Group members include: Tania Basta, College of Health and Human Services dean, Western Kentucky University 
  • KYNETIC funds 9 proof-of-concept projects across Kentucky: The Kentucky Network for Innovation and Commercialization (KYNETIC) funded nine proof-of-concept projects in the Cycle 5 round of early-stage commercialization grants. KYNETIC distributed $325,000 in Cycle 5 and awardees included: Daniel Boamah (Western Kentucky University), Development of a Multitenant Mixed/Virtual Reality Platform for Increasing Awareness of Implicit Bias in Child Welfare Decision-Making: A Public Health Crisis 

WYMT-TV, Hazard 

WRIC-TV, Richmond, VA 

  • Fundraising Alzheimer’s disease research: Bike4Alz cyclists pedal through Richmond: Cyclists pedaling for a purpose zipped through Richmond Tuesday afternoon. The Bike4Alz Riders and support vehicles will stop at the University of Richmond’s Phi Gamma Delta clubhouse on Old Fraternity Row to connect with their fellow fraternity brothers and then have a celebratory meal. The cyclists are students at Western Kentucky University at Bowling Green. 

Homeland Security Today 

July 7-14, 2022

Daily News 

  • United Way awards $585,000 to Warren County nonprofits: United Way of Southern Kentucky awarded $585,000 to Warren County nonprofits Wednesday. The list of grant recipients includes: WKU, Suzanne Vitale CED, Building Bridges to Kindergarten: $9,000; Lifeworks E-Learning Lab, Electronic Access to Employment Training Services for Young Adults with Autism at WKU: $3,450. 
  • Bell book talk benefits tornado relief: A spacious auditorium at the Warren County Public Library’s main branch was bursting with lively discussions Tuesday as local author David Bell discussed his latest book. 
  • WKU welcomes pair of new regents: Western Kentucky University’s Board of Regents will feature two new faces after Gov. Andy Beshear appointed a pair of members. 

Spectrum News 1 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Bland joins extension office in dual role: Kelly Bland is the new extension agent for family and consumer sciences and 4-H youth development for the McLean County Cooperative Extension Office in Calhoun. After graduating Owensboro High School, Bland attended Western Kentucky University with intentions to become a teacher, but she switched gears and graduated with a degree in therapeutic recreation and tourism in 1996. 
  • Local artist holds exhibit of historical pictures: On the walls of the Senior Community Center of Owensboro-Daviess County hangs the many charcoal, acrylic and watercolor pictures drawn by a local Owensboro artist. Frederica Diane Huff has been a Daviess County resident since she first arrived here in 1975. She graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1975 with a bachelor’s degree of fine arts before pursuing a master’s degree in art education in 2001. 
  • Owensboro Health names new CFO: Owensboro Health announced Russ Ranallo as its new chief financial officer on Thursday, effective immediately. He earned a master’s degree in health administration from Western Kentucky University in 1994. 
  • Bike4Alz riders host silent auction fundraiser: Pens were clicking as bidders lined up to participate in the Bike4Alz silent auction fundraiser Wednesday evening at Feta Pizza in Owensboro. The event was in conjunction with a group of 13 students from Western Kentucky University passing through the city while bicycling from San Francisco to Virginia Beach, Virginia, to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s Disease research. 

Owensboro Times 

  • Emma Goetz joins Retirement & Financial Strategies as advisor: Emma Goetz has joined Retirement & Financial Strategies as a Financial Advisor. Emma graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2021 from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in Finance with a concentration in Personal Financial Planning. 

Lane Report 

  • Marketing: Influential Partnerships: A key Ale-8 influencer is blogger and influencer JC Phelps of “JCP Eats,” who has been a strategic partner and marketing consultant. He holds a bachelor’s in economics and finance from Centre College and an MBA from the Gordon Ford College of Business at Western Kentucky University. 

WEHT-TV, Evansville, IN 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • HCS employee named social worker of the year: A Hardin County Schools student support specialist was recognized recently for his work with students in the school system. According to a news release from HCS, Rudy Garcia was selected as the 2022 Kentucky School Social Worker of the Year by the Kentucky Association for School Social Work. Garcia is an adjunct social work professor for the University of Louisville and Western Kentucky University. 

June 25-July 6, 2022

Daily News 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Bike4Alz cycling through city next week: Thirteen students from Western Kentucky University currently bicycling from San Francisco to Virginia Beach, Virginia, will be passing through Owensboro next week. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • New principal named for James T. Alton Middle School: A new principal will be at the helm for James T. Alton Middle School this coming academic year. Danielle Cassady, an assistant principal at West Hardin Middle School, has been named the lead educator for the middle school in Vine Grove, according to news release from Hardin County Schools. She earned her master’s degree from Western Kentucky University. 
  • WKU names new academic advisor for its E’town site: Western Kentucky University in Elizabethtown has a new academic advisor. Julie Hoisington was named to the role following the retirement of long-time WKU academic advisor Gail Smallwood, who held the position for 22 years, according to a news release from the university. 

Lane Report 

  • Paxton Boyd will be ABC 36 new main anchor: ABC 36 News Director Miranda Combs announced a new main anchor for WTVQ ABC 36. TV journalist and Elizabethtown, Kentucky, native Paxton Boyd will take the desk. Boyd graduated from Western Kentucky with a degree in broadcast journalism. 

WKYT-TV, Lexington 

Princeton Times-Leader 

  • Englebright selected as WKU Alumni Ambassador: Emerson Englebright, of Princeton, was selected as one of 30 new Western Kentucky University’s Student Alumni Ambassadors. The Alumni Ambassadors recently welcomed 30 new members, bringing the membership total to 41 for fall 2022. 

Kentucky Ag Connection 

  • EPA Awards Grant to WKU Team's Radon Mitigation Project: A team of students in Western Kentucky University's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences has been awarded a $24,971 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for a research project on radon mitigation in homes. 
  • Coding Academy Graduate Finds Purpose on Fort Knox: Lesley Downs, originally from Bardstown, is a graduate of the Spring 2020 and first Greater Knox Coding Academy class, whose higher educational journey began at Western Kentucky University with a bachelor's degree in entrepreneurship and a certificate in distilling arts and sciences. 

Think Advisor 

  • Ron Rhoades Makes 5 Predictions for the Future of Fiduciary Advice: “You can’t serve two masters: Under the SEC, you can be a fiduciary for part of the [client] relationship … and then have another account that’s a brokerage account. [But] you can do some really bad stuff because a different standard applies,” fiduciary expert Ron A. Rhoades argues in an interview with ThinkAdvisor. Rhoades, associate professor of finance and director of the Personal Financial Planning Program at Western Kentucky University, is also a financial advisor and education content specialist at ARG Investment Services, an RIA. 

June 14-24, 2022

Daily News 

  • Cumberland Trace Elementary picks Darnell as new principal: The Cumberland Trace Elementary School site-based decision-making council named curriculum coordinator Lori Darnell as the school’s new principal Monday. Darnell is a product of Western Kentucky University, earning her Bachelor of Science in elementary education, Master of Arts in teacher leadership and Rank 1 in administration all on the Hill. She has nine years of experience in education. 
  • Startup Compost BG turning scraps into cash: Charlie O’Connell is definitely getting his hands dirty as he grows his startup small business. In fact, he’s taking that truism to the extreme, with the potential to have an extreme impact on the local environment. Owner of Bitsy Farm in Rockfield, O’Connell started in March his Compost Bowling Green business that collects food scraps from homes and businesses for composting at the Western Kentucky University Farm. 
  • 'Proud to be among 'em': Vietnam vets among 12 aviators honored at Hangar Party: Charlie Browning’s journey to being honored for his service in the Vietnam War has taken more twists and turns than one of the UH-1 (Huey) helicopters he once flew. Browning, a graduate of both Bowling Green High School and Western Kentucky University, was joined by highly decorated veterans of World War II and the Korean and Vietnam wars in being recognized Saturday. 
  • New exhibition focused on Latino art: A spacious room in the Kentucky Museum at Western Kentucky University was filled Wednesday with laughter and lively chatter in Spanish at the opening of a new art exhibition called Nuestro Hogar Kentucky – Our Kentucky Home. 
  • ‘I’m beginning my second one hundred’: Mr. Western turns 100: Lee Robertson, affectionately known as “Mr. Western” for his strong ties to Western Kentucky University, celebrated his 100th birthday Thursday with a huge crowd of friends, co-workers, family and acquaintances at a packed Eva and Jim Martens Alumni Center. 
  • Learning Festival coming to WKU Innovation Campus: A group of seven Massachusetts Institute of Technology students is bicycling 3,000 miles across the United States to host workshops for middle school students, with Bowling Green as one of their stops. The MIT Spokes Learning Festival, a free one-day STEM workshop, will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 22 at the Western Kentucky University Innovation Campus at 2413 Nashville Road. 
  • WKU's 2023 budget kicks major projects into gear: Western Kentucky University’s Board of Regents approved the university’s budget for the 2023 fiscal year on Friday, paving the way for a handful of major construction projects and overhauls to its ever-changing campus. 

WNKY-TV 

  • MIT students bike to BG to teach STEM on 3,800 mile trip: A group of six MIT students, called the MIT Spokes, are on a 3,800 mile cross country bike trip. They stop in cities, like Bowling Green, to give stem workshops to middle school students. 
  • Cumberland Trace Elementary School announces new principal: The Cumberland Trace Elementary Site-Based Decision Making Council announced Lori Darnell as the next principal of Cumberland Trace Elementary School. Darnell received her rank 1 in administration, a master of arts degree in teacher leadership with an endorsement in gifted and talented, and a bachelor of science degree in elementary education, all from Western Kentucky University. 
  • Lee Robertson, ‘Mr. Western,’ celebrates turning 100: Mr. Western, a well-known feature of Western Kentucky University, celebrated a milestone today. On Thursday, June 16, Lee Robertson, also known as Mr. Western, turned 100 years old. 

WBKO-TV 

Lane Report 

  • Grant helps Kentucky colleges improve online courses: New grant funding from the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education is helping public colleges and universities ensure their online course offerings are high-quality and prepare students for success. CPE provided $10,000 in funding for institutions to seek Quality Matters (QM) certification for online classes. The following WKU courses were certified through the grant award: LEAD 530 Organizational Change, MATH 136 Calculus I 

Gallatin (TN) News 

Jackson County Sun 

  • Annville Resident Interns for Senator McConnell in Washington, D.C.: Autumn Jones of Annville, Kentucky interned for U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) this summer in his Washington, D.C. office. She is a junior at Western Kentucky University pursuing a major in Professional Writing and a minor in Business Administration. 

May 25-June 13, 2022

WKU Public Radio 

Daily News 

  • Gatton Academy students take first at Kentucky Envirothon: Five students from the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science took first place at the Kentucky Envirothon Competition on May 18-19 at North Central 4-H Camp in Carlisle. 
  • WKU ties for first place in diversity report: Both Western Kentucky University and University of Kentucky got 30 out of 36 points on the recent diversity, equity and inclusion report, produced by the Council on Postsecondary Education, resulting in a draw for the highest score among public universities and community colleges in Kentucky.
  • WKU to host 'Imagination Incubator': Western Kentucky University’s Potter College of Arts and Letters and the university’s Innovation Campus will team up with the University of Southern California for a “Civic Imagination Incubator.” 
  • WKU Upward Bound receives $2.1 million federal grant: The U.S. Department of Education awarded Western Kentucky University’s Upward Bound, a program that seeks to improve the rate at which students complete high school and enroll in postsecondary institutions, a five-year grant totaling $2.1 million.

WNKY-TV 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • EIS announces three hires: Elizabethtown Independent Schools this week announced three new hires. Chase Goff, a Warren County High School graduate, has been hired as the assistant superintendent for student learning starting the 2022 -2023 school year. Goff earned his Bachelor’s Degree in economics at Western Kentucky University. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Melton selected as new Livermore principal: On June 1, Kelly Melton was named the new principal of Livermore Elementary. Melton received both her bachelors and masters degrees in elementary education from Western Kentucky University. 

Education Week 

  • What Happens When Districts, States, and Universities Collaborate on Principal-Prep?:The nearly $50 million Wallace Foundation effort aimed to spur states, universities, and districts to redesign programs and supports for principals to be more in line with emerging research on what school leaders need to know and the realities of the job. The universities in the program were Albany State University in Albany, Ga.; the University of Connecticut, Storrs, Conn.; Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Fla.; North Carolina State University, Raleigh, N.C.; San Diego State University; Virginia State University, Petersburg, Va.; and Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Ky. 

April 29-May 24, 2022

Daily News 

  • Sensory garden provides patch of peace: A cozy, tranquil garden can be found adjacent to the College Heights Foundation’s Cliff Todd Center, complete with gravel pathways, stone benches and more than 80 plant species. 
  • Late Bowling Green artist's works live on at gallery: Bowling Green artist and retired Western Kentucky University art professor Ivan Schieferdecker had been planning to show some of his works at an exhibit in a local gallery this month. He passed away March 26 at age 86, but before his death he was able to complete his pieces for the exhibit at Ellis Walker Gallery in Thoroughbred Square.
  • Hardcastles honored as SC Kentuckians of the Year: A 1951 graduate of Alvaton High School and 1956 graduate of Western Kentucky University, Charles Hardcastle achieved success with BG Chemical and its successor Consolidated Paper Group as well as with Citizens First Bank. 
  • Bell’s new book tackles higher education: David Bell has written more than a dozen books, but his latest story set to release this summer will take aim at the lengths both students and colleges will go to survive in a resource-starved academic world. “The Finalists” is the 14th book that Bell, a professor of English at Western Kentucky University, has written. 

WKU Public Radio 

  • Kentucky Mesonet adds new station in Ballard County: A statewide source for weather and climate data has added a new station in Ballard County. The new Kentucky Mesonet station in Ballard County is in what’s been an underserved area with regard to weather data. 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Paducah Sun 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Kelly Miller to take helm at Lincoln Trail Elementary: Lincoln Trail Elementary School Assistant Principal Kelly Miller has been selected by site-based decision-making council to serve as the school’s next principal. She is a graduate of Central Hardin High School and Western Kentucky University. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • WKU-O grad went from homeless to master's degree: Amanda Brothers made her dream come true Monday night when she walked across the stage in Blandford Hall at Owensboro Community & Technical College. Western Kentucky University-Owensboro was recognizing its 2022 graduates including Brothers, who was the student speaker at the ceremony. 

Madisonville Messenger 

  • Clark named new principal of Pride Elementary: Amy Clark was selected as the new principal of Pride Elementary School. Clark earned her bachelor’s degree in secondary education, English and allied language arts, from Western Kentucky University. 
  • Zimmer named new HCCHS principal: Michael Zimmer was selected as the new principal at Hopkins County Central High School. Zimmer earned his bachelor’s degree from Western Kentucky University. 

Lancaster (PA) Online 

  • Bingocize blends bingo and exercise for a healthy dose of fun: That somebody was Jason Crandall, an associate professor of exercise science and co-director of the Center for Applied Science in Health & Aging at Western Kentucky University. Crandall calls the creation of Bingocize serendipitous more than anything else. 

News Virginian, Waynesboro, VA 

Lane Report 

  • KCV IMPACT Competition awards six innovative projects: Kentucky Commercialization Ventures is pleased to announce the winners of the inaugural KCV IMPACT (Innovative Mobile, Public Health, And Community-Oriented Technologies) Competition. 1st place – $25,000 each: Dr. Rachel Tinius – WKU, BumptUp: an evidence-based digital technology to improve physical activity and health outcomes among pregnant and postpartum women; and Dr. Daniel Boamah – WKU, Development of a Multitenant Mixed/Virtual Reality Platform for Increasing Awareness of Implicit Bias in Child Welfare Decision-Making: A Public Health Crisis 
  • CPE 2022 Academic Leadership Development Institute members named: The Council on Postsecondary Education named the fourth cadre of its Academic Leadership Development Institute (ALDI) program, which aims to prepare minority faculty and staff members for leadership roles in Kentucky higher education. 2022 Academic Leadership Development Institute participants from WKU: Lester “Les” Archer, Daniel Boahmah, Denise Hardesty. 

Lafayette (IN) Journal & Courier 

  • Greater Lafayette young professionals honored for manufacturing, logistics talent: Conexus Indiana provided the following snapshots of Greater Lafayette honorees: Matthew Cooper, Supplier Quality Engineering group leader, Subaru of Indiana Automotive -- Internships and a hands-on college engineering program allowed Cooper to graduate from Western Kentucky University and immediately hit the ground running in his manufacturing career. 

Portland (TN) Sun 

  • DeGeorge retires after 38 years of teaching in Sumner County: Beverly DeGeorge, a first-grade teacher at Portland Gateview Elementary School, is retiring after 38 years teaching in Sumner County. She will be remembered for her quiet and calm demeanor with her children and colleagues. She began her career at Hendersonville Elementary (now Gene Brown Elementary) in 1982 shortly after graduating from Western Kentucky University. 

April 13-28, 2022

Daily News 

  • WKU celebrates historic donation: Western Kentucky University on Friday commemorated Eva and Jim Martens’ philanthropic work after the school recently rededicated the alumni center in the couple’s honor. 
  • Philanthropist, businessman Bill Gatton dies: Carol Martin “Bill” Gatton, an academic philanthropist, businessman and longtime donor to Western Kentucky University and other institutions, died Monday. 
  • Duvall wins JA's Gold Leadership Award: Junior Achievement of South Central Kentucky longtime volunteer Monica Duvall is one of 10 recipients of the JA national organization’s Gold Leadership Award this year. Allie Sharp, president of the local JA office, said Duvall, director of student success at the Gordon Ford College of Business at Western Kentucky University, “helps southcentral Kentucky’s JA students get the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their future, and make smart academic and economic choices.” 
  • WKU Commons at Helm Library opens to students, public: In April 2018, Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni announced a plan to renovate Helm Library and create an innovative, state-of-the-art meeting space. Nearly four years later, that plan is now a reality. 

WKU Public Radio 

WNKY-TV 

  • Throwback Thursday – The Bell Observatory: When the Space Race came to Bowling Green: Last summer, Western Kentucky University’s Bell Observatory received a National Science Foundation grant to replace its telescope and control system. The space race age had its impact on WKU and Warren County over 50 years ago. Did you know WKU has had an off-site radio observatory since the late 1960s? This is the story of the Bell Observatory. 
  • Locals spend a morning with law enforcement at Coffee with the Cops: While you were out getting your morning coffee, you may have seen Bowling Green Police, the Warren County Sheriff and the Kentucky State Police troopers at Starbucks on Campbell Lane. No, there was not an emergency. It was just the Coffee with the Cops! The event, organized by WKU Police, brought together the law enforcement agencies to meet and talk with residents. 
  • WKU Forensics Team wins NFA national championship: The Western Kentucky University Forensics Team has won the National Forensics Association National Tournament sweepstakes championship. 
  • Bill Gatton, namesake of WKU’s Gatton Academy, dies at 89: Carol Martin “Bill” Gatton, the businessman and philanthropist the Gatton program is named after, died on April 18, 2022, at 89 years old. 
  • WKU alum/employee races Boston Marathon: Bowling Green’s very own Western Kentucky University alumni and employee just finished up running the Boston Marathon today. 41-year-old Shanda Blair finished  her second ever Marathon today – the Boston Marathon and its extremely uphill trek. 
  • Local Parks and Rec leader writes book after late grandfather: Cameron Levis is known for being a leader in the Parks and Rec community for years and years. Now he’s taking that one step further by releasing his first ever children’s book about parks, called ‘Home Is Where Your Park Is’. His grandpa, Dr. Alton Little, passed away in September.  He was a professor at Western Kentucky University for 36 years, teaching recreation administration. 

WBKO-TV 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • MCHS sophomore chosen for Gatton Academy: Jack Smith, a sophomore at McLean County High School, is among three regional students who have been accepted into the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science, which is on Western Kentucky University’s campus in Bowling Green. 
  • Two OHS students accepted to Gatton Academy: Two Owensboro High School students have been accepted to the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science Class of 2024. 

Lane Report 

WKDZ-FM, Cadiz 

London Sentinel-Echo 

Trimble Banner 

  • Giving back to his roots: Congleton selected for grant opportunity, chooses to benefit park: Trimble County’s Keegan Congleton has received one of ten microgrants worth $500 as part of Dr. Mody’s Make a Difference Microgrants Competition for students from the Summer Camp for Academically Talented Middle School Students (SCATS), the Summer Program for Verbally and Mathematically Precocious Youth (VAMPY) and the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Sciences in Kentucky. All of the programs are housed by Western Kentucky University. 

Wilson (TN) Post 

  • Mark Wooten of Lebanon High School named Wilson County Teacher of the Year: Lebanon High School teacher Mark Wooten was named the 2022 Wilson County Teacher of the Year at a banquet with the county’s other 32 top teachers at Cumberland University’s Baird Chapel last Friday. Wooten graduated from Western Kentucky University with a degree in education and a minor in industrial technology. 

Defense Visual Information Distribution Service 

  • History is made during change of command: The unit guidon representing an historic exchange of command was handed off to Army Capt. Taylor Davies as she assumed command of Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 623rd Field Artillery Brigade in a ceremony Mar. 27. She studied biology and went through ROTC program at Western Kentucky University and after she graduated was commissioned as a Field Artillery Officer in December 2016.  

April 1-12, 2022

WKU Public Radio 

  • Bowling Green woman will run in Boston Marathon April 18: A woman from Bowling Green, Kentucky will run in the Boston Marathon on April 18. Shanda Blair is a graduate of Western Kentucky University, where she is currently director of operations for Aramark, the campus restaurant group. 

Daily News 

  • SKy Science Festival returns on April 23: The SKy Science Festival Expo Day will return to Bowling Green’s Circus Square Park after being postponed in 2020 and 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Hilltoppers Astronomy Club will have special telescopes available to look at the sun, which work much like solar eclipse glasses, and an exhibit by WKU’s Hardin Planetarium will demonstrate light and reflections. 
  • WKU to receive $74 million for new business building: Grise Hall has long been where business students at Western Kentucky University called home, but another major shake-up for the ever-changing campus is now on the horizon. As part of the 2022-24 budget approved in the Kentucky General Assembly last week, WKU was allotted $74.4 million from the state to fund a new building for the university’s Gordon Ford College of Business. 
  • Inspired by late grandfather, local man writes children’s book: Cameron Levis tells everyone he is a “parks and rec kid.” In fact, he wears the title proudly as a badge of honor. So much so that the current Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Department special populations instructor followed in the footsteps of his mother and grandfather and is now a parks and recreation professional. That family passion is centered on the work and life of his grandfather Dr. Alton Little. Little was a professor at Western Kentucky University for more than 36 years in the Recreation Administration Department.
  • Journalists discuss experiences with December tornadoes: Local, regional and national journalists gathered Thursday night as part of Western Kentucky University School of Media’s 2022 John B. Gaines Family Lecture Series to publicly discuss their coverage of December’s deadly tornadoes. 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU Alum prepares for Boston Marathon: Shanda Blair got into running when she was in middle school when she spent the night with a friend who had cross country practice the next morning. She deceased to come along, and from there on, there were no stops on her track. Shanda ran in middle school, high school, and ran at Western Kentucky University with a scholarship. 
  • WKU’s Helm Library opens next Monday with all new renovations: Monday morning, Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni announced that the Commons library facility will finally open next Monday with huge new renovations.
  • WKU’s PCAL hosts spring festival in downtown BG: Downtown Bowling Green was alive with the sounds of music and laughter this weekend. On Saturday afternoon, WKU’s Potter College of Arts and Letters held the Spring Forward Festival in Fountain Square Park. 
  • WKU’s Dance Big Red raises over $83,000: Western Kentucky University’s Dance Big Red raised over $83,000 for Norton Children’s Hospital on Friday. 

WBKO-TV 

  • Funding approved for new WKU business building: Western Kentucky University has been approved to receive 74-million dollars from the Kentucky General Assembly. These funds will go towards relocating the Gordon Ford College of Business. 
  • Dance Big Red exceeds fundraising goal: On Friday, Dance Big Red was held in person, for the first time in two years. The 8th Annual Dance Big Red was held at Houchens Industries – L.T. Smith Stadium out of an abundance of caution. 

Lane Report 

  • $417,000 grant sustains research into phone-based substance use intervention: Dr. Jenni Teeters, assistant professor in Western Kentucky University’s Department of Psychological Sciences, has received a $417,056 grant from the National Institute of Drug Abuse for her project on the evaluation of a mobile-phone based intervention aimed at reducing substance-impaired driving among young adults. 
  • 4 Years in, UK College of Medicine impacting Bowling Green Community: Creating a full-fledged regional campus was a process that took intensive planning and collaboration long before it opened. Dr. Cheever, UK Acting Provost Robert DiPaola, M.D., Acting Dean Charles Griffith, M.D., and many others played instrumental roles in building connections with community partners in western Kentucky, Med Center Health and Western Kentucky University, institutions that helped move the process forward. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Pippin named Sorgho Elementary principal: Marjie Pippin, assistant principal of Meadow Lands Elementary School since 2017, is moving across the county to become principal of Sorgho Elementary School on July 1. Pippin graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor of science degree in elementary education and a master of science degree in elementary school counseling. She earned educational administration certifications in principalship from WKU in 2012. 
  • Wedding named new OPS director of special education: Carrie Wedding has been named the new Owensboro Public Schools director of special education, effective July 1. She also has two master’s degrees, one in special education and one in public administration, both from Western Kentucky University. 

WEHT-TV, Evansville, IN 

  • Sorgho Elementary has a new Princi-PAL: Children at Sorgho Elementary School will have a new pal in their new principal. Marjie Pippin was announced as the new principal at Sorgho at a special meeting of the SES School-based Decision Making Council. Pippin graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor of science degree in elementary education and a master of science degree in elementary school counseling. She earned educational administration certifications in principalship at levels 1 and 2 from WKU in 2012. 

March 17-31, 2022

WKU Public Radio 

Daily News 

  • Gaines lecture panel to focus on December tornadoes: In its return from a two-year COVID-19 hiatus, the Western Kentucky University School of Media’s 2022 John B. Gaines Family Lecture Series will feature local and national journalists for a discussion centered on the December tornadoes. 
  • SOKY Book Fest's return welcomed: Charley’s enthusiasm was shared by many at the book fest that started with a children’s day Friday and concluded with a main event Saturday that featured more than 60 authors and illustrators meeting and greeting book lovers at the Knicely Conference Center. 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

March 2-16, 2022

The Parking Podcast 

EdSurge 

  • What It Takes to Recruit Future Teachers During the Pandemic: In the communities surrounding Western Kentucky University, rumors were circulating that teaching was just too tough a profession to enter. “It’s not necessarily actual data or actual information,” says Corinne Murphy, dean of the university’s College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. Instead, people were hearing stories that getting a teaching credential required “so many tests, so many rules, and too many barriers that it’s not worth it,” she adds. “We knew it is worth it.” 

Daily News 

  • Former WKU, Colts star Doyle distributes free shoes to students: After recently retiring from the NFL, former Western Kentucky University and Indianapolis Colts tight end Jack Doyle decided to visit and give back to students from Warren County Public Schools who were impacted by the Dec. 11 tornadoes. 
  • New poll shows majority of Kentuckians support sports betting: While some state legislators try for the fourth straight year to legalize sports betting in Kentucky, a new poll from Western Kentucky University showed a majority of Kentuckians support wagering on sports. 
  • Popular SoKy Book Fest returns: It’s been three years since the Southern Kentucky Book Fest brought dozens of acclaimed authors to Bowling Green, but to the joy of local literature lovers, the celebration is scheduled to return March 25-26. The festival is presented by Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Warren County Public Library and WKU Libraries and is free to the public. 
  • WKU Regents approve Alumni Center name change: The Western Kentucky University Augenstein Alumni Center will be renamed The Eva and Jim Martens Alumni Center in recognition of the couple’s $5 million commitment to benefit the center and WKU Athletics.

WKU Public Radio 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • School systems partnering to create principal cohort: Five area school districts are participating in a school leadership cohort that will enable each to help current employees earn administration certifications through Western Kentucky University. 
  • Thurman named next DCPS spokesperson: Hannah Thurman has been named the next public information officer for Daviess County Public Schools. Thurman has a bachelor of arts degree in advertising from Western Kentucky University, where she also earned a master’s degree in recreation and sport administration, with an emphasis in media and branding. She is currently working toward a doctor of education degree in educational leadership from WKU. 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU Police Department hiring dispatch and more: The WKU Police Department is looking for people to fill their communication officer positions. There are three of these open positions in dispatch right now. 
  • Throwback Thursday – Exploring the birthplace of modern civilization: Throwback Thursday this week takes us across the globe to the birthplace of human society. This new Kentucky Museum exhibit opened earlier this year and was curated with help from the Western Kentucky University History department. Titled “The Ancient Near East in Kentucky,” this exhibit focuses on the importance of writing in two ancient early civilizations, Egypt and Mesopotamia. 
  • Sunrise Spotlight – Women’s History Month at the Kentucky Museum: On Today’s Sunrise Spotlight brought to you by German American Bank, Dr. Christy Spurlock joins us in-studio to talk about the significance of Women’s History Month and some of the exhibits honoring women at the Kentucky Museum. 

WHAS-TV, Louisville 

  • Rick Guillaume, longtime BB&T CEO dies, family says: The family of Rick Guillaume told WHAS11 News he passed away peacefully on Friday at the age of 78, after battling multiple health issues for nearly a decade. Rick was a graduate of Shawnee High School class of 1961 and continued his education at Western Kentucky University graduating in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Hardin County gains a new 4-H Youth Development Agent: Hardin County Cooperative Extension Services has gained a new 4-H Youth Development Agent. Sue Ann McCandless, 42, will begin Monday as a 4-H agent after serving as a staff assistant at the extension service in LaRue County for 17 years. “I decided to try to lead by example and enrolled at Western Kentucky University to work towards my Bachelor’s,” she said. “I thought if I could show them mom can do it, then they‘d see that they could do it, too.” 
  • Group looking to pop top on COKE: It’s the model that’s been successful for 15 years in Bowling Green as KY Innovation Programs Directory Buddy Steen told the council. In his presentation, Steen said in the early years of operation for the WKU Innovation Campus, 16 companies returned $975,671 in tax revenue to the city of Bowling Green, who initially invested $50,000. 
  • A Kentucky Bard’s Tale: Robert Villanueva knew from an early age that he was meant to be a writer. He said he can remember writing everything from poems to short stories, even starting a novel his junior year of high school. He started submitting works for publication when he was 16 years old. Villanueva kept that passion as he grew and graduated from Western Kentucky University with a journalism degree. 

Somerset Commonwealth-Journal 

Midland (TX) Reporter-Telegram 

  • One man’s vision turned into major produced water conference: Originally interested in geology, Woodcock switched to economics in his junior year at Western Kentucky University. After graduating in 1964, he went to work for Xerox Corporation, holding various positions, including worldwide director of training for the office products division. He left Xerox in 1979 to purchase Hy-Bon Engineering, an engineering and compressor manufacturing firm that was purchased by Cimmaron Energy in 2019. 

MoneyGeek

  • Expert Advice: Finding Affordable Health Insurance: What are the pros and cons of buying health insurance plans with cheaper premiums? In the insurance world, insurance companies scrutinize all costs. They provide nothing for free so if one's premium is lower, then one is almost certainly receiving less of something. – Jonathan Handy, WKU Assistant Professor of Finance
  • Expert Advice: Finding Affordable Life Insurance: What factors affect the cost of life insurance? What does it mean to have cheap life insurance? Life insurance cost is primarily impacted by how likely the plan is to pay a death benefit and how large the death benefit is. – Jonathan Handy, WKU Assistant Professor of Finance

Feb. 15-March 1, 2022

WKU Public Radio 

Daily News 

  • Program honors Trailblazers in the making: The 25th annual Trailblazer Awards program, which was Sunday at State Street Baptist Church, went in a different direction by recognizing organizations that are mentoring local youths and young adults. The organizations that were honored included: WKU Young Male Leadership Academy, which was started in 2007 as a partnership between the state Department of Education and Western Kentucky University. 
  • WKU dedicates First Year Village with ribbon-cutting: Western Kentucky University leaders dreamed of the day when they could provide a transformative experience for first-year students. On Wednesday, they celebrated the realization of that dream.
  • WKU sees record retention from fall semester: Even amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Western Kentucky University announced a record retention rate among first-time, first-year students. 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU’s Cherry Hall lights up to support Ukraine: Landmarks around the world are showing support for Ukraine amid Russia’s invasions. Western Kentucky University is showing their support by having one of its historical buildings lit up in Ukraine’s blue and yellow colors. 
  • Sunrise Spotlight – Dance Little Red: On today’s Sunrise Spotlight brought to you by German American Bank, Avery Yates and the Paynter family join us in-studio to discuss this year’s Dance Little Red and online auction benefitting Norton Children’s Hospital. 
  • Monday Motivator – WKU’s Living Learning Communities: There’s a new way to live as a freshman on the campus of WKU through the First Year Village. Students and faculty describe why it’s aiding student success and retention in this week’s Monday Motivator. 
  • WKU lifts mask mandate: Western Kentucky University lifted its mask mandate Friday. 
  • WKU dedicates First Year Village with ribbon cutting: An exciting day for the Western Kentucky University community! WKU celebrated its two newest residence halls and First Year Village with a ribbon cutting ceremony. 
  • WKU Mourns the Loss of the Star on Campus: WKU lost a vital helper over the weekend. Star, WKU’s Animal Assisted Therapy dog, lost her life on Saturday due to a sudden autoimmune crisis. 

WBKO-TV 

WFPL-FM, Louisville 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

Spectrum News 1 

Kentucky Today 

Jan. 28-Feb. 14, 2022

Daily News 

  • Gatton Academy students included in $5 million gift to UK: The University of Kentucky announced Thursday that philanthropist Bill Gatton gifted the school $5 million in scholarship funding for current UK students and undergraduate students from his namesake Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky University. 
  • Editorial: Yates' memory lives on with lounge, scholarships: First Lt. Eric D. Yates dedicated his life to this country he loved so much, and in the end he gave his life for it. 
  • Capps remembered for 'wide-ranging influence' at WKU: Western Kentucky University has lost a trailblazing former faculty member and administrator whose influence on countless business and education leaders is still being felt. 
  • Shifts could bring more severe weather to area: Megan Schargorodski watched the Dec. 11 tornadoes that slammed Warren County and other parts of Kentucky with a bit more interest than most. As interim state climatologist and interim director of the Kentucky Climate Center and Kentucky Mesonet, Schargorodski perhaps wasn’t as surprised by the deadly tornadoes as many local residents were. 
  • Bowling Green's 'Running Man' remembered: To the people who spotted him jogging around town, dressed in his signature gym shorts to complete errands in every kind of weather – even in the snow – Jean-Claude Evard was the “Running Man of Bowling Green.” But Evard’s friends and colleagues at Western Kentucky University, where he taught math courses in a thick Swiss accent, knew him as the guy who didn’t drive or even have a license. 
  • WKU ROTC honors alumnus killed in Afghanistan: Every day, Kathy Yates does something to honor the memory of her late son, 1st Lt. Eric D. Yates, a 2008 Western Kentucky University graduate who was killed in action while in Afghanistan. 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU students to work Special Olympics at Disney: A couple of lucky Western Kentucky University students are gearing up for Disney World and getting ready to cover the Special Olympic games. One WKU professor is already in Florida now. 
  • Throwback Thursday – Civil rights and education pioneer: the story of Frank O. Moxley: In observance of Black History Month, Throwback Thursday is sharing the inspirational story of Frank Otha Moxley, namesake of the F.O. Moxley Center. The first African American to earn a Master’s degree at WKU, former teacher, coach, and mentor, Moxley paved the way for African Americans in the Bowling Green community. 
  • WKU celebrates Black History Month; more events ahead: February first marks the start of Black History Month, and Western Kentucky University has plans to celebrate the month-long holiday. 
  • Monday Motivator – WKU Cheer Team: Last month, the Western Kentucky University cheer team went to the National Championship in Orlando, Florida. The Coed team took home first and the All-Girl team was runner up. We take a look at their wins in this week’s Monday Motivator. 
  • Sunrise Spotlight – US Bank Celebration of the Arts: On today’s Sunrise Spotlight brought to you by German American Bank, Brent Bjorkman with the Kentucky Museum joins us live in-studio to talk about this year’s Celebration of the Arts show presented by US Bank. 

WBKO-TV 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Editorial: WKU establishes key tool for schools: The employment shortfall shows few signs of going away. The nation’s schoolhouses are not immune. Western Kentucky University, which has trained generations of skilled educators, is trying to offer a solution. 
  • Partnership could lead to more certified teachers: Classified staff at Hardin County Schools might be given the opportunity soon to earn their teacher certification through Western Kentucky University. A partnership between WKU and the WKU College of Education and Behavioral Sciences with HCS is in the works to implement the “WKU Grow Your Own” program. 
  • Lucas named high school music teacher of the year: With about two years of experience as choir director and teacher at North Hardin High School, Cassie Lucas recently was honored for her work, and overcoming COVID-19 pandemic challenges. Lucas has been named the Kentucky Music Educators’ Association fourth district high school music teacher of the year. A graduate of Central Hardin high School, she attended Western Kentucky University where she received her bachelor’s in music education, and is currently finishing her master’s in music at WKU.  
  • First 'Gamechanger' award announced: The Legacy Foundation awarded the first Tanya Seabrooks Gamechanger Award to Donielle Heron-Lovell. Heron-Lovell, associate professor of sociology at Western Kentucky University, said she worked with Seabrooks for years in Hardin County on various committees and projects, and then became friends. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Southard fulfilling childhood aspiration: Growing up, Seth Southard always had his sights set on becoming the superintendent for Ohio County Schools. The Ohio County native began his career after graduating from Western Kentucky University in 1997 with degrees in chemistry and teaching. 
  • Working with students is the highlight for an educator: When Tommy Burrough graduated from Western Kentucky University, he wanted to teach and coach, and never imagined he would go into school administration, and eventually become the superintendent of McLean County Public Schools. 

Wallet Hub

  • Cities that Overspend on Cars: What are the most common mistakes people make when shopping for a car? --Ron A. Rhoades, Associate Professor, WKU

Jan. 11-27, 2022

WKU Public Radio 

Daily News 

WNKY-TV 

  • Emerging Leader – JT Troxell: JT Troxell has played a huge part in disaster recovery after the tornado. We hear about his efforts and personal journey in this week’s Emerging Leader. 
  • Hidden Heroes – Randy Lee: In this week’s Hidden Heroes, we head over to the campus of Western Kentucky University to feature a voice you probably know very well in the world of sports. 

Williamson (TN) Herald 

  • Famous local jazz musician ‘Beegie’ Adair dies at 84: World-renowned jazz pianist Bobbe Long “Beggie” Adair, a fixture of the local music scene who performed with music greats such as Dolly Parton and Vince Gill, passed away Sunday at her home in Franklin. She was 84. After graduating from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in music, she spent three years as a music teacher before she moved to Nashville. 

NPR 

  • Bobbe 'Beegie' Long Adair, a formative center of Nashville's jazz scene, dies at 84: Pianist and bandleader Bobbe “Beegie” Long Adair’s impact and influence extended across the entire Nashville music community, but it particularly resonated among jazz fans and players there. Adair, who died in her Franklin, Tenn. home on Sunday at 84, was a master of melodic interpretation and embellishment, a superb soloist and tremendous accompanist who could fit smoothly into any situation and still deliver a distinctive sound. A Kentucky native and Western Kentucky University graduate with a B.S. in Music Education, Adair came to Nashville in 1961. As a session musician, she recorded with everyone from Dinah Shore and Peggy Lee to Ray Stevens, Steve Allen, Chet Atkins, Mama Cass Elliott, Vince Gill and Dolly Parton. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Health inspectors critical to community health: Ryan Christian, environmental health program manager for the Green River District Health Department, wears many hats as a health inspector. Christian has been in his position with GRDHD for about 14 years, having graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in occupational safety and health with a focus in public health. 

WHAS-TV, Louisville 

Dec, 9, 2021-Jan. 10, 2022

Daily News 

WKU Public Radio 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

  • African American Museum hit by tornado then catches fire, items being salvaged: The African American Museum caught fire just one and a half weeks after having been hit by the December 11th tornado and is suffering the loss of several one-of-a-kind documents and other items. The recovered items were brought to WKU Supply Services Building by WKU facilities staff but they were laid out and saved by staff from the WKU KY Museum and Library. 
  • Course designed to prevent farmer suicides and depression: A Farmer’s job is never easy, but with factors like the pandemic and recent tornado, our farming community is susceptible to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. This is according to The Kentucky Department of Agriculture. To fight this, Western Kentucky University has developed a free course for healthcare professionals designed to prevent farmer suicides. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Colleges, universities largely maintaining COVID protocols: Colleges and universities in the county area are largely maintaining their COVID-19 protocols from last year for the spring 2022 semester, which is beginning for most of them. Officials from Western Kentucky University-Owensboro, Kentucky Wesleyan College, Brescia University and the Owensboro Community & Technical College say classes will all be in-person, but there are virtual and remote learning opportunities available should students need them. Their protocols for handling the omicron variant include masking in buildings and in crowds.
  • From Farm to Foodliner: Knott credits farm background for grocery business success: While studying business management at Western Kentucky University, Knott initially had intentions of owning his own restaurant and bar but found himself changing his path after graduation. 
  • Ag communities lacking in mental health services: Michele Mitchell, a family nurse practitioner in Hancock County, hopes to provide mental health services that specifically focus on the mental health needs of farmers and agricultural communities. Mitchell, a family nurse practitioner for around 10 years, is studying at Western Kentucky University to receive a certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with a special focus on mental health in agricultural communities. 

Qatar Foundation 

WHAS-TV, Louisville 

WRBL-TV, Columbus, GA 

WALB-TV, Albany, GA 

Kentucky Ag Connection 

  • Free Farmer Mental Stress Course Available for Kentuckians: A free one-hour course, developed by Western Kentucky University, designed to aid healthcare professionals in acknowledging and lessening farmer suicides is now available, Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Ryan Quarles announced. 

Nov. 24-Dec. 8, 2021

Daily News 

WKU Public Radio 

WNKY-TV 

  • Emerging Leader – Austin Bonebrake: Austin Bonebrake is a senior at Western Kentucky University who was just awarded a scholarship for geoscience students with disabilities. 
  • WKU Greek Life sponsors presents for 34 Christmas Angel kids: Members of Western Kentucky University Greek Life are working hard to give kids a special Christmas. Tuesday evening, many of the school’s fraternities and sororities wrapped gifts for 34 elementary school kids at Parker-Bennett-Curry Elementary. 
  • WKU hosts international students for a Thanksgiving meal: Western Kentucky University faculty and students spent a portion of their holiday week preparing a meal for international students to enjoy. 
  • Hidden Heroes – Corie Martin: Corie Martin went to Western Kentucky University and has always loved the Bowling Green community. Now she works to keep the community safe by providing health information to the public and working at Med Center Health. She’s this week’s Hidden Hero. 

WBKO-TV 

WTVQ-TV, Lexington 

Columbia Magazine 

Somerset Commonwealth Journal 

  • WKU, SCC team up for elementary ed. Program: Those in the Pulaski area looking to become an elementary school teacher have a brand new opportunity to earn their degree without having to travel too far from home. On Thursday, Somerset Community College (SCC) and Western Kentucky University (WKU) announced a new program through SCC’s University Center of Southern Kentucky (UCSK) to offer four-year bachelor degrees in elementary education. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

Portland (TN) Leader 

  • Portland resident awarded scholarship: Western Kentucky University senior Austin Bonebrake of Portland has been awarded an internationally-competitive scholarship for geoscience students with disabilities. 

London Sentinel-Echo 

WAVE-TV, Louisville 

  • WKU Geologist awarded Chinese Government Friendship Award: Western Kentucky University announced that a Geologist at the school has been awarded the Chinese Government Friendship Award, which is considered one of China’s highest awards for foreign experts doing work in the country. 

Nov. 12-23, 2021

Daily News 

WKU Public Radio 

Spectrum News 1 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

  • Emerging Leader – Tribhuwan Singh: This week’s Emerging Leader is Tribhuwan Singh, a Finance and Business Analytics double-major at Western Kentucky University. 
  • WKU geologist wins China’s highest award given to foreign experts: China’s Ministry of Science and Technology has announced that University Distinguished Professor of Hydrogeology Chris Groves of Western Kentucky University’s Department of Earth, Environmental, and Atmospheric Sciences has won the Chinese Government Friendship Award, which is the People’s Republic of China’s highest award for “foreign experts who have made outstanding contributions to the country’s economic and social progress.” 
  • Glasgow teacher inducted into the Kentucky Teacher’s Hall of Fame: Western Kentucky University is the home of the Kentucky Teachers Hall of Fame. Friday, four new members were added to that distinguished list. 
  • Feel Good Friday – Olivia Miller: WKU sophomore Olivia Miller battled a life threatening medical condition in her early years. Now, she’s living her best life, and has been inspired to study healthcare so she can save others as well. 
  • Gov. Beshear visits WKU SmartHolstein Lab: Thursday evening Gov. Andy Beshear was at Western Kentucky University visiting the SmartHolstein Lab. 
  • Pets impact emotional and physical health: WKU psychology professor Rick Grieve said pets can help people struggling with mental health issues. 
  • Emerging Leader – Abi Canter: Abi Canter is a senior at Western Kentucky University, the Chapter President of Alpha Delta Pi, and serves with a variety of other organizations on the Hill. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Crawford provides analysis, mentorship: Although he is only 22, Brady Crawford of Elizabethtown already is making great strides in professional development and is serving as a mentor to those on similar paths. An Elizabethtown native and 2017 graduate of Elizabethtown High School, Crawford went on to earn an associate’s degree from Elizabethtown Community and Technical College and earned a bachelor’s degree in business data analytics from Western Kentucky University in 2020. 
  • Burba looks forward to a career in helping others: Maddy Burba is studying nursing in high school to help in her future career. A Central Hardin High School, Burba, 18, is in the health science pathway at the Early College and Career Center currently in a phlebotomy class and she received her CNA certification last year. She’s planning to go to Western Kentucky University for nursing school. 

Lexington Herald-Leader 

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association 

Oct. 26-Nov. 11, 2021

WKU Public Radio 

Spectrum News 1 

  • Longtime artists prepare for the return of the World’s Greatest Studio Tour: Longtime artist like Terry Wilson are preparing for the return of the The World's Greatest Studio tour after a year off. Wilson now retired, previously worked for Western Kentucky University as a professor. He now is in his seventh year painting and after a year off due to COVID-19 is excited about the return. 

Daily News 

  • Kentucky Museum’s ‘Christmas in Kentucky’ set to return: After last year’s event was canceled due to COVID-19, Western Kentucky University’s Kentucky Museum will host its 15th Christmas in Kentucky celebration free for the public next month. 
  • WKU's enrollment dips again this fall amid pandemic: Western Kentucky University’s enrollment for full-time equivalent students is down again this year, signaling that – despite the university’s best efforts to recruit students – it isn’t exempt from a national decline in college enrollment that’s been turbocharged by the pandemic. 
  • WKU making strides with LGBTQ inclusion: Through a campuswide effort, Western Kentucky University has gone up on the national Campus Pride Index with a new official rating of 4.5 stars out of 5, the university announced Wednesday. 
  • WKU marks passing of ardent donor, Pete Mahurin: Pete Mahurin – a longtime supporter of Western Kentucky University, champion of gifted education and a namesake of the university’s Honors College – died Wednesday. He was 83. 
  • WKU showcases adaptive athletics offerings: Western Kentucky University student Drew Brumfield got a fresh perspective on a classic sport Sunday as he participated in an adaptive athletics showcase at the campus’ Preston Center. 

WNKY-TV 

  • WKU is working to prepare students for careers: Western Kentucky University Gordon Ford College of Business is working with students this week to prepare them for life after graduation. 
  • Hidden Heroes – Jace Lux: Jace Lux has been at Western Kentucky University for two decades. First as a student, then as an educator and now as a leader. He’s this week’s Hidden Hero. 
  • Emerging Leader – Blake Barker: Blake Barker is a senior at Western Kentucky University who started a mentorship program with his friends to encourage bridging the gap between freshmen and upperclassmen, as the new students transition to life on the Hill. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Hartford native's cancer bout inspires nursing dreams: Olivia Miller, a Hartford native and soon-to-be nursing student at WKU, hopes to inspire hope in others with her cancer survival journey. Miller, a sophomore at WKU, said she will be starting in the school’s nursing program next semester, which has been a dream of hers for some time. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Miss Kentucky visits includes talk of goal setting: Wheeler graduated with her master’s degree in speech pathology in May from Western Kentucky University, a major that she was inspired to study because of her great-grandfather’s illness. 
  • Cubbage displays compassion for children through CASA role: Through her role with CASA of the Heartland, Natalie Cubbage of Leitchfield has made it a full-time mission to help at-risk children in the community. A 2010 graduate of Grayson County High School, Cubbage earned her bachelor’s degree in social work in 2014 from Western Kentucky University. 
  • Realtor recognized for 50 years in industry: Marilyn McLane has been in the real estate business for 50 years and was recognized for the feat Monday during the Heart of Kentucky Association of Realtors’ luncheon held at American Legion Hardin Post 113 in Elizabethtown. Marilyn and her husband, Hardin McLane, together have accrued a total of 112 years in the real estate business. The two, who have been married 62 years, met while attending Western Kentucky University. 

WBKR-FM, Owensboro 

Think Advisor 

  • Social Media Star Kyla Scanlon Is Making Finance Fun: Kyla Scanlon, 24, is determined to reshape financial education. The innovative, entertaining content creator, who began trading options at age 16, has a platform in the works she describes as “a financial playground.”. From Kentucky, she was schooled in gifted classes and at Western Kentucky University majored in finance, economics and data analytics. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 2019. 

Paintsville Herald 

  • Paintsville Tourism welcomes new director: As a person with a lifelong love for Eastern Kentucky, new Paintsville Tourism Executive Director Chesi Arnett said she has spent most of her adult life following the path of education for the sake of pursuing this exact position, which she called her “dream job,” adding that she wanted to share her love of Johnson County and Paintsville with the world. “So, I went to Western Kentucky University and I double majored in Communications and Tourism, and my whole goal was to one day be Paintsville Tourism director,” Arnett said. 

WalletHub

  • What makes a good sports city?: This is a tough question, and it will really depend on the person you are talking to. For me, what makes a good sports city is having a dedicated fan base that will support the team through good and bad times. – Dr. W. Andrew Czekanski, Assistant Professor, WKU’s School of Kinesiology, Recreation & Sport

Oct. 9-25, 2021

Daily News 

Spectrum News 1 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

National Geographic 

  • Why animals developed four types of skeletons: Flying fish are known for their spectacular acrobatics, bursting through the ocean’s surface and sailing in the air as long as 3,000 feet. Why fly? To avoid predators. They’re “basically marine popcorn,” says Steve Huskey, a biologist at Western Kentucky University and author of The Skeleton Revealed. "Everybody eats them.” 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Storey fulfills dreams of entrepreneurship: Throughout her life, Lisa Storey of Vine Grove has held many different roles, including positions in the fields of health care and education. Now, she is primarily focused on entrepreneurship, a pursuit she has almost always been interested in. She  holds a bachelor’s degree in biology with an emphasis on pre-medicine from Western Kentucky University and later went on to earn a master’s degree in middle grade education from WKU. 

WEHT-TV, Evansville/Henderson 

Mountain Advocate, Barbourville 

  • Clouse to be formally inducted in to hall of fame: Wanda Carol Clouse, 2020 Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame inductee will be formally inducted on November 19 along with this year’s honorees. Last year’s ceremony was not held due to Covid-19. The ceremony will take place on the campus of Western Kentucky University. 

WCLU-FM, Glasgow 

Wallet Hub

  • Guaranteed Approval Credit Cards: Is it possible for a credit card to truly guarantee approval? Generally speaking “Guaranteed Approval” should be interpreted as minimal requirements necessary for approval. -- Jonathan Handy, Assistant Professor, WKU

Oct. 2-8, 2021

Spectrum News 1 

WKU Public Radio 

WBKO-TV 

  • First Augmented Reality Gallery at WKU: The first Augmented Reality Gallery on Western Kentucky University’s campus is at the Fine Arts Center from October 3 through October 9. 
  • National Coffee with a Cop Day at WKU: The Western Kentucky Police Department celebrates National Coffee with a Cop Day by going to the on-campus Starbucks to share a ‘cup of joe’ with students.

WNKY-TV 

  • Local entrepreneurs share success stories in spite of pandemic: Since the start of the pandemic, the Kentucky Small Business Development Center says they’ve had many new people asking to be mentored about how to start up a business. At Western Kentucky University’s Research and Development Center, one entrepreneur’s business was turned to dust overnight during the pandemic. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

Louisville Courier Journal 

  • Tour 17 Kentucky locations that inspired filmmaker John Carpenter as he wrote 'Halloween': It's been more than 40 years since one of the most iconic horror movies ever made hit movie theaters. "Halloween" scared the bejeebers out of teenage babysitters and went on to launch a pretty cool driving tour in Bowling Green, Kentucky. You can add an element of realism to your Halloween season with a day trip to Bowling Green to see the place that inspired famed filmmaker John Carpenter as he wrote his scary movie franchise. 

Louisville Business Journal 

Murfreesboro (TN) Post 

  • Olt joins farm credit office: Amy Olt has been hired as a financial officer for the Farm Credit Mid-America office in Murfreesboro. Olt, a Greenburg, Ky., native, earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture education and a master’s degree in animal science and agriculture education from Western Kentucky University. 

Lewiston (ID) Tribune 

  • From field to feast: Jed Conklin, a freelance photographer, real estate entrepreneur and restaurant owner recently of Spokane, doesn’t recall a time when he wasn’t a hunter or angler. In college Conklin was known as a sort of provider who would share his deer, ducks and other game with fellow journalism students and his instructors at Western Kentucky University. 

Sept. 21-Oct. 1, 2021

Daily News 

  • $1.4M grant will support WKU's outreach to adult learners: A $1.4 million grant awarded to Western Kentucky University will support 1,000 adult learners throughout the region as they navigate their higher education journey. 
  • WKU cuts ribbon on new program for adults with autism: Former Western Kentucky University President Gary Ransdell and his wife, Julie, shared an earnest moment of gratitude Thursday when they celebrated the opening of the new Julie and Gary Ransdell Living and Learning Community at LifeWorks – a WKU program for adults with autism. 
  • WKU professor tackles alleged media bias in new book: What drives the perception among many U.S. political conservatives that the news media largely skew left? It’s a thorny question that Rich Shumate, a professor in Western Kentucky University’s School of Media, aims to unravel in his new book, “Barry Goldwater, Distrust in Media, and Conservative Identity: The Perception of Liberal Bias in the News,” published by Lexington Books. 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

  • WKU Police follow leads in several bike thefts: WKU students are back on campus, but studying and getting to class are not the only things they have to worry about. WKU has also seen an increase in bike thefts. 
  • WKU students fill-in as long term substitute teachers amid pandemic: Last month, the Kentucky Educational Standards Board approved a waiver to allow education majors who are eligible to serve as long-term substitute teachers, or emergency substitute teachers in place of their student teaching requirement. Rockfield Elementary currently has three WKU students serving as long-term substitute teachers in various departments.
  • WKU and BGPR partner to start adaptive sports program: Bowling Green Parks and Recreation is teaming up with Western Kentucky University to bring an adaptive sports program to the hill. BGPR and WKU graduate student Cameron Levis came up with the idea to give students with disabilities the opportunity to play sports. 

Cherokee Phoenix, Tahlequah, OK 

  • Meyer-Thornton selected as Native American Journalists Association Fellow: After his selection as a Native American Journalists Association Fellow, a Cherokee Nation citizen is putting together his associated project and looking forward to a career that includes coverage of Native issues and subjects. Zane Meyer-Thornton, a Western Kentucky University student, was one of six chosen by NAJA for its 2021 Native American Journalism Fellowship who are working in their respective projects during the fall term under mentors. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • OPS 'growing" seven teachers from current employees: Owensboro Public Schools is moving forward with growing its own teachers from current employees. Now, thanks to two grants, it will be able to help fund all seven applicants of the first Grow Your Own class. Scholarships for two of the employees will be provided by the Hager Foundation and the Marilyn and William Young Foundation. The scholarships will fund half of the program’s total cost, and Western Kentucky University has discounted the rate for all seven participants as part of the partnership for the Grow Your Own program. 

WFIE-TV, Evansville 

  • OPS announces ‘Grow Your Own’ scholarship recipients: Owensboro Public Schools announced “Grow Your Own” scholarship winners on Tuesday. The school district was awarded a $50,000 grant from the Kentucky Department of Education that was used for students to get education classes through Western Kentucky University. 

Lane Report 

  • Louisville Bar Association welcomes Miller as new executive director: After a national search, the Louisville Bar Association (LBA) has named Louisville native Kristen Miller the organization’s next executive director, effective November 8. A graduate of Western Kentucky University and the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law, Kristen Miller brings experience from the healthcare, legal, nonprofit, and government sectors. 

Dayton (OH) Daily News 

  • Jim Gaines to lead statehouse coverage: Jim Gaines has begun work as the statehouse bureau chief for the Dayton Daily News, Springfield News-Sun and Journal-News newspapers. Gaines, 52, is originally from Michigan but has lived about half his life in Kentucky. He is a graduate of Western Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in history and government, and a subsequent bachelor’s in journalism. 

Nashville (TN) Ledger 

  • Rue joins Patterson Intellectual Property Law: Patterson Intellectual Property Law has added David Rue as the firm’s chief operating officer. Rue, an attorney, entrepreneur and law firm strategist, will focus on the firm’s operations and strategic development. Rue is a graduate of Western Kentucky University and the J. David Rosenberg College of Law at the University of Kentucky. 

Campus Rec Magazine 

PRWeb 

  • HerdDogg Joins WKU SmartHolstein Project to Accelerate Data Collection and Analysis for Landmark Genetic Study: HerdDogg, the agtech innovator that creates more value for producers’ livestock, has joined the WKU SmartHolstein Lab program to equip scientists with real-time animal biometric data that is critical to understanding dairy cow health and wellbeing. The WKU SmartHolstein Lab is a strategic, synergistic partnership between Holstein Association USA and Western Kentucky University Department of Agriculture and Food Science. Its mission is to lead Holstein and dairy advancements through research, development, and outreach in technologies, analytics, and genetics. 

Sept. 4-20, 2021

WKU Public Radio 

  • Local Research Study Confirms COVID-19 Vaccine Safety: New research suggests side-effects from the COVID-19 vaccine among south central Kentucky residents mirror the results of clinical trials conducted last year. A project by Bowling Green-based Med Center Health, Western Kentucky University, and the University of Kentucky College of Medicine - Bowling Green Campus was conducted through the Western Kentucky Heart and Lung/Med Center Health Research Foundation. 
  • The African American Folklorist: Preserving Black Bowling Green Through Art: In 1956, Margaret Munday became the first African American student to enroll at Western Kentucky University. She graduated in 1960. Today, Northeast Hall on the school's campus has been renamed Munday Hall in honor of Margaret and her many achievements. 

Daily News 

  • SBDC again providing in-person counseling: Yates and Kors have offices in Western Kentucky University’s Center for Research and Development at Nashville Road and Campbell Lane. Meetings there can be important for the new businesses and potential startups that Yates said make up about 80% of their clients. 
  • Daughter finds father’s missing WWII foot locker after 77 years: Velda Alexander never met her father, Johnnie Elmore, who was killed in action during World War II. But a recent discovery finally connected her with the hero she always wanted to meet. Elmore graduated from Western Kentucky University, where he was a member of the ROTC. He later taught ROTC at Indiana University in Bloomington. He was 31 years old when he was killed in action. 
  • Local research survey: COVID vaccines are safe: A research project from Med Center Health, Western Kentucky University and the UK College of Medicine’s Bowling Green campus found COVID-19 vaccines were safe and closely mirrored results found in clinical trials. 
  • WKU names first lotto winners in vaccine incentive program: Western Kentucky University held the first of several lottery drawings for students and staff who’ve received the coronavirus vaccine, doling out scholarships and cash prizes to winners. 
  • Bowling Green residents past and present share 9/11 experiences: Elsewhere, Western Kentucky University professor James Kenney had just walked into work and was immediately met by several of his photojournalism students. In the immediate aftermath of the attacks on the World Trade Center, Kenney said about 20 students had no hesitation in making the decision to travel to New York City. 
  • New adaptive sports program coming to WKU: There are fewer than 30 collegiate adaptive sports programs in the country, but Western Kentucky University will join that group this fall. Thanks to a partnership between the Bowling Green Parks & Recreation Department and WKU Campus Recreation and Wellness, the university will roll out its first sports program for students of all abilities Oct. 24. 
  • Nursing student urges vaccination amid delta surge: Between caring for COVID-19 patients, administering vaccinations, testing for the coronavirus and notifying the infected, local nursing student Andi Barefoot has received a master class in public health. “I’ve gotten a good grasp on what the pandemic holds,” said Barefoot, who is in her final semester at Western Kentucky University’s nursing program. 

WNKY-TV 

  • Runners raise money for scholarship in honor of fallen soldier: A 5k run took place Wednesday at Chaney’s Dairy Barn in Warren County in memorial of a soldier who was killed in the line of duty back in 2010. Eric Yates Memorial 5K is held annually to raise money for the 1st Lt. Eric Yates Memorial Scholarship Fund. 
  • Voices of Honor – Fred Alcott: After graduating from WKU in 1963 with a degree in agriculture, Fred Alcott was drafted into the army. He went to the navy instead, learned to fly helicopters, and searched for soviet submarines during the cold war. 
  • WKU awards prizes for vaccinated: Western Kentucky University has a new way of rewarding people for getting their Covid vaccines. 
  • A.G. Daniel Cameron hosts Search Warrant Task Force at WKU: Tuesday, Attorney General Daniel Cameron and the rest of the Search Warrant Task Force in the state held a meeting at Western Kentucky University to continue work on identifying ways to request, serve and carry out search warrants in the safest and most effective way possible. 
  • Flora’s Hidden Heroes – Thomas Weakley: Thomas Weakley has been a Western Kentucky University professor and campus pastor for decades, working to change the University for the better. He’s this week’s Flora’s Hidden Hero. 
  • Sunrise Spotlight – Adaptive Sports @ WKU: On Today’s Sunrise Spotlight, Cameron Levis and Maddie Duncan join us live in-studio to talk about the Adaptive sports program, a joint effort between Bowling Green Parks & Recreation and Western Kentucky University. 

WBKO-TV 

  • Gatton Academy Seniors set new record of National Merit Semifinalists: 26 seniors from The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky have been recognized as semifinalists in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Competition, breaking the 2019 record of the most students recognized in a single school year in the program’s history. 
  • Attorney General’s Search Warrant Task Force meets in Bowling Green: Back in January, Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron announced the formation of a search warrant task force. On Tuesday, the task force was able to meet on Western’s Campus, where they asked questions and also discussed moving forward. 
  • Charles Forrester art exhibition opens at Downing Museum: Charles Forrester was a gifted sculptor and artist whose artwork spanned six decades. An exhibit featuring his work opens September 14 at the Downing Museum at Baker Arboretum. Forrester taught art classes at Western Kentucky University and started the sculpture program at WKU. He passed away in 2010. 
  • Local study confirms COVID-19 vaccine safety: A research project between Med Center Health, Western Kentucky University, and the UK College of Medicine- Bowling Green Campus was conducted through the Western Kentucky Heart and Lung/Med Center Health Research Foundation. 
  • Med Center Health research project highlights vaccine safety, side effects: Dr. Doug McElroy, a biology professor at WKU says the most important step to the research was asking the correct questions. “Really critical in ensuring that we had a well crafted and reliable survey so that we could believe the results. And you know, obviously, that’s pretty critical as well,” said McElroy. 

Spectrum News 1 

  • Reclaiming the stage: Fine arts teacher hopeful for return of theater: Over the past 12 months, the theater industry has endured closed doors, empty seats and virtual shows. The profound impact of the pandemic has been felt by many, including performers and teachers like Austin Vahle who teaches at Brenda Cowan Elementary (BCE) School. Vahle is a two time Western Kentucky University alum who, after he applied for one job teaching theater at BCE, began making a realization that would change his life. 
  • Students in WKU game design program look to enter the growing industry: Western Kentucky University's game design program is giving students like Natashja Gentry the resources to jump right into the gaming world. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Two ODT alums dance professionally: Cherokee Bennett and Abby Palmiter both started dancing at Joy Johnson’s Dance Studio when they were 3 years old. Bennett graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor degree in dance in 2019. Palmiter is a 2021 graduate of WKU, also holding a dance degree. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Powell uses farm, education lessons in life: Darrin Powell has brought education and farming together to shape his career. He’s currently the interim chief academic officer at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College, working in various roles at the school for 22 years. He got his teacher certification in mathematics and computer programming at Western Kentucky University. 

Owensboro Times 

  • Three local students named National Merit semifinalists: Local students Catherine Elizabeth Wright, Dylan Mather, and Hunter Wimsatt have been recognized as semifinalists in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Competition. Wright attends Apollo High School, and Mather attends Owensboro High School. Wimsatt attends The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky but is still considered a student at Owensboro Catholic High School. 

Frankfort State-Journal 

  • Gatton Academy seniors set new record of National Merit Semifinalists: Twenty-six seniors from The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky have been recognized as semifinalists in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Competition, breaking the 2019 record of the most students recognized in a single school year in the program’s history. Included in the twenty-six seniors are Marcus Negron and Anish Penmecha, both of Western Hills. 

Lane Report 

  • Appointments to Kentucky Boards and Commissions: Gov. Andy Beshear has reappointed Melanie Eaton to the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Long-Term Care Administrators. Eaton of Adairville is an instructor at Western Kentucky University and shall serve for a term expiring Jan. 12, 2025. 
  • C2 Strategic Communications hires Thomas George as senior director: Thomas George, a distinguished trailblazing journalist, and Kentucky native will join C2 Strategic Communications as a senior director next month, focusing on attracting new clients and diverse talent to the regional public relations firm. George, a Western Kentucky University graduate, was inducted into WKU’s Hall of Distinguished Alumni in 2015. 
  • Appointments to Kentucky Boards and Commissions: Gov. Andy Beshear appointed the following as members of the Reading Diagnostic and Intervention Grant Steering Committee: Nancy Hulan of Bowling Green is a professor at Western Kentucky University and shall serve for a term expiring Sept. 1, 2022. 

WTVQ-TV, Lexington 

  • Five from region at Gatton are Merit Semifinalists: Twenty-six seniors from The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Bowling Green, Ky., have been recognized as semifinalists in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Competition, breaking the 2019 record of the most students recognized in a single school year in the program’s history. The list includes five students from Eastern Kentucky. 
Aug. 28-Sept. 3, 2021

Daily News 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

Portland (TN) Sun 

  • The Right Stuff: Portland resident Zac Colovos spent his summer working at Space Camp in Huntsville, Ala. It was a good fit for a young man who aspires to work with the United States Space Program. He is a sophomore at Western Kentucky University (WKU) and was co-valedictorian for the 2020 class at Portland High School. He is studying mechanical engineering and mathematics at WKU. 

Kentucky Living 

  • Financial advisors help manage money today to prepare for the future: Searching for a financial advisor can be a daunting task. With dozens of certifications that can appear as mysterious letters after advisors’ names, it’s hard to know what designation is most helpful or most important. “Some certifications are like a weekend of self-study,” says Andrew Head, director of the Center for Financial Success at Western Kentucky University. “Some advisors are like glorified salespeople, selling products with high commissions.” 

Kentucky Teacher 

  • Three finalists named for 2021 Special Education Teacher of the Year award: Three Kentucky teachers have been named finalists for the 2021 Special Education Teacher of the Year award. The three finalists for this year’s award include Stacie Hutchison, Glasgow High School (Glasgow Independent). Hutchison, who teaches grades 9-14 for students with moderate and severe disabilities, also is an adjunct professor in the Special Education department at Western Kentucky University. 

Owensboro Times 

Lane Report 

  • Brawner named new president and CEO of Corvette Museum: The National Corvette Museum Board of Directors has selected Sharon Brawner to serve as president and CEO of the National Corvette Museum. Brawner is a native of Hodgenville, Ky., and attended Western Kentucky University. 

WKMS-FM, Murray 

Kentucky Ag Connection 

  • Research Explores Mysterious Microfungi: A team led by Purdue University mycologist Catherine Aime will venture to the tropics -- where the vast majority of emerging crop diseases originate -- and sites across the globe to discover and identify thousands of kinds of parasitic microfungi. Collaborators include Carl Dick, an associate professor of biology at Western Kentucky University. 
Aug. 20-27, 2021

WKU Public Radio 

Daily News 

  • WKU to honor Shadowen among Hall of Distinguished Alumni inductees: Western Kentucky University’s Alumni Association announced Wednesday its 2021 class of Hall of Distinguished Alumni inductees. Among them is the late Dr. Rebecca Shadowen – who died from COVID-19 in 2020 and continued to advocate for public health even throughout her battle with the disease. 
  • Despite vaccine incentives, some WKU students remain hesitant: Even after Western Kentucky University announced it will roll out a new vaccine incentive program – complete with scholarship giveaways and cash prizes – some of the university’s students are still hesitant to get the vaccine, which won full regulatory approval Monday. 
  • Caboni announces new vaccination incentives, outlines quarantine rules: Calling widespread vaccination the only real solution out of the coronavirus pandemic, Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni said the university will launch a new incentive program for faculty, students and staff, complete with a lottery and a variety of enticing prizes. 
  • Rare exhibition of late WKU sculptor's work opens Sept. 14: The surreal though strikingly familiar forms of the late sculptor and longtime Western Kentucky University professor Charles H. Forrester will come to life at the Baker Arboretum’s Downing Museum with the opening of a retrospective exhibition Sept. 14. 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Spectrum News 1 

The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education 

  • Western Kentucky University Honors its First Black Student: The board of regents at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green has approved the renaming of Northeast Hall to Munday Hall. The change honors Margaret Munday, the first African American student to enroll at the institution. Munday Hall will be the first building on campus named after an African American. 

Spaces4Learning 

  • WKU Commons Project Adds Food to Library Experience: A new student commons is expected to open later this fall at Western Kentucky University. WKU Commons is part of Margie Helm Library and offers study and collaboration spaces alongside dining options. The project is being funded through a partnership between the university's libraries and Aramark, which provides institutional food services, among other lines of business. 

Corbin Times-Tribune 

  • Williamsburg student heading to study in Taiwan: Williamsburg native Ryan Richardson has always had an affinity for East Asian culture but he never knew that interest would eventually lead to a future career, as he works towards his goal of becoming an international lawyer. Richardson recently earned a full scholarship to study in Taiwan for the next two years, as he works towards that goal. In 2020, Richardson graduated the Mahurin Honors College at Western Kentucky University.  

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Aud named market president of German American Bank: Kyle Aud, who has more than 17 years of banking experience in Owensboro, has been named Owensboro market president of German American Bank. Aud has a bachelor of science and a master of business administration degree from Western Kentucky University. 

WLEX-TV, Lexington 

Lane Report 

Progressive Dairy 

  • Summer 2021 cow tech update: Holstein Association USA recently announced a collaboration to transform a 50-cow U.S. university herd into a top-tier genetics herd using the latest cow technologies. The effort aims to push the university herd, and overall breed advancement, forward. The herd at Western Kentucky University, which has been doing dairy cow research for more than half a century, is the selected herd for this new experiment, which is being dubbed “the SmartHolstein Lab.” 
Aug. 7-19, 2021

WKU Public Radio 

National Science Foundation 

  • Bugs find bats to bite thanks to bacteria: Humans aren't the only animals that have to worry about bug bites. Thousands of insect species have evolved to specialize in feeding on mammals and birds, but scientists are still learning how these bugs differentiate between species to track down their preferred prey. "How the flies actually locate and find their bats has been something of a mystery," adds Carl Dick, a scientist at the Field Museum and Western Kentucky University and one of the study's co-authors. "But because most bat flies live and feed on only one bat species, it is clear that they somehow find the right host." 

Daily News 

  • Caboni lauds faculty, staff's efforts in campus address: Seeking to strike an optimistic chord Monday, Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni championed faculty and staff accomplishments against the chaos of the coronavirus pandemic when he delivered his annual Convocation address. 
  • Simpson County educator named state's top history teacher: Justin Mitchell, who teaches at Franklin-Simpson Middle School, has been named the 2021 Kentucky History Teacher of the Year by the Kentucky Historical Society. A graduate of Western Kentucky University, Mitchell is currently a doctoral candidate at WKU in educational leadership. 
  • Editorial: Recognition of Margaret Munday long overdue, well-deserved: More than half a century after she attended Western Kentucky University and led the charge in integrating the institution as its first Black student and graduate, Margaret Munday was given her rightful due Aug. 6. 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Crave Nutrition seeing success in Owensboro: Sarah Cheek, a Frankfort native attending Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, was introduced to meal replacement shakes in 2016 by her fiancé, Austin Sutcliffe. 

Spectrum News 1 

  • Expert, student push back against the idea that masks harm kids: When Connor Flick returns to school next week at Gatton Academy in Bowling Green, he, like most students across the state of Kentucky, will be required to wear a mask in all indoor settings. Flick, and most of the students he knows, are fine with that. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Local woman named counselor of the year: School has yet to start for the year, but Hardin County Schools Early College and Career Center counselor Kristi Wright already has a little hardware to adorn her office. The 25-year veteran educator recently was named the Kentucky School Counselor Association High School Counselor of the Year. “I remember that when I was at WKU, I was taking one of my first education courses,” she said. “The professor said to us early on in our class that students don’t hear you unless they trust you. When he said that, I internalized it.” 
July 27-Aug. 6, 2021

Daily News 

  • Local artist, WKU students team up to commemorate Jonesville neighborhood: Stretching over a wall in the lobby of Western Kentucky University’s Kentucky Museum, a vista unfolded Wednesday that offered a glimpse into a community lost to time. 
  • WKU to add mask mandate on Monday: In an email to faculty and staff, Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni announced Wednesday that everyone on the university’s campuses will be expected to wear a mask indoors, effective Monday. 
  • WKU's Victoria Gordon honored by BRADD: Victoria Gordon, a recently retired professor of political science at Western Kentucky University, was presented with a Friend of BRADD Award at the July meeting of the Barren River Area Development District board of directors. 
  • World-class research taking place in Bowling Green: A five-year partnership between Western Kentucky University’s Center for Child Welfare Education and Research and LifeSkills has recently been announced. 

WKU Public Radio 

WNKY-TV 

  • Feel Good Friday – WKU welcome back: Despite a recent mandate to wear masks indoors, students of Western Kentucky University are looking forward to the return to college life, athletics, and lifelong memories. 
  • WKU announces new mask mandate: Western Kentucky University President, Timothy Caboni announced Wednesday that starting August 9th everyone on Western Kentucky University’s campuses will be expected to wear a mask indoors. 
  • Kentucky Museum fresco mural depicts demolition of Jonesville: Alice Waddel comes from a long line of family members with roots grounded in Jonesville, Kentucky. Her mother, grandparents, and even great grandparents built their life around the town… a town that once demolished in the 60’s to make room for Western Kentucky University’s campus became nothing more than a memory for people like Waddel. 
  • Historic Chestnut Street house on the move: An old house on Chestnut Street is getting a chance at a new life. “The person who built it was one of the first professors hired at what was then the Western Kentucky State Normal School, and his name was A.M. Stickle and he taught history and economics on the hill. And, he built this house in 1913 and his family had it until about four or five years ago.” 

WBKO-TV 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Colleges amend reopening plans to include indoor masking: Several colleges in the area announced Thursday they would be amending their fall semester plans to make masking indoors a requirement. Western Kentucky University President Timothy C. Caboni issued a statement on Wednesday saying that, as the pandemic evolves, the university’s coronavirus task force, in coordination with public health officials, continues to work to protect its campus community. That task force is expected to release additional guidance for the fall semester in the upcoming days. 

Bloomberg 

  • Virus Surge Upends Plans for Getting Workers Back to Offices: The resurgent coronavirus and return of mask recommendations are hampering corporate America’s plans to get back to normalcy. “It feels like it’s getting a little crazy again,” said Katrina Burch, an assistant professor in the department of psychological sciences at Western Kentucky University and director of the school’s industrial organizational psychology master’s degree program. “It’s really challenging for any organization to manage and take in this information.” 

Washington Post 

  • How to build a child’s self-esteem. Hint: It doesn’t involve praise.: Kids with low self-esteem constantly worry Am I good enough?, but parents who regularly check in and show affection help buffer against the negative outcomes of low self-esteem, says Amy Brausch, a professor of psychology at Western Kentucky University. A 2014 study Brausch co-authored found that close parental relationships help moderate worrisome risk factors such as anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation. 

Kentucky Teacher 

  • Longtime educator Kim Hawkins receives 2021 Grissom Award from KBE: Kim Hawkins, director of preschool and special education at Allen County Schools, was presented with the 2021 Grissom Award for Innovation in Special Education at the Kentucky Board of Education’s (KBE) Aug. 5 meeting. Hawkins earned a bachelor’s in learning/behavior disorders and elementary education, a master’s in counseling, and a Rank I in educational administration and director of special education certification from Western Kentucky University. 

Robertson County (TN) Connection 

  • East Robertson grad turns idea into blooming business: While the flower business in mainly a summer-time gig that spans into early fall, Jones said she travels home frequently from Western Kentucky University, where she currently attends, to maintain her fields, design arrangements and bouquets, attend markets and to be on-site for a few other perks Jo’s Flower Co. offers. 

WKDZ-FM, Cadiz 

  • Wheeler, Miss Kentucky 2021, Pays Visit To Morningside: Residents at Morningside Assisted Living were paid a special visit on Monday afternoon, as Western Kentucky University graduate and Powell County native Haley B. Wheeler — recently crowned Miss Kentucky 2021 — began the roll-out on her social impact initiative. 

KSHB-TV, Kansas City, MO 

  • Sumner Academy graduate Jaleon Brown awarded 2021 Len Dawson Scholarship: Sumner Academy graduate Jaleon Brown had her college playbook set, but this was the ultimate audible. Brown spent her senior year applying for college scholarships and was able to score the Len Dawson Scholarship. Brown will begin her freshman year at Western Kentucky University where she plans to major in English for secondary education with a minor in performing arts. Brown will also continue with her passion for competitive speech and debate. 

Phys.org 

July 16-26, 2021

Spectrum News 1 

WKU Public Radio 

Dairy Agenda Today 

Morning Ag Clips 

  • Holstein Association USA and WKU announce formation of WKU SmartHolstein Lab: Holstein Association USA, in partnership with Western Kentucky University (WKU) and the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund, is thrilled to announce the formation of the WKU SmartHolstein Lab. The lab, located at the WKU Agriculture Research and Education Center, is designed to be a research, development, and demonstration center for the dairy industry. 

Daily News 

  • WKU president won't recommend dropping names linked to slavery: Despite recommendations from the Naming and Symbols Task Force he convened nearly a year ago, Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni said he will not recommend to the university’s board of regents the removal of campus building and college names whose namesakes were historically linked to slavery. 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Stephens settling in as new FSA county executive director: Since taking over the position as the new county executive director for the USDA’s Farm Service Agency, Jared Stephens has made it his mission to get to know the farmers of Hancock and Daviess counties. Stephens, 39, majored in agriculture at Western Kentucky University, and, after graduation, was hired in 2005 at Ohio County’s FSA office as a program technician. 
  • Jeff Wethington named CVMS interim principal: Jeff Wethington has been named the College View Middle School interim principal for the 2021-22 school year. He has a master of arts degree in educational administration from Western Kentucky University, as well as a Rank I in the area of director of pupil personnel from WKU. 
  • OCTC names new vet tech program director: Laura Boarman has been named the new director of the Owensboro Community & Technical College veterinary technology program. Boarman most recently worked at the Kentuckiana Animal Clinic for 11 years. She attended Western Kentucky University for her undergraduate degree and earned a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine. 

Owensboro Times 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Gatton Academy students embark on summer internships: Carol Martin Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky students are continuing summer learning in modified internships and reimagined programs. While some are happening virtually, many are in-person at WKU, around the Commonwealth, and even global. 

Jobe Newspaper Network 

  • WKU – Higher education in a post-pandemic world: At the first in-person Glasgow-Barren County Chamber of Commerce breakfast in over a year, President of WKU, Dr. Tim Caboni, spoke about how the pandemic has changed higher education in south central Kentucky. 

Forbes 

  • Some Prep Programs Do A Better Job Of Building Teachers’ Knowledge: Still, NCTQ’s report includes case studies that shed some light on measures that seem to work. At Western Kentucky University, aspiring elementary teachers take two courses in writing and language and three courses in relevant math content as part of the requirements for their major. They’re also guided to take a general U.S. history course rather than a course in Kentucky history. 

Study International 

  • A Gilman Scholar seeks Black power in the written word: During my junior year, I would make an effort to get back on track with writing at a journalism event called Xposure Camp. This was hosted by Student Publications at Western Kentucky University (WKU) and gave me a deeper look into the world of journalism. 

WAVE-TV, Louisville 

  • Scottsburg high school counselor retires after 50 years: A southern Indiana community is celebrating a high school counselor that has helped students in the classroom for half a century. Dancie Colson retired after 50 years in education. After graduating from Western Kentucky University, Colson began her career as a teacher in the early 1970s. She continued that role in various states before settling down in Scottsburg, Indiana. 

WFXR-TV, Blacksburg, VA 

  • Bike non-profit travels over 3,000 miles for Alzheimer’s research: Ten years and eight rides later, ‘Bike4Alz’ is traveling from coast to coast to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s research. On Wednesday, July 21, they made a pit stop at Virginia Tech’s campus and were welcomed by former members of Phi Gamma Delta and supporters. The group is originally from Western Kentucky University and is a part of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. 

North River Valley News, Floyd, VA 

  • Bike4Alz Coast-to-Coast Bicycle Ride for Alzheimer’s: Since 2010, members of Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity (nicknamed “FIJI”) at Western Kentucky University (Bowling Green, KY) have organized and executed coast-to-coast bicycle rides every other summer in order to benefit Alzheimer’s Disease research. 

Rome (GA) News-Tribune 

  • Pitching in for a better world: To appreciate the altruistic endeavor that enraptures Erin Barger, you begin with her formative years. She was born with a good heart. She is as selfless as Mother Theresa. She has the giving and caring gene. When she was earning a degree in English at Western Kentucky with plans to become a schoolteacher, she became involved with a program that addressed the needs of adults with developmental disabilities. She then lent a helping hand with the resettlement of refugees in Bowling Green. 
July 9-15, 2021

Washington Post 

  • Dreading a return to your commute? These tips might make it less terrible: Employers can also take action to improve employees’ commuting experiences. Additionally, organizations can reduce logistical hassles by offering flexible hours and allowing workers to travel during nonpeak times, said Katrina Burch, an assistant professor in the Department of Psychological Sciences at Western Kentucky University, who has researched commuting. This benefits employees “because it gives them a sense of ownership over their time and can positively impact the perception of the commute as well,” she said. 

WKU Public Radio 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Reynolds looks back on a life in education: Michelle Reynolds of Elizabethtown retired last year after three decades in education. Originally from Glendale, Reynolds graduated from East Hardin High School and went on to earn a middle school teaching degree from Western Kentucky University in 1991. She also earned her master’s degree and Rank 1 from WKU. 
  • Bike4Alz team makes fundraising stop in E’town: Since May, members of Western Kentucky University’s Phi Gamma Delta, or Fiji, fraternity have been bicycling throughout the country to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association. The group, known as Bike4Alz, made a stop Sunday evening at the Ori­gi­nal Impellizzeri’s Pizza in Elizabethtown to raise money and awareness for their cause. 
  • Goodman secures her dream job close to home: Elizabethtown native Heather Goodman recently was hired as principal at Morningside Elementary School, a position she has dreamed of for a while. She graduated from Central Hardin High School in 2000 and then attended Western Kentucky University and earned a degree instructional supervision principalship and a superintendency certification. 

WTVQ-TV, Lexington 

WLKY-TV, Louisville 

WDRB-TV, Louisville 

Lane Report 

June 29-July 8, 2021

Spectrum News 1 

Daily News 

  • Beshear names Thomas, Bale to WKU's governing board: Western Kentucky University announced Thursday that Gov. Andy Beshear made two appointments to its governing board. 
  • Warren County students win big at national conference for aspiring educators: A group of Warren County Public Schools students represented the district well at a national conference for aspiring educators, with each student placing within the top three spots in each of their respective categories. The students also represented Western Kentucky University as participants in its Young Male Leadership Academy. The program aims to help young men of diverse backgrounds develop leadership skills by exploring the education profession. 

WNKY-TV 

  • Sunrise Spotlight – David Bell: On Today’s Sunrise Spotlight brought to you by German American Bank, local author David Bell joins us live in-studio to talk about his new book, ‘Kill All Your Darlings.’ 
  • Throwback Thursday – The Evolution of WKU Student News Media: This week Throwback Thursday visits the Student Publications media offices at Western Kentucky University, remembering the printed weekly editions of the College Heights Herald and the annual Talisman yearbook. Home of these two media outlets, plus the Cherry Creative Agency and Student Publications Advertising, the Student Pubs office functions similarly to a modern news hub. 
  • WKU successfully completes SACSCOC fifth-year interim accreditation report: Western Kentucky University has been notified by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) that it has successfully completed the Fifth-Year Interim Report process with no issues of concern raised and no additional reporting required. The Fifth-Year interim report is a critical step in the 10-year reaffirmation cycle for academic accreditation. Institutions that lose their accreditation may also lose state and federal funding as well as their ability to confer degrees. 
  • WKU affiliated company received $80,000 grant for research: One of the companies receiving that grant is Bowling Green’s Adelphi Technology, Inc. The company will receive $80,000  to help expand their research projects. The company works with WKU students and faculty to develop means to measure air quality. 
  • Emerging Leader – Ambere Barnett: This week’s Emerging Leader is Ambere Barnett, a senior at Western Kentucky University and a mid-fielder with WKU Soccer. 
  • 12 to join WKU Alumni Association Board of Directors: The Western Kentucky University Alumni Association recently elected nine new board members for 2020-2021 and recognized three members who will serve in one-year appointments. 

WBKO-TV 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Local resident working on NBA Finals production crew: Wes Manakee, a Sonora native and current Upton resident, is working as part of the NBA Finals production crew, working directly for the NBA as a broadcast technician and as what he described as a “liaison” between the television networks airing the games. A 2005 graduate of Central Hardin High School, Manakee went on to attend Western Kentucky University from 2011-2015, where he studied film studies and marketing. 

The Peninsula, Qatar 

  • QatarDebate Council inaugurated in US: QatarDebate Centre, a member of Qatar Foundation,  has opened the QatarDebate Council in Western Kentucky University in the US   in the presence of a number of officials from both sides. 

WPSD-TV, Paducah 

KCPT-TV, Kansas City, KS 

Lane Report 

Cincinnati Enquirer 

June 16-28, 2021

Spectrum News 1 

WKU Public Radio 

Daily News 

  • WKU regents pass budget, 2% tuition hike for undergrads: Western Kentucky University’s Board of Regents approved Friday a $375 million campus operating budget, which requires about $9 million in spending cuts to become balanced over the course of the next fiscal year that begins July 1. 
  • WKU announces $2 million grant award for boosting mental health care capacity: Western Kentucky University announced Thursday that it will use nearly $2 million in federal grant funding to help boost the region’s workforce of mental health professionals, including by expanding opportunities for student internships over the next four years, along with training and professional development for faculty. 
  • Sharp picked to lead Junior Achievement: Allie R. Sharp has been named president of Junior Achievement of South Central Kentucky. She comes to JA from the Western Kentucky University Alumni Association, where she was coordinator of student and young alumni engagement. 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Parsons named Joe Ford Nature Center executive director: The Joe Ford Nature Center has a new executive director — Jessie Parsons. Parsons graduated from Owensboro High School and then from Western Kentucky University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology 2015. 
  • Asberry named Hancock County Schools superintendent: Robert Asberry has been hired as the new superintendent of Hancock County Public Schools, effective July 1. Asberry, who currently serves as the principal at Ohio County High School, just completed his 24th year in education. He graduated from OCHS in 1992, and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in education from Western Kentucky University. He later earned a master’s degree in administration, a Rank 1 with endorsements in the areas of supervisor of instruction, and administration. 
  • OPS partnering with WKU for mental health services: With a $1.92 million federal grant, Western Kentucky University will be providing paid stipends to counseling interns who will work directly with students in rural communities and districts in the state, including Owensboro Public Schools. 

Owensboro Times 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • SJS hires new assistant principal: St. James Catholic Regional School has hired Mechelle Buckman as the school’s new assistant principal. Buckman received her bachelor of science in elementary education and masters in curriculum and instruction from Western Kentucky University and Indiana Wesleyan.  
  • Area students selected for Gatton Academy: The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky has selected 101 Kentucky sophomores for the Class of 2023. 
  • Johnson returns to theater at The PAC: John Hardin High School graduate Paige Johnson is returning home to continue her theater dreams. Johnson, 30, will be stepping into the role of box office manager at Hardin County Schools Performing Arts Center and the role extends to working on productions at the facility. After high school, Johnson received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Design and Technology at Western Kentucky University. 

Jackson Times-Breathitt County Voice 

  • Woman with extensive Breathitt ties crowned ‘Miss Kentucky’: Haley Wheeler, a woman with extensive relations all over Breathitt County, has been crowned the winner of the 2021's “Miss Kentucky” pageant this past Sunday. Ms. Wheeler is a graduate research assistant at WKU and a substitute teacher at Powell County Schools. She both has and continues to study Speech Language Pathology and Communication Sciences and Disorders at Western Kentucky University. 

WKDZ-FM, Cadiz 

The Advocate, Baton Rouge, LA 

The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education 

Frankfort State-Journal 

Steamboat (CO) Pilot & Times 

  • Bike 4 Alz group passes through Steamboat Springs: The group of 14 young men who cycled through town this week are from Western Kentucky University, and they are biking from San Francisco, California, to Virginia Beach, Virginia. Along the way, they’ll stay with hosts and hold fundraising events. They are called team nine, since they are the ninth group to ride across the United States with Bike 4 Alz. 
May 25-June 15, 2021

Daily News 

  • WKU's Week of STEM sparks inspiration for teachers: Enter The National STEM Scholar Program. The annual summer initiative has brought dozens of middle school science teachers to Western Kentucky University’s campus over the years for a week of “hands-on, minds-on” experiments and projects, insights from renowned leaders in STEM education and collaboration with other teachers from across the country. 
  • Bowling Green's Bell releasing 13th novel: Bowling Green’s David Bell will release his 13th novel, “Kill All Your Darlings,” on July 6. Bell is a professor of English at Western Kentucky University, where he co-founded and directs the Master’s in Fine Arts program in creative writing. 
  • Runner, 78, inspires others as he completes 3,000-mile trip: Stan Cottrell’s legs are taking him across America. At 78, he is running a marathon each day for 100 days to travel from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. Cottrell, a Munfordville native who graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in health, biology, psychology and sociology, will have run more than 3,000 miles once his Amazing Friendship Run concludes in August. 
  • WKU's Garrett Conference Center comes down his summer: Lisa Jessie roomed in Bemis Lawrence Hall, then Minton, but when she attended Western Kentucky University in the 1980s – a good chunk of which she spent on the production staff of the College Heights Herald – Garrett Conference Center felt most like home. 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • College Heights Foundation names building after Hardin County native: The Cliff Todd Center, new home to the College Heights Foundation at Western Kentucky University, has been named in appreciation for a $1 million gift from Hardin County native J. Clifford “Cliff” Todd which led to the acquisition of the historic home and property. 

WKYT-TV, Lexington 

Wallet Hub

  • Compare Credit Cards: Do you have any good tips for comparing credit cards? Financially sound advice regarding credit cards is to always pay off your monthly balance, i.e. never maintain a running balance on which interest is charged. -- Jonathan Handy, Assistant Professor, WKU
May 14-24, 2021

Daily News 

  • Bike4Alz rides again: It’s a tradition more than a decade strong – when a group of Western Kentucky University fraternity brothers from Phi Gamma Delta set out on a cross-country bicycle journey, traveling thousands of miles to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s disease research. 
  • 'Monster' growth: Homegrown video production company branching out: If anything, the video production company launched in 2016 by a couple of Western Kentucky University students has picked up the pace since moving in March 2020 into the former BG OnStage offices and studio at Chestnut Street and East Seventh Avenue. 
  • WKU names new Ogden College dean: Western Kentucky University has named David N. Brown – a physics professor who holds a leadership role at the University of Louisville – as the next dean of its Ogden College of Science and Engineering, effective July 1. 
  • Stuff the Bus creates Meredith scholarships: The first two $500 scholarships will go to Western Kentucky University broadcasting students Sophia South of Alvaton and Katherine Brooks of Russellville. 

WKU Public Radio 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • Ohio County's Robby Asberry named secondary principal of the year: Ohio County High School Principal Robby Asberry has been named the secondary school principal of the year by the Kentucky Association of Secondary School Principals. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in education from Western Kentucky University. He later earned a master’s degree in administration, and a Rank I with endorsements in the areas of supervisor of instruction and administration. 

CBS17, Raleigh, NC 

  • Fayetteville teen honored as Junior Paratrooper of the Year by 82nd Airborne Division: The 82nd Airborne Division honored the Junior Paratrooper of the Year with a performance by the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights at 71st High School Friday. Alana Disponett was awarded the honor for showing resiliency with the many moves that come with military life, for her volunteer work with her father’s unit, and for extracurricular activities she’s involved in. The high school senior has a full scholarship to Western Kentucky University. 

Columbia Magazine 

  • KADB approves more than $4.9M for projects across Kentucky: The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board approved $4,939,773 for agricultural diversification and rural development projects across the commonwealth at its monthly board meeting. Western Kentucky University Research Foundation was approved for $227,896 in state funds to establish a SmartHolstein Lab. 

US Department of State 

  • 26 U.S. Colleges and Universities Receive IDEAS Grants to Build Study Abroad Capacity: The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, USA Study Abroad branch, and its implementing partner, World Learning are pleased to announce that 26 U.S. colleges and universities, including WKU, have been awarded 2021 IDEAS (Increase and Diversify Education Abroad for U.S. Students) grants under the Capacity Building Program for U.S. Study Abroad.

AgDaily 

ASCE.org 

WKDZ-FM, Cadiz 

  • Hopkinsville High Student Heading to Gatton Academy: A Hopkinsville High School sophomore is heading to Gatton Academy at Western Kentucky University. School District spokesperson John Rittenhouse said Quinn Miller had been selected to attend the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science as a member of the Class of 2023. 
April 29-May 13, 2021

Daily News 

  • Facing retirement, Potter College dean reflects on decades at WKU: It’s been a wild ride for Potter College of Arts and Letters Dean Larry Snyder, who plans to retire in June after more than 30 years at Western Kentucky University. 
  • WKU eagerly awaits state agency's decision on tuition hikes: Anticipating a budget shortfall of nearly $8 million, Western Kentucky University officials are looking ahead to a key decision the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education is expected to make about how high public universities can raise tuition. 
  • 'Hoping downtown will come alive': That’s a sentiment that would hit the right note with business owners like Courtney Murley, who opened her Hot Mess Mama Boutique on State Street just a week ago. “I knew this was where our second store needed to be,” said Murley, a Western Kentucky University graduate.  
  • Two WKU students awarded Fulbright grants: Western Kentucky University students Ariana Pedigo of Russellville and Reuben Tang of Glasgow have been awarded Fulbright U.S. Student Grants for 2021-22 by the U.S. Department of State and J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. 
  • WKU's new 'First-Year Village' opens this fall: When incoming freshmen come to Western Kentucky University this fall, campus administrators hope to give them an experience worth coming back to, namely with two new, high-end residence halls that are on track to open for students in August and showcase WKU’s new First-Year Village. 
  • WKU spokesman Bob Skipper to retire in June: He’s the face of Western Kentucky University’s media relations division and the university’s official spokesman, but most students throughout the years know him by his email moniker: “Skipper, Bob.” 
  • WKU kicks off Commencement ceremonies by recognizing over 4,000 graduates: After their final school year was ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic, 4,180 graduates were finally awarded degrees and certificates by Western Kentucky University under a clear blue sky at Houchens-Smith Stadium. 
  • WKU forensics team completes national championship sweep: The Western Kentucky University forensics team won the National Forensic Association individual events team championship and NFA Lincoln-Douglas Debate team sweepstakes national championship. The NFA events were hosted virtually April 16-19. 
  • Four WKU students awarded Critical Languages Scholarships: Four Western Kentucky University students were awarded critical language scholarships that fully fund summer study in intensive language programs.

WKU Public Radio 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Owensboro Times 

Owensboro Radio 

WEHT-TV, Evansville, IN 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Area educators winners of annual Distinguished Educator Awards: Western Kentucky University has announced the winners of the second annual Distinguished Educator Awards. 
  • E’town graduate named principal of high school: Elmore’s Master of Arts in middle school education and school administration certification were earned at Western Kentucky University.  
  • Forensics Team completes national championship sweep: The Western Kentucky University Forensics Team won both the National Forensic Association Individual Events Team Championship and the National Forensic Association Lincoln-Douglas Debate Team Sweepstakes national championship, hosted virtually April 16-19. 
  • HCS names director of special education: Jessica Taylor, who has served as a special education teacher for six years in Hardin County Schools, has been named the district’s new director of special education. Taylor is a graduate of Western Kentucky University where she earned certifications in learning and behavior disorders, moderate and severe disabilities and director of special education. 
  • WKU students bike to E’town, raise money for Alzheimer’s ride: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the No. 6 cause of death in the United States is Alzheimer’s disease. At Western Kentucky University, a group of students called Bike4Alz will be biking cross country to raise money and awareness for the disease. 

Hancock Clarion 

  • Ginger Estes named high school principal: Last Thursday the Hancock County school district removed the interim tag from Ginger Estes’ name and hired her as the new principal of Hancock County High School. Estes attended Western Kentucky University for her undergrad work. She also received her master’s degree from Western as well as her principal certification. 

Murray Ledger & Times 

WYMT-TV, Hazard 

Clarksville (TN) Now 

April 21-28, 2021

Daily News 

  • WKU kicks off graduation season this weekend: Kicking off a graduation season like no other, Western Kentucky University will recognize nearly 4,200 students who graduated during the fall 2020 and spring 2021 semesters with commencement ceremonies Saturday at Houchens-Smith Stadium. 
  • WKU names new Potter College dean: An accomplished concert artist, recitalist and opera singer who currently leads the University of North Alabama’s School of Arts as its founding executive director will become the next dean of Western Kentucky University’s Potter College of Arts and Letters. 
  • 10 Questions with ... Terrance Brown: Current job title: Currently, the founding executive director of the School of Arts at the University of North Alabama and the incoming dean of the Potter College of Arts and Letters at Western Kentucky University, effective in July. 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

WKU Public Radio 

  • Never Again? WKU Professor Discusses Why Genocide Continues to Happen, and What Can Be Done: The uneasy issue of genocide is in the news. President Joe Biden on Saturday became the first U.S. President to call the killing of an estimated 1.5 million Armenians by the Ottoman Empire during WWI an act of genocide. Someone with a keen interest in the subject of genocide is Marko Dumancic, an associate professor of history at Western Kentucky University, who teaches courses on the subject. 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • LaRue teachers named distinguished educators: Western Kentucky University announced winners of the second Distinguished Educator Awards, which includes a few LaRue County teachers. 
  • Merit finalist from EHS awarded Gates scholarship: Elizabethtown High School student and National Merit finalist Reid Lunsford received the National Merit Gates Industrial Corp. Foundation Scholarship. Lunsford attends the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky University.  

WCLU-FM, Glasgow 

Columbia Magazine 

Jobe Newspaper Network 

April 10-20, 2021

NBC News 

Daily News 

  • Jack Glasser retiring after 41 years in medicine: As tough as it was for Jack Glasser to leave behind his catcher’s mitt and chest protector after an All-American baseball career at Western Kentucky University, his decision this month to hang up his stethoscope and tongue depressor may be harder. 
  • Bowling Green author chronicles literary clubs: After more than 25 years in the making, Western Kentucky University emeritus associate professor Jean E. Nehm is finally seeing the release of her biggest project, “Respectfully Submitted: The Remarkable Literary Clubs of Bowling Green Kentucky.” 
  • WKU won't require vaccine for returning students, will cease offering vaccine on campus: Students returning to Western Kentucky University this fall are "strongly encouraged" to get the coronavirus vaccine, but they will not be required to get it to return for classes, WKU spokesman Bob Skipper told the Daily News on Monday. 
  • WKU regents look at tuition, budget issues: As Western Kentucky University watches for the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education to set the annual cap on tuition rate increases later this month, the agency has told WKU and other colleges across the state that it will aim to offer them “maximum flexibility.” 

WBKO-TV 

WNKY-TV 

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 

  • WKU-O holds drive thru celebration for graduates: Western Kentucky University-Owensboro held a drive-thru graduation celebration for students Friday outside the L. Reid Haire Administration Building. The official graduation celebration, according to administrative assistant Judy Rouse, will be held in Bowling Green. 
  • Brackin to serve as Highland Elementary School principal: Kristy Brackin, support services coordinator, Daviess County Public Schools, has been selected to serve as the next principal of Highland Elementary School. A graduate of Daviess County High School, Brackin earned an associates degree from Owensboro Community and Technical College and a bachelor of science degree in elementary education from Western Kentucky University. 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

Columbia Magazine 

  • WKU announces finalists for Distinguished Educator Awards: Western Kentucky University today announced the 2021 finalists of the WKU College of Education and Behavioral Sciences' Distinguished Educator Awards. Finalists include Tammy Dennis, Dale Decker, Dana Soto, and Lorie Estes from Green County, Rodney Smith from Cumberland County Middle School, and Lindsay Gibson from Russell County Middle School. 

McKnight’s Senior Living 

  • Bingocise becomes internet sensation with homebound seniors: Bingocise is the brainchild of Jason Crandall, professor of exercise and kinesiology at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green. He told McKnight’s Home Care Daily  Bingocise “happened serendipitously” back in 2011 when some of his students developed an exercise program for a local senior center. 
March 27-April 9, 2021

Daily News 

  • 'A new energy': First live performance in a year for WKU dance this weekend: Western Kentucky University’s dance department will host its “WKU Evening of Dance” for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began 
  • For young adults with autism, LifeWorks at WKU offers community: Back when he was attending Western Kentucky University, Andy Arnold had a home on the Hill. He made the Dean’s List, the President’s List, aced an independent study course and was president of the Religious Studies Club and the university’s Quiz Bowl team. But after he graduated in 2019, there weren’t a lot of ready-made paths for someone on the autism spectrum.
  • WKU Farm first in U.S. to install new cow beds: To maintain health and increase milk production, experts say cows need to sleep comfortably for 12 to 14 hours a day. The more comfortable a cow is while sleeping, the more milk that she can produce. That’s why Western Kentucky University’s farm recently installed new cow mattresses. WKU’s farm is the first in the country to install the Dutch Mountain Cow Mattresses. 
  • City schools students delve deep to map Mammoth Cave's waterways: Fastening on their hard hats and headlamps, a group of Bowling Green Independent School District students is delving deep to unlock the secrets of Mammoth Cave National Park’s underground waterways. The project, which was made possible by a partnership with the Crawford Hydrology Laboratory at Western Kentucky University, has students dumping water tracers like fluorescent dyes and salt solutions to map the waterways of Great Onyx Cave. 

WNKY-TV 

WBKO-TV 

Spectrum News 1 

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise 

  • Ott ‘made’ for Warm Blessings role: When Candy Ott of Clarkson took on her new role as a social worker for Warm Blessings soup kitchen late last year, she felt she was “made for the job.” Originally from Michigan, Ott moved to Kentucky in 1991 to be closer to her grandparents and moved to Elizabethtown in 1994. Going back to school when she was 35, Ott earned a master’s degree in social work from Western Kentucky University in 2012. 
  • Eastview teen earns highest Girl Scout honor: Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana have awarded an Eastview resident the highest of all Girl Scout honors. Sierra Reed, 18, has earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Reed graduated from Central Hardin High School and currently is studying fine arts as a freshman at Western Kentucky University. 

Lane Report 

  • Owensboro Health names new president and chief executive officer: Owensboro Health has named Mark Marsh — a healthcare executive who has led hospitals in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Florida — as its next president and chief executive officer. Marsh is a native of Cincinnati and played quarterback for the Western Kentucky University football team that made the NCAA playoffs in both 1987 and 1988. 
March 20-26, 2021

Daily News 

  • Connie Smith, John Kelly make Hall of Fame: Connie Smith, president and CEO of Bowling Green’s Med Center Health, and John Kelly, a former senior executive at DESA International and Pan-Oston who was instrumental in establishing the Kelly Autism Program at Western Kentucky University, were inducted into the hall of fame in a videotaped ceremony shown on the Junior Achievement Facebook page. They join 32 previous inductees whose photographs are displayed at Knicely Conference Center. 
  • Kentucky Building renamed after former Bowling Green mayor: Former Bowling Green Mayor Charles Hardcastle, a graduate of Western Kentucky University, will have the Kentucky Building renamed after him. 
  • Lewis sworn in as Warren County's first female PVA: Susan Oliver Lewis, who has worked for the past four years in the Warren County PVA office, was appointed by the governor and sworn in by county Judge-Executive Mike Buchanon to fill the post that Branstetter held for 14 years. A graduate of Greenwood High School and Western Kentucky University, Lewis worked in real estate before spending three years on the staff of the Jefferson County PVA office in Louisville. 
  • WKU task force reviewing public comments on naming issue: The Western Kentucky University task force that could recommend changing colleges and buildings on campus that bear historical slaveholders’ names is now reviewing the public’s feedback. 

WBKO-TV 

  • Woman recognized for work with Hispanic community, minority groups: Julia Rivas moved to Bowling Green when she was 16 years old. Originally from El Salvador, Rivas graduated from Warren Central High School in 2006 and continued her education at Western Kentucky University. While a student at WKU she helped establish Hilltopper Organization of Latin American Students (HOLAS), which celebrates Hispanic culture and helps organize support for needy communities. 
  • Junior Achievement inducts 2021 laureates into Business Hall of Fame in virtual presentation: Two local business leaders were inducted into Junior Achievement’s Business Hall of Fame on Tuesday. Connie Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of Med Center Health and Chief Executive Officer of The Medical Center, and John Kelly, former Senior Executive at DESA International and Pan-Oston, were chosen as the 2021 honorees. Kelly’s family is the namesake of the Kelly Autism Program at Western Kentucky University, which provides educational and social support for individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders. 
  • WKU professor teaches one last class after a 42-year career on the hill: Forty-two years on the hill has come to an end for one professor at Western Kentucky University. Dr. Fred Stickle, taught his last class Saturday, marking the end of his teaching career. 
  • Guthrie announces $430,000 grant for WKU research: On Friday, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) announced Western Kentucky University was the recipient of a research grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

WNKY-TV 

Montgomery (AL) Independent 

  • AUM-led project will help 1,800 Alabama nursing home residents: Developed by Dr. Jason Crandall at the Western Kentucky University Center for Applied Science in Health and Aging (CASHA), Bingocize ® strategically mixes the game of bingo with a series of exercises aimed at improving nursing home residents’ ability to perform activities of daily living and decreasing their risk of falls. 

Mississippi State University 

  • MSU kinesiology students, faculty bring increased exercise to Mississippi nursing home residents: Four Mississippi State kinesiology faculty members are helping residents in 24 Mississippi-certified nursing facilities with increasing activity and social engagement. “We are very excited to partner with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Mississippi Division of Medicaid and the Western Kentucky University Center for Applied Science in Health and Aging to introduce Bingocize to nursing home residents in Mississippi,” Pan said. 

Wallet Hub

  • Cheapest Car Insurance in Kentucky: How do you think COVID-19 has affected consumer demand for car insurance? It is hard to tell whether demand for car insurance has changed much during the pandemic. These data are privately collected and are not readily and publicly available. -- Dr. J. Sebastian Leguizamon, Director, Center for Applied Economics, Assistant Professor of Economics, WKU
March 11-19, 2021

Daily News 

  • WKU names new provost: Filling a vacancy to replace Western Kentucky University’s acting provost, who is retiring, the university named Robert “Bud” Fischer Jr. as its next provost and vice president for academic affairs. 
  • WKU students promote campus' mental health center amid pandemic: The coronavirus put a new spotlight on Western Kentucky University’s Counseling Center, but its services and staff will likely be vital long after the pandemic’s eventual conclusion.
  • Free after-school arts program offers creative outlet for students: Logan started the nonprofit in 2005 when he was 25. He has a bachelor’s degree from Western Kentucky University in communication, a master’s degree in corporate organization and a master’s degree in organizational leadership. 
  • In the dough: 'Baked' cookie shop enjoys sweet opening: What started with a culinary arts class Jeff Townsend took as an elective while studying political science at Western Kentucky University has turned into a downtown business startup. 

Spectrum News 1 

WNKY-TV 

  • Sunrise Spotlight – The Dance Project at WKU: WKU Theatre & Dance student Kaylee Lane joined us today in the German American Bank Studio to talk about The Dance Project. 
  • WKU to Offer Public Health Program at WKU Regional Campuses: Adult learners in Elizabethtown, Glasgow and Owensboro regions will have a new degree option through WKU Public Health beginning this fall. Students at these regional campuses will be able to complete a Bachelor of Science in Public Health through a hybrid format including in-person, connected classrooms, and online. 

WBKO-TV 

  • Hughes & Coleman Hometown Hero: Stacey Forsythe: Professors at Western Kentucky University have had to overcome several challenges throughout the year. One assistant professor for sports management has had to manage to teach her kids at home and also teach her college students at the same time. 
  • BG physicians talk about impact of pandemic on kids’ mental health: Dr. Lacretia Dye is a licensed counselor and a professor at Western Kentucky University. She’s pairing with City Commissioner Dana Beasley Brown to start a weekly webinar series. The virtual series is called “Emerging Minds,” to support tweens, teens, and parents. 

The Wilson Post, Lebanon, TN 

  • Rudzinski takes reins at county's Help Center: Rudzinski, a Western Kentucky University graduate, has experience with non-profit organizations that include American Cancer Society, Leukemia Lymphoma Society and the Mt. Juliet Chamber of Commerce. She was also the first executive director of Charis Health Center in Mt. Juliet. 

Danville Advocate-Messenger 

Feb. 23-March 10, 2021

WKU Public Radio 

Daily News 

  • WKU renews Caboni's contract, offers new pay incentives: Hoping to entice Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni to stay on for another four years, the university’s Board of Regents voted Friday to approve a new employment contract featuring several fresh compensation incentives. The deal, effective July 1, cements Caboni’s second four-year term as WKU’s president. 
  • Bonaguro hired as dean at Slippery Rock University: John Bonaguro has been hired as founding dean of the College of Health Professions at Slippery Rock (Pa.) University. Bonaguro was founding dean of Western Kentucky University’s College of Health and Human Services in 2003. 
  • Dance Big Red raises nearly $50,000 for Norton Children’s Hospital: Western Kentucky University students raised $49,774 on Feb. 26 to support pediatric heart care at Norton Children’s Hospital during the annual Dance Big Red event.
  • State reboots equity in teaching academy: Students of color made up nearly 25% of Kentucky’s overall student population during the 2019-20 school year, a reality that isn’t represented by the state’s teacher workforce, which is about 95% White.
  • WKU to extend state teacher discount to border states: Western Kentucky University will extend a tuition discount it previously reserved for in-state education students to students who reside in one of Kentucky’s bordering states.
  • WKU student starts 'micro pantry' program in city: Maybe late at night or in the wee hours of the morning when no other avenues are available, a single parent or a down-on-their-luck person living on the streets will visit a bright-yellow metal box once used for selling newspapers and find what they need to make it through the day. If they do, they can thank 19-year-old Western Kentucky University sophomore Jason Lowe.

Owensboro Times 

WNKY-TV 

  • Kinesiology graduate student wins WKU’s inaugural 3MT Competition: Catie Duchette, a graduate assistant in the Kinesiology program, is the winner of the inaugural WKU 3MT Competition. 
  • WKU organizational leadership ranked as best online degree: Learn.Org has recognized Western Kentucky University’s Bachelor of Organizational Leadership as a top online degree. The program, designed to accommodate the learning needs of our working professionals by offering courses both online and in person, is now considered the best option for students seeking an online bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership.
  • Regents approved raise for WKU president: The Western Kentucky University Board of Regents Friday approved an addendum to President Timothy C. Caboni’s employment contract that includes retention and performance-based bonuses, a deferred compensation plan, separation payments and an increase to his base salary. 
  • Kentucky Building to be named in honor of Charles Hardcastle: For Charles Hardcastle and his wife, Carolyn Hardcastle, caring for his community is second nature. A former Mayor of Bowling Green and current President of Consolidated Paper Group, Charles Hardcastle has been a prominent member of the community for many years. Now, his dedication to the region will be permanently memorialized, as the Kentucky Building will be renamed the Charles Hardcastle Kentucky Building in honor of a $1.5 million gift made by the namesake and his wife. 
  • Sunrise Spotlight – Midnight on the Hill: Fundraising is on for Midnight on the Hill for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital! Today, we spoke with Hanna Van Winkle in the German American Bank Studio to learn more.
  • SoKY’s Choice – Kentucky Museum: The Kentucky Museum is once again reopen to the public after a months-long delay due to the pandemic!
  • Dance Big Red raises nearly $50,000 for Norton Children’s Hospital: Dance Big Red raised nearly $50,000 to support pediatric heart care at Norton Children’s Hospital. Western Kentucky University students participated in the seventh-annual student-led dancing fundraiser held on Zoom and livestreamed to Facebook over the weekend.
  • Bowling Green Fire Department introduces new spokeswoman: The Bowling Green Fire Department is excited to introduce the department’s new public information officer, Katie McKee, the first civilian to hold that title for the department. She is a Bowling Green native, Bowling Green High School alumna and Western Kentucky University alumna.

WBKO-TV 

Owensboro Radio 

  • Peveler named DCPS Director of Elementary Education and MTSS Coordinator: Leslie Peveler has been named director of elementary education and Multi-Tiered System of Support coordinator for the Daviess County Public Schools district. Peveler earned a bachelor of arts degree in elementary education, a master’s degree in school counseling and a Rank I certification in school administration from Western Kentucky University. 

Ky Forward 

Washington Post 

Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists 

  • Sarah Starkey joins the Bulletin: The Bulletin is excited to welcome Sarah Starkey as our new Social Media & Analytics Coordinator, where she will be responsible for creating, implementing and measuring content strategies across social platforms as well as compiling regular analytics reports. Starkey started her career in advertising as a copywriter at Imagewest, an award-winning, student-run advertising and public relations agency at Western Kentucky University. 

Greater Milwaukee Today

General Aviation News

  • COVID claims long-time aviation journalist: Mike Collins, a veteran aviation journalist, died Feb. 25, 2021, after a weeks’ long battle with COVID-19. He was just 59 years old. Mike’s first love was photography. He learned darkroom skills on his own in junior high school and went on to earn a photojournalism degree from Western Kentucky University. From there he worked at various newspapers as a photographer, photo editor, and editor.

AOPA.org

  • Saying goodbye: AOPA loses Technical Editor Mike Collins: We lost one of our own this week with the death of Technical Editor and Director of Business Operations Mike Collins from COVID-19. After two weeks in an intensive care unit on a ventilator, Mike died on February 25. He was 59. He had a degree in photojournalism from Western Kentucky University.

Milwaukee (WI) Journal Sentinel

Feb. 5-22, 2021

Daily News

  • WKU gets chapter for builders, contractors group: At a time when construction jobs continue to grow in the Bowling Green area, a new student chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors organization could lead to more opportunities for students studying engineering and construction management and to a better pipeline for employees at local construction companies.

WBKO-TV

  • College Students: Find out which filing status is right for you: College students, you may be wondering what to file as this tax season approaches. According to the IRS, a dependent is someone under 24 who doesn’t provide more than half of their support. Some students, like WKU student Andrea Bravo, may qualify for either. Bravo says she wanted to file as an independent to claim the previous stimulus checks.
  • Black History Makers: Aurelia Spaulding, Founder of For a Real Change, Inc.: Aurelia Spaulding is Founder and Executive Director of For a Real Change, Inc., a 501(c) nonprofit whose mission is to empower young people through education, meaningful service experiences and applied learning, “so we’re essentially honing in on those leadership abilities that they already have in them so they can go out and do really important things that they want to do,” Spaulding said.
  • Black History Makers: Jared Carpenter: While getting his masters degree at WKU, Jared got the incredible opportunity to tour South Africa, and discovered a remarkable similarity between their cultural struggles and ours.

WNKY-TV

  • WKU Construction students have a new resource: Western Kentucky University students interested in the field of construction now have a new resource to help build their future. The Associated Builders and Contractors Indiana Kentucky chapter have announced the creation of a student chapter at WKU to mentor construction students.

Kentucky Living

  • Top 10 questions to choose a college: Jace Lux, director of admissions at Western Kentucky University (WKU), agrees that students who are connected from day one have a greater chance at success. So prospective students should look for more than a long list of extracurricular activities—find out how easily a student can get plugged in.

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer

  • Rice Agri-Marketing celebrates 10 years in county: Rice Agri-Marketing in Livermore is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2021. Founder Jeff Rice has been in the agriculture business since he was a child and made his transition into the marketing side of farming since then. Rice said his father was a farmer, and after graduating from Western Kentucky University in 1983, he began his own journey in agriculture.

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • Area students recognized as candidates for U.S. Presidential Scholars: Two area students were among 10 Gatton Academy seniors who recently learned they are candidates for the 2021 United States Presidential Scholars Program.
  • Internship opportunity sparks Hall’s passion: Jeleena Hall started at Mission Hope for Kids for internship experience and stayed to help make a difference in young lives. Hall, 34, works at Human Resources Command as an assignment manager and at Communicare serving people in crisis. She became involved with Mission Hope for Kids in 2015 while searching for an internship placement through Western Kentucky University to complete her master’s degree in social work.

Bangor (ME) Daily News

  • Learning game makes improving balance more fun: Bingocize, a unique program that combines the popular board game with  exercises specifically developed to improve stability and balance for older persons, will soon be offered  in Aroostook County. This evidence-based class, developed at Western Kentucky University, mixes the excitement of a bingo like competition with moderate exercise.

WAGM-TV, Presque Isle, ME

  • Program helps seniors improve balance: The Aroostook Agency on Aging is hoping an upcoming program called Bingocize will help seniors improve their balance while having fun. Jane Hanson, Healthy Living for ME Regional Coordinator for Aroostook County, is organizing the activity. Bingocize originated at Western Kentucky University by Jason Crandall, director of the university’s Center for Applied Science and Health in Aging. It combines the familiar game with a light exercise program and education.

Wallet Hub

  • States with the Best Dental Health: What tips do you have for a person that wishes to maintain dental health without breaking the bank? – Dr. Terry Dean, Associate Professor of Dental Hygiene, WKU

Sound & Communications

  • The Future Of Education Technology: Teachers also face a conundrum as regards how to capture and distribute their lesson-plan material and how to digitize physical resources. Western Kentucky University has provided its educators with document cameras with built-in microphones to help equip them for remote learning.

SpaceNews

  • Space weather bill will fizzle without funding: Op-Ed by Ian Cohen and Gordon Emslie: On Oct. 21, 2020, the Promoting Research and Observations of Space Weather to Improve the Forecasting of Tomorrow (PROSWIFT) Act was signed into law. Dr. Gordon Emslie is Professor of Physics & Astronomy, Western Kentucky University, and Chair of the AAS Solar Physics Division Public Policy Committee
Jan. 22-Feb. 4, 2021

Daily News

  • Smith, Kelly selected for Business Hall of Fame: Connie Smith, president and CEO of Med Center Health, and John Kelly, a former senior executive at DESA International and Pan-Oston, have been selected as the 2021 inductees into the Junior Achievement of South Central Kentucky Business Hall of Fame. Smith joined Med Center Health in 1981. She received her associate degree and bachelor’s degree in nursing from Western Kentucky University. Kelly was named 2019 South Central Kentuckian of the Year by the Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky. His family is the namesake of the Kelly Autism Program at WKU.
  • WKU naming task force solicits public's feedback: The Western Kentucky University task force that could recommend changing the names of colleges and buildings on campus that bear the names of historical slaveholders is asking for the public’s feedback.
  • Two descendants of Potter College founder support name change: Two descendants of the slave-owning namesake of Western Kentucky University’s Potter College of Arts and Letters – Pleasant J. Potter – wrote to a campus task force examining the issue, urging the group to recommend a name change.
  • Minter introduces student loan reform bill: State Rep. Patti Minter, D-Bowling Green, has introduced legislation called the Student Loan Borrower Bill of Rights in the Kentucky General Assembly. “This will help people know what they’re getting into,” said Minter, a professor at Western Kentucky University.
  • WKU's Idea Festival moves online: Each year, Western Kentucky University’s Idea Festival draws students to its campus for a half-day event of engaging talks and activities. This year, however, the festival is moving online with a live-streamed event that will allow students to share questions, comments, photos and videos in real time.
  • WKU president gets 'outstanding' performance review; contract negotiations move ahead: Western Kentucky University’s Board of Regents gave WKU President Timothy Caboni a glowing evaluation Friday, which will likely bode well for Caboni as he nears the end of his four-year contract June 30.

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

  • Kentucky Museum reopens to public on Thursday, Feb. 4: The Kentucky Museum at WKU is reopening this week under coronavirus prevention measures outlined in WKU’s Healthy on the Hill guidelines.
  • Black History Makers: Ryan Dearbone: 2020 was a rough year for a lot of people, but rough times are when our community comes together and one of those people working to do that is Ryan Dearbone. He’s a former 13 News reporter, a husband, a father, the president of the Bowling Green Warren County NAACP, the Vice Chair of the MLK Day Planning Committee, he’s part of the WKU Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee, a Deacon at State Street Baptist Church, and a member of Black Leaders Advocating for the Community (BLAC).
  • WKU students to host virtual Dance Big Red for Norton Children’s Heart Institute: The Seventh Annual Dance Big Red student-led dance fundraising event at Western Kentucky University will be held virtually on February 26, 2021.
  • WKU alumnus plays in percussion group at inauguration: One WKU alumnus is representing Western Kentucky on the national level. Sergeant First Class Kristopher Keeton was the drummer at the wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown at Arlington.
  • New semester, same problems: WKU student documenting peers’ COVID-19 journey on the hill: Shakira Tunstill is a journalism student at WKU who is reaching out to her peers on the hill during this pandemic. Shakira is documenting how students are navigating another semester, during all the changes of COVID-19. She’s interviewing students, and he plans on making a short documentary.

WKU Public Radio

CBC Radio

  • Marketing Mysticism: How shortcuts to enlightenment shortchange spiritual traditions: Sophia Rose Arjana is a professor of religious studies at Western Kentucky University and says that while the seeking out of enchantment is a key characteristic of the loneliness of modern life, the challenge of the mystical marketplace —which includes a broad range of products and activities including festivals and experiences and wellness tourism — is that the healing journey of western consumers means the "dumbing down" of ancient traditions and beliefs.
Jan. 8-21, 2021

Daily News

  • WKU provost announces retirement: The search for Western Kentucky University’s next chief academic officer is picking up, with the first of four finalists for the position expected to visit campus next week and Acting Provost Cheryl Stevens announcing her retirement.
  • WKU offers senior employees buyouts: Hoping to cut personnel costs, Western Kentucky University is rolling out voluntary buyouts for its senior employees, with lump sums of up to $100,000, including supplemental benefits to help employees under age 65 buy health insurance.
  • WKU students return to campus Tuesday: On Tuesday, Western Kentucky University students will return for the start of classes, but once again, it won’t be a typical semester in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

WKU Public Radio

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

The Chronicle of Higher Education

  • Teaching: Tackling Disinformation With Media Literacy: Molly Kerby understands political polarization. She sees it every day on her campus. Western Kentucky University, where she has taught for nearly three decades, draws from the bluer cities of Louisville and Nashville as well as deep red regions of Appalachia.

Gulf Times, Doha, Qatar

Construction in Focus

  • Designing for Wellness and Energy Savings: CMTA also won a first-place regional ASHRAE award for its work on Ogden College Hall, a science center at Western Kentucky University. The 82,000-square-foot building was built at a cost of $40 million and features excellent air quality – to boost the mental acuity of occupants – airflow, lighting, and internal design. Built to LEED Gold standards, Ogden Hall is also the first WELL Gold-certified university laboratory building in America.

Wallet Hub

  • Best VISA Credit Cards: Are there any good reasons for people to seek out a Visa credit card in particular? Of the four most popular credit card companies, the specific benefits offered by each are very similar. -- Jonathan Handy, WKU Assistant Professor of Finance
  • No Balance Transfer Fee Credit Cards: Do you think people pay enough attention to balance transfer fees when shopping for a balance transfer credit card? While many individuals do well shopping for credit cards when transferring their balance from another card, many others do not. – Ron Rhoades, WKU Assistant Professor of Finance

  • 2021’s Best States to Retire: What is the most common mistake that retirees make when choosing where to settle? When a person retires from the workplace, they largely remove themselves from a huge social network. And, if they move away from their area, they disconnect from other social networks and possibly lessen their ties to their family network in particular. – Ron Rhoades, WKU Assistant Professor of Finance

Dec. 17, 2020-Jan. 7, 2021

Daily News

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

Louisville Courier Journal

  • Coaches, friends remember the life of Western Kentucky volleyball legend Alyssa Cavanaugh: Alyssa Marie Cavanaugh was one of a kind. Her accolades on the volleyball court were seemingly endless. A four-time state volleyball champion at Assumption High School. A four-time All-American and two-time Conference USA Player of the Year at Western Kentucky University where she won four C-USA tournament titles and was part of the program’s first class to appear in the NCAA Tournament every year.

Spectrum News 1

Dec. 3-16, 2020

WKU Public Radio

Daily News

  • Colleagues praise Oldham's enduring legacy on WKU's hill: Gary West has 100 stories about the late, great Western Kentucky University basketball coach John Oldham – who led the team in 1971 to the Final Four for its first and only time in history and won “Coach of the Year” in the Ohio Valley Conference four times. Oldham died last month at the age of 97.
  • Caboni: WKU will restore cut salaries of university faculty, staff: Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni said Friday the university will roll back the salary cuts employees took this year that were enacted to achieve some $27 million in spending reductions as part of a round of annual budget belt-tightening spurred by the coronavirus pandemic.

Spectrum News 1

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

Ky Forward

Conde Nast Traveler

  • What We Can Learn From the Sámi Tradition of Reading Snow: Growing up amid the hundreds of lakes and vast beech, maple, and birch tree forests of northern Wisconsin's Vilas County, Dr. Tim Frandy, 42, always had an affinity for the outdoors. In fact, for Frandy, an assistant professor in folk studies at Western Kentucky University, activities like hunting, foraging, and ice fishing were simply a way of life; as much a part of his Midwest upbringing as his Nordic roots. Or so he thought.

Dover (DE) Post

  • Dover hires new city manager: Dover Council's choice for the new city manager has accepted the offer, according to a press release today, Dec. 15. Randy E. Robertson will be starting the job in February. Robertson holds a bachelor’s degree in government and history from Western Kentucky University and three master’s degrees: one in urban planning from John Hopkins University, one in public administration from Western Kentucky University and one in strategic planning from the United States Army War College.
Nov. 17-Dec. 2, 2020

WKU Public Radio

Daily News

  • Big Lots moving to former Toys R Us location: The Bowling Green Big Lots, located next to the Western Kentucky University Center for Research and Development near Campbell Lane and Nashville Road, is part of a company that has thrived in spite of the trend toward online retailing.
  • New equipment allows for early detection of health issues: The Harold, Juanita, David, Dennis & Gary Koon Charitable Foundation provided a $100,000 gift and Dance Big Red, an annual fundraiser by Western Kentucky University students, provided additional support this past March.
  • Housing Authority spearheads loan program for minority businesses: “Research from the Federal Reserve highlights the discrimination over time that minority business owners have faced in the U.S., although minority and low-income entrepreneurs often need only a small capital injection,” said Whitney Peake, a member of the POP-UP board and an entrepreneurship professor at Western Kentucky University. “Our goal is to help change the lending landscape for minority and low-income business owners one entrepreneur at a time.”

WNKY-TV

Spectrum News 1

  • (Not) Home for the Holidays: WKU Plans to House Some Students for the Holiday Season: Some students at Western Kentucky University are staying on campus for the holidays. Due to COVID-19, many students will stay on campus for Thanksgiving to keep themselves and their families safe. The university will keep all dorms open during the Thanksgiving break and plans to keep three residence halls open during Christmas break.
  • New Equipment Helps Doctors Treat Babies with Heart Conditions: Community support to the Norton Children’s Hospital Foundation helped make purchasing the equipment possible. The Harold, Juanita, David, Dennis & Gary Koon Charitable Foundation made a $100,000 gift and Dance Big Red, an annual fundraiser by Western Kentucky University students, provided additional support this past march.

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer

  • Owensboro native named Rhodes Scholar finalist: Owensboro native Harsh Moolani has been named a Rhodes Scholar finalist. Moolani, who attended Daviess County High School, graduated from the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in 2016.

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • Kahlden serves youth with food insecurity: Charis Kahlden knows of these struggles, and through her role as coordinator for Lakewood Elementary School’s Family Resource Center, she has spent the last two decades identifying and helping families that face them. A graduate of West Hardin High School, Kahlden earned her associates degree from Elizabethtown Community and Technical College and later commuted back and forth between Stephensburg and Bowling Green to earn a bachelors degree in social work from Western Kentucky University.

Western Recorder

Oct. 30-Nov. 16, 2020

Daily News

  • Community leaders implore Warren County residents to take COVID-19 seriously: With coronavirus cases surging across Kentucky, local government, health care and education leaders on Thursday urged Warren County residents to take the virus more seriously or be prepared for consequences. Event participants included Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni.
  • Caboni honors nation's veterans with wreath-laying: Shortly before laying a memorial wreath at Western Kentucky University’s Guthrie Bell Tower on Wednesday to commemorate Veterans Day, WKU President Timothy Caboni addressed a crowd under a gray, overcast sky. Behind him, granite etchings of WKU alumni and veterans peered out like ghosts from the clock tower’s base.
  • Through new scholarship, teacher ambassadors aim to draw more diverse talent: In June, following the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis by police, a group of Bowling Green professionals banded together and set off on a mission to achieve equal access and workforce opportunities for the local African American community. Now, through a new scholarship program in partnership with Western Kentucky University and both local public school systems, Gamechangers is stepping into the education arena.
  • WKU students divert 5,000 pounds of food from landfills to charities: When Western Kentucky University senior Elaine Losekamp traveled to a sustainability conference in 2018 and discovered a way to cut food waste and feed people simultaneously, an idea popped into her head.

WKU Public Radio

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

  • BG/WC Coronavirus Workgroup holds virtual news conference with ‘urgent’ message for citizens: The Bowling Green/Warren County Coronavirus Workgroup held a news conference Thursday to discuss the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases and the impact it is having on healthcare, education and the economy. Western Kentucky University President Dr. Timothy C. Caboni said regardless of redesigning operations to successfully work alongside the coronavirus, it will be useless unless each person makes the decision to follow simple guidelines proven to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
  • WKU Students write notes for charter senior living residents: One WKU student group is letting local senior citizens know they’re still cared for. The Hilltopper Organization for Latin American Students (HOLAS) wrote nearly 100 letters for Charter Senior Living.

Courier Journal

WTVQ-TV, Lexington

  • Area groups honored for smoke-free efforts: Western Kentucky University will receive the Tobacco-free Campus Award for their exceptional leadership and collaborative efforts in promoting a healthy campus environment by implementing a 100% tobacco-free campus policy.

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • Fitzgerald completes coding academy, gets ‘dream job’: Some students who completed the 17-week Greater Knox Coding Academy at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College already are reaping the rewards of their training. Caleb Fitzgerald, 20, and graduate of John Hardin High School, attended Hardin County Schools Early College and Career Center working on multiple categories of information technology including networking and cyber security. Currently, Fitzgerald is attending Western Kentucky University and studying IT, political science and organizational leadership, and plans to graduate in about a year.

Spectrum News 1

  • The Growth of Bowling Green: “We are so fortunate to have Western Kentucky University here in Bowling Green. They are an anchor in our economy. A lot of things spur from Western’s presence here, with the degrees that they’re offering,” says City Manager, Jeff Meisel.

Seymour (IN) Tribune

Oct. 24-29, 2020

Daily News

  • Scholarship honoring late BGHS grad, horn player will help 'countless' students: To honor her son’s legacy, White has set up the new Bill Haynes Scholarship Fund to support high school band students in their studies at Western Kentucky University.
  • Educator program cleared to launch in early 2021: A new program from the Green River Regional Educational Cooperative enabling educators to boost their skills and advance their careers – all without earning a master’s degree – is slated to launch next year after winning state approval.
  • WKU provost search moves forward: Western Kentucky University is planning to host candidates for its next provost hire in early 2021 and announce a decision soon afterward, according to a campus email written by the co-chairs of the search committee.
  • WKU pursues $10M line of credit, welcomes new regents: Western Kentucky University’s Board of Regents convened Friday for a slate of committee meetings, which included welcoming new regents and a review of the university’s pursuit of a $10 million line of credit, among other business items.

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

Ky Forward

Metropolis (IL) Planet

Money Geek

  • Expert Advice on Finding Cheap Car Insurance: Can low-cost car insurance mean drivers are sacrificing quality? The answer to this depends on the definition of quality and how one arrives at a low cost. First and foremost, you should get what you pay for. -- Jonathan Handy, Assistant Professor of Finance at Western Kentucky University
  • Expert Advice on Finding Cheap Car Insurance in Kentucky: What are the key factors drivers in Kentucky should look for when searching for the best auto insurance coverage? Coverage, coverage, coverage! Price, price, price! -- Jonathan Handy, Assistant Professor of Finance at Western Kentucky University
Oct. 16-23, 2020

Daily News

KRWG- FM, Las Cruces, NM

  • Prominent public health expert joins NMSU: Jagdish Khubchandani joined NMSU’s Department of Public Health Sciences as a professor in August – in time for the start of the fall 2020 semester. Khubchandani earned a master’s degree in public health in 2007 from Western Kentucky University.

WRDE-TV, Milton, DE

Smithsonian.com

  • What Americans Can Learn From Winter-Loving Cultures: According to Tim Frandy, assistant professor of Folk Studies at Western Kentucky University, many of those participating in this type of hydrotherapy in Finland are middle-aged and elderly women. “They will methodically step out of the sauna and then go down a ladder into freezing cold water without making a peep, swim back and forth a few times, and then climb back out of the water,” he says. “It’s so meditative, and in such contrast to the polar bear plunges we have here, where people jump clothed into the water, scream, and then quickly rush out.”

Physics Today

  • Q&A series: Black voices in physics: Charles McGruder and Chima McGruder are astrophysicists. Charles is a professor at Western Kentucky University. His son Chima is a graduate student at Harvard University.

FBI

Waste360

  • The Recycling Education and Research Foundation Awards Scholarships to 75 Students: The Recycling Education and Research Foundation (RERF), a 501 (c)(3), not-for-profit organization closely associated with the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), has announced that 75 students were awarded scholarships, between $500 and $3,400, to be applied to their respective college educations. ISRI Southeast Chapter: Cole Scott - Western Kentucky University; Jackson Trumbly - Western Kentucky University
Sept. 25-Oct. 15, 2020

WKU Public Radio

Daily News

  • WKU tackles renaming issue in ongoing campus talks: After Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni announced this semester that WKU will reexamine “problematic” names on campus – particularly those tied to former slaveholders – a group of students and staff is taking up the topic through ongoing talks.
  • WKU launches scholarship programs aimed at teacher recruitment, diversity: One of the most frequent requests Corinne Murphy receives from school districts as dean of Western Kentucky University’s College of Education and Behavioral Sciences is for help with addressing the state’s teacher shortage. Now, Murphy has an answer.
  • WKU will launch provost search this week: Western Kentucky University is starting a national search this week for its next provost and vice president of academic affairs, WKU President Timothy Caboni said in a campuswide message Monday.
  • Amid at-home quarantines, renewed interest in language learning: Last spring, when the coronavirus pandemic prompted governors across the country to issue stay-at-home orders, leaving millions in quarantine and searching for productive ways to spend their time, language learning apps like Duolingo reported all-time highs in use. That’s no surprise to Alex Poole, the interim head of Western Kentucky University’s Modern Languages Department who studies and teaches language acquisition.
  • WKU's new LifeWorks hires staff members: The board of directors of LifeWorks at Western Kentucky University announced the hiring of three professional staff members to launch its inaugural year of operations. LifeWorks at WKU is a two-year residential transition-to-work and independent living program for young adults with autism spectrum disorder.

Spectrum News 1

  • WKU Offers New Scholarships to Get More Teachers in Classrooms: Western Kentucky University is now offering two new scholarship opportunities through its College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. The university launched the "WKU Grow Your Own" and "WKU GameChangers Teacher Initiatives," in efforts to financially support students and community members to stay and teach in their home districts.
  • Nontraditional Teacher, Teaches in a Nontraditional Way: After decades of pursuing a degree in teaching, Karen Russell, finally got a classroom of her own, but in a virtual setting. Graduating this past May from Western Kentucky University, at 52 years old, Russell never gave up on her dream of becoming a teacher.

WBKO-TV

  • WKU student restarts “Empower Your Health” chapter on campus: A health-based group on campus is helping students make informed choices about their future. Western Kentucky University student Symone Whalin is one of the founders of “Empower Your Health” on campus. The group keeps students informed on resources for reproductive health.

WNKY-TV

WEHT-TV, Henderson

  • WKU President discusses challenges on college campus during pandemic: Western Kentucky University is one of many college around the United States to welcome students back on campus this Fall. President Dr. Timothy Caboni appeared on Eyewitness News Daybreak Wednesday morning. Sitting down with anchor Jake Boswell, Dr. Caboni discussed the challenges in running a major university during the COVID pandemic.
  • WKU to lure students from neighboring states with in-state tuition: Western Kentucky University is making higher education for prospective students in states neighboring the Commonwealth. Starting next fall, students from neighboring states may attend WKU at the same cost of Kentucky residents.

Lane Report

  • Revved Up to Grow: The Spartan Garage was first started in 2015 by Robert Bowden III in his parents’ Atlanta garage and specialized in aftermarket modifications of off-road vehicles. When Bowden enrolled at Western Kentucky University for college, he relocated his company—then called Spartan 4×4—and added two students as employees. While in WKU’s Student Business Accelerator program, Bowden and his team expanded their network in the southern Kentucky automotive community.

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer

Ky Forward

VOA Learning English

  • In Language Learning, Mistakes Are Not Bad: English learners should not think that mistakes, or errors, are bad. One American language expert advises that language learners should instead see errors as signs of progress. Alex Poole is a professor of English and interim department head of modern languages at Western Kentucky University. Poole recently spoke with VOA Learning English about errors and language learning.

Naples Florida Weekly

  • Naples Classical Academy announces Brunner as founding principal: Naples Classical Academy, a new tuition-free classical curriculum K-12 charter school, has selected John Brunner as the school’s founding principal. He holds a master’s degree in education leadership from Florida Gulf Coast University and a bachelor’s degree from Western Kentucky University.

Agri-View

  • Young professionals share tips for students: “International travel can be impactful to what you do in the future,” said Jodi Lynch Findley, who moderated the career-opportunities panel. “I’ve traveled to Ecuador and China.” She earned in 2000 a bachelor’s degree in agriculture and animal science from Western Kentucky University. She’s a national strategic-account manager with Zoetis.

The Daily Advocate, Greenville, OH

  • Wayne HealthCare’s Flood named ‘Rising Star’: Wayne HealthCare continues to look provide the best health care for Greenville and Darke County Residents. And another example of that is Terri Flood, Vice-President of Business Development and Marketing. Flood received both her Master of Health Administration and a Bachelor of Science in family studies from Western Kentucky University. She also has a leadership studies certificate.

Think Advisor

  • Human Capital: Ron Rhoades Unpacks Reg BI Unknowns: In this episode of Human Capital, we talk with Ron Rhoades, director of the personal financial planning program and assistant professor of finance in the Gordon Ford College of Business at Western Kentucky University, who was recently awarded the Tamar Frankel Fiduciary prize by the Institute for the Fiduciary Standard.

Global Investing Today

  • City National Bank Opens in Buckhead: City National Bank, America’s Premier Private and Business Bank®, announced today that it has opened its second Atlanta office, in the city’s affluent uptown district of Buckhead, to better serve the community. Antwan Floyd, vice president and branch manager, brings more than 25 years of banking experience to his role at City National, where he leads the team of seasoned financial experts to help clients meet their financial goals. Floyd earned his bachelor’s degree at Western Kentucky University, where he also played football.

Janesville (WI) Gazette

  • Janesville native promoted to brigadier general: Army Chaplain Thomas Behling, a 1980 Parker High School graduate and Distinguished Viking alumnus, has been promoted to brigadier general and named director of the Joint Chaplain Office for the National Guard Bureau in Washington, D.C. He also earned master's degrees in public administration from Western Kentucky University, in strategic studies from the United States Army War College and a Master of Divinity degree from Bethel Theological Seminary.

Money Geek

  • Expert Advice on How to Get the Best Car Insurance: How does car insurance differ from other types of coverage and why is it so important for drivers? Car insurance is not that much different than some home policies when you think about it -- Dr. Doris Sikora, Optional Retirement, Associate Professor, Family and Consumer Sciences Education.
Sept. 19-24, 2020

NBC News

  • Kentucky doctor who urged mask-wearing early on dies of Covid-19: David and Rebecca Shadowen were college sweethearts at Western Kentucky University, and together they enrolled at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. Shadowen went on to specialize in infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS and Lyme disease, and, this year, Covid-19.

Daily News

  • Forthcoming book commemorates career of late WKU sculptor, professor: To his friends and contemporaries, the late sculptor and longtime Western Kentucky University professor Charles H. Forrester was known for his abstract works, his world travels and even his instrumental role in designing WKU’s Fine Arts Center.
  • Event at BG Ballpark to connect youth with law enforcement: Boys to Men is teaming up with the Bowling Green Police Department, Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Western Kentucky University Police Department and the Bowling Green Hot Rods to hold Boys to Law Enforcement Day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at Bowling Green Ballpark.

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

  • WKU Students protest on campus following Breonna Taylor announcement: The Breonna Taylor case has garnered the attention of Kentucky and the nation as months went by without any updates in the investigation until Wednesday. With the indictment against former LMPD officer Brett Hankinson, and no further criminal charges filed against him or other officers in the case, WKU students protested Wednesday afternoon.
  • Date set for Wendy’s Chili & Cheese Luncheon: Celebrate Western Kentucky University’s Maskerade Homecoming 2020 week by participating in the 70th annual Chili & Cheese event on Thursday, October 8, from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Montana Grille.
  • WKU students talk about what Hispanic heritage means to them: Hispanic Heritage Month began September 15th and continues until October 15th. Western Kentucky University Students and Faculty, who identify as Hispanic, have reasons why this month is so special to them.
  • WKU professor talks about the impact of RBG’s passing: Ginsburg was the second woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court and served for 27 years. WKU political science professor Dr. Jeff Budziak says Ginsburg’s passing and replacement will have a large impact on the nation’s policies.

Ky Forward

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

Beech Tree News

  • Johnson receives BC Water District scholarship: The Butler County Water District promotes education in the water supply field by offering an annual scholarship to a graduating high school senior. Dustin Johnson of Butler County High School was presented with a $1,000 scholarship to Western Kentucky University for the 2020-2021 academic year.

Feed & Grain

Gloucester (MA) Daily Times

Peninsula Daily News, Port Angeles, WA

  • Sequim graduate, former CEO of PepsiCo, dies at 99: Born March 16, 1921, in Sequim, Donald McIntosh Kendall became a star football player in high school and earned a scholarship from Western Kentucky State College in Bowling Green, Ky., according to a memorial page posted on the PepsiCo website.

Westfair Online, White Plains, NY

  • Donald Kendall, often-controversial PepsiCo CEO, dies at 99: Donald Kendall, who served as CEO of PepsiCo from 1963 through 1986 in a tenure marked with extraordinary success and more than a few controversies, passed away on Sept. 19 at the age of 99. Born in Sequim, Washington, in 1921, the son of dairy farmers. He earned a sports scholarship to Western Kentucky State Teachers College in Bowling Green, but left school to become a U.S. Navy pilot in World War II, receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Sarasota (FL) Magazine

  • Players Centre for the Performing Arts Names New CEO: The Players Centre for Performing Arts has named William Skaggs as chief executive officer. Prior to SKyPAC, Skaggs’ career has included work in financial services and 12 years in institutional advancement at Western Kentucky University.

Fox21-TV, Dover, DE

  • Reliant Bancorp, Inc. Announces Chief Accounting Officer Change: The Company also announced that Mark C. Seaton has been appointed as Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Controller of the Company and Reliant Bank to succeed Mr. Kowalski. Mr. Seaton holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Western Kentucky University.
Sept. 16-18, 2020

Daily News

Spectrum News 1

WKU Public Radio

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

Lane Report

WCLU-FM, Glasgow

Columbia Magazine

  • WKU professor's Appalachian Reckoning among winners of American Book Awards: Appalachian Reckoning: A Region Responds to Hillbilly Elegy, co-edited by Western Kentucky University History Professor Anthony Harkins, is among the winners of the 41st annual American Book Awards presented by the Before Columbus Foundation.
  • WKU announces Hilltopper Guarantee: Beginning fall 2021, Western Kentucky University will be tuition free to any freshman from Kentucky who receives Pell Grant assistance and has at least a 3.0 cumulative unweighted high school grade-point average.

Business Observer, Sarasota, FL

  • Performing arts center hires new CEO: The Players Centre for Performing Arts named William Skaggs CEO. Skaggs’ most recent position was with Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center in Bowling Green, Ky., according to a press release. Prior to Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center, his career included work in financial services and 12 years in institutional advancement at Western Kentucky University.

Finger Lakes Times, Geneva, NY

  • Belhurst Wedding Contest winners announced: Taylor Milner and Christian Mullins are the winners in this year’s Belhurst Wedding Contest. Milner met her fiancé in 2015 at Western Kentucky University, where they both studied physical education.

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • Common Wealth duo ventures to new venues: McDougal, who lives in Elizabethtown, is originally from Bowling Green, said he began singing while in high school. He earned a bachelor’s degree in music from Western Kentucky University and has performed in a variety of theater and church settings. He currently performs with the Kentucky Opera in Louisville and has served as a worship leader for nearly two decades.

Investment News

Venture Nashville Connection

  • Venture Notes: Carson King, a 24-year-old Physics grad from Western Kentucky University, has made an initial filing for what may eventually be a series of hedge funds that he creates for himself or others, he confirmed in a brief VNC interview. His initial filing for Sistine Capital LP was for nearly $108K, with a total eight investors.

Ky Forward

Sept. 10-15, 2020

WKU Public Radio

  • WKU's 'Rock the Vote' Goes Virtual in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic: On the campus of Western Kentucky University, the annual Rock the Vote Festival usually nets hundreds of newly registered voters. But the COVID-19 pandemic has forced organizers to reimagine this year's event by turning to social media.
  • Kentucky Seeing Major Increase in Number of High School Students Earning College Credit: New research shows the number of Kentucky high school students enrolling in dual credit courses has increased more than 75 percent in recent years. Higher education leaders see dual credit as an effective gateway into college. The CPE's online dashboard shows Western Kentucky University was the leader among the state's four-year, public universities and community colleges for dual credit enrollment in 2018-19.

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

  • Firefighter climbs same number of floors as 9/11 first responders: Chris McCoy, a firefighter with the Smiths Grove Volunteer Fire Department, climbed the stairs of the Creason lot parking structure at Western Kentucky University 20 times to symbolize what the firefighters climbed on 9/11. The parking structure is seven stories, and McCoy says it will come out to around 110 floors after the whole journey, the same amount as the firefighters on 9/11.

Daily News

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • Kudos: Praising positives: HONORING ERIC YATES. The Army ROTC program at Western Kentucky University continues to protect the memory of 1st Lt. Eric D. Yates. Not even the COVID-19 pandemic could get in the way.

Ky Forward

Lane Report

Northern Kentucky Tribune

WICZ-TV, Vestal, NY

  • Dr. Scott Harris Named President of ASRC Industrial’s EQM: ASRC Industrial (AIS), a premier provider of industrial and environmental services throughout the United States, is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Scott Harris as president of its Environmental Quality Management operating company. Harris earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science from Western Kentucky University.
Sept. 2-9, 2020

NBC Nightly News

Daily News

  • Growth in dual credit a boon for WKU: After launching a statewide dual-credit policy and scholarship program in 2016, participation among Kentucky high school students soared by more than 75 percent in recent years, a study from the state’s Council on Postsecondary Education recently found. Western Kentucky University stands as one of the biggest victors.
  • GRREC moves ahead with new pathway for educator advancement: A new program under development by the Green River Regional Educational Cooperative aimed at helping educators obtain rank changes while working toward their professional goals has just one last hurdle to clear before it can launch. In partnership with Western Kentucky University, the co-op is offering GRREC Ed – a program that will include two tracks for educators looking to get ahead and who need a rank change to do so.
  • Former teacher still going strong at 100: After earning her teaching certificate from Western Kentucky State Teachers College (now Western Kentucky University) Bush first moved to Barren County with her husband Wilton, where they lived for 15 years while both were teaching.

WNKY-TV

Financial Planning

  • DoL knocked for rushing fiduciary rule replacement: Insurance providers and consumer advocates agreed on little during the recent five-and-a-half-hour Labor Department hearing on its new fiduciary rule replacement, except this: The whole process was rushed. “[This proposal] will lead to increased betrayals of trust,” said Ron Rhoades, director of the personal financial planning program at Western Kentucky University, in his testimony. “The department should return to the drawing board, start over again and fashion a proposal that reflects the plain language of ERISA.”

Columbia Magazine

  • KY Mesonet at WKU to play key role in $5M research project: Advances in weather forecast models have enabled forecasters to improve the accuracy of forecasts, including severe weather warnings, helping to save lives and property. The Kentucky Mesonet at WKU, a division of the Kentucky Climate Center, will play a key role in a $5 million National Science Foundation project aimed at making further advances in near-term forecasts that can be critical in active and severe weather situations.

Ky Forward

  • New Butler County Schools superintendent Robert Tuck seeks to develop new generation of leaders: Robert Tuck came well-prepared into the job of Butler County Schools superintendent. He knew he was hired in June, so he had time before his July 1 start date to confer with retiring Superintendent Scott Howard. Tuck earned a bachelor’s degree in social sciences teaching, followed by a master’s in educational leadership and Rank 1 certifications in Level 2 leadership, director of pupil personnel (DPP), and assistant superintendent, all from Western Kentucky University.

Scientific Reports

  • Aging and haptic shape discrimination: the effects of variations in size: Seventy-two older and younger adults haptically discriminated the solid shape of natural objects (bell peppers, Capsicum annuum). Plastic copies of the original-sized fruits were used as experimental stimuli, as well as copies that were reduced in size to 1/8th and 1/27th of the original object volumes. If haptic object shape is represented in a part-based manner, then haptic shape discrimination performance should be at least partly size invariant, since changes only in scale do not affect an object’s constituent parts. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Western Kentucky University, and each participant signed an informed consent document prior to testing.

Lane Report

  • Women Worthy of Note: Shannon Vitale has worked for the same company, The Mahurin Group, for 33 years. She started in 1987 as a receptionist and then studied and trained to be a financial adviser. She attended Western Kentucky University, and has earned the Series 7, 9, 10, 63, 65, Insurance License.

Inter News Cast

  • To Many Travelers, 2020 Was the Summer of 1965: “When you fly, you just get where you want to go and you don’t think at all about what you’re flying over,” said Anthony Harkins, a Western Kentucky University history professor who studies the cultural implications of air travel and transportation. “Driving allows the possibility of better understanding the country — its geography, its culture — and historically it has helped us understand what it means to be an American.”

Augusta (GA) Chronicle

  • Ruth Snazelle celebrates 100th birthday: Ruth Snazelle celebrated her 100th birthday on May 29, 2020. While attending Western Kentucky State Teachers College (now Western Kentucky University) in Bowling Green, Kentucky, a trip to a bowling alley led Ruth to meet the love of her life, Albert Snazelle.
Aug. 21-Sept. 1, 2020

Daily News

  • WKU will go test-optional for most admissions next spring: Starting next spring, Western Kentucky University will no longer require standardized test scores on exams, such as the ACT or SAT, for most admissions applicants, making WKU one of the first public universities in the state to go test-optional.
  • WKU extends Kentucky teacher discount: After the success it saw this summer in offering Kentucky teachers a discount for graduate coursework, Western Kentucky University is extending the discount for the entire 2020-21 academic year.
  • WKU has 86 new virus cases; will require testing of sorority, fraternity members: One week into its fall semester, Western Kentucky University reported Friday at least 86 new positive COVID-19 cases – all of which were among students – bringing the campus community’s running total to 299 cases.
  • Confederate marker at WKU removed for second time: A historical marker that notes Bowling Green was a former state capital of the Confederacy has been removed and placed into storage by the Kentucky Historical Society following a fresh wave of discussion at Western Kentucky University about history and how it should be remembered.
  • WKU will shine above this adversity: A pandemic is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you hope you never have. Yet adversity has a way of allowing people and organizations to demonstrate their best. At Western Kentucky University, that has happened several times since COVID-19 became such a major disruption to our lives.
  • 'Smile' buttons become new tool for teachers: When Beth Schaeffer is able to meet with preschool-age students at Western Kentucky University’s Renshaw Early Childhood Center, those students will be greeted with a smile.

WBKO-TV

  • Western Kentucky University COVID-19 cases on the rise: During the last reporting period, from August 21st-27th, Western Kentucky University had 86 confirmed COVID-19 cases.
  • Kentucky Museum receives $10,000 grant: One Kentucky Museum is receiving a substantial grant to preserve the state’s history. The Kentucky Museum on WKU’s campus received a $10,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH).
  • Bowling Green woman celebrates 105th birthday: A Bowling Green woman is celebrating over a century in the community. Sunday morning, Kathryn Gilbert blew out her candles and had a piece of cake to celebrate her 105th birthday. According to her daughter, Glenda White, she is the oldest living alumni of the training school, renamed College High, and the oldest living alumnus of Western Kentucky University.
  • Suzanne Vitale Clinical Education Complex at WKU receives grants from WHAS Crusade for Children: The Suzanne Vitale Clinical Education Complex (CEC) at WKU received two grant awards from the WHAS Crusade for Children: $21,000 for the Kelly Autism Program Prime Time and $26,000 for the Renshaw Early Childhood Center (RECC) Big Red School.
  • WKU student hosts mental health table talk on campus: Students at Western Kentucky University attended their second day of classes on the hill Tuesday and one student decided it would be important to bring attention to mental health.
  • Western Kentucky University students experience first day back: The tops are back on the hill, but things look a little different this year. “We want to make sure that every student is taking care of themselves and the community by wearing a mask, staying six feet apart and not gathering in large numbers,” said Western Kentucky University President Tim Caboni.
  • WKU “Maskerade” Homecoming set for Oct. 10: The Western Kentucky University Alumni Association, in partnership with WKU Athletics, has announced that the tradition of WKU Homecoming, originally scheduled for Oct. 31, will now be celebrated throughout the week concluding on Saturday, Oct. 10.

WNKY-TV

Spectrum News 1

WKU Public Radio

Ky Forward

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • Cross to serve on WKU Alumni Board: The WKU Alumni Association recently elected nine new board members for 2020-21 and recognized three members who will serve in one-year appointments. Among new members who will serve for a three-year term is Joe Cross of Elizabethtown, a 2001, 2002 and 2019 alumnus and lifetime member of the WKU Alumni Association.
  • Osborne recognized by Gilman Scholarship for study abroad: Twenty-seven Western Kentucky University students were recognized by the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship for study abroad in the March 2020 application cycle.
  • Corbin makes award-winning difference in the classroom: Dawn Corbin has demonstrated an award-winning passion for the students she serves at Morningside Elementary. A resident of Green County, Corbin holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Western Kentucky University and holds a master’s degree in special education from Campbellsville University.

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer

  • Graves to lead Greater Owensboro Realtor Association: When Jaclyn Graves arrived at Western Kentucky University, she decided to major in public relations and marketing. Later, she switched to sociology and criminology.
  • WKU community working to rise above adversity: A pandemic is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you hope you never have. Yet adversity has a way of allowing people and organizations to demonstrate their best. At Western Kentucky University, that has happened several times since COVID-19 became such a major disruption to our lives.

Owensboro Times

  • WKU-O begins fall semester: Western Kentucky University-Owensboro resumed classes along with the other three WKU regional campuses on Monday.

Dairy Agenda Today

The Record, Leitchfield

  • WKU invests countless hours preparing for unprecedented fall: A pandemic is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you hope you never have. Yet adversity has a way of allowing people and organizations to demonstrate their best. At Western Kentucky University, that has happened several times since COVID-19 became such a major disruption to our lives.

Business Record

Market Screener

KPI Newspaper Group

Murfreesboro (TN) Post

  • Design firm promotes Miles: Jason Miles, P.E., CFM, of Murfreesboro has been promoted to Associate at Lose Design in Nashville. Miles earned his bachelor of science in civil engineering from Western Kentucky University in 2005.

Greenhouse Product News

  • SNA’s Sidney B. Meadows Fund Awards Scholarships: The Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship Fund, created in 1989 by the Southern Nursery Association (SNA), has announced the names of 12 students from nine Southeastern universities chosen to receive academic scholarships this year. They include: William C. Tolley, Western Kentucky University.

LaRue County Herald-News

  • Working With Families in their Time of Need: This coming Monday will be a bittersweet moment for the Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home as Funeral Director Brad Turner will retire on August 31. Turner has been a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer, and the Vice President and a Co-owner of Bennet-Bertram Funeral Home since 1994. His career in the funeral home business began in college as he graduated from Western Kentucky University with a major in biology and an interest in anatomy and physiology.

Beech Tree News

  • Dr. Hammad’s office welcomes new nurse practitioner: Tara Hewitt has joined the staff at Dr. Ghayth Hammad’s office as the fifth nurse practitioner. Tara earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Western Kentucky University in May and holds a national board certification with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Aug. 12-20, 2020

WKU Public Radio

Daily News

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

Kentucky New Era

Lane Report

  • Louisville’s Marketing Maven: It may be an understatement to say that Tiandra Robinson has a passion for marketing. She set her mind on pursuing a career in marketing and advertising when she was in middle school, then put herself on track to achieve that goal by earning a bachelor’s degree in advertising from Western Kentucky University and a master’s in marketing communications from Webster University in St. Louis. And when she couldn’t find a job in her field after graduating, she struck out on her own.
  • Student Support Services at WKU awarded five-year grants for two programs: The U.S. Department of Education has awarded Western Kentucky University about $3 million over five years for a federal TRiO program that serves low-income, first-generation college students.
  • Kentucky Museum receives IMLS Inspire! Grant: The Kentucky Museum at Western Kentucky University will receive a $49,970 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the “Inspire! Grants for Small Museums” program.

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • Local students receive John Dink Memorial Scholarship: Fifteen Hardin County students recently received a John Dink Memorial Scholarship from Central Kentucky Community Foundation. Recipients include several students planning to attend WKU.
  • Bridges draws on lessons learned on the farm: For Lindsey Bridges of Elizabethtown, her upbringing on the family farm proved to be a formative experience not just for her personal development and moral values, but her entire professional life. After high school, she earned a degree in business from Western Kentucky University through the university’s Elizabethtown campus.

Ky Forward

WDRB-TV, Louisville

Spectrum News 1

  • RISE Funding Supports Public-Private Partnerships and Small Businesses: Gov. Andy Beshear announced in July an additional $2.6 million in funding to six public-private partnerships focusing on key regions throughout the state as part of KY Innovation. Jeff Hook, executive director of the Central Region Innovation and Commercialization Center (CRICC) in Bowling Green and director of Western Kentucky University’s Center for Research and Development and Small Business Accelerator, said he is excited to be added to the statewide RISE program.
  • How WKU Is Keeping Track of Coronavirus Cases on Campus: As part of their Healthy on the Hill initiative, Western Kentucky University now offers a COVID-19 dashboard which gives a weekly update on positive coronavirus cases. The university has worked with the Graves Gilbert Clinic at WKU along with Med Center Health to collect the data.

Beech Tree News

  • Dr. Brittany Evans Hampton Opens Maple Leaf Family Dentistry: Maple Leaf Family Dentistry is a dream come true for Dr. Brittany Evans Hampton. Brittany graduated from Butler County High School in 2010. While working on her major in biology and minor in chemistry at Western Kentucky University, she realized, "I'm going to be a Dentist," and that's what she did when she received her Doctorate from the University of Kentucky in 2017.

MPN Now, Canandaigua, NY

  • Belhurst Castle names wedding contest winners: Belhurst Castle in Geneva selected Taylor Milner and Christian Mullins as this year’s wedding contest winners. Milner, a Greece native, met Mullins in 2015 at Western Kentucky University, where they studied physical education.

National Interest

  • Yes, Americans Do Want More Domestically-Produced PPE: To evaluate support for increasing domestic manufacturing capacity, we conducted a web survey via Amazon Turk of 1,035 respondents on July 7, 2020, in conjunction with the International Public Opinion Lab (IPOL) at Western Kentucky University.

The Hill

Warrick County (IN) Standard

Hyperallergic

  • Kentucky Will Raise Its First Statue Honoring a Woman, Nettie Depp: Next year, Kentucky will raise a statue of a woman for the first time in its history. The monument will honor Nettie Depp, a Kentucky educator who died in 1932. Depp was also the first Barren County student to earn a degree in education from what is now Western Kentucky University.
Aug. 4-11, 2020

WKU Public Radio

Daily News

  • WKU weighs admissions without tests, projects enrollment increase: One year after announcing it would ditch standardized test scores as a factor in the award of most academic merit-based and targeted scholarships for incoming freshmen, Western Kentucky University is weighing whether to do the same for admissions.
  • WKU reexamines building names amid national racial reckoning: Spurred on by nationwide protests in memory of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and other Black Americans killed by police, and the racial reckoning in their wake, Western Kentucky University is reexamining its history and exploring whether campus buildings named after potential slaveholders should be renamed.
  • WKU hosts teachers hoping to inspire budding scientists: Ahead of the start of school this fall, teachers from across the country are gathering at Western Kentucky University for a week of training and mentorship during this year’s National STEM Scholars program.

WBKO-TV

WNKY-TV

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

WCLU-FM, Glasgow

Lane Report

  • CPE names 22 members to new student advisory group: The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education has named 22 college students to a new advisory panel that will offer diverse perspectives on student concerns and policies in higher education. Members include Scott Nelson, Western Kentucky University.

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer

  • Barr Bones offering online and mobile boutique: As Barr Bones, an online and mobile boutique based out of Owensboro, reaches its second anniversary, owner Carli Barr said she has had to go back to her roots with the shop in recent months and make adjustments due to COVID-19. Barr, a Western Kentucky University graduate with a major in fashion merchandising, started Barr Bones in September 2018.

Morning Ag Clips

  • Young Farmer award finalists named: Isaac and Kyla Schroeder, Perry County: The Schroeders divide their time and energy between their on-and-off the farm jobs. They own and operate a primarily registered Angus cattle farm, but when they’re not on the farm, Isaac and Kyla also work full-time jobs in the community. The Schroeders attended Western Kentucky University where they each earned bachelor’s degrees in agriculture.

Voice-Tribune, Louisville

  • Grow West Movement: It all started when the Kroger in the West End closed. Fueled by a passion to help and a bit of rage, Demi Gardner, a West End native, and Katie Lee Jones joined forces to begin collecting dry goods and donations to provide food to the neighborhoods in need of resources. Gardner is a recent graduate of Western Kentucky University.
July 23-Aug. 3, 2020

Daily News

  • WKU secures renewed federal funding for Chinese language education: Western Kentucky University’s Chinese Flagship – an education program that allows students to seamlessly pair foreign language acquisition with their undergraduate degree – has secured renewed federal funding through 2020 to 2024.
  • Amid pandemic, WKU faculty press campus leadership for reopening specifics: Ahead of campus forums meant to discuss Western Kentucky University’s reopening Aug. 24, faculty at the university contend key questions about testing, contact tracing and quarantine procedures remain unanswered.
  • GRREC works to develop new pathway for educator advancement: Whether it’s boosting student engagement or designing better classroom assessments, a new program under development by the Green River Regional Educational Cooperative is aiming to help educators obtain rank changes while working toward their professional goals. In partnership with Western Kentucky University, GRREC ED will offer two academies for educators who want to move ahead in their careers and need a rank change to do so.
  • Brothers plan to open Trinh Fish & Corals: For brothers Leon and Leonardo Trinh, their passion for all things aquatic may only be rivaled by their family’s penchant for entrepreneurship. Now they have combined the two, creating a business called Trinh Fish & Corals that they plan to open next month even as they continue to work on undergraduate degrees at Western Kentucky University and eventual careers in medicine.

Spectrum News 1

WKU Public Radio

WBKO-TV

WNKY-TV

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • WKU offers game design pathway: Western Kentucky University will launch a new certificate in game design this fall to creates a new career pathway for students.
  • West Hardin students learn financial literacy from the best: Joy Knight, family and consumer sciences teacher at West Hardin Middle School, has been named Kentucky financial literacy teacher of the year. Knight, who has taught for 15 years in Hardin County Schools, received her degree at Western Kentucky University after graduating from Central Hardin High School in 1998.

Owensboro Times

  • Local entrepreneur featured in New York Times for unique design business: At just 23 years old, Owensboro native Allison Lewis used some ingenuity to grow her creative studio Bright Eye Designs in the midst of a pandemic. Lewis graduated from Owensboro High School in 2015. She obtained a Bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandising from Western Kentucky University in 2019.

WLKY-TV, Louisville

Building Kentucky

  • WKU Commons at Helm Library marks construction milestone: A historic building at the top of the hill at Western Kentucky University is transforming again. Originally built in 1934 as a campus basketball arena and then retrofitted in the 1960s to become a library, the structure will soon become WKU Commons at Helm Library. The new hybrid space will be a lively hub for studying, socializing and collaboration.

Wallet Hub

  • American Express 0% APR Credit Cards: Ask the Experts: Jonathan Handy, Assistant Professor, Western Kentucky University
  • 2020’s Most & Least Educated Cities in America: Gary W. Houchens, Professor of Educational Administration, School of Leadership and Professional Studies, Western Kentucky University: What steps can local governments take to ensure that learning remains uninterrupted during the current COVID-19 pandemic?
July 9-22, 2020

Lumina Foundation Focus

WKU Public Radio

Daily News

  • Support for small business gets boost from state: KY Innovation – the CED’s office for entrepreneurial and small business support – has authorized $2.6 million in funding to six public-private partnerships throughout the state, including one in Bowling Green. The Central Region Innovation and Commercialization Center, which is housed in Western Kentucky University’s Center for Research and Development on Nashville Road, is one of the six partnerships being funded through the Regional Innovation for Startups and Entrepreneurs program.
  • WKU Commons at Helm Library marks construction milestone with raising of support beam: Western Kentucky University marks a construction milestone on the WKU Commons at Helm Library with the raising of a 24-foot-long structural beam on Wednesday, July 15, 2020.
  • WKU adds BFA in Film Production: Western Kentucky University has added a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film Production program, which will begin in the fall.
  • WKU professor honored for work in STEM education: A Western Kentucky University professor who’s shaping the next generation of Kentucky’s math and science teachers has herself been recognized for her achievements in science, technology, engineering and math education.

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • Doing what’s best for public health: In recent months, Sara Jo Best found herself leading in public health during a worldwide pandemic. She currently serves as the public health director at the Lincoln Trail District Health Department. A 1993 Central Hardin High School graduate, she graduated from Western Kentucky University focusing on health care administration and went back to get her masters degree in public health.
  • First RISE town hall discusses education: The meeting was the first installment of a seven­week series called RISE, sponsored by Elizabethtown Community and Technical College, Western Kentucky University and Limestone Bank. Through the series, a new topic is discussed between panelists, moderators and community members.

Ky Forward

Legal News

  • A story worth repeating time and time again: Several months before the death of the eminently likeable Thomas there was another Alger-type story that rated far less media attention. It revolved around a woman who left a legacy that students at Western Kentucky University will enjoy for years to come. Her name was Mary Hutto and, according to published reports, she was “so frugal she slept in the hallway of her boarding house so each room had a tenant.”

Lane Report

Cherokee Phoenix

  • CN citizen wins NAJA scholarship: Cherokee Nation citizen Zane Gosaduisga Meyer-Thornton is one of five students to earn a Native American Journalists Association 2020-21 scholarship to help him pursue a media career. According to a NAJA press release, Meyer-Thornton is a visual journalist living in Bowling Green, Kentucky. He attends Western Kentucky University and is pursuing a degree in photojournalism with a minor in sociology, which he expects to complete by May 2022, the release states.

IndieWire

  • Sundance Institute Announces 2020 Class of Sundance Ignite x Adobe Fellows: Sundance Institute has announced its latest class of fellows, a group of 10 young filmmakers selected for the yearlong Sundance Ignite x Adobe fellowship. Jacob Anderson is a Kentucky-based writer, director, and cinematographer. He attended Western Kentucky University and graduated with a degree in filmmaking.
June 30-July 8, 2020

Daily News

  • Gatton student's research gets to the bottom of diabetic foot ulcers: It’s a mystery Gatton Academy student Gloria Huang hopes to unlock by blending science, math and computing and one that could hold treatment implications for a diabetes-related condition that about 15 percent of patients suffer from – foot ulcers.
  • With travel curtailed, WKU study abroad shifts gears: The Office of Study Abroad and Global Learning at Western Kentucky University is undergoing significant changes and challenges amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is looking to capitalize on new opportunities when the fall semester begins Aug. 24.
  • Refugee students earn college scholarships: Four refugee students were beneficiaries Monday of the Martha Ann “Mom” Deputy Scholarship Fund, which gives $1,000 to refugees pursuing college degrees. “I am very grateful to have received this scholarship,” said Zin, a biology student at Western Kentucky University. “As a first-generation immigrant, and the first in my family to attend college, any support I can get to ease the financial stresses that come with higher education is greatly appreciated by me and my family.”

WNKY-TV

WBKO-TV

Spectrum News 1

Louisville Courier Journal

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • Town halls to discuss race, inequity, solidarity and empathy: For seven weeks, members of the community will have the opportunity to attend town halls that discuss subjects on race, inequity, solidarity and empathy. Sponsored by Elizabethtown Community and Technical College, Western Kentucky University and Lime­tone Bank, RISE will discuss a new topic each week.

US AgNet

  • INFB Welcomes New Public Policy Director: Indiana Farm Bureau welcomed Andy Tauer as INFB's new director of public policy. In addition to leading the public policy team, Tauer is responsible for the overall management of policy at the local, state and national levels on behalf of Farm Bureau members. He holds a bachelor's degree in agriculture from Western Kentucky University.

Hanscom Air Force Base

  • Stephens eager to propel Hanscom, community forward: Col. Katrina Stephens, who assumed command of the 66th Air Base Group last month, is eager to continue building and fostering relationships with mission partners across the community. Stephens graduated from Western Kentucky University and was commissioned through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps.
June 16-29, 2020

WKU Public Radio

Daily News

  • WKU regents approve budget with $27M in cuts: Bracing for financial fallout amid the coronavirus pandemic, Western Kentucky University will make more than $27 million in spending cuts in its looming fiscal year budget, including faculty and staff salary reductions.
  • Bell book release has a COVID twist: While releasing a new book is old hat for Bowling Green’s David Bell, the launch of his latest novel comes with a plot twist as it has not been spared from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. Bell is an associate professor of English at Western Kentucky University and director of the Master of Fine Arts program. He’s also the author of 10 best-selling novels, including “The Request,” published by Berkley Hardcover, slated to be released Tuesday.
  • Robertson is a legend in BG, very thankful to him: Longtime Bowling Green resident Lee Robertson has lived an extraordinary life that many of us should embody ourselves to live.
  • Daniels joins board at BGMU: Terry Daniels has been appointed to the board of directors of Bowling Green Municipal Utilities. Daniels is a native of Bowling Green and a graduate of Warren Central High School and Western Kentucky University, where he studied psychology and business administration.

WBKO-TV

  • WKU graduate creates a scholarship in honor of the Black Lives Matter movement: Juan Dozier has decided that he wants to help the future leaders on the Hill. The 2020 graduate has established the Juan H. D. Dozier II Scholarship in honor of the Black Lives Matter movement. The scholarship will support a diverse WKU freshman or sophomore who is enrolled full time, has been involved in leadership roles in high school or college and aspires to be a leader at WKU.
  • Happy Birthday to Mr. Western: The community came together on Tuesday to celebrate a very special birthday, Lee Robertson’s or Mr. Western, who is a staple in the WKU community. Loved ones and community members came out to celebrate his 98th birthday with a wave parade.

WNKY-TV

  • Alumnus establishes scholarship in honor of Black Lives Matter: Juan Dozier (’19, ’20) recently made a gift to WKU to establish the Juan H. D. Dozier II Scholarship in honor of the Black Lives Matter movement. The scholarship will support a diverse WKU freshman or sophomore who is enrolled full time, has been involved in leadership roles in high school or college and aspires to be a leader at WKU.
  • Past and present students celebrate mascot: When traveling around Bowling Green, it’s hard not to come across the mascot of Western Kentucky University, Big Red.

Glasgow Daily Times

  • WKU updates Big Red Restart plan for fall: Western Kentucky University has posted an update to the Big Red Restart plan for the fall semester. WKU President Timothy C. Caboni issued the communication to faculty, staff and students outlining the major changes and clarifications.

Owensboro Times

  • Kentucky roots drive Owensboro native to success: Born and raised in Owensboro, Jed Conklin’s works in photography has taken him to the far ends of the world. While his camera eventually landed him in Spokane, Wash., his “go-getter” attitude encouraged him to channel his inner entrepreneur. Degrees in print and photojournalism from Western Kentucky University propelled him to stints in Wyoming, New England, Colorado and eventually Washington.
  • DCPS, WKU to partner for social work program: The Daviess County Public Schools district and the Western Kentucky University social work program have developed a partnership that will allow WKU students to gain practical experience while also supporting the work of DCPS Family Resource and Youth Service Centers.

Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer

  • DCPS hires McAdams for new district literacy intervention coach position: As the new Daviess County Public Schools literacy intervention coach, Shiryl McAdams said her goal is the impact students’ literacy journeys in a meaningful way. McAdams, who has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Western Kentucky University and a master’s degree in literacy from Capella University, has been teaching for 17 years.

Kentucky Living

  • Navigating Roads Together: Kentucky communities have stories—like this one—to tell. For 44 years, the Mountain Workshops have been telling them. Each year since 1976, the photojournalism program at Western Kentucky University has brought storytellers together to highlight communities throughout the state.

Lane Report

  • WKU first in Ky. to offer degree in film production: Western Kentucky University will offer Kentucky’s first bachelor of fine arts in film production starting in the fall of 2020. The new major is an immersive pre-professional degree for students pursuing a career in the film and television industry.

Russellville News Democrat & Leader

  • Holder appointed to Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services: John Holder, of Auburn, was recently appointed to the Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS) by Governor Andy Beshear. Holder is originally from Adairville. He graduated from Logan County High School in 2002 and from Western Kentucky University in 2007.

Spectrum 1 News

Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

  • Local student awarded Boren Scholarship: A local student was among five Western Kentucky University students who were awarded $20,000 David L. Boren Scholarships to fund intensive language study in the U.S. and abroad during the 2020-21 academic year. All five are students in the Chinese Flagship Program.

Corbin Times-Tribune

June 5-15, 2020

Associated Press

  • Amid virus, US students look to colleges closer to home: As students make college plans for the fall, some U.S. universities are seeing surging interest from in-state residents who are looking to stay closer to home amid the coronavirus pandemic. At the University of Texas at Arlington, commitments from state residents are up 26% over last year. Ohio State and Western Kentucky universities are both up about 20%.

Daily News