WKU News

Two teams from The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky University competed at the 2023 State Envirothon Competition in May at the North Central 4-H Camp in Carlisle, Kentucky. Gatton’s Senior Team placed first overall among 36 teams and will compete at the National Competition in July in New Brunswick, Canada. The Senior Team also received first place in the forestry, wildlife, and current issues categories. The Gatton Junior Team placed eighth overall.

The Gatton Senior Team members are Nishu Anekere (’23, Conner High School), Thorin Bowman (’23, Bardstown High School), Amir Campbell (’23, St. Francis High School), Kaden Yonts (’23, Logan County High School), and Levi Willgruber (’24, Greenwood High School).

The Gatton Junior Team members are Gianna Claros (’24, duPont Manual High School), Allison Dixon (’24, Central Hardin High School), Amelie Fuentes (’24, Atherton High School), Parmeshvar Prakash (’24, duPont Manual High School), and Atiana Spivey (’24, Monroe County High School). Students are coached by Penny Warick with the Warren County Conservation District. 

Envirothon is a competition for high school students that tests their knowledge of soils, aquatics, wildlife, forestry, and this year’s current issue of climate change. In the two-day competition, students used their analysis and critical thinking skills to conduct hands-on experiments, give oral presentations, and respond to questions posed by a panel of expert judges.

About The Gatton Academy: Established in 2007, The Gatton Academy is Kentucky’s first residential two-year program for gifted and talented juniors 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 is a recipient of the 2022 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from Insight Into Diversity Magazine and the Innovation Partnership Award from the National Consortium for Secondary STEM Schools.

About Kentucky Envirothon: The Kentucky Division of Conservation operates Envirothon in Kentucky, working with numerous state government and university leaders to help develop knowledge, skills and a passion for conservation in schools throughout the state.  If interested in learning more about the Envirothon, please call Penny Warwick with the Warren County Conservation District at 270-202-3667.