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Karla Burns

June 8, 2021 - Karla Burns’ legacy of music and drama is one of Wichita State University’s most prominent contributions to the performing arts. Burns, 66, died June 4 in Wichita. She attended Dunbar Elementary School and graduated from West High School. At Wichita State, she earned bachelor’s degrees in music education and in speech/theater, both in 1981.

Wichita State University engineering students present Ford Hall with a bicycle they modified to meet his needs.

June 7, 2021 — Five-year-old Ford Hall has had to overcome more in his short life than most do in a lifetime. That’s because immediately after he was born, he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. The doctors informed his mother he would probably never be able to walk. “It was that conversation with that doctor that really lit a fire in us,” said Cori Hall, Ford’s mother.

Students in classroom

June 7, 2021 — Wichita State University has entered an agreement with the University of Kansas School of Law to offer the Legal Education Accelerated Degree program, with an anticipated launch of fall 2021.

Alumni Council

May 25, 2021 - The W. Frank Barton School of Business at Wichita State University has partnered with the WSU Alumni Association to launch the college’s first alumni council. The Barton School of Business Alumni Council consists of professionals who received their bachelor’s and/or master’s degree from the business school and represents different regions, degrees and backgrounds.

Rowers on Little Arkansas River

May 18, 2021 - The Wichita Rowing Association founded Wichita State University crew in 1974, and that shared history remains important to many former Shockers. On May 8, the WRA dedicated its $250,000 Riverside Rowing Center Boathouse at Riverside Park on the Little Arkansas River. 

WSU Tech, Barton School graphic

May 17, 2021 -- The W. Frank Barton School of Business at Wichita State University has partnered with WSU Tech to create a pathway program for WSU Tech students committed to continuing their education with a business degree.

Wichita State alumni displaying Literal Larry account

May 14, 2021 — In December, 2017 Wichita State graduate Max Runyon created Literal Larry, a viral parody account on Twitter (@ImLiteralLarry1), which led him to land a remote role as a creative strategist with 180 New York. 

Sierra is one of more than 3,500 students eligible for spring 2021 graduation.

Sierra Brown chose to come to Wichita State for the welcoming environment provided by the in the Shocker Nation prior to choosing a university. While at Wichita State, she participated in the Professional Edge Program and served as president of the Barton School Dean’s Ambassadors.

Abigail is one of more than 3,500 students eligible for spring 2021 graduation.

Abigail Hammack, a native Wichitan, came to Wichita State because of the great reputation of the public administration program with applied learning opportunities. During her time at WSU, she was able to work as a Graduate Research Assistant at the Public Policy & Management Center at WSU and a Management Intern at the City of Andover.

Jane is one of more than 3,500 students eligible for spring 2021 graduation.

May 14, 2021 — As Jane Lickteig prepares for the excitement of graduation, she reflects on her growth through the opportunities at Wichita State. She is excited to graduate because she feels prepared to take on the next chapter in her life.

Erick Cruz, who at 31 is preparing to graduate with a degree in criminal justice and a minor in Spanish from Wichita State University.

May 13, 2021 -- Pursuing a degree in higher education does not always come directly after high school. For some students, attending a university or college happens after many obstacles and life experiences. One example is Erick Cruz, who at 31 is preparing to graduate with a degree in criminal justice and a minor in Spanish from Wichita State University.

Wichita State bowling

May 13, 2021 - Wichita State’s bowling teams endured a lot to get to 2021. The COVID-19 pandemic ended their 2020 season with both teams ranked No. 1 nationally and riding in vans to their sectional qualifier in Fort Worth. On Saturday, they turned those trials and lessons of the past into a history-making day for college bowling’s most successful program. Wichita State won the men’s and women’s Intercollegiate Team Championship at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming, Michigan.

Students standing in front of a decorated porch

May 13, 2021 – Students enrolled in Integrated Marketing Communication Campaigns with Dr. Lisa Parcell have been working with Alce Su Voz, Riverfest and the Kansas Nonprofit Chamber to develop full marketing communication campaigns.

Joana Lampe

May 12, 2021 - Joana Lampe enjoying working with and learning from fellow social workers. Her experience at Wichita State gives her hope that her profession can help change things for the better. Joana is one of more than 3,500 students eligible for spring/summer 2021 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.

Barrett Houchen

May 12, 2021 - Barrett Houchen is a disc golf enthusiast from Wichita who will start work on his master’s degree at Wichita State in biological sciences this summer. Barrett is one of more than 3,500 students eligible for spring 2021 graduation. Learn more about his time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.