Shocker Blast: Monday, Feb. 8, 2021

FEATURED STORIES

Ulrich Museum of Art. January 21-May 8, 2021. "Gordon Parks: I, too, am America," and "Renee Stout: Ghosts." Monday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. ulrich.wichita.edu. 1845 Fairmount Street.

Ulrich Museum of Art celebrates Black History Month with exhibitions and virtual programs

The Ulrich Museum of Art on the Wichita State campus is celebrating Black History Month with two exhibitions on display that feature works by prominent African American artists from the museum’s permanent collection: Gordon Parks: I, too, am America and Renée Stout's Ghosts.

Read more about the Ulrich's programs

The museum also has several exciting Ulrich virtual programs lined up for the coming weeks, and it all kicks off at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 9, with a talk by Art Historian Aruna D’Souza, author of Whitewalling: Art, Race, and Protest in 3 Acts, who will discuss the role museums can play in bringing about social justice.

Later in the month, at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, the Ulrich will host a virtual Community Forum on Race and Parenting, led by Marquetta Atkins, Executive Director of Camp Destination Innovation and Director of Seed House. The other panelists for the forum are: Dr. Michelle Vann, Retired teacher, author, and CEO of Vanntastic Solutions; Britten Kuckleman, Director of Library Services at WSU; and Claudia Amaro of the Kansas Leadership Center Field Team. Both virtual programs — D’Souza’s talk and the Community Forum — are free and open to the public, though you must register first to get the Zoom link.

Register on the Ulrich’s website at ulrich.wichita.edu/programs.

These exhibitions and programs are part of a citywide partnership that the Ulrich is proud to participate in with The Kansas African American Museum, The Wichita Art Museum, and Arts Partners Wichita called "African American Art in the 20th Century: A Wichita Collaboration." Each museum will feature exhibitions that recognize and honor the works of African American artists.

Check our partners' websites for their exhibitions and programs, and check the Ulrich’s site to learn more about the two exhibitions and the many related programs we will offer in the coming months.
We hope you'll visit the Ulrich Museum and check out these wonderful exhibitions in person. Be sure to also register for all the exciting, free Ulrich virtual programs we have planned for you in the coming weeks. Our galleries are now open Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and are always free admission.

Masks and safe physical distancing practices observed.


Hide your items. Take your keys. Lock your vehicle. If you see suspicious activity, call 316-978-3450.

Keep vehicles secure while parked on campus

The Wichita State University Police Department is offering tips to help students, faculty, and staff to keep vehicles safe when parked on campus.

  • Be sure to hide items that might draw attention in the trunk, the glove compartment, or under the seats.
  • Take your car keys with you when you leave your vehicle.
  • Close your windows, and lock your vehicle’s doors and trunk.
  • If you see suspicious activity anywhere on campus, call campus police at 316-978-3450.

We won't know you need help unless you ask

Critical resources are available for your success

Struggling with settling into a new semester, dealing with financial stress, or challenged by the amount of remote learning so far? You are not alone. If you need help with anxiety or stress, connect with Counseling and Prevention Services. If you are concerned about yourself or another member of the Shocker community, submit a concern with the Care Team. The Shocker Support Locker is available for anyone who is having trouble meeting their own personal needs. These and other services are available to you throughout the semester both remotely and in-person.


Study Abroad Info Sessions, In-person and Virtual Options for Spring 2021

Study Abroad information sessions available for students

Interested in studying abroad? Start planning now for programs in 2022. Attend a study abroad information session. In-person and virtual options for information sessions are available during spring 2021 semester. First in-person session is Friday, Feb. 12.

Learn more about Study Abroad

NEWS

Nominations for Senior Honor recognition due Feb. 19

Do you embody the Shocker Spirit? This highly competitive honor is awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding scholarship, leadership, involvement at WSU and service to WSU and the surrounding community. The Senior Honor is one of the most prestigious honors a Wichita State University student can receive, with only 10 students selected each year. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19.

Apply today. 


Student Ambassador Society nominations are now open

Nominations for membership to join the Student Ambassador Society are officially open. If you would like to nominate a student for SAS, visit wichita.edu/SASapply. Student Ambassador Society is supported by the Office of Admissions and provides support and outreach to prospective Wichita State students with Shocker spirit. SAS is a community of selfless, hardworking and involved students from all areas of our campus who seek to give back to our university through service to others.
 
The SAS nomination application is an anonymous form that allows the Wichita State community to recognize remarkable students at Wichita State who hope to give back to the university. Nominations are open from Feb. 2 through March 1. Questions? Email sasvp@wichita.edu.

Students together

TRIO Student Support Services is now accepting applications

Student Support Services is funded by the U.S. Department of Education to provide free academic services to students from first-generation and limited-income backgrounds, as well as students with disabilities.

The free services include: individualized tutoring, academic advising, textbook loans, assistance completing financial aid application, and scholarships exclusively for student participants.

Currently enrolled students who are interested in the program can visit Student Support Services on the third floor of Grace Wilkie Hall in Suite 309 or call 978-3715.


Earn money at Wichita State Behavioral Research Laboratory 

The Economics Department at Wichita State invites you to participate in our behavioral games. You can earn extra cash and advance WSU’s research. Come to the computer lab at the scheduled time, play economic games on a computer, and walk away with cash (amount varies based on experiments). The whole thing normally takes 1-1.5 hours.

Register here by answering just a few questions. We will start sending you times to come by for scheduled experiments with WSU researchers as soon as you sign up.

Got questions? Email siyu.wang@wichita.edu.

UNIVERSITY LIFE

Interested in joining a fraternity or sorority?

The sorority and fraternity community at Wichita State University is full of tradition, brotherhood / sisterhood and pride. The decision to join one of our 24 chapters is one that will not only enhance your experience as a Shocker, but will positively impact your life long into the future! Sorority and fraternity membership is an incredible way to meet friends who become family and to challenge yourself to be the best you can be.

To receive more information about how to get connected to our community this semester, complete an interest form, and we will reach out to you with more information. For questions, email us at greeklife@wichita.edu.


ΦΣΠ Est. 1916

Phi Sigma Pi Spring informational meetings coming up

Phi Sigma Pi is a gender-inclusive national honor fraternity built on a Tripod of three ideals: Scholarship, leadership and fellowship. The Eta Tau chapter at Wichita State was founded in 2020 by Katie Hefner, Talyn Sherman, Manish Mahajan and Jimme Keller.

This semester, we are looking for new members to help us further establish our roots in Wichita and make an impact at WSU and in the local community.

Looking for something to spice up your resume? We have officer positions available! Join us on Zoom to learn how you can get involved, meet new people and enhance your leadership skills.

Express your interest and join informational meetings


Shocker Softball Virtual FanFest February 16 Presented by Cox

Shocker Softball to host Virtual FanFest

The first ever Shocker Softball Virtual FanFest Presented by Cox is slated for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16. The event, which will be free of charge and utilize Zoom, will feature Wichita State head softball coach Kristi Bredbenner along with her staff and current student-athletes Ryleigh Buck, Neleigh Herring, Sydney McKinney, Bailey Urban and Camryn Compton.

During the event, fans will get a preview of the upcoming 2021 softball schedule and learn more about the 2021 Shockers. All attendees will have access to unique Shocker softball virtual content and a chance to win a softball swag pack provided by the team.

Register for the event

 

EVENTS

"Your Relationship with Money" How is your relationship with money - really? In this webinar learn new ways to evaluate how you manage money and how you can make it stronger to reach your financial goals. Date: Wednesday, February 10th. Time: 12:30-1:00PM CT. Email us for zoom link.

Webinar teaches money-management strategies

The Office for Student Money Management will present "Your Relationship with Money" at 12:30 p.m. Feb. 10. In this webinar, partipants will learn new ways to evaluate how they manage money and how to reach their financial goals. Email OSMM for Zoom link details at osmm@wichita.edu.


Women's Studies presents Diverse Women's Summit

WSU's Center for Women’s Studies is organizing the Diverse Women’s Summit (by Zoom), which will focus on the theme “Women & Leadership in the Time Of Covid-19.”  The three-part event is set for March 8. 

The first part, “Students’ Showcase,” is 9 a.m.-noon. Presentations will include paper, posters and other projects by students, faculty and community members.

The second part, “Creative Concourse,” is 1-4 p.m.. It will include presentation of poetry, stories and community projects.

The third part is the International Women’s Day Keynote Address from 7-9 p.m.

Access the event here. Password: 572443


Tuesday Talks with Student Health Services 2:00 PM, Tuesday, February 9 Love During Lockdown with Dr. Leonard from Caps

Love During Lockdown: Tuesday Talks with SHS and CAPS 

Needing tips on how to navigate the wild world of dating during the pandemic? At 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 9, join Nurse Heather, Dr. Christopher Leonard from Counseling and Prevention Services (CAPS) and WSU students on Facebook Live for a discussion about love in the time of COVID-19.


One heartwarming gesture deserves another

Donate blood and receive a $5 Amazon e-gift card

You deserve our thanks! Come give blood at the Heskett Center, and Amazon will thank you with a $5 Amazon gift card by email. Donate any time from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10, or Thursday, Feb. 11, at the Heskett Center. Schedule your life-saving appointment at www.RedCrossBlood.org; Sponsor Code: Wichita State or call 1-800-Red-Cross.


Physics Spring 2021 Seminar Series begins this week

Join us for our first Spring 2021 Physics Seminar Series, featuring Dr. Oleg Kamaev, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10, via Zoom. 

Learn more about the seminar


First Gen Success Academic Tips Join First Gen Success to talk about the academic tips and resources available to you on campus to help you ace your semester! In-Person: Monday, Feb. 15 | RSC 007 (Champions Room) | 1 – 3 p.m. Virtual: Monday, Feb. 15 | RSVP for link | 4 – 5 p.m. Learn more and RSVP at wichita.edu/FGSacademic

Join First Gen Success on Feb. 15 for academic tips

Mid-terms will be here before you know it. Join First Gen Success to talk about the academic tips and resources available to you on campus to help you ace your semester. The event is 1-3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 15 in 007 RSC (Champions Room). You can also attend virtually from 4-5 p.m. Attending this event will count toward eligibility for the First Gen Success prize drawing, which includes the chance to win free food and more. 

Learn more and RSVP 


93rd Annual Hippodrome Video Contest Submit a 5-10 minute video Categories: Live Action or Animation Winners are awarded cash prizes! For more information visit wichita.edu/hippodrome

Attend Hippodrome informational meeting

Join us for an informational meeting about Hippodrome at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10.

Hippodrome is WSU's longest-standing tradition and showcases student talent in a variety of ways. This year, Hippodrome is a video competition. This includes 5-10 minute productions written, choreographed and acted out by WSU students.

Performances are judged, and cash prizes are given out in the two categories of Live Action and Animation. To bring the show together, student emcee's charm the audience and introduce video productions throughout the nights. Performance nights are Wednesday, April 7 and Thursday, April 8.

Students and student groups interested in participating can register for the meeting at wichita.edu/hippodrome.


Join our Syllabus Party! Stop by with your syllabi and we'll provide the rest. Get organized and ready to start the semester off your best! Want to attend virtually? Join our Zoom party! Virtual session Tuesday, February 9th 11am-1pm Virtual participants will also receive goodies Stop by in-person Wednesday, February 10th Beggs Ballroom, RSC 3rd Floor Make an appointment between 11am-1pm RSVP here: wichita.edu/syllabusparty Office of Student Success wichita.edu/success

Syllabus party planned to help you get organized for the semester

First-Year Programs in Student Success invites you to join its Syllabus Party. You can attend a virtual event 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Feb. 9, or the in-person event 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Feb. 10. Bring your class syllabi and your planners (electronic or paper) and we will provide the rest. Virtual and in-person attendees will receive goodies and peer support to help you get organized for the spring semester. The in-person event will allow for social distancing and each student is required to wear a face covering.

Reserve your appointment

RESEARCH

Volunteers needed for a research study

A research study is being conducted to determine the validity of the SWAY app modules in assessing balance, reaction time and cognitive function measures in relation to cognitive overload, mental fatigue and sleep deprivation. If you are interested in participating in this study, please email rjbritton@shockers.wichita.edu or call 620-203-1164.

Read more details about the study and how you can take part

Validity of SWAY App in Detection of Cognitive Overload, Mental Fatigue and Sleep Deprivation: Telemedicine Approach
 
Purpose of the study: To determine validity of the SWAY app modules in assessing balance, reaction time, and cognitive function measures in relation to cognitive overload, mental fatigue, and sleep deprivation.
 
Procedures: Participants balance, reaction time, and cognitive function will be tested in rested and sleep deprived state using the SWAY application on a SMART device. Daily consensus journal will also be completed. Instruction will be received through a virtual zoom session.
 
Time: Participation will include sixteen (16) consecutive days. The SWAY assessment will be performed two (2) times a day and consensus journal once (1) daily. Each assessment will take approximately 10-15 minutes. If randomly assigned to the Fatigue Group, participation will also include two (2), 36-hour sessions of no sleep and seven (7) hourly SWAY assessment check-ins during each no-sleep session.
 
Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria:
Participants must be age 18 or older
No known muscular disorders
No known neurological disorders
No known orthopedic disorder
No uncorrected vision
No known sleep disorders
 
Location: Telemedicine approach: virtual Zoom appointments using computer technology and a SMART device.
 
Contact: If you are interested in participating in this study please contact RJ Britton at: rjbritton@shockers.wichita.edu or 620-203-1164.
 
Questions/concerns: Should you have any questions or concerns, email Dr. Heidi Bell at: heidi.bell@wichita.edu or 316-393-3339.

 

APPLIED LEARNING

Junior Hanna Chastain, a biological sciences major, is intrigued by the interdisciplinary approach the Wichita State team uses to develop PARROT and explore possible commercial markets.

Hanna Chastain's aptitude for research on display in work with oralfacial device

Hanna Chastain’s professor quickly saw something special in her when, as a freshman, she completed an independent research project typically reserved for older students.

“She immediately showed an above-typical level of critical thinking skills and what is needed within research,” said Dr. Heidi Bell, an assistant professor in the Department of Human Performance Studies at Wichita State University. “She had that study done probably halfway through the semester, which is not typical of even my graduate students. I knew right then that she was definitely a student who excelled above and beyond.”

Chastain, a junior biological sciences major with a biomedical emphasis, continues on a similar research track working in Dr. Bell’s lab. In April, she will present virtually at the National Council on Undergraduate Research conference. Her presentation is titled “Development of PARROT, a Wireless Orofacial Myofunctional Imaging and Pressure Mapping Device.”

Read more about Hanna's research

SPECIAL OFFERS

Sale! Take 20% off all Uscape apparel this week! Sale in RSC, Braeburn Square and shockerstore.com.

Save on popular Uscape Shocker apparel

Save this week on the popular Uscape brand of Wichita State merchandise. Through Saturday, take 20% off Uscape gear in the RSC store, Braeburn Square store and online at shockerstore.com. Not valid with other discounts or promotions.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Service-Learning Showcase submission open

The Service-Learning Showcase is a unique opportunity for students who participate in service-learning through applied learning opportunities to showcase their experience through a research or reflective poster about the application of their course work to current community issues. This year the showcase will be held in a digital format and judged by a team of community partner leaders.

The showcase is an open forum for students to interact with faculty/staff, community partners and other students to engage in conversation about Wichita State University's commitment to the public good.

Awards are presented in the following categories:

  • Outstanding Overall Service-Learning Project: $150 scholarship to winning entry
  • Innovation and Creativity in Problem Solving: $100 scholarship to winning entry
  • Community Impact/ Community Choice: $100 scholarship to winning entry
  • Collaboration and Leadership in Service-Learning: $100 scholarship to winning entry

Submissions are due April 1. For more information and to submit, please visit our showcase website.