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Martha Backman

Nov. 18, 2020 — There were two Shocker milestones in 1964: Wichita University became Wichita State University, and a 17-year-old Martha Backman walked onto the Wichita State campus and began her college education. It took 56 years, but the 73-year-old is finally graduating with her degree in aging studies. 

Emma Wiens, 2020 Grad

Nov. 16, 2020 – After completing some pre-requisites at WSU Tech, Emma Wiens attended the Wichita State nursing program. Emma is one of more than 1,200 students eligible for fall 2020 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what is next for this future nurse.

Morgan Bretches

November 16, 2020 - Morgan Bretches, from Wellington, recently was offered a position as laboratory assistant at Mayo Clinic, where she will investigate the meningeal lymphatic system and the brain. Morgan is one of more than 1,200 students eligible for fall 2020 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.

Wichita State students

Ya-Aida Sillah, a health management major from Wichita, took a lead role in “Mask Up!,” a Department of Public Health Sciences group project designed to help students understand COVID-19 and health protection. Answers revealed four areas commonly misunderstood. • Some students did not know that fleece and gaiter-style masks are not recommended for preventing the spread of COVID-19. • Some students assumed a person’s vulnerability to COVID-19 would be visible. In many cases, a person’s vulnerability to the virus may be hidden. • Some students were unaware that nausea and vomiting are potential symptoms. • Some students did not know that monitoring for fever and other symptoms daily is recommended.

Larry Burks, Sr.

November 9, 2020 - KPTS recognized Wichita State University Military & Veteran Services with its Distinguished Veterans Coming Home Business Award in a special program that aired on Nov. 5 on Channel 8. WSU’s Military & Veteran Services provides assistance with Veteran Affairs educational benefits, provides counseling, testing and other service. It connects military students with opportunities for campus involvement. Larry Burks Sr., is the director of Military & Veteran Services.

Kaitlyn Larsen

November 6, 2020 - Kaitlyn Larsen, from Haysville, chose a career that makes her essential to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Rathman is one of more than 1,200 students eligible for fall 2020 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.

BAASE students with Kaye Monk-Morgan of Wichita State

Nov. 5, 2020 -- BAASE started in 2018, and the partnership between Wichita Public Schools and Wichita State began in fall 2019 with the goal of creating a stronger system of support for African American and Hispanic students who want to pursue post-secondary education.

Dr. Nikki Keen Woods (right) at a conference in 2019.

Nov. 5, 2020 — A team of researchers at Wichita State University is working to promote health equity among vulnerable populations. The all-woman, cross-disciplinary team is focusing its initial efforts on issues related to obesity among underrepresented groups.

Wichita State campus with water tower and sunflowers

Nov. 4, 2020 -- Wichita State University's Center for Economic Development and Business Research has released an economic impact analysis of Wichita State University. This report gives an analysis of the dynamic impact WSU has on Wichita, the region and the state economies.

CHP Medical Tech student 1974

Nov. 4, 2020 – The College of Health Professions (CHP) is celebrating its 50th anniversary at Wichita State University. Since its founding in 1970, the CHP has been highly renowned for its innovative approaches to education and supplying the health care industry with skilled, passionate professionals.

Brandyn Rathman

Nov. 3, 2020 -- Brandyn Rathman, from Sioux City, Iowa, is excited to start his career in the medical field after graduation. He said he believes his experience at Wichita State University will help him help his patients lead healthy lives. Rathman is one of more than 1,200 students eligible for fall 2020 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.

College of Engineering graduation, 2019

Oct. 20, 2020 — The Kansas Legislature in 2011 made a commitment to invest $105 million statewide over the next decade with the purpose of increasing the number of engineers available to industry. For its $35 million share of that money – granted under the University Engineering Initiative Act (UEIA) – Wichita State College of Engineering pledged to double the number of bachelor’s degrees it awarded annually. The aggressive goal was surpassed this past academic year as the college awarded 380 bachelor’s degrees.

Campus aerial photo

Sept. 29, 2020 -- Wichita State University is taking a step forward with community discussions about a University Village initiative, which seeks to create a community destination of dining, entertainment and shopping adjacent to campus.

Charles Koch Arena

Sept. 18, 2020 -- The Wichita State University Shockers Vote! Coalition is proud to announce that Charles Koch Arena will become an early voting site for the 2020 general election.

Blue-green algae samples taken from Marion Lake.

Sept. 16, 2020 — A team of researchers from Wichita State University is investigating blue-green algae in Marion Reservoir and its toxic, and sometimes deadly, dangers to wildlife, pets and people.