The newsletter for the WKU community
January 30, 2024
President's Message: Growing
the Research Portfolio at WKU
Dear Colleagues,
 
At WKU, research plays an integral role in achieving our university mission and differentiating the WKU Experience from that of other institutions across our region. Our undergraduates engage in research typically accessible only to graduate students elsewhere. By enabling them to participate in our projects, we inspire the next generation of scholars and innovators.
 
One of the ways we demonstrate our commitment to fostering innovation is through our Innovation Campus – where ideas flourish and entrepreneurs, leaders and researchers work together to develop real-world solutions to our area’s most pressing concerns. Last Thursday, we showcased the remarkable work underway at our Innovation Campus during an onsite visit with Governor Beshear, and it reminded us how much we have accomplished of late.
CLIMBING HIGHER
Nominations are being accepted through February 12 for the 2024 Staff Excellence Awards. Categories include Customer Service Award, Teamwork Award, Student Support Award, Unsung Hero Award, Part-Time Award and WKU Affiliate Award-Sodexo. Learn More
Spotlight: Dr. Jessi Thomsen
Dr. Jessi Thomsen, Assistant Professor of Professional and Technical Writing, is a dedicated and accomplished professor whose compassion has left a lasting impact on her students. However, she didn’t always plan on teaching. It was through following her heart and her passions that she got to where she is today.
Registration open for 'Practice Makes Purpose' presentation
Register now for a Zoom presentation from Melissa Bernstein, Co-Founder of Lifelines and Co-Founder of Melissa & Doug Toys, as she details her story as a leader, creative and founder of two successful companies. Practice Makes Purpose: A Transformative Guide to Unlocking Your Full Potential will begin at 4:30 p.m. Monday (February 5). Register online
Celebration of the Arts 2024
Here's a reminder from the Kentucky Museum that entries are due by February 9 for the Abound Credit Union Celebration of the Arts. The juried exhibition is open to all residents 18 years of age or older, living in a Kentucky county which falls within a 65-mile radius of Bowling Green.
Winter Term in Costa Rica
During Winter Term 2024, students with The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science explored Costa Rica with a focus on biodiversity and research.
Athletics
January
31
Wednesday
Black History Month

Black History Month events kick off with NOIR: A Night of Black Excellence at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Downing Student Union, room 3024. Learn More
February
1
Thursday
Multicultural Preview Day

The Intercultural Student Engagement Center will host For the Culture: A Multicultural Preview Day at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Downing Student Union. Learn More
February
3
Saturday
Winter Super Saturdays

The Center for Gifted Studies will host Winter Super Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to noon Saturday at various locations. Classes continue February 10 and February 17. Learn More
Western Kentucky University 
1906 College Heights Blvd. 
Bowling Green, KY 42101