Maria Ciski
Director of Event Services
Rhatigan Student Center
It is an honor to write these words in celebration of my friend and colleague, Maria Ciski, as she is recognized for 25 years of service to Wichita State University. I have had the privilege of knowing and working alongside Maria since 2008, and I continue to admire her creativity, leadership, patience, and genuine kindness. She brings a warmth and creative flair to everything she does— qualities that have shaped the experiences of countless students, colleagues, and guests over the years.
Maria’s journey with Wichita State began at the Ulrich Museum of Art in the late 1980s, where she served as both Registrar and Interim Director. After a time away, she returned to campus in 2006 to lead the Event Services team at the Rhatigan Student Center. In her role as Director of Event Services, Maria leads a team that ensures every event—whether for students, faculty, staff, or community members—is executed with precision and care. Her eye for detail, her calm guidance, and her warm approach have set the tone for what hospitality looks like within the Rhatigan Student Center.
Maria’s artistic vision has also left a visible mark on the RSC. From the photography, murals and art displays throughout the building to her direction of the Cadman Art Gallery, she has infused creativity into our spaces and helped make the RSC a welcoming and inspiring place for all who visit.
As a colleague and friend, Maria is someone who makes the workplace brighter. I’ve always appreciated her openness to new ideas, her easy laughter, and her friendly “pop-ins” to my office, which often turn into chats about our gardens and our (mostly unsuccessful) composting experiments. Maria’s warmth, curiosity and caring nature make her someone you truly enjoy being around.
Outside of work, Maria pours that same dedication and compassion into her passions—most notably her search and rescue Dobermans, who are as much her family as they are her mission. Her home, filled with life and energy (and dogs and birds), reflects the same generous heart she brings to everything she does.
Maria, your 25 years with Wichita State have been defined by creativity, care, and community. You’ve left a lasting mark on this campus, on your colleagues, and on everyone lucky enough to work with you. It has been a joy to know you, to learn from you, and to celebrate this milestone with you. Congratulations, my friend! I’m proud to know you and work alongside you.
Vanessa Bell
Director of Marketing, Rhatigan Student Center