STAFF REPORT
GlasgowNews1
Western Kentucky University officials say the leader of the university’s Glasgow regional campus is moving into a major new role. Dr. Derick Strode has accepted the position of director of The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at WKU, with the appointment effective July 13, 2026.
The Gatton Academy, based at Western Kentucky University, is described by the university as one of the nation’s premier residential programs for gifted and talented high school students. The program serves academically advanced students from across Kentucky, allowing them to complete high school while earning college credit.
In a written announcement, WKU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Bud Fischer said Strode brings a combination of institutional knowledge, strategic leadership experience and a deep commitment to student success to the director’s role. Fischer credited the search committee for its work in recruiting and evaluating “an outstanding pool of candidates” before selecting Strode.
Strode is no stranger to The Gatton Academy. According to WKU, he previously served there from 2008 to 2021, joining during the academy’s early years and helping shape many of the hallmarks of the program.
Dr. Derick B. Strode
During that earlier tenure, officials say Strode played a central role in developing and expanding research, internship and scholarship opportunities for Gatton students. Those efforts reportedly created transformational learning experiences that have benefited multiple generations of academy participants.
Beyond his work with Gatton, Strode has been a key figure in WKU’s regional campus system, including the Glasgow campus that serves Barren County and the surrounding area. University leaders say he has provided strategic vision for regional campuses, helping drive enrollment growth and broaden access to higher education across the region.
Officials also point to his leadership in dual credit and early college initiatives. Those programs have strengthened pathways for talented high school students to begin their college careers at WKU, while adding new experiential learning opportunities.
WKU notes that Strode’s career has emphasized global engagement, student belonging and hands-on education. University leaders say that focus aligns with Gatton’s mission of helping academically talented students thrive both personally and intellectually.
In announcing the appointment, Fischer said he is confident Strode’s experience and vision will position The Gatton Academy “for continued excellence and innovation for its next twenty years.” He encouraged the campus community to congratulate Strode on his new role and said he looks forward to collaborating with him as he leads the academy into its next chapter.
The leadership change comes as WKU’s Glasgow campus continues to serve as a key postsecondary option for many students in Barren County and the surrounding region. Details about interim or future leadership for the Glasgow campus were not included in the announcement.
KEY FACTS
– Dr. Derick Strode is leaving his leadership role at Western Kentucky University’s Glasgow regional campus.
– WKU officials say he has accepted the position of director of The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science.
– His new role is effective July 13, 2026.
– Strode previously worked at The Gatton Academy from 2008 to 2021, helping shape key student programs.
– University leaders credit him with driving enrollment growth and expanding access at WKU’s regional campuses.
– The Gatton Academy is described as one of the nation’s premier residential programs for gifted high school students.
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