Colleagues,
As we enter a season of celebration, reflection and appreciation, I want to take a moment to recognize a few upcoming events for our Hilltopper Family.
First, today is Veterans Day, an opportunity to honor and thank those who have served our nation. Many of our students, faculty, staff and alumni are veterans or have family members who have served. Their dedication and sacrifice deserve our gratitude, and I encourage you to participate in recognizing and celebrating their service. To that end, please join me at 11 a.m. this morning as we observe Veterans Day with our annual wreath-laying ceremony at the Guthrie Bell Tower, followed by our ROTC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at noon in Diddle Arena’s Stansbury Concourse. This is an opportunity for us to honor those who have worn the uniform of the United States of America to protect our freedom.
Second, this week is Homecoming on our Hill, a time when we gather as a community to celebrate our shared pride and spirit for WKU. Homecoming offers our alumni, students, faculty and staff members a chance to reconnect with old friends, make new memories and showcase what it means to be a Hilltopper. You can find more information about Homecoming, including a calendar of the week’s events, at this link.
Third, Friday is National Philanthropy Day, and on Tuesday, December 3, WKU participates in Giving Tuesday. These two events remind us of the power of generosity and support within our community. Philanthropy plays an essential role in helping our students succeed - strengthening our academic programs and fostering growth across our campus. As we celebrate this day, let us remember the transformative effect of giving and of those who continue to invest in the future of our beloved institution and our students. Their generosity enabled us to surpass our Opportunity Fund’s $100 million goal, creating 267 new endowed scholarships. I appreciate the 740 current and retired WKU employees who contributed more than $6 million to the Opportunity Fund, and I encourage you to continue supporting our students financially as you are able. You may contribute on Giving Tuesday by clicking on this link.
Finally, Thanksgiving is an occasion to express our gratitude for one another and to remember all the things for which we are thankful. As we make individual plans to celebrate with family, friends and loved ones, this year we will first celebrate together as a WKU Family. I invite all students, faculty and staff to partake in some apple cider and fall treats outside The Commons at Helm Library on Tuesday, November 19, from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. as we reflect on another remarkable year together on our Hill.
We have a busy week and month ahead, and I look forward to celebrating with you.
Go Tops!
Best,
Timothy C. Caboni
