WKU News

In a joint collaboration, the Mahurin Honors College, Student Government Association (SGA), and Housing and Residence Life – Living Learning Communities at Western Kentucky University (WKU) are thrilled to announce the opening of the Civic Engagement Resource Center, an innovative initiative designed to provide students with the tools they need to be successful in every aspect of civic life.

The Civic Engagement Resource Center aims to be a dynamic space dedicated to supporting students as they navigate their roles in civic and community leadership. As the center grows, it aspires to become a central hub of student engagement—a place where students can connect, exchange ideas, and learn from one another on their paths to becoming more civically involved and socially responsible. Ultimately, in the coming months and year, the center aims to foster a culture of proactive engagement and collective learning through collaborative efforts.

Currently, the Civic Engagement Resource Collection holds a collection of books on the good habits of citizenry, which are available for checkout for any and all WKU students. “My goal with this initiative is to get students talking about what it means to be a good citizen, and practicing what I call, “How to citizen,” said Caden Lucas, a Mahurin Honors College student and SGA Senator who has been working to establish the Civic Engagement Resource Center since this past summer. “As the center advances, I hope students are able to broaden their understanding of the critical issues affecting their communities and to inspire informed participation in all aspects of public life.”

The WKU Mahurin Honors College, Student Government Association, and Housing and Residence Life — Living Learning Communities Civic Engagement Resource Center is one of only a few established collegiate initiatives in the country that aims to provide students with direct outlets and resources to practice civic engagement and citizenship.

The Civic Engagement Resource Center is accessible to all students enrolled at WKU and will serve as a hub for discussions, events, and programming that will deepen students' connection to civic life. By involving both SGA and Housing and Residence Life, the Civic Engagement Resource Center leverages WKU’s diverse resources to reach a broad audience, further enhancing the university’s commitment to holistic student development.

Students interested in accessing the center’s resources are encouraged to visit the Mahurin Honors College Office Suite (HCIC 1045) or contact the Mahurin Honors College or Caden Lucas (caden.lucas835@topper.wku.edu) for more information.