Forward Together: President's April 2022 Message

Spring at Wichita State University is always a sight to behold with our signature tulips abloom and colors exploding across our landscape. In my 26 years on this campus, I’ve found that, without exception, each year brings a more spectacular display than the last. 

This spring does not disappoint, as you can see from the photo. 

The new signage at the corner of 21st and Oliver streets near the Innovation Campus is larger-than-life and truly magnificent. If you haven’t seen it, allow me a moment to illustrate beyond what you can see from this photo. 

The 8-foot-tall letters spell out “Wichita State” in aluminum, powder-coated letters. The LED-illuminated black, yellow, and white color scheme is a stunning showcase of Shocker pride; and as you drive or walk past, the changing angles of the letters give the illusion that the colors are shifting.

The new signage is not only a bold display to mark our campus borders, but it’s symbolic of the metamorphosis that’s taken place on our Innovation Campus. Just six years ago, that space was a golf course; and now it’s home to almost 50 innovation partners, dozens of state-of-the-art labs and research facilities, and countless applied learning opportunities for our students. 

It’s almost unbelievable, and I’m in awe of the progress Wichita State has made — not only on our Innovation Campus but across all of Shocker Nation. Our commitment to our innovative roots, our students and our communities have culminated in a remarkable transformation for our institution, and I’m proud to be a part of it. 

While the photo is beautiful, the signage is so much more impressive in person. I encourage you to check it out next time you’re near campus.

I’ve already seen several photos and selfies of people posing near the sign, and as graduation season approaches, I’m looking forward to seeing photos of our grads clad in cap and gown. 

It truly is a great time to be a Shocker, and each day gets a little brighter. I speak on behalf of all of Shocker Nation when I say that we’re deeply appreciative of the hard work of our facilities and creative teams who worked to get this signage designed and displayed to put a bold face on Wichita State University. 

Go Shockers!