Welcome back, Shockers
Welcome back for the spring semester, Shockers. We're eager to see you, whether in person or virtually. This semester will feel familiar to you if you were here last fall. Whether you're returning to WSU or it's your first time with us, we welcome you.
Today in Black History...
On Feb 1, 1865, Congress approved the 13th amendment ending slavery. On this very same day, Boston attorney John Rock became the first black attorney to be admitted to argue in the Supreme Court of the United States. Rock was credited with coining the phrase "black is beautiful." On this same day in 1902, Poet Langston Hughes was born.
WSU Bike Share is back on campus
The bikes are back! Now, you can use the bike-sharing system from Wichita State University’s campus as far west as the Sedgwick County Park and all throughout the city. There is no limit on travel distance. The service provider for Bike Share ICT changed from Zagster to Tandem Mobility, with upgraded bikes and an improved app provided by Movatic.
Are YOU connected?
Have you made strong connections with other students, faculty or staff either remotely or in-person? One of the best ways to make progress this semester is to get connected to people, resources and services on campus. Engage early in class to get to know other students and your instructors. If you aren’t sure what to say, check out this page on the Student Success website. If you need some tips on how to show your instructors you are engaged remotely, check out the Technology and Class Involvement videos on the Shocker Secrets to Success Sessions. You should also check out some Welcomefest events to meet other students and get connected to campus resources.
Video celebrates 125 years of Shocker spirit
The Office of Strategic Communications invites you to view a video to celebrate Wichita State University’s first 125 years of innovation and education. To stay up-to-date on all the university’s videos, subscribe Wichita State’s YouTube channel.
Campus transit shuttle update
Wichita Transit shuttle service to campus restarts today (Monday, Feb. 1). New this semester is a route that goes to and from the Innovation Campus and Braeburn Square.
Learn more about transit routes
University Libraries announces spring semester hours
For full hours of all library facilities, as well as updates on building policies and services, please visit us online at libraries.wichita.edu/covid19.
Campus traffic update
Repairs are being conducted between Henrion Hall and the parking garage and turning onto Isley Lane. There will be flagmen directing traffic around the work zone for the next two weeks in that location. Thank you for your patience.
Participate in Hippodrome 2021
Hippodrome is Wichita State's longest-standing tradition and showcases student talent in a variety of ways. This year, Hippodrome will be a video competition, which includes 5- to 10-minute productions that are written, choreographed and acted out by Wichita State students. Performances are judged, and cash prizes are awarded in two categories: live action and animation.
To bring the show together, student emcee's charm the audience and introduce video productions throughout the nights' performances on April 7 and April 8.
Students and student groups interested in participating can register for one of the two information meetings on Feb. 3 and Feb. 10.
Register for an information session now
Win prizes at SAC's monthly trivia Tuesdays
Every second Tuesday of the month SAC is hosting a themed Kahoot trivia, when participants can compete for awesome prizes. Everyone is welcome to join the fun, but only students are eligible to win. Register to participate beginning Monday, Jan. 25 at wichita.edu/SAC.
Get the details on spring 2021 Welcomefest
Welcomefest takes place during the beginning of each semester and features dozens of activities. Popular programs await new and returning Shockers. Hosted by various student groups and campus departments, most events are free and give all students a chance to get acquainted with each other, learn campus and find ways to connect with the community.
See virtual comedian LeClerc Andre
When times are tough, laughter is the best medicine. Help SAC kick off the semester with its virtual comedian LeClerc Andre. LeClerc made his network television debut on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and has since been featured on NBC’s Bring the Funny. Register to watch the Feb. 5 event or learn more about SAC events at wichita.edu/SAC.
Wichita State women's basketball: Upcoming games
Wichita State Women's Basketball will be closing out the 2020-2021 season throughout the next month. Student tickets are available with games subject to change. Visit goshockers.com for gameday and COVID-19 information. Go Shocks!
Deadline extended: Learn about Fairmount College, win prize in scavenger hunt
Have fun learning more about Fairmount College’s role in establishing Wichita State University during a scavenger hunt created by the Department of Anthropology to learn about Fairmount College's 125-year history.
From now through the end of April 2021, faculty, staff and students are encouraged to participate in this fun event that begins on campus and ends at Maple Grove Cemetery at 1000 N. Hillside, where many faculty and staff from the early years of Fairmount College are buried.
Students who complete the scavenger hunt will be entered into a drawing for an iPad on May 1. Have fun, stay safe and good luck! For more information, go to www.wichita.edu/anthropology.
Apply for an Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Grant
The Undergraduate Student Research and Creative Activity Grants Program is accepting applications for grants of up to $1,000 for undergraduate students pursing research or creative projects.
Students who are sophomores, juniors or seniors with a GPA of at least 2.5 and at least two semesters remaining at WSU (including the semester in which you apply), are full time and have a faculty research mentor are eligible. Preference is given to projects not otherwise funded, and previous awardees are not eligible.
Students can visit wichita.edu/undergradresearch for more information. Deadlines to apply in spring are Feb. 3 and March 16.
Office of Student Money Management spring 2021 tax support available
Do you need help filing taxes? While we can't do it for you, we can guide you through the process. The Office for Student Money Management in Student Success partners with Best Coalition from the United Way to offer this free service to support faculty, staff and students.
We are currently only taking virtual appointments. Schedule an appointment with our Peer Financial Coaches at https://bit.ly/osmmappt before the tax deadline on April 15, 2021.
Read more on the tax filing process
Become a ShockerConnect Mentor
Are you a Shocker who understands the importance of getting involved? Do you want to help fellow Shockers find their connection to campus?
ShockerConnect is a resource for students to connect with a leader in a current student organization. The goal of this connection is for mentors to meet regularly with their students to offer encouragement, guidance and support.
If you are interested in being a mentor for the ShockerConnect program, please fill out the survey below and submit it by 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5.