Bowling Green Celebrates WKU’s Family of the Year
Bowling Green, Ky. – During the recent Parent and Family Weekend, Western Kentucky University (WKU) honored senior Emma Grace Young’s family as the 2024 Family of the Year. This recognition is a testament to the Young family’s deep connection to WKU, where Emma is a fourth generation student.
Emma’s Academic Achievements
Emma Grace Young is making her mark at WKU, majoring in computer science and Chinese. Additionally, she is a scholar at the Mahurin Honors College and participates in WKU’s Chinese Flagship program. Her academic path reflects a dedication to her studies and a passion for diverse cultures.
Family Tradition at Football Games
In her essay, Emma expressed her family’s love for WKU and their longstanding tradition surrounding football games. She wrote, “For as long as I can remember, in the spirit of what it means to be a Hilltopper, our family has spent each week leading up to football games preparing food to feed hundreds of WKU fans at ELPO Law’s tailgate.” This tailgate is not just for WKU students and alumni; it is open to the general public as well.
Community Spirit at Tailgates
The Young family’s tailgate activities signify more than just feeding fans. Emma elaborated on their commitment to showing appreciation for WKU staff and first responders. They not only prepare meals for attendees but also ensure that WKU’s game day custodians, gate staff, and local law enforcement officers receive delicious food. Emma noted, “Because WKU’s ticket staff can’t make it to the tailgate tent, our family takes plates of food and delivers them to the workers.” This act of kindness fosters a sense of community and belonging within the university.
Selection Process for Family of the Year
Deciding the Family of the Year is no easy task, as a committee composed of alumni and staff reviewed nearly 200 nominations this year. The Young family’s commitment to WKU, along with their vibrant tradition of caring for the community, made them stand out in the selection process. Their efforts embody the values that WKU stands for.
Prize Package for the Young Family
In recognition of their accomplishment, the Young family received an exciting prize package that included tickets to all events during the Parent and Family Weekend, along with an $800 scholarship to benefit Emma’s education in the 2025 spring semester. This acknowledgment serves as an encouragement for both Emma and her family to continue their involvement and support of WKU.
Significance of Family in College Life
Events like Parent and Family Weekend emphasize the essential role that family plays in a student’s college life. For many students, the support and encouragement from family members are crucial in navigating the complexities of academic and social life on campus. The Young family’s example highlights how shared values and commitment to community can enhance the university experience.
Looking Ahead
As WKU celebrates families and their contributions to the university community, the Young family’s recognition as Family of the Year stands as a reminder of the importance of tradition, community, and support at WKU. Their commitment to the university and its staff has left a positive impact, and it illustrates how a focused family can contribute to a university culture that thrives on respect, community engagement, and enthusiasm for education.
