Biology

Western Kentucky University Libraries is thrilled to announce the recipients of the Connie Foster Student Scholarship Endowment for the 2024-2025 academic year: Cal McDermott (right) and Cyrus Adkisson (left).

Cal McDermott, a senior majoring in Wildlife Biology from Georgetown, Kentucky, expressed immense gratitude for being selected for this award, noting how meaningful it is to have their hard work recognized. “It means so much to me that my work has been recognized and I’ve been found deserving of such an award,” they stated. “I can focus more on my studies rather than worrying about how I’m going to pay for things.”

Having worked at WKU Libraries since August 2021, McDermott began their journey as a circulation desk student before transitioning to their current role as an Interlibrary Loan student assistant. “I love the environment here above all else,” they remarked. “Everyone is so overwhelmingly friendly and supportive. They are not shy about praise and will let you know how valued you are.”

In addition to providing a positive work atmosphere, McDermott emphasized the valuable skills they have gained during their time at the library. “The library is where I’ve acquired most of my work ethic and interpersonal skills. It was my first real job, and I’m incredibly grateful for all I’ve been able to learn here,” McDermott explained. Moreover, McDermott expressed that their communication and technology skills have improved significantly, along with a wealth of knowledge gained from interactions with diverse individuals across various fields of study.

Looking ahead, McDermott has ambitious plans for their future. After graduating in May 2025, they aim to pursue a Master’s degree and eventually find a career in animal research.

Cyrus Adkisson, a junior majoring in Electrical Engineering from Somerset, Kentucky, is another of our Connie Foster Student Scholarship Endowment recipients. In a recent interview, Adkisson shared his thoughts on how winning the scholarship impacts his education. “Winning the scholarship reduces the stress of having to pay for my education, especially because many engineering courses have additional fees,” he explained. “It is really helpful before—and even during—the semester, knowing that I have financial help.”

Adkisson learned about the scholarship by exploring opportunities available on TopDollar, WKU’s scholarship database. He has been a dedicated student worker at WKU Libraries for nearly three years, starting in the fall of 2021 as a freshman. He has primarily worked in Special Collections, which recently relocated from the Kentucky Building to Cravens Library.

Reflecting on his experience at the library, Adkisson stated, “There’s lots to love! Everyone there is so kind and enjoyable to work with. I get to do a variety of things; I enjoy helping out in any way I can. I also appreciate how they are flexible and work with my schedule.” A standout moment for him was a Halloween celebration where employees dressed up and included student workers in the festivities.

Adkisson noted that his role at the library has equipped him with valuable skills that will benefit his future career in engineering. “This job has prepared me to be adaptable and ready to do a variety of tasks,” he said. “I think that could be important for an engineering student.” Looking ahead, Adkisson hopes that the skills he has developed during his time at the library will transfer effectively to his internship plans in the near future.

The scholarship, which honors the legacy of Connie Foster, aims to support students who demonstrate exceptional dedication and commitment to their academic pursuits. The scholarship was created in 2017 to honor Connie Foster, who devoted 41 years to WKU. She served as the dean of libraries from April 2011 to June 2017. Before becoming dean, Foster worked in serials and electronic resources and was the department head of Library Technical Services. She played a crucial role in establishing TopSCHOLAR®, an open-access platform for articles, theses, dissertations, and presentations by WKU faculty, staff, and students.

WKU Libraries continues to support student success through initiatives like the Connie Foster Student Scholarship Endowment, by recognizing the accomplishments of dedicated students like Cyrus Adkisson and Cal McDermott.

Joshua Vossler, Dean of University Libraries, remarked that in addition to serving as a knowledge hub on top of the hill, our libraries provide support that helps our students thrive in their educational journeys. "I'm delighted to carry on this tradition that honors Connie Foster and demonstrates our commitment to empowering students to succeed.”

For more information on the Connie Foster Student Scholarship Endowment, go to https://www.wku.edu/chf/conniefoster/index.php