UPDATE—This article has been updated to reflect the involvement of faculty and staff in the installation.
A new Student Government Association (SGA) initiative introduced multiple fish feeders near the bridge overlooking the water at Loch Norse, creating a peaceful spot where students, staff and wildlife can connect with nature.
NKU Provost Dr. Diana McGill spoke at a small gathering near the new installation on Wednesday, sharing her thoughts on what this means to her and the broader campus community. McGill reflected on the personal significance of the spot, which also features a memorial bench honoring an Alumna who died.
“I don’t know if you know, we have a memorial bench on the bridge for an alum who we lost, and she loved the water, and this is where her family wants to be. I always think about her,” McGill said.
A lifelong nature enthusiast, McGill shared the joy she finds in quiet moments spent observing wildlife.
“I love birding. I’m a big birder, so I love seeing the birds come. We have a great blue heron that often visits. And so this is my happy space,” she said.
The new feeders are more than just functional—they are symbolic.
McGill emphasized how small efforts, like installing these feeders, can have ripple effects on the connection between students and campus life. The feeders may also serve an educational purpose, she explained.
“There are tons of turtles in here, tons of ducks and geese will chase them off, as you know, but it is a really good idea. I was in my office talking about it … I come, this is my route. So I’m here very often, and never once did I ever think of this,” she said.
Students can now enjoy a fun, free way to engage with nature on campus thanks to the new fish feeders placed around Loch Norse. The gumball machine-style feeders are easy to spot and use—just turn the handle and food drops out.
There’s no cost to use them, making them accessible to everyone. Multiple feeders are located along the paths near Loch Norse, offering peaceful spots to watch local birds, feed the fish and unwind.
This initiative was made possible by the Student Government Association, aiming to create more opportunities for connection, reflection and appreciation of the natural spaces on campus.
The resolution was passed in October 2024, and involvement from faculty and staff members led to the installation.
“I promise you that I will be using these on my mornings,” McGill said. “And I hope what it allows us to do is let more students, faculty and staff–but certainly students–understand that this is not just a concrete jungle.”