Wichita State University receives grant for AmeriCorps members to assist youth at four local agencies
Thanks to a grant from the Kansas Volunteer Commission, Wichita State University Community Engagement Institute will provide stipends and education awards for 20 individuals to provide national service to local agencies that serve low-income youth and children. These part-time AmeriCorps members will help Wichita area youth develop educational, life, and workforce skills. Partner agencies where these members serve include Children First: CEO Kansas Inc., Girl Scouts of the Kansas Heartland, Legacy Ministries Inc., and Rainbows United Inc.
This is the second year for the nearly $80,000 grant that provides funding for 20 part-time AmeriCorps members to assist in classrooms, help students who need extra support outside the classroom, or provide mentoring and job coaching skills. Members earn an education award at the end of their term and qualify to apply for the pool of $14,000 in Wichita State AmeriCorps scholarships.
Kathleen Webb, executive director for Children First CEO Kansas, a pilot organization for the 2019-20 AmeriCorps year managed by Wichita State University, said: “AmeriCorps members have provided a life-changing service to many students who are living in three low-income neighborhoods. We use the AmeriCorps program to provide living allowances to social work practicum college students who work side-by-side with a licensed social worker. Students have greatly benefited from their work learning in groups and one-on-one conversations.”
To qualify, AmeriCorps members need to be a US citizen, US national or permanent resident; be 17 years old or older and pass a national service criminal history check. Applicants can apply for AmeriCorps positions at my.AmeriCorps.gov. For more information, contact angela.gaughan@wichita.edu.
Three upcoming workshops for grad students
The Shocker Career Accelerator is hosting three upcoming workshops for grad students! This series will help grad students be successful in finding the right career path after graduating. Register at Wichita.edu/CareerEvents.
What all will be covered in the series?
Resume Building Lab
Thursday, Oct. 8 | 12:30 p.m. | Zoom
Learn to develop and maintain this professional document. Join us for this interactive virtual workshop so you can pursue the perfect opportunity!
Job Hunting Lab
Thursday, Oct. 15 | 12:30 p.m. | Zoom
This interactive virtual job-hunting lab will walk you through steps to conduct an effective employment search while in graduate school.
Ace the Interview
Thursday, Oct. 22 | 12:30 p.m. | Zoom
Gain an understanding of how to best answer typical interview questions, behavior-based interview questions, and make an excellent first impression.
You're invited to the Virtual Women in STEAM Gala!
You're invited to attend the 2020 Virtual Women in STEAM Gala, hosted by "Let's Go Full STEAM Ahead!"
Women in STEAM Week is held every year in October. This year we're celebrating Oct. 12-18, with the gala kicking things off on Monday, Oct. 12. This annual event was created to honor the women throughout history who have paved the way for future innovators in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM), and to empower the next generation so that they can accomplish anything they dream.
"Let's Go Full STEAM Ahead!" was founded by Wichita State student Sierra Bonn. Learn more at gala.letsgofullSTEAMahead.com.
WSU’s International Student Union announces INTERFEST
The International Student Union announces Fall 2020 INTERFEST: International Food Festival from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, on the lawn of Neff Hall.
Each semester, WSU students prepare and sell dishes from their native countries for this event. The festival provides a platform for intercultural sharing where the WSU community and visitors can try out diverse cuisine and learn about the origins and cultural significance of a particular dish. It also serves as a fundraiser for international student associations, although small groups of students also participate to have as many diverse dishes as possible.
The format has changed from previous semesters - diners will need to preorder and then pick up their food. Click here.
No-cost webinars to help you start your business
The Kansas SBDC will present the following no-cost webinars:
Startup and Start Right
Noon-1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13
Protect all your hard work by starting your business legally. Learn how to quickly startup in just 10 steps. This workshop will cover licenses and permits, federal and state tax IDs, business structure, funding, marketing and other essentials.
Cause and Effect Cash Flow
Noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14
What is the “cause” of your low cash? Learn how a cash flow projection can “effect” positive change on your finances. Presenter Frank Choriego will cover the relationship between cash flow and inventory, credit, sales, and profits.
Start an Online Business
Noon-1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15
This eCommerce crash course outlines some website building platforms that can help you start an online business. Whether you want to turn your hobby or idea into cash in your pocket, create a job for yourself, or start a small business, this webinar will show you the basics of selling online and get you off to a good start.
You can register online at KSBDC Workshops.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Wichita State launches certificate in Latin American and Latinx Studies
Wichita State University is now offering a certificate program in Latin American and Latinx Studies at the undergraduate level.
“Students can learn about their culture, as well as Latino cultures in the United States or Latin America,” said Rocio Del Aguila, assistant professor of Spanish. “The certificate’s interdisciplinarity also helps them learn different ways of doing things. It can also help them develop global competency and global citizenship.”
The Latin American and Latinx Studies certificate is 12 credit hours and will give students specialization in an area that may enhance their employability in a broad variety of occupations, including the international business, social services, public health and education sectors.
Take a mental health screening for National Depressions Screening Day
National Depression Screening Day is Thursday, Oct. 8, and this year you can check in with your mental health by taking a mental health screening! Just visit wichita.edu/CAPS, scroll down and select "Take a Mental Health Screening" to begin.
Counseling and Prevention Services
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.
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.
ShiftSpace, Wichita Festivals to light up downtown Wichita
Downtown will glow from the light of illuminated art works from 6–9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, during the First Friday gallery crawl.
“Get Lit: A Night of Light” is a collaboration between Wichita State’s ShiftSpace Gallery and Wichita Festivals Inc. The event will take place near the gallery’s location at Groover Labs, 334 St. Francis Ave.
ShiftSpace invites WSU students and community members to build an inflatable bubble using simple materials and step-by-step instructions provided by guest artist Kylie Brown, creator of the MULTIBUBBLE project.
“When we started to think about ways of safely coming together as a community, building literal bubbles made a lot of sense,” said Kristin Beal, ShiftSpace gallery manager. “The pandemic has changed our typical patterns of behavior, but we can still celebrate the power of art, which is open to everyone.”
Up to 20 free MULTIBUBBLE kits are available to WSU students. They include plastic sheeting, tape, velcro, and a loaner fan courtesy of Vornado. Community members may also join but will have to purchase their own materials at a cost of about $60. All participants can register and find more information at wichita.edu/multibubble .
“Depth of Field: A Wichita Photo Album,” a collaboration between WFI and the Wichita chapter of AIGA, will also debut during the November First Friday event. The illuminated art installation salutes the citizens who have shaped Wichita history. It will be installed in windows in the downtown area from Nov. 6-16.
Join us for the BMES Mini Symposium today
Hear student research presentations and get caught up on the latest research at the Biomedical Engineering Society mini symposium at 6 p.m. today (Wednesday, Oct. 7), in the Rhatigan Student Center Shirley Beggs Ballroom.
Polish your presentation skills with Speak for Success today
In a competitive world, knowing your audience and speaking effectively is key. Learn how to synthesize your research, speak persuasively, and explain the significance of your findings to different audiences.
Join the Graduate School with presenters Associate Professor Lisa Parcell and Senior Lecturer Sandy Sipes of the Elliott School of Communication at Speak for Success, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. today (Wednesday, Oct. 7) on Zoom to learn overall presentation skills and how to give an effective elevator speech. Not a graduate student, but would like to attend? Request the Zoom link here.
Professional Development Series
Build a team and compete in Homecoming 2020!
Homecoming 2020 is just around the corner! From Oct. 19-24, all Wichita State students and student organizations are invited to compete for individual and overall competition awards! WSU students and student organizations are welcome to build teams and register online to compete throughout Homecoming.
Teams can register to compete in one of our three Co-Ed divisions, the Yellow, Black or Wheat Division. The Yellow Division teams are made up of one or more student organizations and must compete in 100% of the competitions. The Black Division teams are made up of one student organization and affiliated student groups and must compete in four out of six competitions. The Wheat Division teams are created by groups of WSU students and can compete for first place in any signature Homecoming competition.
The Homecoming Committee cordially invites you and students you know to form a team and be part of Homecoming 2020. For more information about Homecoming 2020, the Homecoming Competition, or to register a team, go to wichita.edu/homecoming or email traditions@wichita.edu. Team registration will be closed by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7.
We look forward to having you as part of Homecoming 2020!
Shockers Abroad Series
Shockers Abroad Video series presents testimonials from our study abroad alumni. Check out their videos to learn more about their experiences. We will share these new videos from now to Oct. 16.
Want more ways to feel connected on campus? Join TLC this Thursday!
The 4th general member meeting is already here! Join the Thai Lao & Cambodian Association (TLC) at 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8, in 209 Hubbard Hall, as we give you more information on how to feel connected through our mentorship / friendship program and our week of socials coming up. We also can’t forget to mention the fun cultural activity we have planned for you!
We are all-inclusive of everyone, so we hope to see some new faces there! Our meetings are bi-weekly, and masks are required to enter.
Interested in seeing what we do during meetings and socials? Check us out on Facebook and Instagram: @wsu.tlc
Master of Social Work Informational Sessions - All students invited!
The School of Social Work is hosting three MSW Info Sessions to help prospective students discover more about the Master of Social Work program at Wichita State University. This is geared to both social work majors and for those with majors outside of social work. We encourage you to share this with your students and recent graduates of all majors!
Attendees will have this virtual opportunity to discover more about the field, meet faculty, and learn how to apply as a regular program or advanced standing student. The priority deadline to apply is Jan. 8, 2021 for those who wish to enter in the 2021-22 school year.
If students have questions or would prefer to speak one-on-one, please direct them to Shaunna Millar, MSW Program Director and Clinical Professor, at shaunna.millar@wichita.edu. The Zoom log in information for the noon Thursday, Oct. 15 session is here - password: socialwork
LASI 170 course to equip students with resource knowledge
University Libraries is always seeking to strengthen Shocker research. Check out the LASI 170 course starting Thursday, Oct. 8! This eight-week class is designed to equip students with the knowledge of resources that will be used throughout their academic career and beyond. Online and hybrid courses available. Contact angela.paul@wichita.edu for more information.
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.
Physics Seminar at 2 p.m. today features Dr. Gerald Jackson
Our next Physics Seminar at 2 p.m. today (Wednesday, Oct. 7) features Dr. Gerald Jackson, CSO H-bar Technologies LLC and NASA NIAC Fellow. The title of this talk is "Antimatter-Based Propulsion Enabling Orbital Insertion Around Proxima Centauri."
Join us on Zoom. The meeting id is 944 200 607 56.
Your WSU Police Department wants to hear from you
In these challenging times throughout the country we have seen a division among some police agencies and the communities they serve. The WSU Police Department wants to take this as an opportunity for growth and outreach. They would like to hear from you about the questions, concerns, and thoughts you have.
You are invited to an open discussion with the WSU Police Department at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8, in the Shirley Beggs Ballroom, third floor, Rhatigan Student Center. Come and share your experiences and thoughts. The best way to grow and to move forward is together.
Outdoor Movie – ‘Jumanji: The Next Level’
Flicks on the Field is an outdoor movie series occurring every-other Thursday now through Oct. 22. Movies will be shown at Cessna Stadium, and students must enter at the northwest corner of the stadium. Students are encouraged to bring blankets, snacks, and their friends for this fun series. Concessions and restrooms will be available.
“Jumanji: The Next Level” will be shown at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8.
In the event of inclement weather, the event will be held at the CAC Theater, Due to 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 “Jumanji The Next Level:” The gang is back but the game has changed. “Jumanji: The Next Level” stars Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Kevin Hart, and Jack Black. Rated PG-13 for adventure action, suggestive content and some 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.
DIY: Sequin Pillows
Come celebrate Homecoming week with SAC by making DIY: Sequin Pillows. Register at wichita.edu/sac. Registration closes Friday, Oct. 16, and you can come pick up your DIY pillow kits from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21. Hope to see you there!
Ulrich Virtual program with indigenous artist Jaune Quick-to-See Smith moved to Thursday, Oct. 22
The Jaune Quick-to-See Smith Ulrich virtual program originally scheduled for today at 6 p.m. has been moved to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22. Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, a member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Nation in Montana, conveys both humorous and poignant socio-political. The billboard with Smith’s work is currently on view at 703 N. West Street.
The talk is free and open to all, but you have to register in order to get the Zoom link.
Free STI Testing on Oct. 7 at Student Wellness Center
Positive Directions, ODI, and SHS will host Pee for Pizza from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7. Reserve your spot now for free STI testing!
Call 316-978-4792 to schedule an appointment, no walk-ins will be accepted. Masks will be required at this event.
$1.50 bowling games on Fridays for rewards members
Members of the Shocker Sports Grill & Lanes Eat.Drink.Play. Rewards Program can enjoy $1.50 bowling games every Friday during the month of October. Not a rewards member? Joining is free and easy, simply visit today and ask!
Kids’ masks available at the Shocker Store, plus a new gaiter style
The Shocker Store now has two kids’ masks available for just $6.99 each, as well as a new gaiter for $14.99, available in RSC and Braeburn Square stores and online at shockerstore.com.
Wichita State alumni in the running to win $1 million in XPrize mask challenge
Three Wichita State University alumni are in the running to win $1 million as part the Next-Gen Mask Challenge sponsored by XPrize. They were chosen one of only 25 finalists from a field of 1,000 teams from 30 countries.
Spencer Steinert, Jared Goering and Maggie Koops — all recent graduates of Wichita State’s Master of Innovation Design program — teamed up to for the Cyfive apparel company to address a challenge created by XPrize: to craft a face mask addressing the obstacles that deter people from wearing them and promote positive mask-wearing behavior.
Pictured above: Wichita State alum Jared Goering models a mask that he and his team created for the XPrize Next Generation Mask Challenge.
Clark and Sharon Bastian, Fidelity Bank invest another $500,000 in new home for the W. Frank Barton School of Business
Clark and Sharon Bastian and the fourth-generation, family-owned Fidelity Bank have pledged an additional $500,000 to the campaign to build a new home for the W. Frank Barton School of Business at Wichita State University, supplementing a $1 million gift made in 2018 to the WSU Foundation.
Clark Bastian is chairman of Fidelity Bank and both he and Sharon Bastian graduated from Wichita State in the 1970s.
“Sharon and I are grateful for the quality education, fond memories and formative life lessons that came from our time at Wichita State,” Bastian said. “Through this gift, our family is helping to build a magnificent space for future generations of Shockers to experience the boundless opportunities that come from collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurial pursuits. For us, it is a deep source of pride.”
So far, $31.5 million has been raised in private funds to build Wayne and Kay Woolsey Hall, named for the Wichita couple who provided the lead gift. The WSU Foundation’s goal is to raise $35 million from private sources for the $60 million facility, to be built on WSU’s Innovation Campus. Clark Bastian, who recently completed two terms on the Foundation’s Board of Directors, is helping to lead fundraising efforts for the project.
“This remarkable new gift from Clark and Sharon Bastian and Fidelity Bank signifies their dedication to Wichita State students who will help build our community’s future,” said WSU Foundation President Elizabeth King. “We are proud to be a trusted partner in their visionary work to advance our city and region.”
Woolsey Hall will provide a collaborative learning environment that allows Wichita State to deliver the kind of business education students need to contribute to and compete in a rapidly evolving job market. Groundbreaking is scheduled for Oct. 22 and the new facility is expected to be completed in spring 2022.
Aaron Bastian, president and CEO of Fidelity Bank, said the bank is pleased to partner with Wichita State on the business school project.
“The progress of our family business and the city we call home is only possible when people work together toward a shared vision,” he said. “Woolsey Hall will be so much more than a building. It will serve as a connecting point for students, businesses and community partners to learn from each other and nurture the type of innovative ideas that will help Wichita meet its great potential.”
Your vote makes all the difference in the world! Be sure you are registered to vote. Get started today by visiting wichita.turbovote.org to register here in Kansas or back in your hometown.
Sign up today to receive election reminders, get registered to vote, and apply for your absentee ballot. Let's show them that #shockersvote.
Questions? Contact gabriel.fonseca@wichita.edu for more information.
Free tutoring and academic mentoring for diverse Shockers!
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion is offering free tutoring and academic mentoring!
Our tutors help students develop a deeper understanding of class material and gain successful skills that can improve their overall GPA.
Our academic mentors offer biweekly meetings to help you with academic success skills, such as time management, effective studying and note-taking, test preparation and more!
You can drop in any of the listed times or schedule an appointment. See when we are open, what classes are offered, and how to request appointments at wichita.edu/pass!
Community Service Board (CSB) membership meetings
Have you ever thought about volunteering? Join the Community Service Board for our virtual meetings every Thursday from 3:30-5 p.m. During meetings you will have a chance to learn about CSB's service events and about ways you can become involved. All meetings will be held virtually; sign-up at Wichita.edu/CSB.
Still have questions? Email CSB@Wichita.edu.
Volunteer opportunity with Wichita Clean Streams
Join the Community Service Board picking up litter around the Arkansas and Little Arkansas River with Wichita Clean Streams. For more information, go to Wichita.edu/CSB.
Please help less fortunate children this Christmas
Our Toys for Tots toy drive is happening now until Dec. 16! We had fantastic support last year ending with a box brimming over with toys. We helped so many underprivileged children in Wichita. Let's shoot to double it this year!
You can stop by the Campus Credit Union lobby between 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, to donate.
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.