Bowling Green, September 28, 2025
News Summary
Bowling Green has initiated its Downtown Ambassador Academy, connecting WKU students with the local community through hands-on experiences and educational sessions. The program, involving approximately 25 students, spans from October to April and includes visits to local businesses and a capstone project. Applications are open until October 2.
Bowling Green has officially initiated its Downtown Ambassador Academy program to help students from Western Kentucky University (WKU) connect with the local community and engage with key institutions supporting downtown Bowling Green. The program is designed to involve approximately 25 students from WKU during the academic year, providing them with valuable insights into the workings of local businesses, nonprofits, and government establishments.
Caden Lucas, a WKU student, played a significant role in bringing this initiative to fruition. The program features six sessions spanning from October to April, with each session lasting between five to six hours. Students will explore different facets of downtown life, emphasizing economic development and local business initiatives.
Throughout the program, students will have the opportunity to visit a variety of local businesses, nonprofits, and government buildings. Telia Butler, Downtown Development Coordinator for Bowling Green, highlighted the importance of meeting in diverse venues and exploring various local dining options during these sessions to enrich the students’ experiences.
In addition to classroom learning and community engagement, students will engage in a capstone project, working collaboratively with a local business or nonprofit organization. Each capstone project will culminate in a presentation during the spring, showcasing the students’ efforts, which may include volunteering activities, social media campaigns, or promotional efforts related to downtown events.
The Ambassador Academy aims to create lasting relationships between students, WKU, and the downtown community. The program is open to WKU sophomores, juniors, and seniors from all majors, making it accessible to a diverse range of students. Applications for the program opened on September 18 and will close on October 2 at 11:59 p.m. CST. Students selected for the program will be notified by October 9. Interested participants can apply through an online form available on the Downtown BGKY social media channels.
Program Details and Schedule
- Program Duration: October to April
- Number of Sessions: Six
- Duration of Each Session: 5-6 hours
- Capstone Project: Collaborative project with local business/nonprofit
Application Information
- Application Open Date: September 18
- Application Close Date: October 2 at 11:59 p.m. CST
- Notification Date: October 9
Background Context
This initiative aligns with the city’s efforts to enhance community engagement and foster student involvement in local activities. By structuring the program around real-life interactions within the community, students are expected to gain practical knowledge and create meaningful connections that could benefit both their individual educational paths and the downtown area as a whole.
FAQ
What is the Downtown Ambassador Academy?
The Downtown Ambassador Academy is a program designed to connect WKU students with the local community, focusing on various aspects of downtown life through hands-on engagements and educational sessions.
Who can apply for the program?
The program is open to WKU sophomores, juniors, and seniors from all majors.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close on October 2 at 11:59 p.m. CST.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Downtown Ambassador Academy |
| Target Audience | WKU sophomores, juniors, and seniors |
| Number of Students | Approximately 25 |
| Number of Sessions | Six |
| Session Duration | 5-6 hours |
| Capstone Project | Collaborative work with local businesses or nonprofits |
| Application Opening Date | September 18 |
| Application Closing Date | October 2, 11:59 p.m. CST |
| Notification Date | October 9 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Spectrum News: Bowling Green Downtown Ambassador Academy
- WBKO: City of Bowling Green Launches Downtown Ambassador Academy
- WNKY: Bowling Green Starts Downtown Ambassador Academy Program
- Wikipedia: Bowling Green, Kentucky
- Google Search: Downtown Ambassador Academy Bowling Green
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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