WKU Alumni Association names 2026 Homecoming grand marshal
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Western Kentucky University Alumni Association has named Alex Downing as the 2026 WKU Homecoming Grand Marshall.
The homecoming grand marshal honor recognizes individuals whose commitment, leadership and WKU spirit have made a lasting impact on WKU and its traditions, the university says.
Downing has served and supported numerous programs and boards across WKU for more than three decades, according to a release.
Downing is president and CEO of Franklin Bank & Trust and previously served for 13 years as President of the College Heights Foundation, where the university says his contribution helped advance scholarship opportunities for WKU students.
Downing also has contributed to the College Heights Foundation Board, Hilltopper Athletic Foundation and the Gordon Ford College of Business Advisory Board. He currently serves on the Finance Advisory Council.
According to the university, Downing follows a long-lasting family legacy at WKU. His father, Dr. Dero Downing, was the university’s fourth president in 1969. He later served as President and later Chairman of the College Heights Foundation. Alex Downing and his four siblings all graduated from WKU, as did multiple other members of the Downing family.
As grand marshal, the university says Downing will be featured throughout WKU’s Homecoming celebration, including the homecoming parade.
Downing is the second recipient of the WKU Homecoming Grand Marshal honor, behind former Director of Student Activities Dr. Charley Pride, who was selected as grand marshal in 2025.
WKU Homecoming 2026 will take place Nov. 12-14 with the theme “Big Red’s World Tour.” The weekend will include the Hilltopper Excellence Awards, Homecoming Parade and Pep Rally, tailgates and other campus celebrations, culminating with WKU Football taking on Jacksonville State at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium.
For more information about WKU Homecoming 2026, visit the WKU Alumni Association Homecoming website at alumni.wku.edu/homecoming or contact the WKU Alumni Association at (270) 745-2586.
