WKU Alumni

08/20/2026

Who else is ready for the new academic year? We can't wait to see campus full of faculty, staff, family, friends, students and alumni!

08/19/2026

“Giving back to WKU has been more meaningful than I expected. It reminded me that a gift like this is not simply about a name on a wall. It is about investing in people, relationships, confidence and opportunity," said Kyle Perkins.

Kyle Perkins ('94) and Scott Fuller ('81) found their friendship on the Hill. They each give back to the University that helped them grow into the men and professionals they are today. From scholarships to named spaces to support in each of their estate plans, Kyle and Scott's generosity has already impacted the lives of students in the Gordon Ford College of Business and WKU's ROTC program.

Western Kentucky University
Gordon Ford College of Business
WKU Army ROTC

08/19/2026

We are sad to share the passing of Howard Bailey (’71, ’73). Retired Vice President for Student Affairs and member of the WKU Hall of Distinguished Alumni, Bailey spent his life opening doors of opportunity and shaping lives at WKU.

Link to full story in the comments.

08/19/2026

Did you know that 31% of WKU students are considered first generation college students? For those students who have parents that did not graduate from traditional four-year colleges, community and mentorship with other first-gen students and graduates is essential!

Events like today’s “I am F1rst” welcome reception are the perfect opportunity for our first-gen alumni to pay it forward by volunteering and connecting with the incoming students who need it the most.

Learn more about volunteer opportunities at alumni.wku.edu.

08/18/2026

Check out these amazing Hilltopper athletes!

08/17/2026

⚾️ Get your tickets for WKU Night at the Hot Rods on Thursday, Sept. 3! Visit the link in our comments and use the code “WKU” for $10 tickets today.

08/17/2026

What a great day opening the 120th academic year of WKU with our partners from across the Hill!

08/14/2026

At today's WKU Board of Regents meeting, several named spaces were approved in recognition of the generous philanthropic support of the late Romanza O. Johnson. Romanza was known for her life of service and philanthropy, including $2.8 million for WKU in her estate. The gift will honor her legacy and support several areas across the University, just as she impacted many areas at WKU and in the community during her lifetime.

Areas at WKU supported through her estate include various scholarship funds, Agriculture & Food Science, Family and Consumer Sciences, Education, Athletics, Public Media, the Kentucky Museum and more. Her philanthropic legacy mirrored her giving throughout her lifetime and benefits numerous areas to which she gave her volunteer service and financial support.

08/14/2026

We’re so proud of Dr. Mark Martin (‘08, ‘12, ‘19) for being named the 2027 Kentucky Superintendent of the Year! Congratulations and go Tops!

One of our amazing alumni has been named the 2027 Kentucky Superintendent of the Year!

Dr. Mark Martin earned three CEBS degrees: BS in Exceptional Education LBD and MSD (2008), MAE in Educational Administration (2012), and Ed.D. in Educational Leadership (2019)

Congratulations, Dr. Martin! We're proud of you and your leadership of Meade County Schools. https://www.meade.kyschools.us/o/spms/article/3056227

WKU School of Teacher Education WKU School of Leadership & Professional Studies WKU Educational Leadership Doctoral Program WKU Alumni

08/13/2026

Three leaders in military service, tourism, education and ministry will join WKU’s Hall of Distinguished Alumni this fall. Lieutenant General (Ret.) Steven L. Basham, Deana Davenport Ivey and the late Rev. Dr. John E. Jones will be honored during WKU’s 2026 Homecoming Celebration. The Hilltopper Excellence Awards, presented by Franklin Bank & Trust, will be held on Thursday, Nov. 12 and include the induction of the 35th class of noted alumni as well as additional recognitions for alumni and supporters of WKU.

Western Kentucky University
Ogden College of Science & Engineering at WKU
WKU Potter College of Arts & Letters
WKU College of Education and Behavioral Sciences