Dr. Valgene L. Dunham

Dr. Valgene L. Dunham was born on October 6, 1940. During his tenure as professor at WKU, Valgene was instrumental in creating opportunities for undergraduate research in the Department of Biology. He integrated independent student research experiences into his science curriculum. His belief in research as an effective pedagogical approach was a revolutionary viewpoint in the late 1980s.

To further support the university, Valgene and his wife established the Valgene Dunham Award Fund. The fund supports WKU students who are majoring in biology, investigative biotechnology, biochemistry, or medical technology. Recipients must also not be pursuing a pre-professional program and must be actively performing research in molecular sciences.Through this fund, Valgene’s memory is honored.