WKU News

The Jody Richards Hall Student Technology Center has a new look and name. The Hub is now open for the fall semester and features a fresh, contemporary and welcoming environment designed to support student success. 

The refurbished space features a mix of settings, from cozy solo study nooks to group meeting and collaboration areas, along with WKU-provided computer workstations and printing access.

The renovation project, launched in March 2024 by WKU Information Technology Services, was designed to modernize the decades-old computer lab and create a more collaborative and student-focused environment.

“With minimal changes to the computer lab in the 20+ years since the building’s opening, it was time to rethink how the space could better serve our students,” said Jeppie Sumpter, Assistant Vice President for Information Technology Services. 

Recognizing that many students prefer to work on their own devices, the design emphasizes device-friendly seating and study zones, while also ensuring access to computers for those who may not have one or need capabilities beyond their own.

“We’re excited to see students take advantage of this new space,” said Lori Douglas, Senior Director of Technical Support Services. “The Hub was created with today’s students in mind, those who value flexibility, comfort and technology that works the way they need it to.”

In addition to study and collaboration areas, The Hub is now home to TopperTech, ITS’s walk-up support center where students, faculty, and staff can receive hands-on technical assistance, check out laptops, and access other technology resources.

-WKU-

Western Kentucky University prides itself on positioning its students, faculty and staff for long term success. As a student-centered, applied research university, WKU helps students expand on classroom learning by integrating education with real-world applications in the communities we serve. Our hilltop campus is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, which was recently named by Reader’s Digest as one of the nicest towns in America, just an hour’s drive from Nashville, Tennessee.