WKU News

Today, The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky University received the 2022 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education. The Inspiring Programs in STEM Award honors colleges and universities that encourage and assist students from underrepresented groups to enter the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science will be featured, along with 78 other recipients, in the September 2022 issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.

Inspiring Programs in STEM Award winners were selected based on efforts to inspire and encourage a new generation of young people to consider careers in STEM through mentoring, teaching, research, and successful programs and initiatives.

“With the support of the dedicated faculty and staff of Western Kentucky University, our students explore many different STEM disciplines in an academically rigorous environment. Through their exploration, many begin to hone their interests,” said Lynette Breedlove, Director of The Gatton Academy. “Approximately 70% of Gatton Academy alumni have gone on to major in STEM fields with an additional 10% majoring in STEM-related fields.”

INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine selected The Gatton Academy because of its mission to provide a residential program on the campus of Western Kentucky University for bright, highly motivated Kentucky high school juniors and seniors from diverse backgrounds who have demonstrated interests in pursuing advanced careers in STEM. Gatton Academy students have opportunities to participate in a rich living-learning environment with support from faculty, staff, and peers. While enrolled, students participate in university coursework, undergraduate mentored research, and study abroad programs.

“We know that many STEM programs are not always recognized for their success, dedication, and mentorship for underrepresented students,” said Lenore Pearlstein, owner and publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. “We want to honor the schools and organizations that have created programs that inspire and encourage young people who may currently be in or are interested in a future career in STEM. We are proud to honor these programs as role models to other institutions of higher education and beyond.”

About The Gatton Academy: Established in 2007, The Gatton Academy is Kentucky’s first residential two-year program for gifted and talented junior and seniors. The Gatton Academy’s students enroll as juniors and are full-time WKU students pursuing their interests in advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The Gatton Academy has been named to Jay Mathews’ list of top-performing schools with elite students annually since 2009 and received the National Consortium for Secondary STEM School’s Innovation Partnership Award.

 About INSIGHT Into Diversity  

INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine is the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education today and is known for its annual INSIGHT Into Diversity Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award, the only award that recognizes colleges and universities for outstanding diversity and inclusion efforts across their campuses. INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine presents timely, thought-provoking news and feature stories on matters of diversity and inclusion in higher education and beyond. Articles include interviews with innovators and experts, as well as explorations of best practices and profiles of exemplary programs. In our Career Center, readers will also discover career opportunities that connect job seekers with institutions and businesses that embrace a diverse and inclusive workforce. Current, archived, and digital issues of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine are available online at insightintodiversity.com.