The Hall of Distinguished Alumni was created in 1992 by the WKU Alumni Association National Board of Directors to honor exemplary graduates or former students of WKU or the institutions that helped form WKU.
The recipients are chosen based on a combination of leadership, service, accomplishments in their fields of endeavors and support to the University. The highest level of accomplishment in one’s chosen field varies by discipline, and challenges or barriers faced or overcome in one’s journey are considered part of what distinguishes them. Inductees are those who possess the highest standards of integrity and character to positively reflect and enhance the prestige of WKU.
Nomination Criteria
Any alumni or friend of WKU may nominate someone for consideration as a candidate.
Nominations may be made annually through the WKU Alumni Association no later than Dec. 1. To submit an application for nomination, individuals must fill out a simple form with as much information as available and submit additional supporting documents by Jan. 15 to be considered by the selection committee.
Supporting documents for the nomination packet may include a biography, resume and/or curriculum vitae, letters of support and media clippings.
Statement of Support Criteria
- Please complete all fields of information on the application form
- Bio on the nominee that does not exceed 10 pages (Preferred style: Times New Roman, size 12, single-spaced) to include significant accomplishments, personal qualities that distinguish the individual, professional awards, and service to his or her community and the University.
- Resume and/or curriculum vitae
- Maximum of 10 Letters of Support from other universities, colleagues, and members of the community
- Additional supporting materials, such as newspaper, magazine, or newsletter articles not to exceed 20 pages
Any documentation exceeding 20 pages, books, cd’s, scrapbooks, etc. will be filed, but not distributed for consideration to the Selection Committee.
The Selection Process and Induction
All nominees are reviewed by the Selection Committee. The committee consists of members with a diverse background including ethnicity, gender, and age, appointed by the WKU Alumni Association Board. The Selection Committee presents a slate of two or three inductees for the class with two alternates to the National Alumni Association Board of Directors. The Board can choose to accept the slate as presented, or conduct a vote to confirm the chosen individuals and alternates. The new members are inducted at a special ceremony during Homecoming Week festivities.
Access a printable Word document nomination form by clicking here.