Shocker Blast: Sept. 23, 2020

 

FEATURED STORIES

Join us virtually for the Clash of the Colleges winner announcement!

Join us virtually and cheer on your college as we announce the Clash of the Colleges winner at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24. To watch the livestream, follow our Twitter handle, @newSHOCKS. Tune in to find out which college won the coveted trophy and will rule the school this year!

First-Year Programs in Student Success and Campus Recreation hosted the sixth annual Clash of the Colleges on Aug. 21. Here is a recap of the fun from all of the games! The video can also be accessed at wichita.edu/clash.


Lock your car

Lock your car doors and protect your belongings

Wichita State police report that multiple cars have had things taken where students park late at night. All of those cars had been left unlocked.

Please lock your car doors, hide your belongings, put them in the trunk, or take your belongings with you.

Don’t give a thief an opportunity to make you a victim. The WSU PD takes great pride in keeping the campus safe, but we need your help to accomplish that.

Please, if you see something, say something!


3M participation

Registration for 3MT is open!

Registration for the Third Annual Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) competition is open!

Are you a graduate student conducting original research as part of your plan of study? Take this opportunity to show off your work at the Graduate School’s first research competition of the year.

Polish your presentation skills to record and submit a three-minute video in this year's virtual competition. You will be developing critical soft skills while you compete for awards!

Finalists' videos will be shown at a live Zoom event on Friday, Nov. 6. The winner will go on to represent Wichita State at a regional competition. Registration closes Monday, Oct. 5. For more information or to register, click here.


Perspectives on the pandemic 92320

Panelists to discuss pandemic's effect on performing arts

Rodney Miller

Rodney Miller

A panelist of performing artists, moderated by Rodney Miller, dean of the College of Fine Arts, will discuss the disproportionate effect of COVID-19 on the events industry at 4 p.m. today (Wednesday, Sept. 23).

The performing arts industry was the first to close down and will be the last to fully open up. The industry supports 11 million jobs and generates more than $1.75 trillion a year in direct, indirect and induced spending — greater than agriculture, broadcasting and telecommunications, auto manufacturing, truck and rail transportation, and computer systems design and related services.

The arts, particularly the performing arts, constitute a majority of this gross domestic product – more than 4.2% of the national GDP. In Kansas alone, the arts constitute around 3% of the state’s GDP ($4.2 billion), employing approximately 50,000 Kansans and representing $2.5 billion in salaries alone. When shutdowns occurred in March, this vital aspect of the nation's economy essentially ceased to exist. It ceased to exist on college campuses as well.

Read complete story. 


Fire Alarm Testing

Fire alarm testing to occur throughout fall

WSU Fire Safety along with Sandifer Engineering will conduct required annual fire alarm testing in all campus buildings.  These tests are important to ensure the fire alarm systems are operating properly.

There is no specific day or time any one building will be tested. These tests could last through the end of November.  

On the Innovation Campus, tests will be conducted at the Crash Lab, Law Enforcement Training Center, John Bardo Center, The Flats and The Suites only.  

Every effort will be made to minimize disruption to daily business and classes. If the fire alarm does go off, evacuate the building unless directed otherwise. 

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we test these critical life safety systems.


Blue-green algae research

Researchers work to understand blue-green algae and mitigate its threat

  • A team of researchers from Wichita State University, Kansas State University, University of Kansas, and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment have been working together for more than a year to understand the blue-green algae blooms in Marion Reservoir. 
  • Blue-green algae is naturally occurring, but can be toxic — or even deadly — to wildlife, pets, livestock and humans. 
  • The large algae blooms can have a negative impact on tourism and fishing. 

Pictured above: Dr. Brian Bohnsack (standing) works with a team of researchers to collect blue-green algae samples from Marion Reservoir in Kansas.

Read complete story.

JOB OPENINGS

McNair hiring a tutor

We're hiring! Writing Tutor / Student Assistant

The McNair Scholars Program is looking for a Writing Tutor / Student Assistant. Must have at least a 3.25 GPA, strong writing and editing skills.

If qualified, please see Handshake job #3956015 Writing Tutor / Student Assistant and upload a Student Application, Resume, and a Writing Sample.

For more information, contact Neshia Greene 316-978-3139 or neshia.greene@wichita.edu.

NEWS

Registrar's Office will be closed for staff development

The Registrar's Office will be closed for a staff development event from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24. The service counters for registration, transcripts and student verifications will be closed during this brief time.


Shocker Printing Solutions to work remotely

Beginning Thursday, Sept. 24, Shocker Printing Solutions will work remotely while work is being done to level the floors. There will be no service window hours during this time.

Shocker Printing Solutions employees will process printing jobs offsite and bring them back to campus for delivery to your offices. Please plan ahead and allow additional time to meet your printing deadlines. We expect the work to be completed by Oct. 19, and business will resume as usual.


Medical Lab Sciences Info session 10220

Medical Laboratory Sciences to host information session

The Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences is hosting an information session at 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2, via Zoom. The session will review career opportunities in the Medical Laboratory Sciences profession, an overview of the Medical Laboratory Sciences program at Wichita State, and the application process.

Register here.


Collegiate Leadership Competition

Collegiate Leadership Competition Team applications open

Apply to be on Wichita State’s first VIRTUAL Collegiate Leadership Competition Team. This competition takes place during the spring semester (February to April). We are looking to fill four spots.

Application.

What you need to know:

  • This is a FREE experiential opportunity!
  • The competition will take place virtually during the spring semester, with meetings and trainings taking place during the fall. All practice and team meetings will be held in a hybrid format.
  • Participants will engage in virtual leadership activities that focus on transferrable skills, exploration and practice, networking, and refining leadership skills.
  • Each participant will receive a swag pack.
  • Applications due by Sunday, Oct. 4

For more information about the competition, go to www.wichita.edu/clc.


Cohen Honors College

The Cohen Honors College application is LIVE!

All current students are eligible to apply. Smaller class sizes, free printing, and scholarship opportunities are just a few of the many benefits that Honors students receive.

Starting this year, there are NO minimum ACT/SAT or GPA requirements. Applicants are evaluated on their preparation for challenging academic and professional work as well as creative approach to solving problems; urge to make a positive impact on the community and in the world; and open-minded embrace of diversity in backgrounds, values and perspectives.

Click here to learn more and start your application!


Virtual panel series

Virtual panel series seeks to identify critical conversations surrounding the pandemic

How are "expert" perspectives formed in relation to the pandemic? How is research done and what resources are needed?

In this series, library and departmental faculties will explore approaches and methodologies for researching the impacts of COVID-19, as well as issues relating to the disruption and potentials of academic research during a pandemic.

Go to Researching the Pandemic for a full list of expert panelists, event descriptions, and direct Zoom links for this virtual series.

Questions? Message meghann.kuhlmann@wichita.edu.


Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, by celebrating the histories, culture, and contributions of those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, Caribbean, Central America, and South America. In addition, the heritage month honors five of our Central American neighbors who celebrate their independence in September.

Learn more about this cultural month at http://wichita.edu/odievents.

National Hispanic Heritage Month


Savvy Scholar Workshops Sept. 23 and 25

Savvy Scholar Workshops strengthen Shocker research

Savvy Scholar Workshops continue with more ways to strengthen Shocker research! Register for free and/or discover the full schedule at Savvy Scholar.


Food System Master Plan survey

If you buy, sell, eat or grow food, we want your input. Take this survey by Sept. 30.

The city of Wichita and Sedgwick County want your input on developing a Food System Master Plan.  

A Master Plan is a long-range planning document that lays out a community's vision for its growth. Communities use Master Plans to guide land use, economic development, transportation, health and other dimensions of civic life.

A healthy and sustainable regional food system can bring economic, environmental and social benefits to a community, but these benefits don't happen automatically. Food systems need planning, too! Planning brings structure and strategy to local food systems’ growth, and helps align policies, such as ordinances, zoning and incentives to support the local food system.

Food System Master Plan Survey

STUDENT NEWS

Election and voting

Discover in-depth election and voting info online with University Libraries

University Libraries' political science subject specialist has put together a one-stop online location for all election and voting info! Discover academic articles, sample ballots, in-depth analysis resources, and more before November at Election 2020


adjusting to college

'Adjusting to College' Drop-In Session today

Attend our Adult Learner Drop-In Session from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. (today) Wednesday, Sept. 23. This time, we are focusing on “Adjusting to College,” where we will discuss:

- Advice from Adult Learners

- Key factors in semester planning

- Resources to support you

- Adult Learning community networking

Drop-In Session


Bisexual Visibility Day 92320

Be visible and proud on Bisexual Visibility Day

Bisexual Visibility Day will be observed today (Wednesday, Sept. 23). Visible identities and representation are important to your home away from home. Share your stories and photos with pride using the #BisexualandProud and #WSUDiversity on any social media platform you like. Tune into the Bisexuality and Beyond TEDxUCLA talk by Tania Israel at wichita.edu/odievents. Access the page by clicking on the event Bisexual Visibility Day.

More resources for the LGBTQ+ community can be found at wichita.edu/lgbtq. For questions, contact the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at 316-978-3034, diversity@wichita.edu, or go to wichita.edu/odievents.

Bisexual Visibility Day


TRIO DSS is accepting student applications for the 2020-21 Academic school year

WSU's TRIO Disability Support Services (DSS) Program is excited to enroll students with disabilities for this academic school year. They offer numerous free services such as academic advising, career development, study skills assistance, financial literacy assistance, tutoring, and more. Many DSS graduates cite DSS as a critical program on campus that provided the support, university connections, and resources necessary for their success.

Quotes from DSS graduates and more information

I will apply what I have learned through TRIO DSS to the next chapter of my life - completing a Master's Degree! I am really thankful for the relationships that I have formed through TRIO DSS and look forward to what new challenges there are to conquer in my near future.

-Tiffany H.

My Advisor believed in me when everyone wrote me off. That kind of belief and caring is so strong, it turned a college dropout into a student with a WSU GPA of 3.8 who is going to graduate in a month. I was able to get my first all “A” semester last fall because of their encouragement. Without my advisor’s support, I do not think I would be graduating at all.

-Ben L.

For more information, or to apply, go to www.wichita.edu/dss or call 978-5949. TRIO DSS is located in 158 Grace Wilkie Annex.

 


KVersity

Wanted: Dancers and K-Pop lovers! Come dance with KVersity!

KVersity is a K-Pop, Hip-Hop dance group based on-campus for anyone to join! If you want to learn the dances of your favorite K-Pop groups, meet new people with similar interests as you, or try something new, then KVersity is the group for you!

Join us at practice at noon on Saturdays in 141 Heskett Center to learn more about who we are. No dance experience is required. Reach out to us at kversitydance@gmail.com with any questions you may have, and follow us at @kversity_official on Instagram to see what we are up to. See you soon.

KVersity


‘Be Seen’ exhibit opens in the Cadman Gallery

“Be Seen” is a local arts-based campaign to increase voter turnout, civic engagement and dialogue on modern political issues in Wichita. This project focuses on engagement from first-generation immigrants, especially those from Asian and Asian-American backgrounds.

“Be Seen” will be on display on the first floor of the RSC in the Cadman Art Gallery from Monday, Sept. 28-Friday, Oct. 9. There will be a reception in the gallery from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2.

Cadman Gallery exhibits


Thai, Lao, Campodian meeting 92420

Curious about Thai, Lao, & Cambodian Culture?

Our third general member meeting is coming up at 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24 in 209 Hubbard Hall. Join the Thai Lao & Cambodian Association (TLC) in learning about TLC culture through fun cultural games! We are all-inclusive, so don't be afraid to come out and learn something new. Our meetings are biweekly.

We also have some big announcements planned for this meeting and a special guest speaker, so you don’t want to miss it. We hope to see you there. Masks are required to enter.

Find us on Facebook and Instagram to see what we are up to during these meetings: @wsu.tlc


 Engineers Without Borders

Engineers Without Borders to meet on Sept. 28

Do you enjoy helping others? Are you interested in solving problems? Do you feel a need to give back to your community and communities around the world? Engineers Without Borders is a place where all of those can happen.

EWB is a nonprofit humanitarian organization established to partner with developing communities worldwide to improve their quality of life. The WSU Chapter of EWB is involved in multiple projects around the Wichita area such as Clinic In A Can, where you can help turn storage containers into portable health clinics, along with projects through Habitat for Humanity and international projects as well. EWB is not just for engineers, but all Wichita State students ready to meet new people, solve problems and make a positive impact on their community and the world.

Come check out what EWB has to offer at our meeting at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 28, in 123 Wallace Hall.

If you are interested in joining EWB, click here.  

Engineers Without Borders

RESEARCH

Are you a parent of a teenager?

Are you a parent of a teenager? If so, this may be a great opportunity for your child to experience what it is like being a part of an online research study.

The INSPYRE Research lab at Wichita State University is conducting a study to explore what makes relationships healthy or unhealthy in teens. The survey will only take about 20 minutes to complete, and a small prize will be given for participation.

Teens must be between the ages of 13-19 and be fluent in English. For easy access, teens can complete this study online, but they need their parent’s permission first.

For more information, click the following link to find the Parent Permission (Consent) Form.

If you have any questions, email Dr. Samantha Gregus, director of the INSPYRE lab at inspyre@wichita.edu, or give them a call at 316-978-6180.

INSPYRE

EVENTS

Physics Seminar Series features Dr. Thayne Currie on today via Zoom

The next Physics Seminar will be at 2 p.m. today (Wednesday, Sept. 23) via Zoom. This week's talk features Dr. Thayne Currie, NASA Ames, Subaru Telescope Project from Sunnyvale, California. The title of this talk will be "Directly Imaging Extrasolar Planets from Kauna Kea."

Physics Seminars


Bring it on movie 92420

Outdoor movie: ‘Bring It On’ tomorrow

Flicks on the Field is an outdoor movie series occurring every-other Thursday now through Oct. 22. Movies will be shown at Cessna Stadium. Students are encouraged to bring blankets, snacks, and their friends for this fun series. Concessions and restrooms will be available. Students must enter at the northwest corner of the stadium.

In the event of inclement weather, the event will be held in the CAC Theater, Because of limited seating capacity, tickets for the theater will need to be reserved in advance using this link.

In accordance with university policy, all guests are required to social / physical distance and wear masks. Event staff reserve the right to ask individuals to leave for failure to follow policy.

About “Bring It On:” A champion high school cheerleading squad discovers its previous captain stole all their best routines from an inner-city school and must scramble to compete at this year's championships. “Bring It On” stars Kirsten Dunst, Gabrielle Union-Wade, and Jesse Bradford. Rated PG-13 for sex-related material and language.

Flicks on the Field is coordinated by Student Involvement. For questions about this event or others, contact Student Involvement at getinvolved@wichita.edu or call 316-978-3022.

Student Involvement calendar 


No-cost webinar 92420

How should small business owners market during COVID-19?

Is your target audience listening to your business instead of the competition? This webinar will discuss best practices for small business online marketing and provide information on consumer behavior during COVID-19.

Register for this no-cost webinar from noon-1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at www.wichita.edu/ksbdcworkshops


Scavenger Hunt

Student Activities Council Virtual Scavenger Hunt

Join SAC for a live virtual scavenger hunt on Monday, Sept. 28! Teams will join over Zoom and participants will scour the internet to find items based on clues given. The first team to collect all items will win the grand prize.

Register to reserve your spot at this event at wichita.edu/SAC. Registration closes at 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25.


Come enjoy a Pop-Up Concert on Friday afternoon

The WSU faculty instrumental trio, the Fairmount String Trio, will perform a short Pop-Up Concert at 3 p.m. Friday Sept. 25, in the grassy, shaded area south of Wiedemann Hall between Wiedemann and Duerksen Fine Arts Center.

Music will include Tangos and Irish inspired tunes. Come relax for 20 minutes and enjoy fresh air, music, birds and squirrels (not referring to the faculty)!


Edible Book Festival

Virtual Edible Book Festival combines artistic / culinary talent for prizes

This year's Edible Book Festival presented by University Libraries is a go, and those interested can participate just about anywhere!

Register now for awesome local prizes won by showing off your culinary creations inspired by literature. Registration ends tomorrow (Thursday, Sept. 24). See the full event description at Edible Book Festival.


Black Panther 92720

Watch ‘Black Panther’ on Sunday, Sept. 27

Self-Care Sundays offer students the opportunity to unwind and reset at the end of each month, leaving them refreshed for the month ahead. Join us for one Sunday evening each month to decompress and practice self-care!

This month's session will be a movie night featuring “Black Panther,” at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 27.

Learn more and RSVP at wichita.edu/SelfCareSunday.

UNIVERSITY LIFE

Lacrosse meeting 92420

Lacrosse inaugural information meeting

A new Lacrosse Club inaugural informational meeting is planned for 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, in the Heskett Center lobby. No experience needed. Drinks and snacks will be provided.

For more information, contact John Lee at john.lee@wichita.edu or 316-978-5290.


Learn to Row Oct. 2020

Join Shocker Rowing's Learn 2 Row

Interested in learning how to row? Join Shocker Rowing for their annual Learn 2 Row event after their class races. Learn the basics of rowing taught by the experienced coaches and hop in a boat with the Shocker rowers themselves. Sign up on the day of the event or on the Shocker Rowing website.


First-Gen deadline 92820

First-Generation Shocker Art Exhibition deadline extended -- All media artist call

The 2020 deadline for the First-Generation Shocker Art Exhibition has been extended to midnight Monday, Sept. 28.

The First-Generation Coordinating Council (FGCC) and the First-Generation Students Organization (FGSO) invite all Wichita State University first-generation college students to apply and participate in its first All Media Art Exhibition. This art exhibition will showcase WSU's creative and talented first-generation students through the display of unique artwork.

Theme: Identity is the way we perceive and express ourselves, and includes the factors and conditions we are born with. One's identity may change over time depending on our unique circumstances and life experiences. Current WSU first-generation students are encouraged to create unique artwork based on the theme "Identity."

Entry Process: Each entrant can submit up to three original pieces. Please make sure that all images submitted are professional quality; images submitted should be clear, well lit, and the artwork should be straight on the image. Multiple side images of three-dimensional work can be submitted. It is free to enter your art.

Email Marco Hernandez for any questions at marco.hernandezguillen@wichita.edu.

First-Generation Art Application

SPECIAL OFFERS

Shocker Strong week three

Students can now sign up for Shocker Strong

Is Shocker Strong not listed in your Blackboard? There is good news!

Students who are not already enrolled can join the Shocker Strong program by submitting a form at wichita.edu/SSjoin in order to participate in the Shocker Strong Prize Drawing. Learn more about the drawing at wichita.edu/SSdrawing.


Have some fun with Fuzzy's!

Play Xbox while you dine at Fuzzy’s. Ask the bartender for the controller!

Game Options are:

NBA 2k21

Madden 20

Fortnite

Come to Fuzzy’s for live trivia at 7 p.m. Monday nights.

First place wins a $25 gift card.

Second place wins a $15 gift card.

Third place wins a $10 gift card.


Free Dental Screening 10220

Free Dental Screenings offered on 1st Friday of every month at the Student Wellness Center

The AEGD program will host Free Dental Screenings on the 1st Friday of every month (Oct. 2) from 1-3 p.m. at Student Health. Appointments are required, so call 316-978-4792 to reserve your spot!


Zoom backgrounds

Update your Zoom look

Wichita State University’s Instructional Design and Access team has added some Shocker-centric Zoom backgrounds. Additionally, when users update to the latest Zoom version, they’re able to use fun and slightly ridiculous accents, including dramatic filters, putting a mustache to your own face or adding tiny hat on your head.


Freddy's Pumpkin Pie Concrete

Pumpkin Pie Concrete returns to Freddy's

This Thursday, Sept. 24, the Pumpkin Pie Concrete returns to Freddy's in the RSC for a limited time. Grab one today!


What the Shock shirt

Get your What the Shock shirt today

Get your What the Shock shirt today and support your favorite Sport Club! The deadline is Friday, Sept. 25. Five dollars will go toward a specific club of your choice. Pay online, have it delivered, or pick up at the Heskett Center.

Buy yours today at bit.ly/sportclubshirt.

Wichita State Sport Club Store

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Dollar Drive

Please consider donating to the Pando Initiative

Due to COVID-19, kids are short on school supplies and other items. Collect your dollars and spare change to donate to our dollar drive today! All proceeds will go to the Pando Initiative agency for K-12 children towards their school supply funds, clothing, and other necessities. Funds will be distributed among Wichita USD 259, Derby USD 260, and Haysville USD 261.

We will also accept cash donations outside the RSC all week from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

You can also contact a member of Kappa Delta Chi or Lambda Pi Upsilon for more details.

Dollar Drive