WKU in Somerset Honors Graduates at Recognition Ceremony

Published on May 6, 2025

By Susan Esters

Western Kentucky University in Somerset held its annual Graduate Recognition Ceremony on Monday, May 5 at 5:30 p.m. ET, celebrating the accomplishments of the Spring/Summer 2025 graduating class. The event took place at Somerset Community College, a long-standing partner of WKU and home to the University Center of Southern Kentucky. WKU in Somerset currently offers five majors which students can complete in full without leaving the area.

Dr. Derick Strode, WKU’s Director of Regional Campuses, opened the ceremony by welcoming graduates, families, faculty, and community members. “This evening is primarily a celebration of our graduates,” he said, “but it is also a celebration of the support they’ve received from family, faculty, WKU staff, and community partners throughout their journey.”

The event marked the beginning of a week filled with WKU graduation activities, including Topper Walk, Commencement, Big Red’s Bash, and individual college recognition ceremonies in Bowling Green later in the week.

The ceremony highlighted the importance of WKU in Somerset, which is located on the campus of Somerset Community College (SCC) and offers local access to WKU degree programs through its partnership with SCC and the University Center of Southern Kentucky. WKU staff, SCC faculty and staff, and regional leaders were present to honor the graduates and recognize the strength of the partnership between the institutions.

Dr. Korey Bruck, Director of the University Center of Southern Kentucky, shared remarks on behalf of Somerset Community College, celebrating the shared mission of expanding access to higher education in the Lake Cumberland region. 

“Thanks to [our partnership with WKU], students can begin their journey right here at SCC . . . and complete their bachelor’s degree from WKU—all without ever leaving the community they call home,” he stated. “That matters. It means more future teachers in our region. It means fewer financial obstacles for our students. And it means we are investing in the people most likely to stay, teach, and lead in the communities that raised them. Tonight’s graduates are living proof that this model works.”

The ceremony included a Big Red Bag Celebration honoring new teacher candidates from the WKU College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. Dean Corinne Murphy welcomed the region’s newest educators and celebrated their readiness to enter the teaching profession.

Graduates were then individually recognized and presented with a WKU in Somerset stole, symbolizing their connection to the local campus. 

Graduates honored at the ceremony included:

• Brooklyn Allen – Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
• Emily Allen – Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
• Hannah Hubbard – Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
• Brittney Iseral – Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
• Stacy Vaughn – Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
• Matilyn Wilson – Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education 
• Carolyn Conley – Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
• Hope Salyers – Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies

WKU alumnus and Vice President at Kentucky Broadcasters Association Mike Tarter spoke on behalf of the WKU Alumni Association. He congratulated graduates and stated that they are now members of a group of proud WKU alumni and encouraged them to get involved.

The event concluded with special thanks to Somerset Community College for hosting, along with well wishes for the graduates as they prepare for WKU's commencement events. Graduates received alumni gift packs, and a Big Red commemorative cake to enjoy with family and friends.

“Congratulations to each one of you,” said Dr. Strode. “We’re proud of your journey and can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make as WKU graduates. Let’s celebrate!”

For highlights from the event, follow WKU in Somerset on Facebook. For more information about WKU in Somerset, visit wku.edu/somerset.