The newsletter for the WKU community -- September 17, 2025

President's Message: Announcing WKU's Third Annual Presidential Speaker Series

Dear Colleagues,


As we settle into the rhythm of the fall semester, I want to thank you for the many ways you’ve helped our students feel welcome and at home on the Hill. Your efforts ensure our newest Hilltoppers are not only settled in but also ready to thrive.

 

This coming weekend, we will extend that same WKU Spirit to our extended Hilltopper family. Parent & Family Weekend is one of the most important traditions of the fall, providing parents and families the opportunity to experience life on our campus, connect with faculty and staff and see firsthand how their students are growing. Your engagement with them makes a lasting impression and reinforces the strength of our WKU community.

 

Looking ahead, I am excited to share that the annual Presidential Speaker Series returns on Tuesday, November 4, at 7:00 p.m. in Van Meter Auditorium, featuring nationally recognized researcher and author Dr. Jean Twenge. Dr. Twenge is a professor of psychology at San Diego State University and the author of seven books, including Generations (2023) and iGen (2017). Her research, featured in outlets such as The New York Times, The Atlantic, CNN and NPR, explores how generational change and technology shape society. She has published more than 180 scientific articles on topics ranging from generational differences to mental health, social media use and well-being. Her research and commentary are frequently featured in major outlets such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, CNN, NPR and Time.

 

A sought-after speaker, Dr. Twenge brings data-driven insights and practical perspectives to audiences ranging from educators and business leaders to parents and policymakers.

WKU ATHLETICS: 100 Miles of Hope Blood Drive returns Oct. 20-22


Topper Tuesday: Audrey Ann Laster


New tech company joins WKU Innovation Campus


Caza Innovations expanding opportunities for research and development in Bowling Green


Bowling Green Police join WKU ROTC students to honor the lives lost on 9/11

CLIMBING HIGHER

Nominations are being accepted for the 2025-2026 college and university-wide Faculty Awards. The deadline is October 1. Learn More

Join us for the dedication and ribbon cutting of Amy and David Chandler Hall on Friday at 10 a.m. Learn More

Student Spotlight: Carroll Ann Shackleford

For Carroll Ann Shackleford, stepping into the unknown wasn’t just part of the plan—it was the point. A double major in dance and psychological sciences with a minor in clinical and community behavioral health, Carroll Ann recently completed her first study abroad experience through the KIIS Austria program. “Yeah, it was my first time abroad and my second time on a plane,” she said. “So it was really diving right in.”

WKU to celebrate Parent & Family Weekend


WKU will celebrate Parent & Family Weekend this weekend with numerous events, highlighted by recognition of the 2025 Family of the Year during WKU Football’s game against Nevada on Saturday evening. More: Schedule of Events

'24-25 Nationally Competitive Scholarships


WKU students and recent graduates earned recognition in the nation’s most prestigious scholarship competitions during the 2024–2025 academic year.

More: List of 2024-2025 National Scholarship Winners

PCAL 60th Anniversary Soirée is Friday


Join WKU PCAL for the 60th Anniversary Soirée on Friday at 7 p.m. at the Knicely Conference Center to recognize the past, present and future of PCAL. Celebratory attire for this event is encouraged. RSVP online.

Windows 10 End of Life


Here's a reminder for all faculty and staff:


Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, security updates will no longer be provided by Microsoft, and continued use of Windows 10 devices will create security risks.

WKU Global hosts Chai Chat


Can't travel now, but want a cultural experience? WKU Global will host their first Chai Chat of the semester on Tuesday, September 23 at 3 p.m. in Honors College and International Center, room 3055.

WKU Symphony presents Fall Classics


WKU Symphony will host their first concert of the semester, Fall Classics on Friday at 7 p.m. in Van Meter Auditorium. Tickets are $12.

“Heroes on The Hill” Happening Oct. 10-11


WKU will welcome the Louisville Slugger Warriors, the nation’s first and only competitive amputee baseball team, to the Hill for a powerful two-day event celebrating courage, perseverance and the love of America’s pastime.

Faculty member to join leadership panel


Melanie Eaton, Instructor in the Department of Public Health in CHHS, will be a featured panelist in an upcoming national webinar titled “Strengthening the Pipeline: University Innovation in Senior Living Leadership Education.”

WKU Week in Photos

Check out the latest WKU Week in Photos from Clinton Lewis, WKU Communications & Marketing.

Topper Teaching Tour


Here's a reminder for all faculty:


Please join us in the coming weeks (Sept. 24-Oct. 10) for the Topper Teaching Tour, an opportunity for you to visit classrooms across campus, see colleagues in action, and gather new ideas to bring into your own teaching.

Athletics

WKU Football Returns Home For Parent & Family Weekend Game Against Nevada


100 Miles of Hope Blood Drive Returns Oct. 20-22


Women’s Tennis Announces 2025-26 Schedule


Hilltoppers Add Two Assistant Coaches


WKU Cross Country Wraps Up Action at Southern Showcase


Women’s Golf Finishes Third at Badger Invitational


WKU Soccer Ties With Austin Peay on Senior Night


WKU Volleyball Falls to Commodores in Three; Three Hilltoppers Earn CUSA Player of the Week Honors; Young and Skidmore Named to Buccaneer Classic All-Tournament Team

September

17

Wednesday

Market on the Avenue


WKU Sustainability and WKU Restaurant Group will host Market on the Avenue from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at Centennial Plaza on Avenue of Champions in front of PS2. Learn More

September

18

Thursday

Faculty Senate


WKU Faculty Senate will meet at 4 p.m. Thursday at Downing Student Union, room 2081. Learn More

 

September

18

Thursday

Twice Exceptional Students Seminar


The Center for Gifted Studies will host Twice Exceptional Students Seminar from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursday at the Eva and Jim Martens Alumni Center. Learn More

September

19

Friday

Theatre for Young Audiences Series


The Theatre for Young Audiences Series will present Juni B. Jones: Toothless Wonder at 4 p.m. Friday at the Gordon Wilson Hall Lab Theatre. Weekend showtimes are 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $6. Child is discount available at checkout. Learn More

 
 
 
 
 
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