Author: Julia Wright

Help your students earn $1,000 by showcasing how they’ve used University Libraries for their research or creative projects. They can apply for the Library Research Award, even if their project isn’t finished, by the application deadline.

They can also attend the Library Research Award Informational Session at 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31 in 125C Ablah Library, Learning Center, to learn how to apply, understand the simple process and get tips on writing their application essay.

This session will give students a head start on their application. For more information, students can register on the University Libraries website.

For questions, email lib.award@wichita.edu.

Dr. Mike Ross has been named associate dean for faculty and staff affairs for the College of Applied Studies, effective June 23, 2025.

A first-generation WSU graduate, Dr. Ross has been part of the university community for more than 25 years, serving as a student, staff member in WSU Athletics, CAS lecturer and assistant professor. He is recognized for his leadership in mentorship programs, community partnerships and teaching excellence, making him well-prepared to take on this important role.

As assistant dean for students and experience, Dr. Bobby Berry is fostering an inclusive, student-centered environment at the College of Applied Studies. His work focuses on reducing barriers, supporting underserved and first-generation students and enhancing engagement through initiatives like the Trailblazers Program, revitalized student groups and innovative advising practices. Berry’s efforts, from leadership development to applied learning reviews, ensure students thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

Today marks the 60th anniversary of the Corbin Education Center, home of the College of Applied Studies at Wichita State University. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and dedicated on June 28, 1964, Corbin is known for its unique design and historical significance.

The College of Applied Studies (CAS) announced the selection of nine distinguished individuals to be inducted into the class of 2024 CAS Hall of Fame. The inductees come from various backgrounds representing several departments within the college and are being recognized for their outstanding contributions to their field.

The class of 2024 CAS Hall of Fame inductees are:

• Stacy Chestnut, alumni and educator
• Chase Curtiss, alumni and entrepreneur
• Credit Union of America, partner
• Christine Downey-Schmidt, patron and higher education leader
• Cathy Razook-Ellsworth, alumni, educator, and staff member
• Becky Endicott, alumni and staff member
• Susan Rippe, alumni and educator
• Rex Schott, alumni and athletic trainer
• Vicki Worrell, alumni and faculty member

The college will celebrate the inductees with a banquet at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27 in the John Bardo Center lobby.

The College of Applied Studies is proud to announce that Dr. Reagan Murnan, assistant professor of Special Education in the ISLE department, has been elected to the Kansas Association of Teacher Educators (ATE-K) board.

ATE-K supports quality teacher education in Kansas by cooperating with national and other professional organizations. Dr. Murnan’s dedication to advancing special education and teacher training will be a valuable asset to the board.

Students ages 13-18 will embark on a transformative journey guided by seasoned WSU Esports professionals and coaches who will provide expert training and mentorship.

This immersive camp is designed to cater to all skill levels. Participants can expect a blend of intensive gameplay sessions, strategic workshops and hands-on experience with state-of-the-art gaming equipment throughout the camp. Games covered are Valiant, Overwatch 2, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Rocket League.

The camp will be June 17-21 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day. Registration is $370 per person.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to share this information with those who may be interested in this opportunity. Session two of the camp begins June 24.

The Wichita State University Teacher Apprentice Program (TAP) is receiving the honor of being named ‘Educator of the Night’ as part of Credit Union of America’s Educators’ Night at the Wichita Wind Surge baseball game at 7:05 p.m. Thursday, May 9 at Riverfront Stadium.

The recognition highlight’s TAP’s excellence in teacher education. Representing the program for the ceremonial first pitch will be Jill Wood, WSU TAP coordinator, and Shirley Lefever, executive vice president and provost.

Wichita State’s College of Applied Studies is proud to announce Joe Mazzara as the new WSU director of Esports. Mazzara, who holds a Master’s of Education in sport management and a Bachelor of Applied Arts in media arts from WSU, has been integral to the growth of the esports program since 2019, serving as assistant director and stepping into the role of interim director in February 2024.

Reflecting on his appointment, Mazzara shared, “Becoming the director of Esports at WSU is something I’ve been working towards since 2017. I couldn’t be more grateful to the students and staff in our program for their trust and guidance over the years. I know we will all push WSU Esports into the future through our collaboration as a cohesive unit and community.”

Under Mazzara’s leadership, WSU Esports aims to excel in applied learning and competitive gaming, aspiring to be a leading Division 1 university for esports in the Midwest.

Exciting upcoming events include the second Kansas K.O. in June and the inaugural D-Air Capital Smash Melee & Ultimate Regional in August, hosted by WSU Esports.

The College of Applied Studies (CAS) proudly announces the appointment of four distinguished professionals to its Dean’s Advisory Board. Alicia Sanchez, Amy Williams, Ed O’Malley and Kyle Ellison have joined the board, each bringing a unique set of skills and experiences to enrich the strategic initiatives and academic pursuits of CAS.

• Alicia Sanchez: Spirit AeroSystems, global culture & DE&I manager
• Amy Williams: Spirit AeroSystems, global community relations & DE&I director
• Ed O’Malley: Kansas Health Foundation, president & CEO
• Kyle Ellison: Khan Lab School Wichita, founding director

These individuals represent a diverse range of backgrounds, from corporate social responsibility to community leadership and education advocacy. Their combined expertise will contribute significantly to shaping the future direction of CAS, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of applied learning and community engagement.

“We are excited to welcome Alicia Sanchez, Amy Williams, Ed O’Malley and Kyle Ellison to the CAS Dean’s Advisory Board,” said Dr. Jennifer Friend, dean of the College of Applied Studies. “Their wealth of experience and dedication to excellence will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our programs and initiatives to better serve our students and community.”