WKU students to work Special Olympics at Disney

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A couple of lucky Western Kentucky University students are gearing up for Disney World and getting ready to cover the Special Olympic games.

One WKU professor is already in Florida now.

About 20 students studying meteorology, emergency management, disaster science and sports management will get to help out at the Special Olympics USA Games in June.

They’ll monitor the weather, hazards and covid, They’ll provide support from the Disaster Science Operation Center as well.

Professor and university meteorologist Josh Durkee said USA Games chose WKU to cover the summer games after seeing their new Disaster Science Operation Center and services they provide.

“As it turns out, what we were doing at WKU,the way that we we’re [teaching] in terms of experience to our students, is very unique,” said Durkee. “I think that’s what makes WKU very special. That’s what got us a seat at the table, and we’re really proud of that and excited to see what happens.”

News 40 will post updates when the students and professors make the trip to Florida this June.