President Caboni

Students:

WELCOME HOME! Today marks a new beginning for every student at WKU, whether you are returning to campus or just beginning your journey on the Hill!

As you adjust to all that a new semester brings, I hope you start with renewed energy and are thoughtful in devoting the time necessary to achieve academic success. Commit now to continuing the strong study habits you have learned and practiced in the past. Or, if you need to strengthen those habits, this is the time to make a change. Get to personally know your faculty, build relationships with your classmates and make a personal pledge to strive for your best.

If you need advice at any time throughout the semester, remember we are here to help. Talk with your professors and your advisors. Ask questions and know that we will do everything we can to surround you with a network of caring individuals who want nothing more than to see you succeed. We are committed to walking with you throughout the semester and the year ahead in the same way we will walk with you each year during your academic career on the Hill. We will guide. We will listen. We will support. Don’t be afraid to ask. This is what we do at WKU; this is what it means to be part of our family. We have your back!

We not only want you to graduate from WKU, we want you to enjoy the total WKU Experience. In order to reap the full benefit from any college experience, you must try new things, meet new people and sometimes step outside your comfort zone. With over 350 registered student organizations across campus, this year is the perfect time to get involved in something new or something you have always wanted to do. Truly engaging in our campus community makes all the difference - providing a lifelong bond to our institution and to your fellow Hilltoppers.

Finally, Hilltoppers WEAR RED. And Hilltoppers SHOW UP. Our long history of unique traditions is known around the world. We wave red towels, we hug Big Red, we sing the Alma Mater and we shout the Fight Song. So, get your red and join us. These are your traditions now, and they connect each of us to each graduate who came before and to those who will follow.

We are so glad you are home, and we are happy that you are part of our Hilltopper family. If I don’t see you before, I hope to see you waving red towels in the stands on August 29th as our football team takes on the Central Arkansas Bears. It’s going to be a great year on the Hill!

GO TOPS!

Timothy C. Caboni