The newsletter for the WKU community -- September 4, 2024

President's Message:

Extended 2024 Winter Break

Colleagues,

Tuesday morning, I visited with members of our Staff Senate. During our time together, we discussed, among other important topics, the university’s commitment to providing an attractive work/life balance for all employees. To that end, I announced a change to the 2024 WKU Winter Break schedule – an additional five days. With this modification, the 2024 Winter Break will now begin on Monday, December 16 and conclude on Friday, January 3.



This decision reflects the importance we place on fostering a positive and supportive work environment and our continued efforts to enhance work/life harmony for each member of our WKU Family. Additionally, paid time off remains a vital component of WKU’s overall total compensation strategy.

Provost's Message: Welcome Back

I am thrilled to welcome you to a new academic year with a heart full of anticipation and excitement. The start of a new semester always brings a sense of renewal and possibility — a chance to make a profound impact on the lives of our students and to contribute to the noble mission of a comprehensive university.

I extend special greetings to over 35 new faculty members and instructors who joined us this fall as they launch their careers at WKU.

• A look at WKU's contribution to state's economy

• WKU’s economic impact on the region and state

• WKU extends second buyout offer to employees in three-and-a-half years

• College Heights Foundation receives record asset total of $257 million

• Benefit to fund aspiring teacher scholarships

• WKU to host 14th memorial run for late alumnus

Dr. Simran Banga, Associate Professor in WKU’s Department of Biology, received a National Institute of Health (NIH) grant to fund the acquisition of an Electrophoresis Imaging System to be housed in the WKU Biotechnology Center. The new system will replace a 19-year-old imager to document and analyze DNA and protein gels processed by students in research and teaching laboratory courses. Learn More

WKU Week in Photos

Hilltoppers are making connections and exploring opportunities to get involved on our Hill. Check out the latest WKU Week in Photos from Clinton Lewis, WKU Communications & Marketing.

South Central Bank Signs on for Largest Bank Partnership in WKU Athletics History

Hilltoppers Welcome EKU For Home Opener White Out Game; Tyson Helton Weekly Press Conference; Maynard Added To Ray Guy Award Watchlist; WKU Drops Season Opener At No. 5 Alabama

WKU Women’s Golf Earns Top Five Finish in Boilermaker Classic

WKU Soccer Falls at Arkansas

WKU Volleyball Announces 2024-2025 Victory Club; WKU Falls to Kentucky in Four-Set Match; Travis Hudson Weekly Press Conference

Kunkel Leads the Way for WKU Cross Country in Belmont Opener

Johns Named Lady Topper Basketball Assistant Coach