Author: Tia Owens

Wichita State welcomes Samuel “Sam” Jones as the new director of Military and Veteran Services. Sam brings a strong background in military service, higher education administration and veteran support. His dedication to enhancing military-connected students’ experiences and fostering a supportive environment makes him an ideal fit for this role.

With experience leading veteran services at WSU and other institutions, Sam is passionate about building connections and empowering students through comprehensive support initiatives. His leadership will elevate the university’s commitment to serving the military and veteran community.

The Office of the Vice President, Dr. Marché Fleming-Randle, is excited to welcome Sam back and looks forward to his positive impact.

Meet Sam at the Military and Veteran Student Center in 318 Shocker Success Center to learn more about available resources and support and join in welcoming Sam to Shocker Nation.

The Office of the Vice President, Dr. Marche’ Fleming-Randle, Division of Military and Veteran Affairs, and Community Engagement invites the campus community to celebrate the career and achievements of LTC Larry Burks Sr., director of Military and Veteran Services, from 2 to 4 p.m. Monday, May 5 in 233 Rhatigan Student Center, Santa Fe Trail Room.

LTC Burks began his career at Wichita State in October 2018, bringing a wealth of leadership and experience from his distinguished military service. Over the past six years, he has been a dedicated advocate for veteran and military-affiliated students, leaving a lasting impact on the campus community.

This come-and-go event will offer an opportunity to congratulate LTC Burks on his successful career as a leader, mentor and champion for veterans as he prepares to retire on May 9. Light refreshments will be served.

Mark your calendars for Oct. 3-4, 2024. Wichita State hosts the 2024 Michael Tilford Conference, themed around “The Harmony of Uniqueness: Advancing Higher Education through Prioritizing Cultural Innovation and Community Engagement,” promising vibrant discussions, workshops and networking opportunities. Join educators, students and community leaders as they explore innovative higher education approaches.

Dive into cultural innovation and community engagement for an inclusive academic future.

Call for proposals is now open. Submit your proposals until Aug. 30.

The Michael Tilford Conference commemorates the legacy of Dr. Michael Tilford, a respected educator and administrator at Wichita State University. Explore Dr. Tilford’s influential contributions and his unwavering commitment to diversity and equity.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of a transformative conversation in higher education. Join the 2024 Tilford Conference to shape the future of academia together.

For questions, contact Tia Owens at tia.owens@wichita.edu.

Enthusiasm is building as the powerhouse team behind the 2024 Tilford Conference is announced, a vibrant celebration of diversity, equity and inclusion at Wichita State. It is delighted to unveil the distinguished Statewide Advisory Committee Representatives, a pair of exceptional individuals who will shape the transformative event:

• Dr. Rhonda Lewis, professor and graduate coordinator, Department of Psychology
• Dr. Gary Brooking, chair of applied engineering

These accomplished professionals will play a pivotal role in crafting an inspiring and impactful Tilford Conference, with over 500 attendees expected to participate. The event is scheduled to take place at Wichita State Oct. 3-4.

Save the date:

As the conference approaches, rest assured that countless hours of meticulous planning are underway.

In addition to the Statewide Advisory Committee, it is in the process of forming additional committees, ensuring a diverse group of individuals contribute their expertise to make this conference unforgettable.

Stay tuned for more updates as it unveils the conference agenda, introduce the distinguished speakers and open registration.

Learn more about Dr. Michael P. Tilford.

Join the 2023 Tilford Symposium on April 25 and April 26 in the Eugene M. Hughes Metropolitan Complex. This year’s theme, “Building resilience and community: Prioritizing mental health, well-being, and inclusive allyship,” is presented by the Office of the Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer and funded by the Student Government Association.

This one-of-a-kind conference brings together industry leaders and influencers to discuss crucial issues related to diversity, equity, inclusion and mental health. Honoring the legacy of Dr. Tilford, a champion of inclusive excellence in education.

Registration is open to all faculty, staff, students, industry partners and community members at no additional charge. Don’t miss the opportunity to be inspired by brilliant individuals, gain valuable insights into diversity and inclusion challenges, participate in critical conversations to enhance an organization’s culture, and identify strategies to recruit and retain talent.

The symposium features a tentative schedule of events including a meet and greet, keynote address, breakout sessions, panel discussions and lunch table topics.

Wichita State Dining Services is excited to celebrate Black History Month with a special event at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22 at the Shocker Dining Hall.

For this occasion, it has created a menu of soul food recipes, selected by a team of experts comprised of Dr. Marche Fleming-Randle, vice president and chief diversity officer of Military and Veterans Affairs; Dr. Kevin Harrison, Cohen Honors College assistant teaching professor and director of diversity equity and inclusion; and Riccardo Harris, executive director of Wichita GEAR UP.

To further celebrate the rich history and cultural contributions of African Americans, Dining Services will also have a live music showcase. This is an opportunity for the community to come together and honor Black history and culture. Meal cost is $9.46 plus tax.

In celebration of Women’s Month, the Wilson K. Cadman Art Gallery located in the Rhatigan Student Center will showcase “Making HerStory: The Evolution of Marché, Forging A Way to Greatness,” March 21- April 2. The exhibit is a tribute to Dr. Marché Fleming-Randle, vice president and chief diversity officer, and director of Military and Veteran Programs.

The exhibition is designed by Tia L.W. Owens and chronicles Fleming-Randle’s life and professional experiences leading up to becoming the first African American woman executive administrator at Wichita State in 125 years. The exhibit contains a display of  Fleming-Randle’s personal artifacts, photos, awards, and a sneak peek of candid photos and quotes taken during the filming of the upcoming oral history interview project “Forging A Way to Greatness: The Evolution of Marché – HerStory Revealed,” also produced and directed by Owens.