The newsletter for the WKU community
September 26, 2023
President's Message:
The Hilltopper Family Shows Up
Dear Hilltopper Family,

As another exciting academic year at WKU is underway, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible sense of community that differentiates our university – the Hilltopper Family. Our collective spirit, unwavering support and shared pride make our university a truly special place.

Cheering on our students remains among our most cherished traditions. From athletic competition to theater, dance and forensics, our Hilltoppers give their all. Just last week, I had the pleasure of celebrating with our Big Red Marching Band as they received a formal invitation to participate in the 2025 London New Year’s Day Parade. This is a significant honor, credited to their hard work and success, and I hope you join me in cheering for them as they showcase the WKU Spirit abroad.

Regardless of our students’ interest, when we show up and rally behind them, it demonstrates that their dedication does not go unnoticed. Your presence and enthusiasm motivate our students to Climb to Greater Heights.

As a reminder, this year’s football schedule features two home weeknight contests. Let’s show our support and demonstrate that the Hilltopper Spirit knows no bounds, even on a weeknight. This Thursday, we take on Middle Tennessee State University at 6:30 p.m.
CLIMBING HIGHER
LTC Anthony J. Struzik, Professor of Military Science, recently participated in a Best Practices forum hosted by the US Army Cadet Command. LTC Struzik presented Military Science 490, a co-taught class between the Military Science department cadre and a CEBS scholar-in-residence. Learn More
Blood drive today, Wednesday
The 100 Miles of Hope Blood Drive continues today and Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Preston Center. The winner will be announced at Thursday's WKU vs. MTSU game.
Spotlight: WKU Week in Photos
Check out the latest installment of WKU Week in Photos.
WKU recognizes donors for loyalty and legacy giving
WKU held an event Sept. 21 to recognize and celebrate donors who have made gifts to the University for consecutive milestone years and those who have included the University in their estate plans.
COVID, flu vaccines available at WKU Health Services
Updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccines and flu vaccines are now available by appointment at WKU Health Services. Call 270-745-CARE to schedule an appointment. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Photo ID and insurance card are requested. Bring your vaccine card to receive a booster.
Applications due October 1 for 2023 WKU Sisterhood grants
Here’s a reminder that applications for 2023 WKU Sisterhood grants must be submitted by Sunday, October 1.
Nominations due October 4 for 2023-24 Faculty Awards
Nominations for WKU full-time and part-time faculty members are being accepted for the 2023-2024 college and university-wide Faculty Awards. The deadline for submitting nominations to the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs is October 4.
Dr. Carl Martray, former dean of CEBS, passes away
Dr. Carl Martray, former Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, passed away on September 19. He started as an assistant professor at WKU in 1972 and became dean in 1990.
WKU Football Information
WKU Football will face Middle Tennessee at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. The game is a Red Out and will be televised nationally on CBS Sports Network. Beginning at 2:30 p.m., campus offices will operate with minimal staff. Classes will continue as scheduled. Faculty and staff can claim two free tickets at the Diddle Arena ticket office or on gameday at Gates 3 or 4 at the stadium. Members of WKU’s Class of 2027 will participate in the pregame Big Red Rush. Look for event parking/traffic information in Thursday's newsletter.
WKU Athletics Events
In addition to the 100 Miles of Hope Blood Drive and Thursday night's WKU vs. MTSU game, this week's WKU Athletics events include a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Soccer/Softball Complex at 10 a.m. Thursday at 1777 Creason St., as well as WKU Soccer games on Friday night and Sunday afternoon.
Athletics
September
27
Wednesday
Concert

The WKU Steelband will present a concert at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Ivan Wilson Fine Arts Center Recital Hall. Learn More
September
27
Wednesday
Theatre Production

Turning Points: Three Short Plays will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday at the Gordon Wilson Hall Lab Theatre. Admission is $8. Learn More
September
28
Thursday
Multicultural Preview Day

WKU Admissions will host We C U at WKU: Multicultural Preview Day at 12:30 p.m. Thursday at Downing Student Union. Learn More
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