Homecoming 2017

HOMECOMINg 2017

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Tailgating Map Homecoming Horoscopes International students’ perspective History of the Red Towel Local alumni on Homecoming Homecoming: A look back in photos Allison Leone profile Homecoming playlist WKU Legacies Calendar of events Gary and Julie Ransdell Homecoming fashion Devon Key profile Smart snacking for Homecoming Homecoming Queens Big Red Barking Band Evening at the Farm ‘No place like the after party’ Homecoming coloring page Letters from alumni

Homecoming

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WKU Tailgating Map Fall 2017

LOT D Russe llvi lle Road W e st Lot

University Blvd.

PS3

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5 Houche ns Indus trie s LT Sm ith Sta di um

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SSB

LOT C Creason Lot

AOC 3

AOC 2

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CVS

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KB

Heat Plant

LOT F

DSU

PHAC

CAC

McLean BR

HP

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WAB

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Barnes Gated Lot Regents Lot

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GWH MMTH

Mimosa Lot Mimosa Visitor

LOT A

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GCC CH

HCIC

SPB

GRH

HUB Lot

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Minton Lot CI

Normal Street South Lot

Hyatt Place

Lower HUB Lot

FAC

T Clinical Services Lot

Alumni Square Garage

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HS

BC Pearce Ford Lot

ZA

AC TPH

LOT G

AAC VMH

PH

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JJ

Kentucky Street Lot

CMC

FB

FC

Jones Jaggers Service Dr

Adams Street Lot

RH HP

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CEC

LOT E

South Lawn

T LOT B

McCormack MC

AOC 1

Poland Lot

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Adams St

ONE WAY

CHB

Russellville Road Lot

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RCL

Normal Street North

FH

HL

FH L

Mimosa Point

Helm Lot

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College Hill Lot

Cherry Lot

COHH

Ga ted Hi lltop

Ogden Lot ST

DC WSC University Blvd. Lot

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HPL

TCCW

OCH SH EBS

Chestnut Street South

Tailgating:

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Chestnut Street North

Other:

Parking:

Reserved Tailgating Area

HAF/Athletics Reserved Parking Spaces

Road Closing 4 hrs before kick-off

Public RV Parking

Topper Walk

EHS

T ST

Free Tailgating In Parking Lots

RV

Disability Parking With Complementary Bus Service

Student Reserved Tailgating LOT

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Student Resident Tailgating

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Topper Town

Free Event Parking

Pick-ups and Drop-offs.

Do not block traffic.

Event Shuttle stops Service begins 2 hrs before kick-off

Emergency Lane - No parking

Map has color details and is subject to change. Event timelines, including tailgating start times, shuttle service and road closing times, will be announced for each game.

Courtesy of WKU Parking and Transportation Services

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Homecoming

HOROSCOPES: The stars are coming home

BY TAYLOR HUFF

HERALD.OPINION@WKU.EDU Your parents aren’t the only ones who decided to surprise you and show up for homecoming week. So pull yourself out of whatever dumpster you found yourself in and sober up because it’s time for Homecoming horoscopes. **DISCLAIMER: These are not scientifically accurate predictions. That is because they are so accurate they can’t be classified as predictions. These events will happen. You can bet all 17 Big Red dollars you have to last you the rest of the semester on that promise.** Aries — Your man crush thinks NFL players are kneeling out of disrespect for our country rather than in protest of our country’s history of racial injustice and

police brutality. Read a book, Aries.

Cancer — The stars predict that you will be haunted by the ghost of Clarence Van Hoose, former chairman of Parking and Transportation Services. Make sure to put an extra quarter in the meter.

Libra — You’re going to get blackout drunk Libra. Pull yourself together. there are children here.

Leo — After seeing “IT” you note how the scariest part of the movie was the lack of general health education for adolescents in the 80s. You’re wrong. It’s the clown.

Scorpio — We get it, Hillary, you won the popular vote. It’s time to move on.

Capricorn — At approximately 3:58 a.m. on Homecoming eve, you will witness two shadowy figures rip the arm off of a paper mache depiction of Big Red attached to a homecoming float. You must stop them. The fate of this university rests in your hands.

Aquarius — According to the stars, you will not see much luck with your relationships this week. Let’s be honest; if your turtle ran away from you as a kid I don’t think Chad from Sigma Alpha Epsilon will be that much better at companionship.

Taurus — “I don’t think quantity time is as special as quality time with your family,” Reba McEntire said. Learn to live by

Gemini — You think just because Twitter gave you 280 characters you’re entitled to act like a crazy person this home-

Join alumni and friends of The WKU College of Education & Behavioral Sciences during Homecoming 2017!

Saturday, October 14, 2017 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Gary A A. Ransdell Hall Hall, 2nd floor atrium

Enjoy refreshments, visit with riends and former classmates, and learn more about the innovative programs and accomplishments of the College!

these words this week, Taurus. When has this flaming haired goddess ever steered you wrong?

For more information on this free event or to register by phone, contact Tammy Spinks at 270-745-4664 or register online at alumni.wku.edu/cebhc17

coming week. You’re right. Eat dessert for breakfast. Skip all of your classes. Drive on the wrong side of the road. There are no rules!

Virgo — You’re still wondering how “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” got away with casting two different women to play Aunt Vivian. We’re right there with you, Virgo.

Sagittarius — You thought Homecoming week was the time everyone left school to go home, just like the time you tried to find the J.C. Penney in Centennial Mall.

Pisces — Congratulations Pisces, you have just won Homecoming Queen! Now make sure to get plenty of rest as tonight you will begin to morph into WKU’s newest mascot. Shoutout to last year’s winner Whitney “white squirrel” Johnson!

Homecoming

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International students find a home on The Hill

BY MORGAN HORNSBY

HERALD.NEWS@WKU.EDU

When Flavio Chavarri moved to Bowling Green from Arequipa, Peru in 2014, he came alone.

Chavarri, now a senior, came to WKU for the promise of a beautiful campus, academic options and its international scope.

Chavarri is one of over 1,300 international students currently at WKU. With the help of a variety of student organizations, students from over 70 countries have adjusted to life on the Hill.

“International students want friends, myself included,” Chavarri said. “With friends, WKU is wonderful. When they start to feel like family, Western starts to feel like home.”

To meet the need of friendship in the international community, Chavarri started an international fraternity, Beta Gamma Omega, in February. Beta Gamma Omega is the first international fraternity on WKU’s campus and is an Alpha chapter in the United States. Currently, 21 members from various countries hold membership, but Chavarri said he hopes to double that number in the next year.

“When international students come

Milagros Pazmino, a freshman from Quito, Ecuador, is a member of HOLAS, the Hilltopper Organization of Latin American Students, which specializes in bringing Latin American students together to be involved in the community and provide cross-cultural collaboration.

PHOTOS BY GRACE PRITCHETT /HERALD

Lakshmi Narasimha Devulapalli Venkata is a graduate student from Hyderabad, India, studying computer science. He is also the president of the Indian Student Association. The association “represents Indian students here on campus… helps people learn more about Indian history, [and] associates with different student organizations to help fellow international students” by organizing various events on campus.

here, they don’t have friends or family or anyone,” Chavarri said. “Beta Gamma Omega is a liaison between students and the rest of the campus. I’m trying to integrate more students so that WKU can be their second home too.”

For other students, different organizations can help ease the transition into life in a new country.

Lakshmi Venkata, a graduate student from Hyderabad, India, said Baptist Campus Ministries helped him feel at home on WKU’s campus.

When Venkata moved from his parents’ home in India to Bowling Green, it was the first time he’d been away from them. Through BCM, Venkata met a family who invited him to dinner at their home.

“It finally started to feel like a home away from home,” Venkata said.

Now, Venkata is the president of the Indian Student Union, which he said helped him find community as well.

Milagros Pazmino, a freshman from Quito, Ecuador, also made friends through a student organization. Pazmi-

no is a part of HOLAS, Hilltopper Organization of Latin American Students, which she said is an interesting and fun mix of Hispanic culture and community.

For Pazmino, the hardest part of getting her education in the United States has been learning the language. Before beginning undergraduate studies, Pazmino was in ESLi or English as a Second Language International program. The organization operates in universities in Canada and the United States to help international students with English.

Despite the struggle, Pazmino has found community in HOLAS and her dormitory.

“It’s a sacrifice,” Pazmino said. “People come here for a better life, myself included.”

Chandra Polavarapu, a graduate stu-

Chandra Sekhar Polavarapu is a graduate student from Gudivada, India, who is studying computer science. He volunteers as the chair of Information Technology for the Indian Student Union.

dent from Gudivada, India, said student organizations tend to cater to undergraduate students. Though he is a part of the Indian Student Union, he says that it is harder for graduate students to meet others. Polavarapu said he found community in BCM and the Indian Student Union but said the best way for him to meet people was through par-

Flavio Chavarri Miranda, a senior from Arequipa, Peru, is the founder and president of Beta Gamma Omega, the new international fraternity on campus which has recently inducted its first members. Said he hopes to pursue a Masters of Business Administration after graduating.

ties.

Polavarapu said he plans to graduate in May but is unsure of where he’ll go next. He said he is drawn to cities like Nashville and New York, but that he has a family and a girlfriend in India.

“We’ll see where life takes me,” Polavarapu said.

Regardless of where international students like Polavarapu decide to go after graduation, many organizations at WKU try to ease their transition to life in America and prepare them for what’s next. The result, for some, is a diverse and unique college experience.

“We’re from all over the world,” Chavarri said. “All over campus, there’s a collection of different perspectives and experiences. That’s the advantage of WKU.”

Reporter Morgan Hornsby can be reached at 270-745-6011 and morgan. hornsby945@topper.wku.edu.

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Homecoming

BY OLIVIA MOHR

The history of the Red Towel

HERALD.FEATURES@WKU.EDU During the 1940s after World War II, towels began to disappear at WKU because athletes started taking them.

Coach E.A. Diddle told Ed Stansbury, the head of the physical education department at the time, that something must be done so athletes wouldn’t run out of clean towels, and Stansbury requested the towels be dyed red.

Before the tradition of the Red Towel began, Diddle waved a white towel at basketball games. After the Red Towel emerged, he waved it, and it became a WKU icon. Diddle used a Red Towel to signal to players and wave at fans. He chewed it, twisted it, threw it in the air and cried on it during games.

Lee Robertson, special assistant to the vice president for development and alumni relations, came to WKU as a student after World War II in 1948. He said he played baseball for three years, and Diddle was his coach.

Robertson, 95, said he believes the Red Towel became an icon because of Diddle.

“He was such a colorful figure himself and so well respected and honored,” Robertson said.

Robertson also said Diddle knew how to treat athletes.

“He made me a better baseball player than I was, and he had the ability to get your head up, and he knew who to pat on the back and who to kick in the butt,” Robertson said.

When WKU played in the Final Four in 1971, many high schools and colleges contacted WKU to ask if they could use towels at games, and Robertson said the Red Towel is known nationwide for being associated with WKU. Ginny Hensley, director of alumni engagement and co-chair of homecoming, said the concept of the Red Towel athletics logo was developed during the same year.

Robertson said when thousands of students wave Red Towels in a stadium, “it’s impressive, and it attracts cameras.”

He said he believes the tradition is long-standing because WKU keeps it alive.

“It’s part of tradition, and it’s kept alive by the presidents and the coaches and the students, and they just want to

WKU President Gary Ransdell dons a top hat and sequined tailcoat, of a big-top ringmaster during the circus-themed Homecoming parade, fall 2015. LEANORA BENKATO/HERALD be a part of waving the Red Towel,” he said.

In 2014, the first Homecoming Red Towels were created. People didn’t think they would be successful, but that year, the Student Alumni Ambassadors sold about 300 towels, said Allie Sharp, coordinator of student and young alumni engagement and adviser for the WKU Student Alumni Ambassadors.

This year, the Student Alumni Ambassadors ordered 750 homecoming Red Towels, and they have sold about half of them so far, Sharp said.

Sharp said the Student Alumni Ambassadors sell them online, at all homecoming events and tailgating. They are $5 each, and they have a design inspired by this year’s homecoming theme,

“There’s No Place Like Home.”

The money the Student Alumni Ambassadors raise from Homecoming Red Towel sales goes to support Student Alumni Ambassadors programming and sends some students to a national conference each year, Sharp said.

She said some alumni covet the Homecoming Red Towels, and she believes they appeal to people of all ages.

“I think it’s important because homecoming is such a large tradition on this campus, and I think that one of the biggest traditions we have at WKU is the Red Towel,” Sharp said. “So why not put the two things that are so well-known and people get so excited about together?”

Hensley said she believes the Red

Towel is an essential WKU staple, and she said she believes it will continue to be a tradition.

“It’s just a tradition that has stuck, and it’s not a tradition that is likely going to ever change,” she said. “It’s not trendy. It spans all generations.”

She said she believes the Red Towel ties everyone at WKU together, and “having something that links us all is important.”

Robertson said he believes the Red Towel is a part of WKU’s history and its identity as a university.

“I know it’s part of me,” he said.

Reporter Olivia Mohr can be reached at 270-745-2655 and olivia.mohr564@topper.wku.edu.

Homecoming

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Local alumni look forward to Homecoming

BY LILLIE EASTHAM

HERALD.NEWS@WKU.EDU

For WKU alumni that still live in Bowling Green, Homecoming week provides an opportunity to make new memories and reflect on old ones.

In 2014, Ashlea Shepherd and her husband, Todd Porter, had their first date at the Homecoming football game.

Two years later, they returned to have their wedding at Van Meter Hall. Their reception was a tailgate, and they attended the game afterward.

Although Porter and Shepherd are both alumni, they never crossed paths while in school.

“If [he] would have seen me on campus, [he] would have been my husband a long time ago,” she said with a laugh.

This year, Shepherd and her husband plan to run out onto the field with the football team, in celebration of their first anniversary.

Shepherd’s first memory of Homecoming is working on floats as a freshman at the old Sigma Alpha Epsilon house, which burned down in 2005.

“This is a special place to be,” Shepherd said.

She and her husband live near WKU and make nightly walks together around campus. She remains active on campus by working as an adviser for her sorority, Chi Omega.

Bob Young, a local attorney who graduated in 1986, has turned WKU Homecoming into a family affair. Although Young attended law school in Louisville, he returned to Bowling Green after graduation.

“It’s home,” Young said, who moved to Bowling Green as a child.

While he worked three jobs to put himself through school, he still made time to participate in Homecoming activities with his fraternity, Lambda Chi Alpha, and he never missed a WKU football game.

Since then, he has kept up this tradi-

Bob Young graduated from WKU in 1986 and came back to Bowling Green to practice law in 1990. Young is a partner at ELPO Law located downtown. Young decided to come back to Bowling Green because “it was home,” and a good fit for him and his wife. “The pride from me was not only graduating from Western but knowing that my oldest daughter graduated, and I have another that’s graduating in a year,” Young said.

LYDIA SCHWEICKART /HERALD

tion, now with his wife and four daughters.

“We have a great big tailgate for every football game,” Young said.

His oldest daughter graduated from WKU, and he currently has another daughter who is a junior at WKU. Young said his younger daughters go with him to the parade every year.

“They absolutely love it,” Young said.

Young said he remembers when WKU had half of a football stadium and said the entire football program had grown tremendously.

“The whole campus has just transformed,” Young said.

Kristen Robinette, a former cheerleader remembers Homecoming on the Hill as a hectic time.

“It was eventful, needless to say,” Robinette said.

She had participated in Homecoming events as a member of Alpha Delta Pi along with her cheerleading duties.

Robinette initially moved to Nashville after graduation but returned to Bowl-

ing Green three years later to open Back Down South, a boutique located downtown.

“I love Bowling Green,” Robinette said. “It’s a great community.”

Robinette said she keeps the store open for Big Red’s Roar and although she is usually working during the game, she attends Homecoming events throughout the week.

“I think it’s a great event for the community, for the students,” Robinette said.

Even years after their graduation, local alumni still count Homecoming as a highlight of their year.

“There’s a reason we all stick around,” Shepherd said. “It’s because it’s a great place.”

Reporter Lillie Eastham can be reached at 270-745-6011 and lillie.eastham496@ topper.wku.edu.

Kristen Robinette grew up in Bowling Green and graduated from WKU. Robinette was a cheerleader and was involved in Homecoming. “There was all kinds of stuff going on and we were involved in everything,” she said. She now owns a boutique on the square downtown. “I love Bowling Green,” she said. “It’s a great community, great place to own a business and start a family.” LYDIA SCHWEICKART /HERALD

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Homecoming

Versailles junior Madison Osbourn pretends to play guitar during the annual Homecoming tailgate on Nov. 7, 2015, in the Valley. MADIHAH ABRI/HERALD

The ladies of Omega Phi Alpha stand and cheer along Avenue of Champions during the Homecoming parade Friday, Oct.19, 2012.

RAE EMARY/HERALD

Homecoming: A look back

Tahj Hogan (left), Tavehda Hogan (middle) and Dylan Holder (right) wave at a passing firetruck during the Homecoming parade on Friday, Oct. 21, 2016. “This is the first Homecoming parade the kids have attended,� Dylan Holder said. HANNAH LEBOEUF/HERALD

Homecoming

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WKU alumna Melanie Asriel shows off her dogs Julip and Derby during the “Under The Big Top” themed Homecoming parade, Nov. 6, 2015. Asriel works at WKU’s Glasgow campus. ALYSE YOUNG/HERALD

Jacob Roy, 19, of Louisville, dresses as a clown to support his fraternity, Phi Gamma Delta, before the Homecoming parade, Nov. 6, 2015. KATIE ROBERTS/HERALD

For this year’s “Under the Big Top” theme, Big Red dons a special ringmaster costume on stage at “Big Red’s Roar” in Fountain Square Park after the Homecoming parade on Friday, Nov. 6, 2015. LEANORA BENKATO/HERALD

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Homecoming

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Allison Leone is leaving her mark on the Hill

BY CASEY MCCARTHY

HERALD.SPORTS@WKU.EDU

During her sophomore year of high school in Kennesaw, Georgia, Allison Leone said she remembers first starting to look at schools where she could extend her soccer career. Playing for Tophat Soccer Club of Atlanta at the time, a teammate approached her with some advice.

“At one club practice, she was like, ‘Allison, you should look at WKU,’” Leone said.

That player was Caitlin Hesse, an Atlanta resident, who graduated from WKU last year after playing four years for the Lady Toppers soccer team.

“I talked to the coaches and just fell in love,” Leone said.

Now in her senior season as goalkeeper for the Lady Toppers, Leone has been named Conference USA Goalkeeper of the Week three times in her career, most recently on Sept. 25. This honor gives Leone the most individual awards for goalkeepers in program history, tying Amanda Buechel for most among all players.

Leone said she started playing soccer when she was around 3 years old in

She’s very confident in herself and the team. She’s someone you can rely on, who will always have your back and support you.”

Lady Topper Senior Bria Mosley

recreational soccer leagues in Georgia, but didn’t start playing goalkeeper until around the seventh grade.

“I played a couple of sports growing up, like I did swimming for a while, but soccer’s the only one I stuck with,” Leone said.

Leone came to WKU with a decorated career already. She played five years for Georgia’s Olympic Development Program, or ODP, team for five seasons alongside fellow Lady Topper, senior Bria Mosley. She also led her Tophat Club team to back-to-back Georgia State Cup Championships, coming up with vital penalty saves in both the semifinals and finals in 2013.

Mosley said Leone has always been a good teammate, ever since they played together for ODP. “Allison is just a really good, genuine person,” Mosley said. “She’s very confident in herself and the team. She’s someone you can rely on, who will always have your back and support you.”

Leone has made an impressive mark since coming to WKU in 2014. Named to the C-USA All-Freshman Team her first season, she played the most minutes of any Lady Topper. She was named C-USA Goalkeeper of the Week two consecutive weeks her junior season, the only goalkeeper to do so, and was named Second Team All C-USA last year as well. Leone also sustained a 53-minute shutout streak as a junior from Sept. 8, 2016, against LSU, to Oct. 2, against North Texas.

She is third in career wins (33), career minutes played for goalkeepers (6,184) and career saves (280). She sits at second in career goals against average (0.99) and career shutouts (25). This season, Leone has 55 saves, three shutouts and a 0.97 goals against average.

Allison said she never expected to reach the level she has at WKU. “I thought I was just going to play soccer,” Leone said. “But it’s really humbling. I’ve had so much help in front of me, I could not have done it without them.”

Senior defender Nahyo Jalajel has

Senior goalkeeper Allison Leone kicks the ball down the field in the game against Evansville Sept. 3 at the WKU Soccer Complex. Leone is currently second in school history in all-time saves. SHABAN ATHUMAN/HERALD spent four years on the back line with Leone. Jalajel said the ride has been a pleasure as she recounted a moment from last season’s matchup with Rice.

“It was a rollercoaster,” Jalajel said.

“We had both just hit the post, me and Allison, and we both did like a double take.”

Jalajel looks at Allison with wide eyes, the pair sharing a laugh recalling on the moment.

“I couldn’t have wanted a better goalkeeper,” Jalajel said as she hugged her teammate.

Head coach Jason Neidell said he can’t remember exactly what caught the program’s attention when recruiting Leone, but he said the first thing that catches your eye about her is her size.

Neidell said she’s tall and long, with a big wingspan.

“She’s the kind of kid, when she takes a good angle in the goal, it looks like there’s nowhere to shoot,” Neidell said.

“She’s been absolutely fantastic.”

Not only has she kept a Lady Topper team that struggles at times in games,

Neidell explained that it is more than just her big saves, it’s her strong mentality and leadership. He described her as mature and focused.

“She’s actually got a very cool, even temperament,” Neidell said. “We’ve only had a handful of goalkeepers here, but she’s certainly among the best we’ve had.”

Leone explained the biggest lesson she’s learned at WKU is how much hard work can pay off.

“You pick something that you want to revise or you need to work on and you just really stick your mind to it and work at it every single day,” Leone said. “You’ll see results.”

Leone said she isn’t sure where the next step is for her after her career at WKU, but considers playing recreational leagues again.

“I’m majoring in finance, so maybe going to get my MBA,” Leone said. “We’ll see. Maybe a new chapter of my life.”

Reporter Casey McCarthy can be reached at (270)-929-7795 and casey. mccarthy573@topper.wku.edu.

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Homecoming

SPARSH’S PICK

Five songs to add to your Homecoming playlist

BY SPENCER HARSH

HERALD.OPINION@WKU.EDU

Homecoming is a wonderful time at WKU. Graduates new and old return to the campus they once called home.

Current students get the opportunity to meet human beings that are a standing testament to the idea that college is something you can actually complete and survive.

The one thing that ties all of these Homecoming feelings and people together is not the food, the sea of WKU apparel or the beer that a super-alumni brought with them. It’s the music. Here are five tracks that will help you make memories and intimidate your tailgate surroundings this Homecoming.

There’s no story or deeper meaning, just leased in 1975, this track has been all over 1. “And We Danced” - Mackle- a heavily digitized beat and several bass the radio, movies and is usually a staple hooks to get your head bopping. more (ft. Ziggy Stardust) in any classic rock enthusiast’s library.

The easy-going beat and Jimmy Page’s Everybody will have an opinion on 3. “Who Do You Love” - George melodic guitar is sure to set that good this song if they don’t already. Being one Thorogood & The Destroyers mood you’re looking for. of Mac’s earlier tracks that he composed If you really want an older track to 5. “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” without Ryan Lewis, it throws you back impress some of the alumni, you will - Cage the Elephant even further than “Thriftshop” or “Can’t want to throw this song into the mix. The Hold Us.” If you’re wanting a track that rough and tumble rock ‘n’ roll tone will can get everyone moving and singing, as No track would be better suited for a likely give some of the alumni a flash- Homecoming event at WKU. Since this well as make your tailgating neighbors uncomfortable, then this is the track back to the good ol’ days. Just keep in band is from Bowling Green, this track mind that this track was actually written might as well be the anthem for the you want to blast out.

by Bo Diddley. (The Thorogood version city. The track features modern rock el2. “Only Want U” - Snails, NG- is just a little better.) ements, but keeps things grooving and HTMRE (ft. Akylla) carries an extremely catchy chorus. Turn 4. “Kashmir” - Led Zeppelin this track on and watch the people sing.

If you’re needing a track that proves Everyone has probably heard this dubstep isn’t dead then this is what you track at some point in their lives. Rewant blasting through your speakers.

Homecoming

13

Meet the Perdew family, Hilltopper legacies

BY NOAH MOORE

HERALD.FEATURES@WKU.EDU If you see a family of seven dressed in strictly Hilltopper attire head-to-toe, odds are it’s the Perdew family. They bleed red, and no, it’s not because of their red blood cells. The sheer morale surrounding WKU this family possesses is enough to convince others WKU spirit runs through their veins.

Parents Tammy and Damon Perdew are both graduates of WKU, with Tammy receiving a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1988 and Damon receiving a degree in business economics in 1990.

Once they married and began having children, there was no doubt where their children would attend college.

“It was never really a question of ‘if’ I would go here,” Tammy and Damon’s

daughter Hannah Perdew said. “WKU has always been such a big part of our family that I never even considered anywhere else.”

Hannah is one of three Perdew children who attended or currently attend WKU. Having parents that attended the same university is a unique occurrence that few experience, and Hannah said it is something that brings them together.

“It’s really cool because we can sit and talk about WKU for hours and they tell me all of the cool stories about how they met and things they did in college, and now I’m here experiencing it all for myself,” Hannah said.

The university experience in Bowling Green is no foreign thought. The Perdew’s first daughter McKenzie, a current post-graduate student, is a 2014 WKU graduate with a degree in psychology.

Hannah, a junior, studies communication sciences and disorders with minors in psychology and American sign language (ASL), and freshman Kaleb is a mechanical engineering major. All three children are also involved in the Mahurin Honors College.

As for how the Hilltopper spirit has been bestowed upon them, the family recalls growing up tailgating here and even having WKU-themed Christmas pictures.

“It’s just really awesome to go to a school that your whole family feels passionate about as well. We get to tailgate together and they come down for all of the family events,” Hannah said.

For younger brother Kaleb, attending WKU is less a coincidence and more about continuing a legacy.

“It keeps me honest in the sense that

it forces me to live up to something,” he said. “It keeps me wanting to do better and helps better me every single day.”

As for the future of the Perdew family at WKU, the family is insistent that the two younger brothers plan to come here as well. That would make all seven family members Hilltoppers, a rare feat.

From one generation to another, the spirit of WKU lives on, as the mantra goes: “life, more life.” Their lives just happen to share one thing -- a passion for the place that brought them together, and a place that they will always call home.

Reporter Noah Moore can be reached at 270-745-2655 and noah.moore768@ topper.wku.edu. Follow him on Twitter @noah_moore18.

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14

Homecoming

thursday oct. 12 Homecoming Chili and Cheese Luncheon and Pep Rally Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: 6-4-3 Sports Bar 360 E. 8th Avenue Homecoming Comedy Show Time: 7–10 p.m.

Location: Van Meter Auditorium

friday oct. 13 Hall of Distinguished Alumni Luncheon and Induction Ceremony Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: Sloan Convention Center Homecoming Parade Time: 5 p.m.

Location: WKU Campus to Circus Square Park Homecoming Concert featuring Jordan English Time: 5-6:30 p.m.

Location: Circus Square Park WKU Soccer vs. Florida Atlantic Time: 6 p.m.

Location: WKU Soccer Complex Big Red’s Roar Time: 6:30 p.m.

Location: Circus Square Park Young Alumni Council “There’s No Place Like . . . The After Party” Time: 7-9 p.m.

Location: Steamer Seafood 801 State Street Hilltopper Hysteria Time: 7 p.m.

Location: Diddle Arena

Homecoming

Calendar saturday oct. 14

sunday oct. 15

Sig Ep 50th Anniversary Brunch Time: 9-10:30 a.m.

Location: DSU 3023

21st Annual Jim Wayne Miller Celebration Time: 2 p.m.

Location: Kentucky Museum

67th Annual Student Publications Homecoming Breakfast Time: 9 a.m.

Location: DSU Third Floor

WKU Soccer vs. Florida International Time: 1 p.m.

Location: WKU Soccer Complex

Society of African American Alumni Homecoming Party Time: 10 a.m.

Location: Knicely Conference Center

WKU Choirs Homecoming Concert Time: 3 p.m.

Location: Van Meter Auditorium

Southern Kentucky Team Penning Time: 11:30 a.m.

Location: WKU L.D. Brown Ag Expo Center Main Area Preston Center Silver Anniversary Celebration Time: 12:00 a.m.

Location: Raymond B. Preston Health & Activities Center Rick and Ann Guillaume Auditorium Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Time: 1-1:30 p.m.

Location: Grise Hall Homecoming Football Game Time: 3:30 p.m.

Location: L.T. Smith Stadium

15

Feeling Like Dorothy?

Her heart was troubled; she longed to be in a place called “home”. Nearly 2000 years ago Jesus Christ addressed that heart longing. He said, “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. And you know the way where I am going.” Thomas said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going, how do we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.” We would like to encourage you to look to Jesus Christ to fulfill the deepest longings of your heart. Because there truly is no place like home!

Christian Faculty & Staff Fellowship FACULTY AND STAFF FELLOWSHIP MEMBERS: Regina Allen, Sponsored Programs Gayle Allison, Communication Dr. Janet Applin, Teacher Education Dr. Nedra Atwell, Teacher Education Dr. John Baker, Professional Studies Kristine Barron Accounting Scott Belt,Belt, Amber Dr. Amber Scott Academic Affairs Dr. Lauren Bland, Communication Sciences & Disorders

Dr. Larry Caillouet, Communication

Dr. Xingang Fan, Geography & Geology

Dr. Allen Hunt, Accounting

Richard Callahan, Accounting

Dr. Sylvia Gaiko,

Gabrielle Hunt, Potter College

Leisha Carr, Professional Studies Student Support Dr. Yining Chen, Accounting

Martina Gibson, Gordon Ford College of Business, Dean’s

Torie Cockriel President’s Office

Tony Glisson, Human Resources

Dr. Walter Collett, Engineering

Dr. Sherrie Ellen Godbey, UniversityReadiness Studies Academic

Jr., Computer Info.

Systems Dr. Darwin Dahl, Chemistry

Rebekah Golla, KIIS Dr. Vijay Golla, Public Health

Mike Dale, Academic

Stephanie Hammons, Honors College

Dr. Dawn Bolton, Management

Dr. Tabitha Daniel, Teacher Education

Allison Hatcher, Communication Sciences & Disorders

Dr. Scott Bonham, Physics

Pam Davidson, Purchasing

Patty Booth, Human Resources

Dr. Randy Deere, Kinesiology, Recreation & Sport

Brice Boyer, Tech Support Services

Dr. Lacretia Dye, Counseling and

Dr. Crista Briggs, Nursing Amanda Brooks, Chemistry Dan Burgess, Nursing Dr. Stuart Burris, Chemistry

Dana EmbertonTinius, Biology Liberal Arts & Sciences

Dr. Bob Hatfield, Hateld, Management Dr. Gary Hughes, Communication Dr. Aaron Hughey, Counseling and

Dr. Tom Hunley, English

Amy James IT-EAP Dr. Pamela Jukes, Teacher Education Wendi Kelley, University College James Kenney, Journalism & Broadcasting Cindy Kimbler, Campus and Community Events Jenna Lamblin, 21st Century Media Dr. Grace Lartey, Public Health

Dr. Craig Martin, Marketing and Sales Dr. Margaret Maxwell, Teacher Education Dr. Richard C. Miller Dr. William Mkanta, Public Health Marci Morehead, Purchasing Dr. Cody Morris, Kinesiology, Recreation & Sport

Lisa Powers, Athletics

Dr. Liz Sturgeon, Nursing

Troy Robertson, Engineering

Dr. Daniel Super Teacher Education

Dr. Julia Roberts, Teacher Education

Dr. Ritchie Taylor, Public Health

Zack Ryle, Gatton Academy

Computer Information Systems

Coach Mike Sanford, Football

Phyllis Townsend, Engineering

Dr. Kevin Schmaltz, Engineering

Dr. Richard Troutman, History

Dr. Rick Shannon, Chair, Department of Marketing

Judy Mullendore IT-EAP Dr. Lisa Murley, Teacher Education Dewayne Neeley, DELO

Lisa Shipley IT-EAP Nena Shomler, WKU Restaurant

Candace Rogers Lee, Teacher Certication

Dr. James Farley Norman, Psychological Sciences

Dr. Stacy Leggett Educational Administration, Leadership & Research

Dr. Tony Norman, Educational Leadership Doctoral Program

Dr. Harold Little, Accounting

Linda Oldham, Public Television

Academic Technology

Wade Pinkard, HR Employee Wellness

Dr. Brad Stinnett, Kinesiology, Recreation & Sport

Jace Lux, Director of Admissions

Dr. R. Wayne Pope, Music

Dr. Joseph Stokes, Mathematics

Carnetta Skipworth, Chemistry Dr. Kandy Smith, Teacher Education Dr. John Spraker, Mathematics

Sarah Ward, Clinical Education Professional Studies Chonda Whi Professional Studies Kenneth Whitley, Allied Health Dr. Stacy Wilson, Engineering Dr. Larry Winn, Communication Dr. Andrew Wulff, Geography & Geology Dr. Rui Zhang, Chemistry Dr. Qin Zhao, Psychology

For more information about CFSF contact CFSF@wku.edu

Homecoming

17

Ransdells to be recognized as notable alumni

BY CALLIE MILLER

HERALD.NEWS@WKU.EDU

Former WKU President Gary Ransdell and his wife, Julie Ransdell, will join other notable alumni when the pair is inducted into the WKU Hall of Distinguished Alumni Friday, Oct. 13.

Selected by the National Board of Directors of the WKU Alumni Association, the Ransdells will be joining WKU’s 26th class of noted alumni, following Ransdell’s 20 year tenure as university president, which began in 1997. The induction ceremony will be held during a luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13, at the Sloan Convention Center.

The award is intended to recognize the accomplishments of alumni who have made significant contributions to their field or endeavor.

“To be recognized by our university where we met, married, watched our family become Hilltoppers, and devoted most of our career and service is indeed the best honor for us,” Gary Ransdell said. “It will be a proud and emotional moment. There is no other college or university in our minds which can measure up to WKU. We are honored to be inducted into WKU’s Hall of Distinguished Alumni.”

Under Ransdell, WKU’s student body grew from 14,500 to over 20,000, according to a press release from WKU. Graduation rates increased and annual numbers grew from 2,500 to 4,200. Applicants to the university doubled, and retention grew from 67 percent to 76 percent. When Ransdell was president, WKU added academic programs including electrical, civil and mechanical engineering, and doctorate programs in education, nursing, physical therapy and psychology.

Several buildings were constructed or improved during Ransdell’s tenure, including the Engineering and Biological Sciences Building, Snell Hall, Gary A. Ransdell Hall, Ogden College Hall and

Gary and Julie Ransdell on Oct. 10, 2016, in front of the President’s House. “This is a house where decisions are made and things happen that strengthen the university or engage some aspect of the university in meaningful ways,” Gary Ransdell said. MICHELLE HANKS/HERALD

The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Sciences.

The Board of Regents unanimously voted to grant Ransdell life-long president emeritus status last year.

The Ransdells have “certainly contributed significantly to the university,” faculty regent Barbara Burch said of the Ransdells’ induction, adding that their merit is recognized through this prestigious award.

One of Ransdell’s main focuses while president was international reach, in which he helped to increase both WKU student participation in study abroad programs as well as the number of in-

ternational students on campus. Julie Ransdell was known for hosting various events for student groups at the WKU President’s House, as well as serving as co-chair of the WKU Sisterhood, a group of women who make annual contributions to the university.

Elizabethtown senior Haley Jones, who serves as a Spirit Master, said she felt the Ransdells deserved the honor of being inducted into the Hall of Distinguished Alumni.

“I’m very excited that they’re being recognized in this capacity,” Jones said.

“During their tenure here, they’ve more than earned this, and they’ve trans-

formed this campus for the better.”

Following the retirement of Loren Crabtree, Ransdell will become president and CEO of Semester at Sea starting Jan. 1.

Reservations for the luncheon on Friday can be made on the WKU Alumni Association website.

Reporter Callie Miller can be reached at 270-745-6011 and caroline.miller528@ topper.wku.edu.

18

Homecoming

Homecoming

19

20

Homecoming

Devon Key steps up as an unexpected surprise

BY SAM PORTER

HERALD.SPORTS@WKU.EDU

Hall of Fame NFL coach Jimmy Johnson once said, “Success happens when preparation meets opportunity.”

When it was unclear whether or not graduate senior safety Marcus Ward would be healthy for WKU’s season-opener against Eastern Kentucky, a certain player’s preparation met his opportunity. Out of all the candidates, redshirt freshman safety Devon Key would be the one to earn his chance, as head coach Mike Sanford announced the week of the season opener that Key would be the starter.

Throughout the 2017 offseason, Key recorded the fastest times in the 3-cone drill, 10-yard dash, short shuttle drill and highest vertical out of all the team’s safeties.

“It was a little surprising just because they told me the week of the first game,” Key said about being named the starter. “But I put in the work all throughout camp, so I felt like I was ready to be the starter.”

Key earned the starting spot and hasn’t looked back since. In the season opener against EKU, the Lexington native recorded eight total tackles, just one tackle behind matching the total of the Hilltoppers’ leading tackler Joel Iyiegbuniwe.

In the following week, Key got his first taste of playing against a Power 5 team as WKU traveled to Illinois. Although the Hilltoppers lost the game 20-7, the WKU defense gave up just 13 points (one of Illinois’ touchdowns came on defense) as Key led WKU with 12 total tackles, including six solo tackles. Altogether on the season, Key is currently second on the team in total tackles with 32, again falling just one tackle shy of Iyiegbuniwe’s 33.

“It’s always good as a linebacker when you know you have a safety that’s going to clean things up for you,” Iyiegbuniwe said. “I personally don’t try to miss too many tackles, but when it happens it feels good to have Devon back there to clean things up.”

WKU defensive Devon Key celebrates with his teammates during the Hilltoppers’ 22-23 loss to Louisiana Tech University on Saturday, Sept. 16 at L.T. Smith Stadium.

SHABAN ATHUMAN/HERALD

“It was a little surprising just because they told me the week of the first game, But I put in the work all throughout camp, so I felt like I was ready to be the starter.”

WKU freshman safety Devon Key

“What’s helped Devon Key recently is the re-emergence of Marcus Ward. They have a great relationship,” Sanford said.

“They play the same position. What Marcus brings from a leadership standpoint is a really good compliment to what Devon Key does. It also keeps Devon in a position where he isn’t playing 80 snaps a game.”

During the 2015 season, Ward started all 14 games at strong safety for the Hilltoppers. The Birmingham, Alabama, native tallied 57 tackles, including 7.5 tackles for loss as well as two sacks. During the 45-28 win over Southern Mississippi in the 2015 C-USA Championship, Ward forced a fumble that led to WKU’s goahead score in the third quarter. He was one of only five Hilltoppers to record a tackle in all 14 games that season.

As a result, Ward was named a team captain and earned Preseason All-CUSA Second Team heading into the 2016 season. However, a knee injury against top ranked Alabama ended his senior season, and he was granted a medical redshirt. Although he redshirted during his first season, Key said learning under Ward and former WKU safety Brandon Leston helped develop his game into what it is today.

“I just tried to learn based on what they do,” Key said. “They had a lot of experience going in being starters for multiple years. Since Marcus has came back, I’ve just been learning from him.

He’s given me a lot of tips.”

Ward will look to work his way back onto the field, but it appears WKU has found its guy at safety for the next few years even after Ward’s eligibility expires.

The WKU defense has given up just 20.3 points per game in 2017, a step up from last year’s 24.5 PPG allowed defensively.

Key and the WKU defense will look for another strong performance this Saturday against Charlotte in the Hilltoppers’ homecoming game.

Reporter Sam Porter can be reached Although Ward is close to being back Key’s impressive play through the first at 270-799-8247 and sam.porter270@ to full strength, don’t expect Key to van- four games, Sanford plans to utilize gmail.com Follow him on Twitter at @ SammyP14. ish from the field anytime soon. With both safeties as much as he can.

Homecoming

21

Follow the yellow brick. . . snack craving?

BY KELLY BURGESS

HERALD.OPINION@WKU.EDU It’s no secret that late-night snack attacks sneak up as quickly as Homecoming week sneaks up after fall break. Homecoming week might feel a little bit like Dorothy’s twister with fun activities spiraling out of control.

Between decorating, spirit competitions, parades, football and more, you may be left feeling exhilarated, enthusiastic or famished. Whether you are “pomping” until 3 a.m. or studying for midterms at midnight, you are bound to experience a late-night craving at some point this week!

When the craving hits, what are you to do? Follow it right down the yellow brick road all the way to Oz or stop and think if maybe there is another path?

Check out these facts, myths and tips

about how to follow your snack craving the healthy way!

First of all, snacking is a beautiful thing! One myth that often creates enemies of snacking is that eating late at night causes you to gain weight.

This general statement is simply not true. Eating more calories than your body needs causes weight gain. The time of day is most likely not the culprit. However, what you are eating may be the problem. From personal experience, late at night is when my most insatiable sweet tooth emerges.

It is so hard to say no to milkshakes, donuts and other sweets late at night when my willpower is gone. Eating these kinds of “snacks” late in the evening (or the wee hours of the morning) might, in fact, cause you to pack on some pounds.

What is the alternative? Registered

Dietitian Jill Castle recommends redefining the “snack.” She suggests treating snacks as mini-meals instead of opportunities to indulge on sugary sodas, candy, cookies and processed foods. Thinking of snacks as smaller versions of meals reminds you to include nutritious components such as fiber and protein. Not only do these improve the nutritional value of your snack, but they also increase the time that your snack craving will be satisfied.

Fall is the perfect time for one of my favorite snacks - homemade trail mix.

The benefits of this snack are nearly unlimited! It is easy to make a batch and then grab and go. Also, it is entirely customizable to your preferences!

Nuts are an excellent source of protein and an easy addition to trail mix.

You can add fiber by using whole grain

cereals, pretzels or popcorn as a base.

Dried fruits such as raisins, “craisins” or dried bananas add a touch of sweetness and adding a few chocolate chips, M&Ms or pieces of candy corn can add just the right amount of fun.

There are so many snack options that include healthy combinations of both protein and carbohydrates.

Fruit and low-fat yogurt with granola can be a sweet alternative to a fat-laden ice cream or shake. If you are more of a salty type, try baked corn chips with salsa. Raw celery with peanut butter or carrots and hummus provide a crunch that will last by including veggies and incorporating healthy protein at the same time.

Homecoming says, “There’s no place like home,” but I say there’s nothing like a healthy snack!

There's no place like the Hill!

Happy homecoming from Panhellenic Association and Interfraternity Council

22

Homecoming

Homecoming queen candidates represent WKU

BY GRIFFIN FLETCHER

HERALD.FEATURES@WKU.EDU

WKU’s 2017 Homecoming Queen will be announced at halftime of WKU’s upcoming football game against Charlotte, which will be played at Smith Stadium Oct. 14. That’s what we know.

What many don’t know is that all 28 Homecoming Queen candidates, representing various sororities and student organizations around campus, are required to do much more than just walk across a football field Saturday afternoon.

Notwithstanding the academic and behavioral requirements demanded of each applicant before being chosen as a Homecoming Queen candidate, those who are chosen face a busy schedule.

Starting Monday, Oct. 9, the candidates will kick off Homecoming week with an evening mix and mingle social event, where they’ll be able to meet and spend time with each other. On Tuesday, Oct. 10, the candidates will undergo interviews conducted by a panel of six influential and involved people at WKU, which, along with results from a campus wide poll, will ultimately decide who’s elected on Saturday.

Wednesday, Oct. 11, will be a day of community service and include an evening banquet for candidates and their parents, whereas Thursday, Oct. 12, will be a luncheon with alumni at local restaurant 643.

Friday, Oct. 13, called “Big Red’s Roar,” will be the day candidates ride through the Homecoming parade on the back of corvettes donated by the nearby National Corvette Museum.

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This will lead into Saturday, Oct. 14, crowning day for this year’s Homecoming Queen.

Although the week will be incredibly busy and require a legitimate

ous,” Dahmer said. “I think it shows the coming together of the community.”

Hopkinsville senior Elizabeth Settle, representing Sigma Kappa sorority and fraternities Alpha Tau Omega, Farm-

Its not who wins on Saturday that matters, it’s the experience of getting to know other really involved, really incredible women at WKU” Laura Bunning

time-commitment on behalf of all the candidates, many look forward to the opportunity to not only represent their organization but also their school.

Fort Thomas senior Laura Bunning will represent Phi Mu sorority and the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity at this year’s Homecoming. She said she is thankful for her experience at WKU and is excited to give back to the community as a Homecoming Queen candidate.

“I don’t know of many schools where you can do a major and a minor, change your major twice and graduate early,” Bunning said. “Going back and being able to represent a university that’s set me up for such success and given me such amazing experiences and memories is probably my favorite thing in what it means to me to be a candidate.”

Along with representing WKU, Louisville junior Andi Dahmer, who will be representing the Student Government Association, looks forward to Bowling Green’s involvement with the Homecoming festivities.

Belk, a clothing business in Bowling Green, is sponsoring this year’s candidates by providing the dresses they will wear on Saturday.

“Just what they’re [Belk’s] doing for the community is extremely gener-

house and Iota Phi Theta, said she believes she’ll enjoy meeting the women running alongside her.

“It’s an honor to be nominated. I’m excited to spend the week with a lot of really amazing ladies who are super accomplished in their own right,” Settle said. “It’s just going to be a really fun opportunity to get to meet some new women from new organizations.”

Though only one woman will be crowned WKU’s 2017 Homecoming Queen, candidates are happy to be involved in the process and realize the greater importance of Homecoming for themselves and WKU. “It’s not who wins on Saturday that matters, it’s the experience of getting to know other really involved, really incredible women at WKU,” Bunning said. “One person’s going to end up with a crown on Saturday, but that is a very small part of what this experience means.”

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of this group,” Dahmer said.

“Homecoming is a way for us to come together and celebrate what Western really is.”

Reporter Griffin Fletcher can be reached at 270-745-2655 and griffin. fletcher398@topper.wku.edu.

Homecoming

23

Furry friends bring fun to Homecoming parade

BY MONICA KAST

HERALD.NEWS@WKU.EDU A group of four-legged participants in the Homecoming parade will return this year, with the Big Red Barking Band again walking in the Homecoming parade.

The Big Red Barking Band is made up of faculty and staff who walk in the Homecoming parade each year with their dogs. The group was put together several years ago by Peter Hamburger, a former professor in the department of computer science.

Now the group is organized each year by Gail Kirby, associate professor in the School of Teacher Education.

Kirby, who said she has participated in Big Red Barking Band for four years, estimated there would be around 20 participants this year walking with their dogs.

“It’s basically an opportunity for faculty and staff across campus to get together under a common love of dogs and participate in a unique way in the Homecoming parade,” Kirby said.

Kirby said the dogs who participate in the parade would be dressed in WKU gear, and she’s noticed the group “is gaining popularity.” Kirby will walk in the parade with her two dogs, Olive and Sissy.

“We try to make it as fun as possible, not only for the dogs, but we meet

new people and every year it grows,” Kirby said.

Last year, the group won the NonFloat Spirit Award, and Kirby said they hope to win again.

“There’s a little competition for us to try to do that again,” Kirby said.

Jenny Lee Castaldo, senior purchasing associate at WKU, will also be walking with her dog, Ellie. Castaldo said she’s “an animal lover, and I like finding things I can do with my dog.”

Castaldo said she and Ellie have walked with the Big Red Marching Band for the past five years and said she enjoys being able to participate in the Homecoming activities and parade uniquly.

“I’m not a sports person,” Castaldo said. “It just makes it a little more of a Western community, and makes it more personal for us.”

Castaldo said her favorite part of being in the group, however, is seeing “the kid’s faces” when they see the group of dogs walking in the parade together. Castaldo said more than candy, kids watching the parade are excited to see the dogs.

“Their faces just light up,” Castaldo said.

News editor Monica Kast can be reached at 270-745-6011 and monica. kast187@topper.wku.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @monica_kast.

Photo provided by Jenny Lee Castaldo

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Homecoming

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Homecoming

27

Dept. of agriculture hosts Homecoming events

BY ADRIANNA WATERS

HERALD.NEWS@WKU.EDU

The department of agriculture is hosting new events for Homecoming in hopes of bringing alumni together and showcasing their new cheese-making unit.

On Friday, Oct. 13, the department of agriculture will host “An Evening at the WKU Farm,” with a dinner and farm tours. On Saturday, Oct. 14, they will hold the “Festival of Friends on South Lawn.”

According to the Alumni Association website, “An Evening at the WKU Farm” will kick off with a welcome event at 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 13, which will feature farm tours, a meet-and-greet with alumni and a look at the Hilltopper Creamery and the cheese-making facility.

“An Evening at the WKU Farm” will also include a dinner and award ceremony. There will also be a chartering of the renewed Agriculture Alumni Group.

“An Evening at the WKU Farm” will conclude with a “Concert in the Vineyard” at 8 p.m. by Rye Davis, who graduated from WKU in 2012 and was featured on ABC’s “Rising Stars” competition.

The next day, the department of agriculture will host an official tailgating event before the football game at the “Festival of Friends on South Lawn.” It will last from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., and refreshments, including WKU cheese from the Hilltopper Creamery, will be provided.

Loren Gross, primary coordinator for the Agriculture Homecoming Events, said past Homecoming events included a brunch or luncheon with an award ceremony. However, attendance has decreased, and the department of agriculture wanted to “draw in more people” this year.

By working with the Agriculture Department Advisory Board, gathering

The WKU Ag Farm hosts a number of diverse programs, some of which are being highlighted during Homecoming for 2017.

JENNIFER KING/HERALD

alumni from across the state and modeling the event after other universities’ Homecomings, Gross and the department of agriculture “compiled an event to dwarf all events past,” Gross said.

The department of agriculture has been preparing for their Homecoming events since April of 2017 in hopes of drawing a larger crowd. However, a main focus of the event fits in with WKU’s Homecoming theme, “There’s no place like home.”

Fran McCall, who graduated from the department of agriculture in 2006 and served on the Alumni Association

Advisory Board last year, said the board wanted to get alumni more involved.

McCall said there is “no better way to get excited about the department than Homecoming.”

“I hope the [Agriculture] Alumni Association will take off and grow,” McCall said.

However, the department of agriculture also wants to use the Homecoming events as an opportunity to showcase Hilltopper Creamery.

McCall said the Hilltopper’s Creamery is an “up and coming growing industry” that could “reach a different

audience of prospective students” and give them an “opportunity to learn.”

Members of the department of agriculture said they hope the Homecoming events will spread information about the department to students, faculty and alumni.

“We hope to showcase the farm, WKU agriculture and most importantly, bring alumni home and have them reconnect,” Gross said.

Reporter Adrianna Waters can be reached at 270-745-6011 or adrianna. waters406@topper.wku.edu.

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Homecoming

Young Alumni Council sponsors Homecoming event

BY JOHN SINGLETON

HERALD.NEWS@WKU.EDU

The Young Alumni Council will host “There’s No Place Like the After Party� after the Homecoming parade on Friday, Oct. 13.

The event will be at Steamer Seafood from 7-9 p.m. The parade after party will feature music, food and drinks.

Allie Sharp, student engagement coordinator, said the Young Alumni Council provides an opportunity for young alumni to maintain ties to WKU and provides valuable feedback to the Alumni Association on programming. The focus is to educate young alumni about the programs, services and mission of the WKU Alumni Association, as

well as to advance and support the general welfare of WKU with programs and scholarships.

The Young Alumni Council consists of 20-25 members, all of whom have graduated within the last 10 years. To be eligible, one must have completed one academic year of work and must be in good standing at WKU. “It’s a way for young alumni to see that WKU is here for them and that we want to see them to succeed two, five, 10 and 20 years after they’ve left the Hill,� Sharp. “The Young Alumni Council’s engagement is necessary because they are the ones we look to for new ideas and for how we can continue to improve and connect to our younger constituents.�

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It’s a way for young alumni to see that WKU is here to see them to succeed two, five, 10 and 20 years after they’ve left the Hill.�

Allie Sharp Cordinator of Student Engagement Anthony McAdoo, executive director of the WKU Alumni Association, said he was “delighted to welcome these outstanding Hilltoppers to our Young Alumni Council.� “They will work alongside our National Board of Directors to help us shape the alumni experience for our recent graduates,� McAdoo said. “Additionally, they will build upon the Young Alumni Council’s tradition of generating membership and charitable support for their endowed scholarship for upper-class students at WKU.�

The Alumni Association “produces many programs and events throughout the year,� according to the Alumni Association website.

The Alumni Association Homecoming activities and Topper Tailgate events also hosts.

Other organizations benefit the Young Alumni Council in various

ways. Student Alumni Ambassadors are “building Hilltoppers for life� while being an official student organization of the WKU Alumni Association, according to the Student Alumni Association website.

Ambassadors are selected based on campus involvement, academic performance and a desire to promote the WKU spirit. “Our students provide an extra measure of hospitality to current students, donors, and alumni,� according to the Student Alumni Association web page. “We place great significance on promoting WKU and communicating the importance of alumni support. Ambassadors work closely with the Alumni Association and various community groups to promote WKU.�

Reporter John Singleton can be reached at 270-745-6011 and john. singleton676@topper.wku.edu.

Wkuherald.com

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Homecoming

Illustrated By: Jennifer King

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Homecoming

Letter to the editor: Home away from home Current students are not the only members of the WKU community who get to take part in Homecoming festivities. Alumni are a crucial component of any university, especially here on the Hill. This is why each year during Homecoming week, the College Heights Herald makes an effort to reach out to former students to submit letters reflecting on their time in a place that was so influential in shaping the rest of their lives. Whether it was seeing a future President in E.A. Diddle Arena or simply sharing a meal with friends on campus, WKU is considered a home by many, even to those far removed from Bowling Green. If you are an alumni and wish to share any memory from the Hill that has played a role in shaping your life, please let us know.

Share your story with us at herald.

opinion@wku.edu WKU was for me, like a lot of people, my first home away from home. What I learned about myself and other people over the course of those four years was just as important as what I learned from Dr. Cantrell and Dr. Vos in Grise and Cherry Halls. The relationships formed with lifelong friends go on and grow stronger to this day and all of that happened at this place - Western Kentucky University. Now 10 years removed from that time on the Hill, anytime I get the chance to go back, it’s truly like coming home.

There’s always a comforting feeling when I go home. There are places throughout campus like the Colonnade, the Valley, the top of the Hill just behind Cherry Hall, or that bench in the shade somewhere between Grise and McLean

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where I remember meeting someone or purposely going out of my way to walk by that space simply for a dose of inspiration. The campus is full of these places and all the familiar faces that fill them, full of spirit. As time goes on, and I revisit these places maybe via picture in the latest brochure or better yet, in person at Homecoming, I’m reminded that the spirit is always there. It is also with me.

That is what WKU did for me. She gave me spirit. . . and I can’t wait to see her again the next time I come home.

The Spirit Makes the Master.

Brandon Spurlock, Class of 2007

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We’re glad to have you here this weekend to celebrate our many years of tradition and success!

If you are looking to donate, please check out our Experience campaign to support young journalists.

For more information, visit wkustudentpubs.com or contact the Student Publications Office for more details 270.745.2653

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Homecoming

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Looking back at my time on the Hill

I enrolled at Western Kentucky University in the fall of 1987. I was 20 years old and scared to death. After having been a student at the University of Louisville for my first two years of college, I had decided to switch schools, midstream, and begin my journey at WKU, to major in journalism. I didn’t know a lot about Western at the time, but I did know that their journalism program was one of the best in the country, and I wanted to be a part of it. I had a lifelong friend who had already been at Western for a year, so we worked it out where we could be roommates in Keen Hall when I arrived on campus. Still, I was nervous, anxious and a little terrified after unpacking my belongings and seeing my parents off on that first day at my new school. The dorm seemed very small, but as time passed, I came to call it home. Back then, there weren’t a lot of food options on campus, so my

roommate and I became very familiar with ravioli and spaghetti meals created courtesy of the microwave. Believe it or not, we watched a black and white television for entertainment, did not have cable channels and, yes, no internet.

For me, every day began with a walk from the bottom of the Hill to the top, as the majority of my classes were found in the Garrett Conference Center on campus. At that time, the student newspaper, the College Heights Herald, could also be found in Garrett, and I was fortunate to be a staff member with them during my senior year. The walk from my dorm to class was tough most days, and I quickly learned why we were called the Hilltoppers!

Life on campus was very different back then, compared to now, but we were all usually content, nonetheless.

In my two and a half years on the Hill, I met many interesting people from

many different backgrounds. This enabled me to get outside of my comfort zone and expand my horizons. The professors I had, the friends I made and the activities I participated in are all things that I still recall fondly today, 30 years later. During my days at WKU, I played intramural sports, attended many football and basketball games (we were Ohio Valley Conference and Sun Belt back then) and even got to be on the same E.A. Diddle Arena floor with President Ronald Reagan, as he had come to Bowling Green to campaign for then Republican presidential candidate George H. Bush. Being 21 years old and in the same building with the president of the United States, I just knew I was in the middle of something pretty important. Later that week, I shook the hand of the Democratic presidential candidate, Michael Dukakis, who had stopped on campus while campaigning. George

H. Bush would, of course, later win the presidency and Mr. Dukakis would become a historical footnote, but I will always remember that handshake.

Looking back, my time at Western was relatively brief, but it helped shape me for who I would become as an adult.

I will always cherish my days on the Hill.

I graduated WKU in 1989 and shortly after that, became a member of the “real world.” As I left campus then for the last time as a student, I was unaware that I would be returning 25 years later to welcome my son to the Hill as a student.

That was a very proud moment for me, and with Homecoming approaching for yet another year, I will always consider WKU my home.

Go Tops!

Steve Huff, Class of 1989