Western Kentucky University Celebrates the Legacy of Homecoming Queens
Bowling Green, KY — Every year, the campus of Western Kentucky University (WKU) lights up with excitement as students prepare for the long-standing tradition of selecting a new homecoming queen. This cherished practice has been part of the university’s culture for over 70 years, and it goes beyond just a title for young women; it captures the very essence of being a Hilltopper.
Reflections from Past Queens
In celebration of this rich history, several former homecoming queens recently shared their experiences and perspectives on what the title means to them and their time at WKU. Millie LeJeune, who ran for the title during her senior year, shared her initial goals. “When I got to WKU, I made a bucket list, and being on homecoming court was the last thing I wanted to accomplish,” she recalled. LeJeune, an active member of the campus community, was sponsored by the Black Women of Western and Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity. Now a physical therapy technician, she views her time on the court as a “beautiful experience” rather than a competition.
LeJeune emphasized the importance of being genuine during the process. “Just be yourself. Don’t look at it as a competition; instead, think of it as a week to reflect on your time on the Hill,” she advised. For her, the weeks of homecoming serve not just as a chance to gather votes but as an unforgettable experience full of personal growth.
A Unique Year for Sarah Burke
In contrast, Sarah Burke, crowned in 2020, described how her homecoming experience was shaped by the coronavirus pandemic. Her campaign, sponsored by several campus organizations, saw fewer attendees due to health guidelines, resulting in a more subdued crowning ceremony than in previous years. “I think we were just so thankful we still got to do it,” Burke shared, while acknowledging that the lack of a full stadium dampened the usual energy of the event.
Despite feeling a little let down, Burke had her family right there with her, as her brother walked her across the field. The crowning moment, which she called surreal, ultimately became one of her proudest achievements, validating her journey at WKU. “It was the best way to leave WKU,” she said, marking it as one of the top three achievements in her life.
Katie Staples Burch’s Bittersweet Victory
Then there’s Katie Staples Burch, who candidly admitted she might not fit the conventional mold of a homecoming queen. “I don’t have those stereotypical qualities from the movies,” she laughed, before getting serious about the criteria at WKU, which prioritize character over popularity. Burch, a cheerleader and Spirit Master, added that the diversity among candidates showcases their leadership roles across campus.
She described her crowning as bittersweet, knowing that graduation was just around the corner. “I wasn’t quite ready to leave the nest,” Burch mused, adding that the homecoming queen role isn’t about glamour but about being a good representative of the university community.
A Pioneering Moment for Alice Gatewood Waddell
Among these heartfelt stories is the trailblazing experience of Alice Gatewood Waddell, who became WKU’s first Black homecoming queen. Her win in 1974 wasn’t without controversy, including a recount due to allegations of unfair voting practices. “We ended up voting again, and I won again,” said Waddell, reflecting on how her victory symbolized representation for Black students on campus.
Waddell emphasized the importance of her win for future generations, stating, “It wasn’t just about me; it was about visibility for Black students on WKU’s campus.” She hopes to inspire current and future students to grasp the larger picture of their roles within the university’s community.
Emphasizing the Experience
Ultimately, the legacy of homecoming queens at WKU transcends a simple title. The stories of LeJeune, Burke, Burch, Waddell, and more illustrate that it’s about connection, representation, and cherishing unforgettable moments. These women remind future candidates to live in the moment, soak up every experience, and recognize the significance of this cherished tradition at WKU.
Whether it’s the excitement leading up to the ceremony, the tight-knit friendships fostered throughout the process, or the incredible rush of being crowned queen, every moment contributes to a rich legacy that resonates with Hilltoppers for years to come.
