WKU in Somerset

Western Kentucky University has named Stephanie Prichard as Interim Director of Regional Campuses, effective July 13, 2026.

Prichard will assume leadership of WKU Regional Campuses following the appointment of Dr. Derick Strode as Director of The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science. Strode, who currently serves as Director of Regional Campuses, will begin his new role on July 13.

A longtime member of the WKU Regional Campuses team, Prichard has most recently been serving as the Assistant Director and was previously the Senior Regional Campuses Academic Advisor.  Prichard brings extensive experience in student services, academic programming, and regional campus operations. In her interim role, she will provide leadership for WKU Regional Campuses in Glasgow, Elizabethtown-Fort Knox, Owensboro, and Somerset while continuing to support the university’s mission of expanding access to high-quality educational opportunities throughout the region.

“I am exceptionally confident in Stephanie’s interim leadership of WKU Regional Campuses,” Strode said. “Stephanie has demonstrated a strong commitment to student success and the communities we serve. Her knowledge of our regional campuses, relationships with community partners, and dedication to expanding educational opportunities make her well-prepared to lead during this transition.”

Prichard’s appointment comes as WKU continues to expand academic offerings and strengthen partnerships across the region, providing students with greater access to degree programs, workforce-focused education, and transfer pathways close to home.

Prichard will serve as Interim Director while WKU conducts a national search later this summer and fall for a permanent Director of Regional Campuses.