The Office of Special Programs at Wichita State University administers programs that provide comprehensive services to low-income, first-generation, foster care and disabled individuals. We work to further the success and well-being of our clients through academic, career, social and accommodation services.
As the spring semester winds down, the month of May marks a time of transition, reflection, and celebration across Wichita State community. For students, it brings the culmination of months of hard work—final exams, project deadlines, and the long-anticipated approach of summer break. For faculty and staff, it's a time to support students through their final stretch, wrap up academic responsibilities, and celebrate their achievements.
May is also a month filled with meaningful observances. It is an opportunity to honor educators during Teacher Appreciation Week, recognize the vital role of healthcare professionals during National Nurses Week, and celebrate graduating students during Commencement. In the U.S., Mother’s Day reminds people to appreciate the caregivers, while Memorial Day offers a moment to reflect on those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
As the academic year draws to an end, let’s take time to acknowledge the hard work, resilience, and community spirit that define our campus. Wishing you a strong finish and a rejuvenating summer ahead!
Some Important Days & Weeks to Note in May:
May Day (May 1, 2025) May Day, celebrated on May 1st, is a day full of meaning and tradition worldwide. It marks a time to celebrate the changing seasons, with roots in ancient festivals that welcome the start of spring.
Teacher Appreciation Day & Week (May 6, May 5-9, 2025) Teachers change the lives of millions of children every day—their immense work and impact have provided a much-needed sense of community and connection. Educators have worked hard to ensure every student has the tools they need to reach their full potential.
Victory in Europe Day (May 8, 2025) Victory in Europe Day is the day celebrating the formal acceptance by the Allies of World War II of Germany's unconditional surrender of its armed forces on Tuesday, 8 May 1945; it marked the official surrender of all German military operations.
Mother's Day (May 11, 2025) Mother's Day is a celebration honoring the mother of the family or individual, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. It is celebrated on different days in many parts of the world, but in the US it is celebrated on the second Sunday of May.
International Nurses Day (May 12, 2025) The International Council of Nurses (ICN) has celebrated this day since 1965. In 1953 Dorothy Sutherland, an official with the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, proposed that President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaim a "Nurses' Day"; but he did not approve it. In January 1974, 12 May was chosen to celebrate the day as it is the anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.
International Museum Day (May 18, 2025) International Museum Day (IMD) is an international day held annually on or around 18 May, coordinated by the International Council of Museums (ICOM). The event highlights a specific theme which changes every year reflecting a relevant theme or issue facing museums internationally. IMD provides the opportunity for museum professionals to meet the public and alert them as to the challenges that museums face, and raise public awareness on the role museums play in the development of society. It also promotes dialogue between museum professionals.
Memorial Day (May 26, 2025) This year, Memorial Day is Monday, May 26. It is one of 12 observed federal holidays in the country. It is typically observed on the last Monday in May. Congress first established it as a holiday in 1971. Veterans Day (November 11) honors all who served in the U.S. military. However, on Memorial Day people typically remember those who died from war. Celebrate Memorial Day weekend in Wichita through various events.
Monthly Celebrations:
Mental Health Month May is recognized nationally as Mental Health Awareness Month, providing an opportunity to raise awareness, combat stigma, and promote mental health resources.
Military Appreciation Month National Military Appreciation Month falls in May each year. As its title suggests, this observance is meant to raise awareness and encourage celebration and appreciation of those who serve — or have served — in the U.S. Armed Forces.