BAASE program helps high school students learn and explore Wichita State
- The Better Academics and Social Excellence Learning Lounge offers 34 high school students remote learning at Wichita State University.
- The African American and Hispanic students are selected for the program because of their academic success.
- Students can use Shocker cards around campus at places such as Shocker Hall and Ablah Library.
Service Recognition 2020 at Wichita State
Wichita State University employees who reached a service milestone between the dates of Sept. 2, 2019 and Sept. 1, 2020 will be honored at an event hosted by the university on Thursday, Nov. 19. This service recognition will honor those with milestone service of 5 to 50 years with the State of Kansas, those achieving the Bender of Twigs distinction (25 years specifically to Wichita State), and those having recently retired from the university.
2020 Service Recognition will be held at Charles Koch Arena to accommodate adequate guest seating from the stands and abide by social-distancing protocol. The event will be broadcast live online, the media link will be available on the service recognition website at wichita.edu/ServiceRecognition.
In accordance with new WSU guidance for mass gatherings we are unable to offer food and beverage service this year and have therefore recently changed the time of the evening event to begin at 3:30 p.m. for 25-50 years of service, Bender of Twigs, and retirees. (The morning event for honorees celebrating 5-20 years of service will still begin at 9:30 a.m.)
While we are unable to provide the seated meal and beverage services we have enjoyed in past years, each honoree attending the event will receive a gourmet basket to take with them at the conclusion of the recognition event.
For more information, and to see a list of 2020 honorees, go to wichita.edu/ServiceRecognition2020.
Respondus LockDown browser now available for Chromebook
Respondus LockDown browser is now available to students using Chromebook as a beta test for Wichita State and a few other universities. If you are a professor who uses LockDown browser on your Blackboard tests and quizzes, you will need to turn this feature on for your students before it can be used. To get that done, please follow these steps:
- Go to the LockDown Browser Dashboard within Blackboard Learn
- Select “Require Respondus LockDown Browser for this exam”
- Expand “Advanced Settings” and select “Allow students to use LockDown Browser for Chromebook (beta)”
- Save the exam settings for LockDown Browser
Your students will also need to follow certain steps. Please share this information with them:
- Log in to the Chromebook and start Google Chrome
- Go to the download link for LockDown Browser; you will automatically be redirected to the Chrome Web Store.
- From the Chrome Web Store, select “Add to Chrome” to install the LockDown Browser Extension
- Log in to Blackboard Learn and navigate to the exam that requires LockDown Browser
- The LockDown Browser extension will be started automatically when an assessment requires it
- Note: During the beta, this extension will only work with assessments an instructor has enabled for use with LockDown Browser for Chromebook.
Parking lot will be closed to all traffic Nov. 11-13
Parking lot 8, the small administration lot behind Morrison Hall, is scheduled for repairs Wednesday, Nov. 11 to Friday, Nov. 13, and will be closed to all traffic. Parking Services will temporarily cone off stalls for you and others in lot 16N west of Duerksen Fine Arts Center for those three days.
If another lot would work better for you or if you will not need a temporary spot, just let Laura Ryman know at laura.ryman@wichita.edu.
Build IT Project Management Skills on Nov. 13
Wichita State University is hosting PM Summit 2020, this time virtually on Friday, Nov. 13. It’s been a hard year! Let’s reward ourselves with some great training from the best- PMO Joe! Let’s network and learn from each other!
Sessions
9 a.m. Opening Remarks
Value of IT Portfolios and Project Management
Ken Harmon | Wichita State University | CIO
9:30 a.m. A New Model For Our Future
Stace Acup | JJJC | Director, PMO
10 a.m. Resource Management Now & Future
Joe Pusz | THE PMO SQUAD | President
10:30 a.m. Asking and answering resource questions
Breakout Session
11:30 a.m. Risk Management current and future
Project Regulations Updates
Sara Spinks | State of Kansas | Director, KITO
Registration
Zoom ID: 999 2547 1300
Email us for the password: PMO@wichita.edu
Include your Name, organization and email.
Let us know if you want to be involved in future learning and networking opportunities.
PMPs may claim 3 PDUs.
No one understands like another PM!
Who is PMO JOE?
President of THE PMO SQUAD, Purpose Driven PMO
Purpose, Measure, Optimize
Project management challengers?
First & Only PMO radio talk show host discussing everything Project Management!
PMO Joe
Sign up to be a DSI observer
The Office of Admissions needs your help with the Distinguished Scholarship Invitational (DSI) Nov. 20-21. Your participation will help us identify high academic achievers with leadership potential. The $64,000 Harry Gore Memorial Scholarships are awarded through the DSI process to three high school seniors to attend Wichita State in the fall of 2021, and we need your help in selecting the next Gore Scholars!
This year we will host three on-campus sessions to adhere to social distancing policies and to help keep everyone safe and healthy. Part of the competition includes exercises that give students an opportunity to demonstrate their leadership abilities. These exercises will involve about 10-12 student participants and three observers. Your role would be to evaluate the students’ leadership performance. You are welcome to volunteer for multiple sessions. Observers will receive a custom Wichita State sweatshirt blanket and face mask as thanks for assisting with this important recruitment program.
Friday Session
3:30-6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20
Observer training will begin at 3:30 p.m.
233 Rhatigan Student Center
Saturday Morning Session
8:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 21
Observer training will begin at 8:30 a.m..
233 Rhatigan Student Center
Saturday Afternoon Session
2-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21
Observer training will begin at 2 p.m.
233 Rhatigan Student Center
Visit wichita.edu/dsiobserver to sign up!
The following health and safety precautions will be in place during DSI:
- Students will be in groups of approximately 10 for the group activities. There will not be an instance during the on-campus portions where all students will be gathered in one space.
- Masks are required of everyone while on campus: participants, parents / guests, and Wichita State staff, faculty and students.
- Hand sanitizer will be available to each person attending and available throughout campus.
- Parents and guests will attend their session in the main gym of Koch Arena, which provides ample space for social distancing.
- We're hosting three sessions instead of two. Cleaning procedures will occur between each session.
In addition to the on-campus sessions, a virtual option is available for students to choose. At this time, the admissions team does not need additional help during the virtual competition.
For more information, contact the Office of Admissions at 316-978-3085 or dsi@wichita.edu.
All call for The Wheat Shock Leadership Society judges
Round 1: Application Review – Completed by Jan. 11, 2021
- This process would be going through the qualified applicants and meeting to decide on which students move to the next round. We have seen an increase, so we could be sifting through 80-90 applications depending on how many students apply.
Round 2: Interviews – Feb. 4-5, 2021
- Our judges' panel will sit through a series of interviews of those selected to move on through the application round. Deliberation and decision on the final court of 10 undergraduate students and five graduate students and will follow the interviews.
Round 3: Presentations – Feb. 18-19, 2021
- This panel will serve as an audience to our 15 finalists as they present and showcase why they should be a part of The Wheat Shock Leadership Society and receive a scholarship, in addition to induction into the Society. There will be two overall winners this year, one in graduate and one at the undergraduate level.
Please send which round you would like to serve on or any questions to Maggi Hole at lead.grad@wichita.edu or 316-978-3022.
Institutional ACT Exam Nov. 14
The Office of Admissions is partnering with the Wichita State Testing Center to offer
an institutional ACT Exam. Students can register now for this on-campus exam at 2
p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14. Scores from this exam can only be used at Wichita State for
admissions and scholarships; scores will be available to be used toward the Dec. 1
priority deadline.
Space is limited and first-come first-served. Students interested in this ACT Exam
can register at registerblast.com/wsu!
For more information, contact the Office of Admissions at 316-978-3085 or admissions@wichita.edu.
Celebrate International Education Week from Nov. 16 to Nov. 20!
International Education Week is Nov. 16-20! Our events are virtual this year, so be sure to check out our list of events at www.wichita.edu/ieweek to find what interests you. Events offered this year include virtual international trivia, career workshops and an immigration information session. Follow our Facebook page @WichitaStateInternationalAdmissions during International Education week for some facts about international students at Wichita State and much more.
International Admissions on Facebook
Student Organization advisors needed
We are in search of full-time faculty and staff who are interested in serving as an advisor for student organizations here on campus.
A little about our community of Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs) here on campus -- there are 300 student organizations ranging anywhere from academic to political to special interest to cultural / international. With more than 5,000 students participating, if you are interested in this role or want more information, please reach out to Maggi Hole at student.orgs@wichita.edu.
Kansas NASA EPSCoR Program is requesting pre-proposals for an ISS Flight Opportunity award
The Kansas NASA EPSCoR Program (KNEP) is seeking pre-proposals for eventual submission to a NASA Cooperative Agreement Notice (CAN) opportunity. Specifically, this CAN solicitation is for projects that “have previously been selected by NASA EPSCoR for ground-based research funding. All proposed projects shall be mature enough to transition to a flight experiment with little or no additional NASA funding. Through this solicitation, the ISS will provide the integration and flight opportunity.”
An award includes up to $100,000 in funding for three years.
This ISS specific CAN effort must:
▪ Continue current or previously funded EPSCoR projects that are mature enough to design a research experiment or develop research experimental hardware to the point that it can be safely flown on the ISS;
▪ Establish research activities that will make significant contributions to the strategic research and technology development priorities of one or more of the Mission Directorates;
▪ Contribute to the overall research infrastructure, science and technology capabilities of higher education, and economic development of the jurisdiction (i.e., Kansas).
Ulrich Virtual Stories book discussion today examines 'Last Night at the Lobster'
Looking for a fun distraction? Head over to Watermark Books, pick up your copy of Steward O'Nan's "Last Night at the Lobster," and join the Ulrich Museum for an Ulrich Virtual Stories book discussion at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10.
Delve into a discussion with Beth Golay, host of KMUW’s podcast Marginalia, on this poignant and redemptive story set in the workaday world. The book discussion is free and open to all, but registration is required to get the Zoom link.
RBOS Distinguished Guest Artist Isabelle Demers to perform in Wiedemann Hall today
Join us either through the live-stream or in person (limited attendance) for the Rie Bloomfield Organ Series Distinguished Guest Artist Isabelle Demers, professor of organ and head of the organ department at Baylor University, Waco, Texas. The concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, in Wiedemann Hall.
Her program on the great Marcussen organ is a spectacular mix of old and new with Bach, Beethoven and Louis Vierne, who was born 150 years ago this year.
Tickets are available at the Fine Arts Box Office.
Masks and social distancing respected.
Professor Don Lamb, Ludwig Maximillian University, to give Physics Seminar Talk
Please join us for our next Physics Seminar at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, via Zoom. This talk will feature Professor Don Lamb, Ludwig Maximillian University, Munich, Germany, and the title of the talk will be “Using Florescence to Unravel the Secrets of Life”.
No-cost entrepreneurship webinars to help your small business succeed
Give yourself and your business the opportunities to succeed with our no-cost small business webinars.
Register at www.wichita.edu/ksbdcworkshops
Startup and Start Right
Noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11
This workshop will cover the Small Business Administration's 10 steps to start your business. Learn about licenses and permits, federal and state tax IDs, business structure, funding, marketing, and other essentials.
Competing for Government Contracts: Basic Training
1:30-4 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17
Federal, state, and local governments spend more than $800 billion per year buying goods and services. This webinar offers an overview of the critical first steps to becoming a government contractor. Learn to identify opportunities, understand the contracting process, and know the services available to help you.
Check out this week’s Wellness virtual programs
Please join us for another week of great programs that have gone virtual. Hosted by CAPS, SHS and Campus Recreation.
Changes to your HSA/HRA/FSA for 2020 due to CARES Act
Due to the recent CARES Act legislation, there have been some updates to how you can use your HSA, HRA and/or Healthcare FSA funds. Updates include the ability to use funds for over the counter (OTC) medications without a prescription and for menstrual care products. These changes are retroactively effective to Jan. 1, 2020.
Your NueSynergy debit card may not immediately work for purchases of these items as merchants are in the process of updating their systems to accommodate these changes, but you are able to pay out of pocket and submit reimbursement requests through the NueSynergy online portal.
You can find more information from NueSynergy here: NueSynergy 2020 CARES Act Update. If you have more specific questions about eligible purchases, you can reach NueSynergy directly at 1-855-750-9440 for further assistance. When calling, identify yourself as a State of Kansas employee, and be prepared to provide your SHaRP ID (found by logging in to myWSU and hovering the mouse over the white box in the “SHaRP ID” channel).
Wichita State's Military & Veteran Services earns award from KPTS
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.
The program will air again at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11 and 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15. It is also available at kpts.org.
Discount at Shocker Store for veterans
The Shocker Store appreciates the service and sacrifices of our veterans and active duty military! In honor of Veterans Day, on Wednesday, Nov. 11 at our Rhatigan Student Center and Braeburn Square locations, veterans and active duty military can take 20% off one regular priced WSU imprinted item with military ID. Some exclusions apply. Thank you for your service!
Drive Thru Free Breakfast for the Brave on Veterans Day!
Amedisys Hospice is offering a Drive Thru Breakfast for the Brave from 7:30-9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Charles Koch Arena (Hillside entrance).
Additional locations include the VFW 7253 in Derby, VFW 6957 in Haysville, and VFW 3115 in Wichita.
Facemasks now available for purchase at the Heskett Center
Facemasks are now available for purchase at the Heskett Center. We have these two designs available. For more information, visit the Guest Services desk at the Heskett Center or call 316-978-3082.
Thanksgiving Massage Special at the Heskett Center
Don’t miss the Thanksgiving Massage Special! While celebrating the spirit of thanksgiving, make sure to also give thanks to your body.
For the month of November, you can schedule a 90-minute massage for only $50. Gift certificates are available for purchase.
For more information, visit the Heskett Center Guest Services desk or call 316-978-3082.
Information on Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs from the WSU Fire Safety Office
The COVID-19 Pandemic has caused an increased use of Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs (ABHR’s) also known as Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer. ABHR’s are considered flammable liquids and therefore their use and storage are governed by the International Fire Code (IFC) and various National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes.
The definition of alcohol-based hand rubs is an alcohol-containing preparation designed for the application to the hands for reducing the number of viable microorganisms on the hands and containing ethanol or isopropanol in an amount not exceeding 95 percent by volume.
The use of dispensers containing ABHR’s shall meet the following criteria:
- The maximum capacity of each dispenser shall be 68 ounces.
- Dispensers shall be a minimum of 48 inches apart.
- Dispensers shall not be placed directly adjacent to, directly above or below an electrical receptacle, switch, appliance, device or other ignition source. The space between the dispenser and the floor shall remain clear and unobstructed.
- Dispensers shall be mounted so that the bottom of the dispenser is a minimum of 42 inches and a maximum of 48 inches above the finished floor.
- Dispensers shall not release their contents except when the dispenser is manually
activated. Facilities shall be permitted to install and use automatically activated
“touch free” alcohol-based hand rub dispensing devices with the following requirements:
5a. The facility or persons responsible for the dispensers shall test the dispensers each time a new refill is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s care and use instructions.
5b. Dispensers shall be designed and must operate in a manner that ensures accidental or malicious activations of the dispensing device are minimized. At a minimum, all devices subject to or used in accordance with this section shall have the following safety features:
- Any activation of the dispenser shall only occur when an object is placed within 4 inches of the sensing device.
- The dispenser shall not dispense more than the amount required for hand hygiene consistent with label instructions and regulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA).
- An object placed within the activation zone and left in place will cause only one activation.
6. Storage and use of ABHR’s shall be in accordance with the International Fire Code.
7. Dispensers installed over carpeted floors shall only be allowed in areas equipped with a fire sprinkler system.
ABHR’s installed in corridors shall be in accordance with the following:
- The maximum capacity of each dispenser shall be 41 ounces.
- The maximum quantity allowed in a corridor per floor shall be 10 gallons.
- The minimum corridor width shall be 72 inches.
Any questions regarding the placement or storage of ABHRs can be directed to the WSU Fire Safety Office at 978-5803 or 978-5531.
Join SHS Director Camille Childers to discuss COVID-19 safety during the holidays
Wondering how to continue fighting the spread of COVID-19 during the holidays? At 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10 on Facebook Live, join Student Health's Director Camille Childers, Nurse Heather, and WSU students for a conversation about how to stay safe while traveling for the holidays.