WKU News

Pictured from top left to right clockwise: Abram Tingle, Kayden Mulrooney, Ela Barker, and Rush Robinson

The Mahurin Honors College (MHC) at Western Kentucky University is excited to announce the selection of four student leaders who will serve as counselors for the 2025 Honors M.A.S.T.E.R. Plan: Rush Robinson, Kayden Mulrooney, Abram Tingle, and Ela Barker.

These counselors will work closely with members of the MHC staff and faculty to create a bespoke honors orientation experience, complementing the overall M.A.S.T.E.R. Plan programming and events hosted by the office of Housing & Residence Life. These students were selected for their strong leadership skills, dedication to the Honors community, and desire to create a welcoming and engaging experience for incoming scholars.

Rush Robinson, a psychology major with additional majors in sociology and philosophy from Benton, Kentucky, is thrilled to return to the team. “Because the MHC is awesome and every scholar deserves an epic experience!” Robinson said. “As a Direction Leader, I want to help set the tone for an exciting and inclusive week, where both counselors and campers feel motivated and connected.”

Kayden Mulrooney, a photojournalism and political science major from Louisville, Kentucky, brings a calm and resourceful approach to her leadership, shaped by her role as a photo editor for the Talisman and an HonorsTopper. “I had such a wonderful time getting to know my campers last year,” she shared. “Watching them fully engage and grow in confidence was just amazing. That experience inspired me to continue being a part of this event and contribute even more this year.”

Abram Tingle, an electrical engineering major from Somerset, Kentucky, looks forward to building on his previous experience as a counselor. “I loved being part of Honors M.A.S.T.E.R. Plan last year,” he said. “Even with changes, the experience was incredibly meaningful and fun. I’m excited to help create that same sense of belonging and enthusiasm for new scholars.”

Ela Barker, an Environmental, Sustainability, and Geographic Studies major from Wilmore, Kentucky, values the deep impact Honors programming has had on her college journey. “Being a part of Honors MASTER Plan—first as a participant, then as a counselor—has been incredibly rewarding,” she said. “I’m passionate about creating a supportive environment and helping students feel at home in the MHC. It’s an honor to be part of a team that helps shape such an important first week.”

The 2025 Honors M.A.S.T.E.R. Plan, scheduled from August 12-16, will continue to offer a vibrant and community-centered orientation experience, where new scholars can explore their passions, make lasting connections, and begin their WKU journey with confidence. These four counselors will play a key role in leading that experience.

For more information about Honors MASTER Plan or the Mahurin Honors College, visit www.wku.edu/honors.