The newsletter for the WKU community
September 7, 2023
2 will be recognized for achievement at inaugural Hilltopper Excellence Awards
Two individuals will be recognized for alumni achievement at the inaugural Hilltopper Excellence Awards during Homecoming 2023.
 
Dr. Charles Coomer (’14) will be honored for Young Alumni Achievement, and Dr. David D. Lee will receive the designation of Honorary Alumnus. The Hilltopper Excellence Awards, presented by Franklin Bank & Trust, will be held on Thursday, Nov. 9, at Knicely Conference Center.

Dr. Coomer, a visionary pediatric physician-scientist, is recognized for his contributions to the medical profession as a young alumnus of WKU. He has dedicated his research to immune dysregulation and viral infections shaped by his experiences with HIV genetics, infections and pediatric care.

Dr. Lee, a Distinguished Professor and University Historian, is recognized as an Honorary Alumnus for service to WKU that spans nearly five decades.
CLIMBING HIGHER
Faculty in the Department of Social Work of the College of Health and Human Services recently received a grant of $160,000 from the Association of Social Work Boards. Learn More
WKU student group assists with free pop-up clinic
The WKU Student Rural Health Association, in partnership with Remote Area Medical (RAM®), hosted a free, two-day clinic on August 26 and 27. RAM is a nonprofit provider of pop-up clinics delivering free, quality dental, vision and medical care to those in need.
Spotlight: WKU Week in Photos
Check out the latest WKU Week in Photos for highlights from arts and cultural events, student organizations and other opportunities to get involved on the Hill.
Parent & Family Weekend
This weekend, WKU will celebrate Parent & Family Weekend with numerous events, highlighted by recognition of the 2023 Family of the Year during WKU Football’s game against Houston Christian. More: Parent & Family Weekend schedule
Kentucky Museum kicks off America 250 series tonight
The Kentucky Museum will kick off its America 250 programs this evening with a presentation by Dr. Nichols Hartlep, Associate Professor of Education Studies and Robert Charles Billings Endowed Chair in Education at Berea College. What’s the “Lock?" The “Keys” Needed for Unlocking the Model Minority Stereotype of Asian Americans will begin at 5 p.m.
Opening reception Friday for 'The Lewis Lens' exhibition
The Kentucky Museum will host a reception for The Lewis Lens, an exhibition by University Photographer Clinton Lewis, from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday. Remarks by Joe Imel, Corie Morell Martin, Brent Bjorkman and Clinton Lewis will begin at 6 p.m.
September 2023 Staff Star Award Recipients
The WKU Staff Senate recognized the Christopher Ware Staff Star Award recipients during its meeting on September 6. The September 2023 recipients are Adam Ashby, Coordinator, Student Records & Registration; Rebecca Collins, Learning Resource Coordinator, School of Nursing; and Carol Lee, Office Coordinator, Educational Enhancement Programs. More: Submit a Staff Star nomination
WKU Football Information
WKU Football will face Houston Christian at 6 p.m. Saturday at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. The game is a White Out. Here are some reminders about event parking, traffic and tailgating:
WKU Global Fall Events
WKU Global has several events planned this fall to prepare students for career and life in a global context, including Chai Chat sessions, Career of Global Meaning series, College Knowledge Series and Global Learning Fair.
Staff Leadership Institute
Here's a reminder for WKU staff members: Applications for the 2023-2024 Staff Leadership Institute will be accepted until September 18. 
Athletics
September
10
Sunday
Faculty Recital

The Department of Music will host a clarinet recital by Dr. John Cipolla at 3 p.m. Sunday at Ivan Wilson Fine Arts Center Recital Hall. Learn More
September
11
Monday
ONE WKU Series

The ONE WKU Lunch and Learn Series will continue Monday with Cross Generational Communication Discussion by WKU Director of Residence Life Blair Jensen at 11:30 a.m. at The Commons at Helm Library, room 3002. Learn More
September
11
Monday
Meet the Firms

The Department of Accounting and the Beta Alpha Psi honor society will host Meet the Firms at 5:30 p.m. Monday at the Knicely Conference Center. Learn More
Western Kentucky University 
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