The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky University has selected 99 Kentucky sophomores for the Class of 2025, marking The Gatton Academy’s 18th incoming class.
“Each year we are reminded Kentucky is filled with remarkable students seeking advanced coursework and challenge in their education,” said the Director of The Gatton Academy, Dr. Lynette Breedlove. “The Class of 2025 is an inspiring group who have been supported and encouraged by many people in their local schools, districts, and communities.”
Invited to join The Gatton Academy Class of 2025, a two-year residential program, were two Grayson County High School students: Elli Hester and Eldon Williams.
Also selected to join The Gatton Academy Class of 2025 were Butler County High School student Dastin Scott and Beaver Dam resident Ashley Gledhill, who attends Owensboro Innovation Academy.
Applicants were evaluated based on ACT/SAT scores, high school grades, awards and accomplishments, extracurricular activities, responses to essay and short answer questions, and recommendation forms. In addition to these criteria, candidates were invited to interview with WKU faculty members, community leaders from across the commonwealth, and The Gatton Academy alumni.
The mission of The Gatton Academy is to provide a residential program on the campus of Western Kentucky University for bright, highly motivated Kentucky high school students who have demonstrated interests in pursuing advanced careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Students enhance their creativity, curiosity, reasoning ability, and self-discipline through the companionship of peers, university courses, faculty-led research, and study abroad, preparing them for leadership roles in the commonwealth of Kentucky. Moreover, The Gatton Academy assists in preparing Kentucky to compete in a knowledge-based economy by increasing the number of scientists and engineers with ties to the state.
“The young people in Gatton’s Class of 2025 represent Kentucky geographically as well as in other characteristics, carrying out the goal of The Gatton Academy to enable Kentucky’s exceptional young scientists and mathematicians to learn in an environment that offers advanced educational opportunities and develop as future leaders for the Commonwealth,” stated Dr. Julia Roberts, Executive Director of The Gatton Academy and Mahurin Professor of Gifted Education. “What a pleasure it is to welcome them to The Gatton Academy.”
Students will complete their junior and senior years of high school living in Florence Schneider Hall. At the end of their two-year course of study, students will graduate from high school with a minimum of 60 college credit hours.
(Photo: The Gatton Academy, courtesy of WKU)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
