Faculty, staff and students,
Each session of the Kentucky General Assembly introduces new legislation that affects institutions of higher education in the Commonwealth. We understand that the passage of HB4, coupled with the introduction of similar federal legislation and executive orders, has raised concerns among many within our campus community.
As an institution that relies heavily on state and federal funding, we must ensure compliance with any new laws and regulations to protect the resources that sustain our mission. Failure to do so could lead to significant reductions in our operating budget and limit our ability to provide essential financial aid, including Pell Grants. We have a responsibility to thoughtfully navigate new regulations while continuing to serve our students and community.
This legislation may necessitate operational changes. As the bill just passed, it will take our campus leadership some time to assess what, if any, adjustments are necessary to ensure compliance. We will work closely with our General Counsel to fully understand the law and its implications. Before the bill takes effect on June 30, 2025, we will communicate any necessary changes broadly with the campus community.
We understand the concerns this legislation has raised, and we want to be clear: nothing in this bill, as written, diminishes our commitment to student success. WKU has always been – and will always be – dedicated to ensuring that every student – regardless of background – feels supported and has access to the resources they need to thrive. This principle guided our transition to ONE WKU several years ago, a vision that remains at the heart of our mission to cultivate a campus where every Hilltopper is valued, supported and given every opportunity to succeed.
At WKU, belonging is not about uniformity – it’s about connection. Through nearly 300 student organizations, we provide countless opportunities for students to engage, find their community and explore a variety of perspectives. These relationships are not just meaningful; they are essential. When students feel a sense of belonging, they persist. They grow. They succeed. And these organizations play an essential role in providing that sense of belonging – a sense based not on everyone looking alike or thinking the same – but one built upon the foundation of finding shared interests, exchanging ideas and challenging perspectives in a way that fosters growth, connection and understanding. These relationships are often what give our students the confidence and support they need to persist in their collegiate journey, from semester to semester and all the way through graduation.
We also reaffirm our dedication to academic freedom, freedom of expression and the open exchange of ideas. We hold dear the First Amendment principle that a university – not government – may determine its own curriculum, the manner in which it is delivered and by whom. Democracy thrives on dialogue, and at WKU, we take seriously our responsibility to foster an environment where differing perspectives are met with respect. We remain steadfast in preparing our students to be engaged citizens, civic leaders and agents of change.
Every student matters. Every employee matters. Every member of our community matters. And we remain committed to providing a campus culture that ensures every person who comes to WKU – whether to study, teach, live, compete or visit – knows they belong and finds a place where they are appreciated and valued. Together, we will continue the work of building a campus community that uplifts every Hilltopper, ensuring they feel at home and empowering them to succeed.
BestTimothy C. Caboni
President
Bud Fischer
Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs
Martha Sales
Vice President of Student Experience and Dean of Students
