WSU’s College of Engineering to host public 5k run/walk to benefit students in need

2023 runners in 5K


The College of Engineering at Wichita State University is hosting a public 5k run/walk that is open to students, staff, faculty and community members. The 5k will be from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 on the WSU campus.

Registration proceeds from the 5k will go toward the College of Engineering Needs-Based Scholarship Fund.

“That fund provides financial support to students in need, so participants will be running or walking for a great cause,” said Dr. Jacob Mendez, the director of student engagement and career readiness within the college.

The course for the 5k has been certified by USA Track and Field (USATF), and the college is planning on about 150 participants. Through Feb. 16, tickets are $15 for WSU students and $40 for WSU staff or faculty and community members. After Feb. 16, the registration costs will increase. Those interested are encouraged to register online; registration includes a free long-sleeve crewneck shirt, water and snacks at the event.

The 5k will begin behind the John Bardo Center (JBC), located at 1800 Innovation Blvd., at 9 a.m. The event will conclude with an awards ceremony in the JBC at 10:45 a.m. Medals will be presented to the overall fastest participant, as well as the top three fastest participants in the Students, Staff/Faculty and Community Members categories.

“The 5k is always a favorite event of our students, staff and faculty” said Katie Brady-Wark, student engagement coordinator within the college. “This year, though, we know it’s going to be really popular with community members too, especially since the course is USATF-certified and the race is benefitting students in need.”

Individuals who are unable to attend the 5k but would still like to support the cause are encouraged to donate directly to a student in need or sponsor a student runner for a $20 fee. They may choose from the various options through the link here.

The 5k will occur during National Engineers Week, Feb. 18-24 this year. National Engineers Week is one of the largest STEM events of the year and is designed to celebrate the accomplishments of engineers, technicians and technologists. The college has other events planned for its students, staff and faculty to observe and celebrate National Engineers Week, including a dean meet-and-greet event, carnival and student organization fair, and bowling night.


About the College of Engineering

The College of Engineering at Wichita State University was established in 1928. Today, it includes seven departments, more than 2,100 undergraduate students and more than 1,500 graduate students. The college was recently ranked by Forbes in the top 20 for research and development (R&D) and ranked No. 1 by the National Science Foundation (NSF) in industry-funded aeronautical R&D expenditures. To learn more, visit www.wichita.edu/engineering.

About Wichita State University

Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.

Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.

The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.

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