Introduction
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) is a public university located in Richmond, Kentucky. Founded in 1906, it is the fifth-oldest university in Kentucky and the largest regional university in the state. EKU has a rich and vibrant history, and is home to many interesting and unique facts. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the fun facts about Eastern Kentucky University. From its impressive academic and sports achievements to its diverse student body, Eastern Kentucky University is a special place that has something for everyone.
Home to the Colonels
Eastern Kentucky University is home to the EKU Colonels, a proud and storied athletic program. The Colonels compete in the Ohio Valley Conference and have won numerous conference championships in a variety of sports. The Colonels have also been successful in the NCAA tournament, having reached the Sweet 16 in both men’s and women’s basketball. The Colonels have also had success in football, winning the NCAA Division I-AA National Championship in 1979. The Colonels are also known for their unique mascot, Colonel Richmond, who is a mustachioed gentleman in a top hat.
A Rich History
Eastern Kentucky University has a rich and vibrant history. Founded in 1906 as a teachers college, EKU has grown and evolved over the years to become the university it is today. The university has been home to many famous and influential people, including Kentucky Governor Bert Combs, Kentucky Secretary of State Trey Grayson, and NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Sonny Jurgensen. The university also has a strong tradition of service, with alumni serving in the U.S. military, in government, and in a variety of other fields.
A Diverse Student Body
Eastern Kentucky University has a diverse student body, with students from all over the world. The student body is made up of students from more than 40 states and over 50 countries. The university also has a strong international student population, with students from countries such as China, India, and Brazil. This diversity makes EKU a unique and exciting place to learn and grow.
Academic Excellence
Eastern Kentucky University is known for its academic excellence. The university offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and its students have been recognized for their academic achievements. The university has been ranked among the top public universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report and is home to a number of prestigious academic programs, including the EKU Honors Program and the EKU Honors College.
Award-Winning Faculty
Eastern Kentucky University is home to a talented and dedicated faculty. The faculty is made up of experts in their fields and are committed to providing a quality education to their students. The faculty has been recognized for their teaching and research, with numerous awards and honors, including the Carnegie Foundation’s Professor of the Year Award, the Kentucky Professor of the Year Award, and the National Science Foundation’s CAREER Award.
A Thriving Arts Scene
Eastern Kentucky University is home to a thriving arts scene. The university has an active theater program, with a variety of plays, musicals, and other performances. The university also has an active music program, with a variety of musical ensembles, including the EKU Symphonic Band and the EKU Jazz Ensemble. The university also has an art gallery, featuring works from local and international artists.
A Beautiful Campus
Eastern Kentucky University is located on a beautiful and picturesque campus. The campus is home to a variety of buildings, from historic buildings to modern academic buildings. The campus is also home to a variety of outdoor spaces, including a lake, a pond, and a variety of gardens. The campus is also home to a number of sculptures and monuments, including the iconic EKU statue.
Conclusion
Eastern Kentucky University is a unique and special place, and it is home to many interesting and unique facts. From its impressive academic and sports achievements to its diverse student body, Eastern Kentucky University has something for everyone. Whether you’re a student, an alumnus, or just a fan of the Colonels, there’s something for everyone at Eastern Kentucky University.
