Wichita State is opening more doors for more students
President Rick Muma
For many students and families, the biggest question about college isn't where they want to go or what they want to study. It's whether they can afford to attend.
At Wichita State, our priority of access and affordability is a steadfast commitment that shapes the decisions we make every single day. That's why expanding scholarship opportunities remains one of the most important investments we can make in the next generation of Shockers.
Through the Distinguished Scholarship Invitational, the Allen, Gibbs & Houlik Scholarship Competition, and the Wallace Invitational for Scholarships in Engineering, Wichita State awards significant scholarship support to outstanding students from a wide range of academic interests and backgrounds. Together, these competitions help make a Wichita State education more accessible while recognizing student achievement and potential.
This year, Wichita State added $218,000 in new scholarship funding for students in the class of 2027. Combined with existing awards, the Distinguished Scholarship Invitational and related competitions will award over $1.5 million in scholarships to incoming freshmen. It's a significant investment in the next generation of Shockers and a reflection of the confidence our donors have in Wichita State students.
The headline scholarships often attract the most attention — and for good reason. They rank among the most significant undergraduate awards available in Kansas. What I appreciate most about these competitions is that opportunity extends far beyond the top winners.
Each year, finalists and semifinalists also receive scholarships that help make a Wichita State education more affordable. In fact, hundreds of students leave these competitions with not only scholarship support, but also a clearer picture of how Wichita State can help them achieve their goals. We've also heard countless stories from participants who met future classmates, roommates and study partners during the competition, making it a meaningful introduction to the community they'll join as Shockers.
That matters because talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not always equally distributed. We never want a student's potential to be limited by financial circumstances. Scholarships ensure that students can focus on their education, pursue applied learning experiences, participate in campus life, and graduate prepared for successful careers.
The competitions themselves offer something valuable as well. Students have an opportunity to visit campus, meet faculty members, talk with current students, and connect with alumni and donors who have invested in Wichita State's future. For many participants, it's the moment Wichita State stops being one of several colleges they're considering and starts feeling like a place where they belong.
None of this happens without the generosity of our alumni, friends, and partners. Their support sends a powerful message to students: We see your potential, and we're willing to invest in it. That's a remarkable act of confidence in the next generation and one of the many things that makes the Wichita State community special.
If you know a high school senior who is considering Wichita State and has already been admitted for fall 2027, I encourage them to explore these opportunities and submit an application before the Nov. 8 deadline. Whether a student earns one of the top awards or one of the many other scholarships available through these competitions, that application could be the first step toward an affordable, life-changing educational experience.
As we continue working to expand access and affordability, I'm grateful to everyone who helps make these opportunities possible — from our generous partners and donors to the dedicated faculty and staff who coordinate the herculean event each year.
Together, we're ensuring that a Wichita State education remains within reach for talented students who are ready to work hard, pursue ambitious goals and make a difference in their communities.
Go Shockers!
Rick Muma
President, Wichita State University