CAS Hall of Fame

Recipient of the Distinguished Career Award, Lane served Wichita Public Schools in multiple administrative roles for over 30 years before joining Wichita State in 1995. At WSU, he taught school law and founded the Transition to Teaching (T2T) program for secondary education, which has since trained and licensed nearly 500 new teachers. Lane’s focus on building community, fostering mentorship, and supporting educators laid the foundation for the in-person cohort model still used by the program today. His dedication to students, colleagues, and the teaching profession has left a lasting legacy on the School of Education and the College of Applied Studies.

Recipient of the Service Award, Myers worked in the College of Education for nearly 14 years beginning in 1999. She held administrative specialist roles across multiple departments including Kinesiology and Sport Studies (KSS), Sport Management (SMGT), and Educational Leadership (EL), and even returned from retirement to assist Curriculum and Instruction. Myers played a critical role in developing staff onboarding, professional development, and daily administrative processes for academic programs across the college. She was known for providing stability during times of departmental transition and was widely respected as a campus resource. In addition to her work at WSU, Myers served as administrative assistant to the Executive Director of the Sport and Recreation Law Association (SRLA), where she supported executive directors, guided organizational changes, and helped manage national conferences. Her steady presence and dedication to faculty, staff, and students made her an invaluable behind-the-scenes leader throughout her career.

Recipient of the Alumni Award, Torgeson earned his Master of Education in Sport Administration from Wichita State in 1996, after serving as a graduate assistant in the athletic director’s office. Now in his 24th year at the university, he serves as Associate Athletic Director for Student Services with WSU-ICAA. His previous roles include Assistant AD for Compliance and Student Services, and Compliance Coordinator. Torgeson has overseen all aspects of the university’s athletics compliance program, including eligibility tracking, practice and playing schedule monitoring, NCAA rules education, and National Letter of Intent administration. He is also the sport administrator for Shocker Softball and a first responder for student-athletes through the Real Response system. An engaged supporter of the Sport Management program, Torgeson has served as president of the Sport Management Alumni Association, helping to raise scholarship funds and mentor students through practicum and internship experiences.

Recipient of the Community Engagement Award, Bing Honeyman is a two-time Wichita State graduate whose career has spanned education, athletics, journalism, and public service. She began her career as a physical education teacher and later served as assistant athletic director of women’s athletics at WSU, empowering students and fostering a culture of inclusion and excellence. She went on to become a longtime staff writer for The Wichita Eagle, where she continues to write as a freelancer for both The Eagle and VIP Wichita magazine. A champion of the arts and education, Bing Honeyman has served in leadership roles for Mark Arts, Music Theatre Wichita, Tallgrass Film Festival, and Women of Wichita. She is a member of the CAS Dean’s Advisory Board and volunteers with The Pando Initiative, Autism Ave, and the annual “Gridiron” journalism fundraiser. Her lifelong commitment to service and storytelling has left a lasting impact on the Wichita community and Wichita State University.

Recipient of the Distinguished Career Award, Lefever recently retired from Wichita State University, where she most recently served as Provost and Executive Vice President. During her tenure as dean in the College of Applied Studies, Lefever led the development and launch of the Teacher Apprentice Program (TAP), which has grown to become the university’s largest undergraduate program. She also played a pivotal role in reshaping the Professional Development School (PDS) model to better serve urban communities—an approach recognized nationally by the Council of Great City Schools and the Association of Teacher Educators. Her leadership brought remarkable enrollment growth and program innovation to the college. Lefever’s dedication to students, faculty, and the mission of CAS has left a lasting legacy that continues to shape the college’s impact on educators and communities across Kansas and beyond.

Recipient of the Distinguished Career Award, Dr. Mau served Wichita State University for over 22 years as a professor in the Department of Counseling, Educational Leadership, Educational Psychology and Foundations, including two years as Associate Dean in the College of Applied Studies. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to counseling education, research, and leadership both within the college and internationally. Dr. Mau was an active member of the counseling program committee from 1991 and served on the university’s Strategic Planning Activation Team beginning in 2018. His international scholarship includes service as a Fulbright Senior Scholar and visiting scholar in Vancouver, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, as well as over 29 global publications. He was honored with the National Career Development Association’s Quarterly Article of the Year and WSU’s post-tenure review recognition in 2018. Named emeritus faculty in 2021, Dr. Mau is recognized for his outstanding leadership, scholarship, and dedication to advancing the field of counseling and the mission of the College of Applied Studies.

Recipient of the Recent Alumni Award, Funschelle earned her Bachelor of Science in Sport Management from Wichita State in 2020 and went on to complete a Master of Science in Sport Management from Columbia University. While at WSU, she founded her own brand, Sports with Aliyah, with the goal of connecting casual sports fans to their favorite teams and athletes. Funschelle actively pursued applied learning experiences, covering high school, university, and minor league games while working full time at the Kansas Food Bank. Now based in New York, she has built a successful career as a sports content creator, collaborating with major brands such as Nike and Google Pixel. She has reported on WNBA athletes, interviewed sports icons like Venus Williams, and was recently featured by New York Sports as one of the city’s premier content creators. Funschelle continues to use her platform to inspire young women pursuing careers in sports journalism and media.

Stacy Chestnut, a Wichita State University graduate with a degree in Secondary English Education and a minor in Theater, has demonstrated excellence in teaching and mentorship throughout her career. As Co-Department Chair at Wichita High School East, she has mentored future educators through WSU’s English Education Program for over a decade. Her passion for education has taken her beyond local classrooms, including teaching literature in Türkiye and English in rural Germany. Stacy has held leadership roles such as Vice President of the Kansas Association of Teachers of English and Co-Chair of the KATE Conference, helping transform it into a key professional development event. Her mentorship has inspired award-winning educators, and she herself has earned honors including the 2024 WSU Mentor Teacher Award. Stacy’s dedication, leadership, and impact make her a fitting inductee into the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame.

Chase’s journey has been marked by innovation, leadership, and a deep commitment to improving lives. A former All-American basketball player at the University of Puget Sound, he went on to earn a Master’s in Exercise Science at Wichita State University, focusing on Neuropsychology. While at WSU, he taught, conducted research, and directed the Neuropsychology Lab, which led to his founding of Sway Medical in 2010. Under his leadership, Sway became a global leader in concussion management, serving over a million athletes and 3,500 organizations, including major sports teams and hospital systems. In 2012, Chase secured the first FDA clearance for a software-only medical device on a mobile phone, revolutionizing mobile health technology. His work has been featured in major media, and he received the Early Career Achievement Award from the University of Puget Sound. Despite challenges, Chase’s resilience and commitment to mentoring future innovators have made him a valued partner at WSU. His visionary contributions make him a worthy inductee into the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame.

Credit Union of America has made a significant impact on Kansas education through generous support of Wichita State University’s programs. Their funding has benefited initiatives like Corbin Connect’s outreach and technology, scholarships for Teacher Apprentice Program (TAP) students, and licensure exam assistance. As the presenting partner for Corbin Connect, they sponsor events and technology training spaces that enhance educator preparation. They also help celebrate TAP graduates with in-person recognition and teacher toolkits in partnership with Project Teacher. Their ongoing promotion of these programs strengthens community and district connections. We proudly welcome Credit Union of America, represented by President and CEO Frank Shoffner, into the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame.

Christine Downey-Schmidt is a retired educator whose lifelong dedication to education, government, and community service has made a lasting impact. A Wichita State University alumna with degrees in Elementary Education and Education Administration, she spent 20 years teaching at various levels and as an adjunct professor at Bethel College. Christine served three terms in the Kansas Senate, where she led efforts to protect the Equus Beds and reform higher education governance. After retiring from the legislature, she joined the Kansas Board of Regents, serving as Chair and Vice Chair, and later served seven years with the Higher Learning Commission. She established an endowed scholarship at WSU and remains active in numerous organizations, including the Dyck Arboretum, Kansas Arts Commission, and Kauffman Museum. Her legacy of service and leadership earns her a place in the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame.

Cathy Razook-Ellsworth’s dedication to student success and applied learning has made a lasting impact on Wichita State University and the College of Applied Studies. She began her career teaching elementary education in Wichita Public Schools before transitioning to higher education, where she helped develop and lead the College of Education’s Cooperative Education program. What started with 14 students grew into a robust, multi-department initiative offering paid, hands-on learning experiences for hundreds. Cathy’s leadership, educational expertise, and strong relationships with school districts were key to the program’s success. As Senior Coordinator, she worked across departments, supporting both undergraduate and graduate students. Her passion for experiential learning and unwavering support for students and faculty alike make her a deserving inductee into the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame.

Becky Endicott dedicated 26 years to Wichita State University, leaving a lasting impact on college athletics, student success, and gender equity. Beginning in 1994 as Director of Student Services, she supported student-athletes academically and personally, later advancing to Assistant Athletic Director and then Senior Associate Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator—a role she held for over two decades. Becky ensured NCAA compliance, championed gender equity, oversaw sport medicine and Title IX coordination, and helped secure funding and scholarships. A former educator and coach, she brought heart, integrity, and leadership to every role, making her a deserving inductee into the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame.

Sue Rippe has dedicated over three decades to inspiring students as an exceptional science educator. Beginning at Wilbur Junior High in 1983, she taught middle school science before moving to Wichita Northwest High School, where she taught biology, anatomy, physiology, and chemistry. After earning her master’s from WSU in 1991, she transitioned to Olathe Northwest High School in 2003, teaching Aerospace and Engineering Chemistry and founding an award-winning F.I.R.S.T. Robotics Team. Since 2008, Sue has also taught college biology and led workshops for educators. Her numerous honors include the WSU STAR Alumnus Award, Kansas State Teacher of the Year, Missouri State Teacher of the Year, national Teacher of the Year, the Christa McAuliffe Memorial Award, and induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame. Her passion for education makes her a proud inductee into the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame.

Rex Schott’s remarkable career in athletic training began in 1963 after a football injury inspired him to help others. At 18, he became the sole athletic trainer for Wichita State University’s freshmen football team and later earned degrees in Athletic Training and Sport Administration. Rising to Head Athletic Trainer at 22, he provided crucial care and support during the 1970 football plane crash. Rex taught at WSU for nearly 19 years and has provided nearly 49 years of coverage for Derby High School athletics. A founding member of the Kansas Athletic Trainers Society, he contributed significantly to the profession locally and nationally, also working with Olympic volleyball and gymnastics teams. Serving 38 years in the Army Reserves and retiring as a Colonel, Rex’s legacy as a mentor and leader is honored with his induction into the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame.

Dr. Vicki Worrell is a trailblazer in physical education and health leadership whose career began at Wichita State University, where she earned her B.A. in Physical Education in 1977. After teaching in Augusta Public Schools and earning a Master’s, she returned to WSU as faculty while completing her Doctorate. As Executive Director of KAHPERD, she elevated the organization’s national standing and later served as President of AAHPERD and SHAPE America. Dr. Worrell’s numerous awards—including one named in her honor—reflect her lasting impact on educators and students alike. Her leadership and dedication make her a distinguished inductee into the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame.

Dr. Marcus Taylor Ballenger, honored as a 2023 inductee into the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame, earned his doctorate from Texas Tech University and served in various educational roles including elementary teacher, principal, and visiting professor. Joining Wichita State University’s College of Education (now CAS) in 1970, he taught early childhood and language arts, later serving 12 years as Associate Dean of Undergraduate Students. Known for mentoring students and faculty alike, Dr. Ballenger received multiple teaching awards and co-authored the pioneering Houghton-Mifflin Language Arts Series. He secured several U.S. Department of Education grants and founded the Cooperative Education Program, which pioneered paid, hands-on work experiences for future teachers and later expanded to other departments. His work significantly enhanced applied learning and career readiness for students, leaving a lasting legacy over his 30 years at WSU.

Dr. Jeri Carroll has made a profound impact on WSU’s School of Education, inspiring many students, especially in early childhood and elementary education. As Department Head, she demonstrated servant leadership and played a key role in securing NCATE accreditation for WSU, also consulting for other universities. Known for her tireless dedication to advancing WSU’s mission, Dr. Carroll has profoundly influenced countless faculty and students through her mentorship, making her exceptionally deserving of this honor.

Dr. Duell is a stellar faculty member highly deserving of the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame. Despite not having her full vita, her nomination for a brick on WSU’s Plaza of Heroines highlights her outstanding career as a beloved teacher in challenging fields like statistics and learning theory, a respected scholar, and a dedicated university and professional leader. There is no doubt she merits this honor.

Rick Pappas, a WSU master’s graduate and retired Senior Educator in Human Performance Studies, had a distinguished career in physical education, including having an elementary school gym named in his honor. Known nationally for his expertise, he was the only elementary physical education specialist selected to help revise key national PE documents. A pioneer in physical-cognitive integration, Rick taught future educators how to incorporate STEM, literacy, and other subjects into PE, collaborating on literacy-through-movement projects. His innovative teaching earned him multiple awards, including WSU’s Outstanding Teaching and Excellence in Teaching honors.

Dr. Michael Tilford was a respected leader, advocate, and family man who served as WSU’s graduate school dean and championed the minority studies department until his death in 1996. A lifelong educator, he earned degrees from Langston University, Johns Hopkins, and Oklahoma State, taught math at Wichita West High School, and was a Ford Foundation grant recipient. Rising through WSU ranks, he became graduate school dean by 1988 and associate vice president for academic affairs by 1994, remembered by colleagues as a sterling example of character and dedication.

Dr. Marlene “Marlo” Schommer-Aikins is Professor Emerita of Educational Psychology in WSU’s ISLE Department and former coordinator of the Educational Psychology Master’s Program. She earned her PhD from the University of Illinois in 1989, focusing on students' epistemological beliefs and comprehension.

With over 50 publications, 7 book chapters, and numerous presentations, Marlo has made significant contributions to research, including developing a key measure of epistemic beliefs used by many researchers. She is highly regarded for her expertise in research methods and statistics and is known for her thoughtful mentorship of many graduate students.

Honored with the Distinguished Alumna Award from the University of Illinois and multiple WSU faculty awards, she served the university for over 25 years, including leading university-wide professional development on assessment planning. Her lasting impact continues through her teaching, research, and mentorship.

Sue Bair, assistant professor emerita of physical education at WSU, began her career teaching junior high before joining WSU in 1966, where she excelled as a coach, teacher, and advisor known for her deep care and mentorship. She earned numerous honors, including the university’s Excellence in Teaching Award and the Kansas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Honor Award. Beyond teaching, Sue contributed extensively through leadership roles, CPR instruction, and service on faculty and athletic committees, leaving a lasting impact on hundreds of students with her dedication, high standards, and unwavering support.

Amber Carithers, a 2013 graduate of the College of Education, has made a significant impact as an English teacher at Hutchinson High School, where she currently teaches Honors Sophomore and Senior English and leads the Teaching/Training pathway at the Hutchinson Career & Technical Education Academy. A first-generation college student herself, Amber is dedicated to supporting her students’ post-secondary plans by connecting them with resources and creating lessons that address both state standards and real-world skills like financial responsibility. Her leadership was recognized when she was named a Region 1 Finalist for Kansas Teacher of the Year (2021-2022), representing teachers statewide. Passionate about mentoring future educators, Amber regularly advises pre-service teachers and exemplifies lifelong learning through her academic and professional achievements.

Dr. Leonard M. Chaffee served as Dean of Wichita State University’s College of Education from 1968 to 1988 and continued teaching afterward. With degrees from Hiram College, Kent State, and Ohio State, he brought extensive experience as a teacher, administrator, and director of teacher education before joining WSU. Under his leadership, the college strengthened ties with Wichita Public Schools, expanded off-campus learning opportunities, and embraced innovative educational techniques and technologies. His impact is honored through scholarships bearing his name, recognizing his dedication and leadership. Dr. Chaffee passed away in 2011, but his legacy continues to influence the college and community.

Dr. Randy Ellsworth, Professor Emeritus in Educational Psychology, served Wichita State University for 41 years, including roles as Department Chair, Associate Dean, and Interim Dean of the College of Education. With a PhD from Vanderbilt University, he began his career as a junior high math teacher before joining WSU in 1974. He taught graduate courses in statistics, research methods, and assessment, chaired numerous thesis committees, and published extensively on test reliability and evaluation. In 2002, he founded and directed the Center for Research and Evaluation Services (CRES), securing over $1.5 million in contracts and enhancing collaboration across campus and local schools. Throughout his career, Dr. Ellsworth earned more than $2.5 million in grant funding and was known for his leadership, including guiding the college’s 2008 strategic plan update. Since retiring in 2015, he remains active in the University’s Academy for Effective Teaching and the Dean’s Advisory Board, leaving a lasting legacy of scholarship, leadership, and service.

Dr. Jon Engelhardt served as dean of the College of Education at Wichita State University from 1997 to 2007 and held education dean positions at four universities over his 43-year career, including Baylor University where he is Dean Emeritus. At WSU, he fostered partnerships with Boeing, developed innovative leadership programs, strengthened college governance, and promoted community and collaboration. Nationally, he was active in professional organizations, helped found key groups, and advocated for teacher recognition and higher salaries. Even in retirement, he remains engaged, delivering keynote addresses and influencing the future of teacher education.

Frank Rokosz, Associate Professor Emeritus, served the Department of Human Performance Studies at Wichita State University for a remarkable 45 years—the longest tenure in the College of Applied Studies. Over five decades, he made significant contributions as an outstanding teacher, author, and nationally recognized expert in sport tournament design. Frank taught across all four department programs—physical education, athletic training, exercise science, and sport management—and directed WSU’s Physical Education Activity Program for 20 years, shifting its focus from competitive sports to personal wellness activities like yoga, pilates, and Zumba. Honored with top teaching and service awards from both the college and university, as well as recognition from the National Intramural Sports Council, his legacy also includes a commemorative brick at the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association headquarters. Known for his active lifestyle and commitment to wellness, Frank taught the first class in the Heskett Center in 1983 and maintained a lifelong dedication to fitness.

Dr. Oliver Troxel was the College of Education’s first dean, serving between 1926-1929. He was the author of numerous bulletins and studies that were extremely relevant to its time, including: State Control of Secondary Education (1928), Vocational Guidance (1929), and A Study of High School Board Forms (1926). Before he was dean, he was an instructor from 1914-1924. He was highly active in the Red Cross and loan drives, as well as the National Education Association which highlights his dedication to the community and education. In 1929, Dr. Oliver Troxel was appointed as a Professor of Education for Colorado State University’s Teacher’s College. Troxel was one of ten instructors in the Education and Psychology Departments who had his doctor’s degree.

Dr. John Wilson, professor emeritus in the College of Applied Studies, is deeply committed to public education and has profoundly impacted thousands of teachers through his practical, engaging teaching style and dedication to staying connected with K-6 classrooms. Known for exchanging teaching roles with elementary educators for over 30 years, Dr. Wilson kept his approach fresh and credible, enriching both his students and the children he temporarily taught. He embraced diversity, provided down-to-earth guidance, and authored several elementary education texts and articles focused on improving instruction. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Wilson continues to advocate for teachers and students through public commentary, embodying the core values of collaboration, discovery, diversity, integrity, and leadership celebrated by the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame.

Dr. Harry Corbin Jr., a distinguished alumnus of the University of Wichita, earned degrees in political science, law, and divinity before returning to his alma mater as assistant professor in 1946. At just 33, he became the youngest university president in the nation in 1949 and successfully led the campaign to integrate the university into the Kansas state system in 1963. After stepping down as president to focus on teaching, Dr. Corbin left a lasting legacy, commemorated by the Corbin Education Center at Wichita State University, which houses the College of Applied Studies and its educational outreach programs.

Dr. Richard L. Gaskill has dedicated over 40 years to community mental health, currently serving as Executive Director of Sumner Mental Health Center in Wellington, Kansas. A Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, he has been instrumental in founding key professional organizations such as the Kansas Association for Play Therapy and the Kansas Association for Infant Mental Health. Since 1995, Dr. Gaskill has taught and supervised play therapy at Wichita State University, co-founding the WSU Play Therapy Center. His work focuses on trauma-informed play therapy and neurobiology of trauma, contributing numerous publications and lectures internationally. He has received multiple prestigious awards recognizing his service to children and families, including the College of Education’s Champion of Education Award (2017) and the Richard Gaskill Luminary Award, named in his honor, for his significant contributions to play therapy in Kansas.

Dr. John Hansan, professor emeritus, began his career at Wichita State University in 1965 after earning degrees from the University of Kansas and a doctorate from the University of Oregon. He served 11 years as chair of the Department of Health and Physical Education and was instrumental in creating the sport administration program, which later evolved into the thriving Sport Management degree, approved at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Known for emphasizing hands-on experience, Dr. Hansan’s legacy is honored through the John Hansan Sports Administration Endowed Fellowship, awarded to graduate students based on financial need. A dedicated educator and leader, he is also a member of the Benders of Twigs and the Society of 1895.

The Jimenez family’s inspiring legacy began with Nicolasas Jimenez, who fled Mexico at age 13 and settled in Wichita, where she raised 19 children amid poverty, emphasizing hard work and education. Every child graduated high school and attended college, with seven going to Wichita State University. Reflecting their commitment to education, Nick and Ralph Jimenez and their family established the David C. Jimenez Memorial Scholarship—the largest scholarship supporting Sport Management students at WSU—in memory of their son David, a lifelong Wichita resident and devoted WSU basketball fan who worked at Boeing and as a longtime statistician for WSU basketball games. This scholarship honors David’s love for WSU and supports future students pursuing their dreams.

Doris and Ralph Klose graduated from the University of Wichita. During her time at WU, Doris played the trombone in the band and earned her bachelor’s in education. Doris taught math at Horace Mann Junior High in Wichita, KS. She later worked with her husband in several business ventures. In 1957, they started Wichita’s first full-service laundry. Mr. Klose earned his bachelor’s in economics in 1948 and spent much of his career as city treasurer of Wichita. Through their corporation, Cooper Inc., Doris and Ralph collaborated with Wichita State’s cooperative education program to give students career-related work experience.

Their gift of the Klose Endowment to Wichita State University funds more than 20 scholarships each year to secondary science and mathematics teacher education candidates.

Margaret Craig Meek was a lifelong Wichita resident and was one of Wichita’s most respected educators and humanitarians. She attended Wichita East High School and graduated with honors from the University of Wichita in 1940. She received her master’s in education from WSU in 1975. She devoted herself to teaching and was nationally recognized for the pilot project at East High dedicated to disadvantaged students who lacked skills in reading. She also assisted Asian refugees and students with disabilities. In 1981, she was awarded the Teacher of the Year and Reading Teacher of the Year award. Her philosophy was that anyone could be taught to read. For many people, she revealed the understanding of unconditional love and the value of an individual. Even after she retired, she was a private tutor. Her memory lives on through WSU College of Education students who receive scholarships in her name, the Margaret Craig Meek Memorial Endowed Scholarship.

Dr. Miller was a highly influential member of Wichita State University's Kinesiology and Sports Studies department, recognized as a global leader in sport administration. She played a pivotal role in founding both the undergraduate and graduate Sport Administration programs at WSU and served as department chair and in the College of Education’s Dean’s Office. Internationally respected, Dr. Miller was a renowned sport law scholar, held leadership roles in the Sport and Recreation Law Association, and was honored as a research fellow by the North American Society for Sport Management. She authored foundational works like Sport Business Management and Sales SUCCESS in Sport Marketing, and was dedicated to applied learning, notably supporting the National Baseball Congress tournament. Her legacy includes shaping generations of sport administration scholars and practitioners across North America.

Dr. Jackson O. Powell served as dean of the College of Education at WSU for 16 years starting at the young age of 29. He was instrumental in initiating the idea to commission Frank Lloyd Wright to design the Corbin Education Center, which remains a central building for the college today. Beyond his deanship, Dr. Powell served as WSU’s academic vice president, advised Governor Robert Docking on education, and advocated for progressive policies including the hiring of Black teachers in Wichita high schools. He also helped establish the University Senate and the Hugo Wall Center for Urban Studies. Known for his intellectual leadership and strong faculty recruitment, Powell returned to teaching psychology after his administrative roles and retired in 1980. Following his passing in 1987, a memorial fellowship was established in his and his wife Jane Powell’s honor to continue his legacy.

Dr. Twyla Sherman dedicated 42 years as a beloved full-time faculty member at WSU, earning national awards, positive student evaluations, and recognition such as the 1992 Outstanding Faculty Member Award and the 1996 Project Learning Tree National Outstanding Educator. She held significant influence in Kansas education through roles on the Kansas Advisory Council for Environmental Education, development of state-wide soil conservation lessons, and contributions to local programs like Botanica’s “Plant a Seed.” Active in the Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, she inspired countless pre-service and in-service teachers to develop a passion for science, leaving a lasting legacy of impact and excellence that exemplifies the values of the College of Applied Studies Hall of Fame.

Dr. Sipple served as the College of Education’s second dean from 1929-1950. He has made an outstanding contribution to the Teacher Training Program and won recognition throughout the state of Kansas and the entire midwest as a leader in the field of education. His half-a-century of experience in education made a deep impact on Wichita University. His career experience included teaching in a one-room rural school, working as a principal for an elementary and high school, serving as county superintendent, and faculty at various colleges. Throughout his 21 years serving as the dean, he took just one sabbatical and that was to conduct research in Honolulu, Japan, and India.

Dr. Gladys M. Taggart, born in 1901 in Spencer, Iowa, earned her master's in physical education from Columbia University and her Ph.D. from New York University before dedicating her career to Wichita State University’s physical education program, particularly advancing women’s athletics. As Physical Education Department Chair and later Professor Emeritus, she trained over 78 Kansas physical education teachers and was deeply involved in campus and community groups, including Delta Zeta sorority, P.E.O. Sisterhood, and R.A.F.T., where she taught horseback riding. A pioneer in her field, Dr. Taggart retired in 1971 after a distinguished career shaping physical education for women.

Dr. Alicia Thompson has served as superintendent of Wichita Public Schools since 2017, making history as the district’s first female and African-American leader. A lifelong Wichita resident and educator, she began her 25-year career as a teacher before rising to district administrator. With a doctorate in educational leadership from WSU, Dr. Thompson is nationally recognized for her focus on student success and equity. Beyond her professional role, she actively contributes to community organizations like Goodwill Industries and the Wichita Chamber, earning awards for leadership and diversity. Her tenure has been marked by strong leadership through budget challenges, the COVID-19 pandemic, and efforts to promote inclusive excellence for all students.

Recent Alumni Award: Graduate or former student who completed their CAS program within the last 10 years and have distinguished themselves in their professional, academic, or community engagement activities.

Alumni Award: Graduate or former student who completed their CAS program more than 10 years ago and have distinguished themselves in their professional, academic, or community engagement activities.

Service Award: Alumni, former faculty or staff member, practitioner, and/or community partner who have distinguished themselves by virtue of their service to and support of the college.

Community Engagement Award: Alumni, former faculty or staff member, practitioner, and/or community partner who have distinguished themselves by virtue of their engagement in the community (or communities) the college serves.

Leadership Award: Alumni, former faculty or staff member, practitioner, and/or community partner who have distinguished themselves by virtue of their leadership within the college or one of the professions aligned with the college’s academic programs.

Distinguished Career Award: Alumni, former faculty or staff member, practitioner, and/or community partner who over the span of their career have distinguished themselves in terms of more than one of the following: professional or academic achievement, community engagement, and service/support of the college.

Open: Nominator proposes both a nominee and award name for individuals or groups who may not fit in the other categories but have distinguished themselves in advancing the college.

• Anyone may make a nomination
• Nominations may be submitted here  
• Nomination information includes:
  • the name and contact information for the nominator
  • the name and contact information for nominee or nominee’s representative in the instance of a posthumous nomination
  • specification of category
  • rationale for nomination (please provide as much information as possible)
  • optional item pertaining to whether the nominee is a First Generation graduate
  • if you have hard copy or digital files with additional information or recommendations about the nominee, please send them to the CAS Dean’s Office.
• By mail: College of Applied Studies Dean’s Office, Wichita State University, 1845 Fairmount, Wichita, KS 67260-0131
• In person: Corbin Education Center, room 104 (north wing)
• By email: cas.dean@wichita.edu

Appointed annually by the college’s Leadership Team, representation on the committee includes the following:

• Two representatives from the College’s Advisory Board
• One member of the CAS Leadership Team
• One CAS Student
• One representative (faculty, staff or student) from each of the college’s academic departments
• One representative from the WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement
• In the event of a presenting sponsorship, one representative from the sponsoring organization

• Nominations are accepted on an ongoing basis.
• Deadline for nominations to be considered in the next class of inductees is March 1.
• Public announcement of the inductees will be in mid August.