Local Achievements Shine: WKU Students from Greenville and Elizabethtown Win Prestigious Goldwater Scholarships

Two students from Western Kentucky University (WKU), Mykah Carden of Greenville and Gabriel Nowaskie of Elizabethtown, have received the 2024 Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship. This scholarship recognizes university sophomores and juniors who excel in STEM fields. Carden and Nowaskie are two of five students from Kentucky honored in this cycle for their academic and research achievements.

Mykah Carden, a student at the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science, will graduate in May 2024. She studies geological sciences and focuses on the geological and hydrogeological factors influencing cave development in karst landscapes. Carden has presented her research at various meetings and symposiums and interned with the Cave Research Foundation. Her mentor, Dr. Patricia Kambesis, has praised her ability to explain complex scientific concepts. Carden plans to pursue a Ph.D. in geology.

Gabriel Nowaskie, who majors in physics and minors in mathematics at WKU's Ogden College of Science & Engineering, graduated from the Gatton Academy in 2023. He has published research on theoretical mechanics and quantum physics and presented at significant conferences. Nowaskie is planning to earn a Ph.D. and aims to pursue a career in university research and teaching. His mentor, Tony Simpao, has commended his enthusiasm and skill in physics.

Both students had support from WKU's faculty and the Office of Scholar Development in preparing their scholarship applications. This support highlights WKU's commitment to promoting early research opportunities and helping students gain national recognition.

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