Western Kentucky University President welcomes back students with annual convocation address

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Western Kentucky University President Timothy Caboni officially kicked off the 119th academic year Monday  during the school’s annual convocation address.

The convocation brings together faculty and staff each year to reflect on past accomplishments while setting priorities and goals for the year ahead.

Caboni celebrated WKU’s 2024 academic achievements by highlighting record-setting numbers in student performance. Student-athletes posted the highest collective GPA in school history at 3.32, while the freshman class set a new record with a 3.37 GPA.

WKU also had the highest graduation rate in school history, with 93% of students receiving their degrees.

“The thing about which I am the most proud is if you look at the number of degrees and credentials that WKU produces, we produce 33% more every year than our nearest comprehensive university,” Caboni said. “That means everything that we’re doing, all of our focus on student success is paying off, and it’s paying off in a way that benefits those young people directly.”

The president also recognized this year’s “Spirit of WKU” award recipient, Bryson Davis, director of the Department of Student Financial Assistance.

Since joining the university in 2009, Davis has played a key role in breaking down financial barriers for students and improving retention. Colleagues describe him as someone who goes above and beyond to support both students and the community.

“I was completely honored,” Davis said. “I look at the people that have received this before, and I don’t feel that I have done the level of work that those people have. But it was such an honor to receive that today.”

WKU students officially return to class next Monday, Aug. 18.