As we begin a new academic year, I am inspired by the ways our students, faculty and staff in the College of Applied Studies live our shared values. This year, we are emphasizing leadership—preparing leaders who are empowered to make a lasting impact on the communities, schools and industries they serve.
Our five departments provide distinctive pathways for leadership development. Whether preparing future teachers, exercise scientists and athletic trainers, counselors, educational leaders, school and educational psychologists, or industry-ready graduates in sport management and organizational leadership and learning, each program is dedicated to shaping leaders whose work has lasting impact.
This fall also brings exciting milestones. We launched the new Ph.D. in Education and Behavioral Studies, expanding opportunities for advanced research and scholarship in educational psychology and counseling and counselor education. At the same time, our WISE Clinic is preparing clinical mental health counselors while serving our community through free mental health counseling and play therapy - positioning Wichita State as a regional leader in addressing critical mental health needs.
These achievements align with the three strategic priorities outlined in the CAS Journey to 2030 plan:
- Place Students at the Center of Our Work. Student success remains at the heart of all we do. The Teacher Apprentice Program™ (TAP™), which now enrolls more than 740 paraeducators who are working toward teacher licensure. Their persistence reflects our commitment to access, affordability, and applied learning.
- Embrace Technology and Innovation. We are proud to be the first in Kansas to offer Foundations in the Science of Reading courses for Kansas paraeducators, alongside a wide range of professional learning opportunities. This fall, nearly 600 graduate students enrolled in these workforce-aligned courses, including current educators who are earning the state’s Seal of Literacy while strengthening literacy instruction.
- Grow Enrollment by Deepening Connections. Through strong partnerships with schools, community organizations, and industry, we continue to expand pathways for students and professionals, reinforcing our role as a driver of economic and social prosperity in Kansas and beyond.
Together, we are advancing our mission with purpose and impact—preparing the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of our communities and leave a lasting impact in their professions.
With gratitude and excitement for the year ahead,
Jennifer Friend
Dean, College of Applied Studies