http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents FHSU Current Events FHSU en-us http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4498Layne Krizek, Hays, was named today as the recipient of the Torch Award as the outstanding graduating senior from the Class of 2012 at Fort Hays State University. Krizek will receive a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance, summa cum laude, at Commencement, which begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 12, in Gross Memorial Coliseum on the FHSU campus. The announcement of the Torch Award came today at the annual Graduate and Faculty Brunch, sponsored by the FHSU Alumni Association. The Pilot Award for outstanding faculty member and the Navigator Award for outstanding faculty advisor were also announced. The recipients will sit on the platform and be recognized at Commencement. Dr. Jill Arensdorf, associate professor of leadership studies and chair of the Department of Leadership Studies, was the Pilot Award recipient, and Cole Engel, instructor of economics, finance and accounting, received the Navigator Award as outstanding faculty advisor. In announcing the Torch Award winner, Dr. Marcy Aycock, president-elect of the Alumni Association, quoted a faculty member who said that Krizek has held numerous leadership positions in departmental and college organizations, became a licensed insurance customer service representative with the state of Kansas while still a full-time student, and was a member of the 2011 national championship financial planning team. Aycock quotes a faculty member who said Krizek "is in the top 1 percent of all students that I have taught at the university level for the past 31 years and may be the best I have taught." Another faculty member said, "While I have written a few of these letters of recommendation in the past, Layne rises to the top of my list of qualified candidates." Pilot Award winner Arensdorf was nominated by five students, said Aycock, one of whom described her as "a proactive and caring instructor as well as guide during my FHSU career. She is very positive and supportive, extremely enthusiastic, and is very knowledgeable in regard to assisting students in the degree process." Arensdorf has also been extensively active on campus, said Aycock, in such activities as Faculty Senate, the L3 Live and Learn community, numerous departmental and university committees, the American Red Cross, the Kansas Youth Leadership Academy, and Jana's Campaign. Engel, the Navigator Award winner, was introduced by Alex Hendee, Roeland Park junior and vice president of the Student Government Association. Navigator Award candidates are nominated, interviewed and selected by graduating seniors. Hendee quoted one nominating senior's praise of Engel: "Mr. Engel is actively involved with my class selection process … and double-checks to make sure I am taking classes in the right order and on time. He also is constantly checking with me on how my classes are going. HIs door is always open to any student with a question." The Alumni Association instituted the Torch and Pilot awards in 1974 to emphasize the importance of excellence in teaching and learning. They are presented every year at the Graduate and Faculty Brunch in advance of Commencement. The Torch Award candidates are nominated by members of the faculty on the basis of classroom excellence, participation in professional organizations and involvement in student or civic activities. The Pilot Award is given on the basis of classroom excellence, ongoing research and service activities. Candidates are nominated by graduating seniors. Nominations for the Navigator Award are also made by graduating seniors in a process conducted by the Student Government Association. The Alumni Association, established in 1916, is dedicated to identifying and serving the needs of more than 46,000 graduates living throughout the United States and 70 foreign countries. For more information, contact the Alumni Association at 785-628-4430 or alumni@fhsu.edu.Fri, 11 May 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4498http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4496The "Take a Bike/Leave a Bike" program is now rolling into action, designed to provide bicycles for students, faculty and staff of Fort Hays State University to use as they move around campus. Bicycles are parked in campus bike racks and are available for anyone to use at any time. An individual can ride a bike from Cunningham Hall to Davis Hall and leave it in the rack for the next person to use. All bicycles in the program will be easily identifiable, as they will be painted blue and gold with an orange flyer and a basket. The bikes will be maintained by intramurals and Department of Health and Human Performance. This program is sponsored by the FHSU provost, the dean of the College of Health and Life Sciences, HHP, Campus Intramurals and Recreational Sports, the Wellness Center, the University Police Department, and Walmart of Hays. For more information or if a bicycle needs attention, call the Campus Intramurals and Recreational Sports office at 785-628-4373 or Glen McNeil, chair of the Department of Health and Human Performance, at 785-628-5296. Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4496http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4499Fort Hays State University Intramurals and Recreational Sports Department will offer swimming lessons to children six months and older this summer for $35. The lessons will be in Cunningham Hall on the FHSU campus. Four sessions will be offered: June 4 to June 14; June 18 to June 28; July 2 to July 12; and July 16 to July 26. All sessions will run Monday through Thursday. No classes will be taught on Wednesday, July 4, in recognition of Independence Day. The parent-and-child class is for children 6 months to 3 years old and is designed to give parents information and techniques to help orient their children to the water. The preschool aquatics class is for ages 4 to 5 and introduces students to basic skills that lay the foundation for future skills. The other classes are broken into levels. Level 1, introduction to water skills, teaches students to feel comfortable in the water and how to enjoy the water safely. Level 2, fundamental aquatic skills, teaches students fundamental skills that will help them succeed in the water. Level 3, stroke development, builds on the skills shown in level two by providing guided practice. Level 4, stroke improvement, works to build students confidence in their ability to perform certain strokes and other aquatic skills. Level 5, stroke refinement, hones students skills at different strokes and helps to increase their distance. Level 6, swimming and skill proficiency, refines students abilities and prepares them for more advanced courses, such as the water safety instructor course. On each day, a parent-and-child class and a level 6 class will be at 8:30 a.m., a preschool aquatics class will be at 9:30 a.m., a level 1 class at 10:30 a.m., a level 2 class at 11:30 a.m., a level 5 class at 12:30 p.m., a level 3 class at 1:30 p.m., and a level 4 class at 2:30 p.m. The level 6 class will not be available during the June 4 through June 14 session. Each class will have a water safety instructor available as well as lifeguard assistants and will last 30 to 45 minutes for the level classes and 30-35 minutes for the parent-and-child and preschool aquatics classes. For more information, contact the FHSU Campus Intramurals and Recreational Sports Department at 785-628-4373 or stop by the office at Cunningham Hall, room 111.Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4499http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4500Fort Hays State University media studies students won 14 awards in the 2012 college broadcasting competition of the Kansas Association of Broadcasters, including best live newscast and first place for a 60-second KFHS radio spot prepared by Stephen Anderson, Kansas City, Kan., sophomore. FHSU won four second-place awards: Kelly Burkhart, Wichita senior, for best TV anchor performance and for best TV sports play by play; Annie Wernsman, Limon, Colo., senior, Joe Ortner, Beloit senior, Benjamin Gray, Lawrence senior, and Burkhart for best radio entertainment; and the KFHS-TV staff for best public affairs show for their "Talking Democracy." FHSU also won seven honorable mention awards. "This is a great way to measure our students success with others in the region," said Stephen Schleicher, Informatics Department chair "We are excited to have as many winners now as in the past. This is a testament to the talented and hard working students at Fort Hays State University."Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4500http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4497Jessica Tormey, Derby senior, placed second overall in the Business Research competion and was elected International Collegiate Distributive Education Club of America Vice President for next year when the Fort Hays State University collegiate DECA team attended the International Career and Development Conference in Salt Lake City. Caitlyn Thomas, McCook, Neb. sophomore, finished in the top 15 in Web Design, making it to the final round of competition. The students participated in a variety of professional developent activities at the conference in addition to their competitive event. Below is a list of who participated and what event they competed in. Cole Boyington, Olathe freshman, competed in Entrepreneurship/Business Plan. Tre' Giles, Colorado Springs, Colo., freshman, competed in Fashion Merchandising. Trisha Goetz, Grainfield senior, competed in Accounting. Zach Meyer, Hoxie senior, competed in Sales Management. Caitlyn Thomas, McCook, Neb., sophomore, competed in Web Design. Jessica Tormey, Derby senior, competed in Business Research Nicholas Whetstone, Cibolo, Texas, freshman, competed in Entrepreneurship/Business Plan. The DECA Club is part of the Marketing and Management Association which is open to any FHSU student. For more information about the association, visit fhsu.edu/stuorg/marketingmng/. Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4497http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4495With graduation numbers continuing to rise, Fort Hays State University will continue to recognize graduate and undergraduate students in separate ceremonies. Students who are receiving advanced degrees will participate in Commencement at 7 p.m. Friday, May 11, in Gross Memorial Coliseum, which is immediately adjacent to the U.S. 183 Bypass on the south side of the FHSU campus. Students who are receiving associate and bachelor's degrees will participate in Commencement at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 12, also in Gross Memorial Coliseum. In addition, members of the second graduating class of the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science, which is hosted at FHSU, will have their own Commencement a week earlier at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 5, in the Memorial Union Ballroom. FHSU has more than doubled its enrollment over the past decade, climbing above 13,000 at the end of the fall 2011 semester, and there has been a corresponding explosion in the number of graduates. Although the numbers may change slightly when the degree-checking process concludes, the Registrar's Office projects there will be 3,151 graduates this year, which includes associate, bachelor and graduate-level degrees. That is an all-time record and the first time the number of graduates has exceeded 3,000. The degrees will go to students who completed graduation requirements in summer 2011, fall 2011 and spring 2012. This year's total of 3,151 compares to 2,661 last year. As recently as 2005, FHSU had only 1,374 graduates. By holding a separate Commencement for graduate students on Friday night, which includes the traditional hooding ceremony, overcrowding can be avoided at the traditional Saturday morning Commencement. It also ensures the larger Saturday morning ceremony can be completed in comfortably less than two hours. Doors will open at GMC for graduate students and their guests at 6 p.m. Friday, May 11. A reception will follow the graduate Commencement in GMC's Victor E. Lounge. Doors will open at GMC for undergraduates and their guests at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 12. Everyone is encouraged to arrive early. All the Commencement ceremonies are free and open to families of graduates and to all friends of the university. No tickets are required. Ed McKechnie, chair of the Kansas Board of Regents, will present a short address at the graduate and undergraduate Commencements. Brenda Meder, director of the Hays Arts Council, will announce the names of graduates as they receive their degrees. Dr. Edward H. Hammond, FHSU president, and Dr. Larry Gould, FHSU provost, also will make brief remarks during the ceremonies. The Torch, Pilot and Navigator awards will be presented at the Graduate Faculty Brunch at 11:30 a.m. Friday, May 11, which is open to all members and guests of the Class of 2012. Recipients of the three awards will be seated on the platform and recognized during Commencement on Saturday morning. Because seating in GMC quickly reaches capacity, FHSU offers several other options for viewing Commencement. The entire Saturday morning ceremony will be broadcast live to Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center in Sheridan Hall. With its air conditioning, easy access and comfortable seating, the performing arts center may be the preferred choice as a viewing site for many people. Special seating is available in both GMC and Beach/Schmidt for people with disabilities. Rebecca Luedders will interpret for the hearing-impaired in GMC, and she will be easily visible in an inset on the large screen at Beach/Schmidt. Both the Friday night Commencement and the Saturday morning Commencement will be broadcast live by the FHSU student TV station, KFHS; on Eagle Communication cable channels in Hays, Ellis, Russell and WaKeeney; and to dozens of other communities in western and north central Kansas on the Nex-Tech cable system. In addition, the university will make Commencement available both live and for delayed viewing over the Internet so that family and friends can watch the ceremony from distant locations. Those wishing to view the ceremony on a computer should download Windows Media Player. The address for the online broadcast is http://www.fhsu.edu/commencement. To order a DVD of Commencement, send a check payable to FHSU in the amount of $17 to CTELT, Fort Hays State University, 600 Park St., Hays, KS 67601. Please include your full mailing address. For further information, call 785-628-5964. Gates at GMC will open at 8 a.m. on Saturday. Graduates should park on the main campus and gather in the hallways of adjacent Cunningham Hall by 9:15 a.m.; all others are asked to enter GMC through Gates 1, 2, 3 or 4. Traffic in the GMC area is extremely heavy for Commencement. Parking lots adjacent to GMC typically fill up by 9 a.m., so those arriving after that time are encouraged to park on the main campus. In the event of rain, unpaved lots near GMC will be closed, making it necessary to park on the main campus. Shuttle bus service will be provided on Saturday between the campus and GMC. The shuttle buses will stop in parking lots and wherever drivers see people walking to or from GMC. Graduates and faculty will be seated on the main floor of GMC. Relatives and friends of the graduates will be seated in the bleachers and the balcony. Seating for the disabled will be available in the bleacher areas on either side in front of the stage. One person may accompany an individual requiring seating in these areas. Drivers will find Gates 2 and 3, at the northwest and southwest corners, most convenient for dropping off passengers with disabilities. This area fills quickly so plan to arrive early at GMC or view the ceremony at Beach/Schmidt. While Commencement is a time of celebration, Fort Hays State University asks those who attend to show decorum appropriate to the occasion. Air horns and other noisemakers are not allowed in GMC. Please do not applaud individual graduates because loud demonstrations are discourteous, drowning out the names of the graduates who follow. An appropriate time for applause will be announced. The audience is also asked to refrain from moving around, and graduates should remain for the entire ceremony.Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4495http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4494Every continent has its own story to tell, and hundreds of millions of years ago, Africa was the perfect habitat for one of nature's most ferocious creatures. "Giants: African Dinosaurs," will open at Fort Hays State University's Sternberg Museum of Natural History, on Saturday, March 10, and will run until Aug. 5. Project Exporation, a non-profit science education organization, works to ensure that communities traditionally overlooked by science -- particularly minority youths and girls -- have access to personalized experiences with science and scientists. In expeditions to Niger and Morocco, Dr. Paul Sereno's team discovered and named several dinosaurs that will be on display. "Jobaria," a 70-foot-long plant-eater; "Suchomimus," a fish-eating dinosaur with huge claws and a sail on its back; and the skull of a huge T. Rex-sized meat-eater, "Carcharodontosaurus," are a few of the displays. "Giants" provides clues to the mystery of how shifting continents affected dinosaur evolution. Besides new and unusual dinosaurs, Sereno's team stumbled on the world's largest crocodile, the 40-foot-long "Sarcosuchus," dubbed SuperCroc. "Giants" is courtesy of Project Exploration and Sereno, University of Chicago paleontologist and president and co-founder of Project Exploration. Sereno is the author of several books and stories in "National Geographic" and "Natural History" as well as the subject of many documentaries. Museum hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday from October to March and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday from April to September. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for youths ages 4 to 12, and $4 for FHSU students with valid ID.Fri, 02 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4494http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4490Results from Fort Hays State University's first successful high-altitude balloon launch, on Dec. 16, 2011, will be revealed at the next Science Café, 7 p.m. Thursday, March 8, at Gella's Diner and Lb. Brewing Company,117 E 11th in Hays. Dr. Jack Maseberg, assistant professor of physics, and Dr. Paul Adams, professor of physics and Anschultz Professor of Education, will present the tales and results from the balloon launch. The launch was a joint venture of an undergraduate research experience project by a Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science student and a class project for the Physics 100 class "Introduction to Engineering Science." Video footage of Kansas from the near-space launch will be shown, and Maseberg and Adams will discuss what was learned and talk about plans for the project. This event, free and open to the public, is sponsored by the FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute. Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4490http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4491Fort Hays State University's Forsyth Library is one of six libraries in the nation that will participate in a year-long research study conducted by the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC). The research focuses on improving the access to print, electronic and digital resources. Forsyth Library will provide collection data, circulation data and information about the library to OCLC. In turn, OCLC will register and provide access to Forsyth Library through WorldCat -- the world's largest library catalog and a global network of library content and services -- and syndicate the library's collections and services through partners such as Google Books. The research project's purpose is to test and increase the discoverability and access of collections on the World Wide Web, measure the efforts of library staff and increase the usage of the library and its collections. OCLC has cited the Forsyth Library Digital Collections website as a model site for digital collections based on its ease of access and quantity of diverse collections. Collections include the Digital Repository or Space Exploration, the Stafford County Historical Museum Collection, the Johnson Collection, the George Sternberg Photo Albums and Negatives Collection, and the FHSU Art Collection as well as digital copies of academic journals and past editions of The Reveille, the FHSU yearbook. The Forsyth digital collections website can be found at http://contentcat.fhsu.edu/cdm/. "Our work with OCLC is a distinctive honor for the library and the university," said John Ross, Forsyth Library director. "The staff and I are very pleased to have this opportunity and are excited about the benefits that this research will provide for our students and faculty." "We believe the results of the study will be useful to all members of the OCLC cooperative," said OCLC's Bill Carney. The OCLC is a nonprofit, membership, computer library service and research organization dedicated to the public purposes of furthering access to the world's information and reducing information costs. OCLC and its member libraries cooperatively produce and maintain WorldCat. OCLC research is one of the world's leading centers devoted to exploration, innovation and community building on behalf of libraries, archives and museums.Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4491http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4492Dr. Shala Mills, chair of the Department of Political Science at Fort Hays State University, has been named the national coordinator for the Global Challenges Project called Global Challenges: Promise and Peril in the 21st Century. "We are delighted to play such a valuable role in the development of a national blended-learning model course that we believe will not only help to educate globally competent citizens, but will also serve as a model for future American Association of State Colleges and Universities blended-learning courses in other disciplines," said Mills. The project was made possible by the collaboration of the American Democracy Project, initiated by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities(AASCU); The New York Times Knowledge Network; and teaching faculty from 10 AASCU institutions who serve as the organization's global engagement scholars. "As the project expanded, it became clear there was a need for a national coordinator to manage the project's scope, support the development of the product, manage internal communications and market the new course," said Dr. Larry Gould, FHSU provost. Gould said he is proud to have FHSU serve the project in this role and designated Mills to lead the project. The course was inspired by the Seven Revolutions class framework created by a leading bipartisan think tank in Washington, D.C., the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), to examine key trends likely to impact the world over the next 30 years. Those trends are in the areas of population, resource management, technological innovation and diffusion, development and dissemination of information and knowledge, economic integration and globalization, the nature and mode of security, and the challenge of governance. The course relies on the most recent research in learning environments that combine the best of online and face-to-face learning models. Delivered through the Epsilen eLearning Environment, a resource for sharing course content and networking, students are able to access course materials, The New York Times Digital Content Repository, CSIS content and much more. FHSU has long supported the project, previously called the Seven Revolutions Project, through the scholarship and teaching of FHSU faculty who have served as AASCU scholars for the project. Dr. Curt Brungardt, director of the Center for Civic Leadership, in 1981 and 1984; Brett Whitaker, instructor of leadership studies, in 2006 and 2008; and Darrell Hamlin, adjunct professor of leadership studies, have all contributed to the development of the course and were co-authors of the course's Teaching Toolkit.Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4492http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4493Jacob Paul Flax, age 24 and a student at FHSU, was arrested by the Fort Hays State University Police Department and charged with 7 counts of misdemeanor battery, 2 counts of battery on a law enforcement officer and 1 count for obstruction of justice. There were 9 victims total: 1 professor, 6 students and 2 law enforcement officers. The arrest was for a physical altercation that occurred at 9:30 a.m. today in room 310 Rarick Hall. The altercation was physical in nature, however no weapons were involved and no victims required medical attention. Hays Police Department assisted UPD officers with subduing Jacob Flax during this altercation. Please keep in mind that the arresting and/or charging of an individual is merely an allegation of criminal wrongdoing. All criminal defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4493http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4488The men of the Fort Hays State University Greek system will once again hold the Walk-A-Mile In Her Shoes event to raise awareness about issue of domestic abuse and sexual violence against women. The doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the walk begins at 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 7, in the Memorial Union's Cody Commons. The goal is to raise money for OPTIONS Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, which is halfway to FHSU's Greeks' goal of $1,500. Pre-registration will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Feb. 28 and 29 in the Memorial Union and registration will also be accepted at the door on the day of the event. Registration is $5 for the walk or $15, which includes the walk and a t-shirt.Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4488http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4489The alumni and friends of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) are encouraging fans attending the upcoming MIAA Basketball Championships to donate non-perishable food and supplies to those in need in the Kansas City area. The drive, which is being coordinated by the MIAA member institutions’ alumni associations, will take place March 1-4 at Municipal Auditorium, 301 W. 13th St., Kansas City, Mo. Fans of all teams are encouraged to place donations in receptacles that will be located at the entrance as well as throughout the facility. All donations will aid the Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas in its mission to provide emergency assistance for people of all faiths. Monetary donations can also be made via the group’s website, www.catholiccharitiesks.org. Help the MIAA and Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas help others with your donation. Items always in demand include: • Whole wheat pasta • Meat (canned) • Tomato sauce • Canned fruit and vegetables • Flour • Sugar • Vegetable oil • Diapers • Laundry soap • Dish soap • Paper towels • Toilet paper • Personal hygiene products "I want to thank our Kansas City Alumni and Friends Chapter for taking the lead and organizing this effort," said Charlene Nichols, assistant alumni director of the FHSU Alumni Association. The MIAA is an 11-school NCAA Division II conference that will celebrate its 100th year in 2012. Members are the University of Central Missouri, Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University, Lincoln University, Missouri Southern State University, Missouri Western State University, Northwest Missouri State University, Pittsburg State University, Southwest Baptist University, Truman State University and Washburn University. For more information on the Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas go online, www.catholiccharitiesks.org. Visit www.themiaa.com to learn more about the MIAA. Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4489http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4468Extraction, a for-men-only boot camp training sponsored by the Men's Ministry of Christian Challenge at Fort Hays State University, will start at 5 p.m., on Saturday, Feb. 18, at CrossPoint-Hays Church, 1300 Harvest Road. Extraction is "an epic adventure quest of valor, honor, strength and mental fortitude to the house of light in enemy territory," according to the Men's Ministry Facebook page. It will start with snacks and a study about what it takes to be a real man. "We're going to discuss and establish true leadership in love, service, integrity and honor," said Riley Voth, 2010 FHSU alumni and Christian Challenge Men's Ministry coordinator. "The focus will be one of establishing that, as a whole in our society, we've lost track of what it means to really be a man. We've compromised with culture and lost track of what God says growing out of boyhood really looks like." After the study, the physical part of the night will start. The men are urged to bring "warm athletic clothes, a strong heart, a sharp mind and some perseverance." Voth said the nature of the physical training will be announced that night but checkpoints will be set up around the Hays community and will end at the FHSU Lighthouse, 505 W. Seventh, where pizza will be served at 7:30 p.m., and prizes will be awarded. Men's Ministry, a branch of Christian Challenge, is trying to live out service within the community for more productive and Godly living. "Our main objective is to make the most of our time we have with the hundreds of young men passing through this community every year," said Voth. "We want to train them to think better, live better and, above all, love Jesus Christ and others better." Women can also get involved by volunteering to work the checkpoints or donate snacks and prizes. Boot camp is the first of several training opportunities that will lay the foundation for "infantry training" later on in the semester. These training opportunities will connect the "how" while understanding the "why." "Historically, movements in communities or nations are usually started by college students," said Voth. "We often dictate the culture. So, instead of just reacting to culture like Christians too often do, we're aiming to create the culture instead." For more information, to donate or to volunteer, contact Voth at 620-391-7340 or rileyadamvoth@gmail.com.Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4468http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4472A 15-minute event on the Quad next week at Fort Hays State University will call attention to an under-appreciated but extremely important aspect of higher education. Set for 10:15 to 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 23, the inaugural Philanthropy Awareness Day will educate students, faculty, staff and the Hays community about the necessity and importance of private donations to FHSU. Presenters during the brief ceremony will include FHSU Foundation President and CEO Tim Chapman, a member of the Foundation Young Advisory Council and a prominent donor. They will speak about the importance of philanthropy and how everyone on campus benefits from generosity of others. "We wanted to grab as many students as possible, so we're setting up shop in the Quad between classes," said James Gerstner, the Foundation's annual giving director. "We want to pull students into a brief presentation and start the process of passing the message of how important private donors are to the well-being of FHSU." Gerstner said the theme of Philanthropy Awareness Day would revolve around the 1:1:1 ratio of funding in the FHSU operating budget. "Roughly a third of the budget is funded by tuition, roughly a third is funded by the state and the final third is private support," he explained. "We plan to tie this event into the overall theme for many of this year's annual campaigns." The theme is "What if?" "What if FHSU weren't here?" Gerstner asked. "How would that affect our students and the 800-some employees who work on campus? How would that affect the city of Hays, western Kansas and Virtual College students from all over the world? We want to spread the message that all students, even those who don't specifically receive a scholarship or financial assistance, have benefited from the generosity of FHSU alumni and friends of the university." In addition to the "short and sweet" ceremony on the Quad, representatives from the Foundation will set up a table in the Memorial Union and continue to spread the message throughout the day. Chapman said Philanthropy Awareness Day would send the message that 30 percent of a student's education and extracurricular experiences are dependant on others making private gifts in support of the university. "This is an effort to bring awareness to our students and campus that if we didn't have private support, their education would not be possible," he said. "We are trying this with the hope of implanting the message that everyone needs to be a part of the team in support of FHSU."Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4472http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4469The Kinsey Sicks singing group will visit the Fort Hays State University campus at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 20 in the Memorial Union Ballroom, performing their show "Electile Dysfunction." They will discuss the presidential election using parodies on songs and satire. FHSU's Gay Straight Alliance and the Diversity Affairs Office are sponsoring this event. "We want to show the students another dimension of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community," George Jackson III, coordinator of Diversity Affairs, said about the show. The Dragapella group, formed in 1993, has had a varied performance record including an Off-Broadway show in 2001, an extended run at the Las Vegas Hilton in 2006, and has produced seven albums. They have appeared thoughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe and Australia. Their Off-Broadway show, "DRAGAPELLA! Starring the Kinsey Sicks" was nominated for a Lucille Lortel award (the Off-Broadway Tony) as Best Musical and a Drama Desk Best Lyrics award. They are featured in a concert film, "I Wanna Be a Republican," and the documentary "Almost Infamous," which chronicles the groups Las Vegas run.Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4469http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4470A scavenger hunt for all ages to raise funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18, at Fort Hays State University's Sternberg Museum of Natural History. Big Brothers Big Sisters are invited to join the event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Members of the public who do not have a Little Brother or Little Sister are invited to come from 1 to 3 p.m. An entertaining and inspirational game show will begin at 2 p.m. KISS 104.7 will be on scene for the afternoon. Half of proceeds raised from the half-price admission cost will go towards Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County. Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4470http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4471Several of Fort Hays State University's nursing departments faculty will volunteer Saturday, Feb. 25, as CPR instructors for the 12th Annual Stayin Alive Hands-Only CPR training event at the HaysMed Center for Health Improvement Gym, located at 2500 Canterbury Drive. This event is free, open to those ages eight and older, and will be split into two morning sessions, 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Training is not for professional certification. Sponsors include HaysMed DeBakey Heart Institute, HaysMedical Center Foundation, and the American Heart Association. To register for this event, contact Debbie McLaren at 1-800-248-0073 extension 5500 or at 785-623-5500. Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4471http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4473Career Services at Fort Hays State University will provide an opportunity for students to meet potential employers at the Spring Career Fair, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, in the Memorial Union Ballroom. The Career Fair provides an excellent opportunity for all students to meet employers and discuss full-time job opportunities, internships, summer employment and part-time positions. Freshmen through seniors and graduate students in all majors are encouraged to attend. Admission is free, and professional dress is recommended. Students are encouraged to bring several copies of their resume to hand out to potential employers. About 40 employers are expected to attend this year. In the past, about 400 to 450 students participated in this annual event. For more information or to view a list of organizations attending, visit www.fhsu.edu/career/fairs/scf.Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4473http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4464music at Fort Hays State University continues with a faculty piano recital by Dr. Irena Ravitskaya at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center on the FHSU campus. Ravitskaya, an assistant professor of music and theatre, will perform a sonata by Beethoven, "Impromptus" by Schubert and "L' Isle Joyeuse" (The Island of Joy) by Debussy. "Beethoven's sonatas are one the most challenging pieces in the piano repertoire," said Raviskaya. "They demand expression as well as technical and artistic skill. "Schubert’s music seems to be less technical, however, since he was predominantly a song composer I have to make it sound like someone is singing through the piano. Debussy’s music is often labeled as impressionistic. Each piece of the selection I am performing also creates a certain image. Moreover, the challenge of Debussy is that he treats the piano as an orchestra," she said. Tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for senior citizens and students 12 and over, and free for FHSU students with valid student ID. The Encore series will bring Doubt at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 15, to Beach/Schmidt. John Patrick Shanley shows a picture of the powerful battle between Father Flynn and Sister Aloysius in its full scope. Reserved seating tickets are $30 for the public, $28 for senior citizens and children under the age of 18, and $21 for FHSU students with valid student ID. Unreserved seating is $26, $28 and $17, respectively. The Hays Symphony Orchestra will host the Young Artist Competition at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18, in Beach/Schmidt. The competition is open to any university student. Three students were selected as finalists at the preliminary performances in November: Brian Keller, Ellis senior, saxophone; Engeny Zvonnikov, Wichita State University, violin; and Quinn Lake, Wichita State, cello. Tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for senior citizens and students 12 and over and free for FHSU students with valid student ID. The Encore series will bring "My Fair Lady" to Beach/Schmidt at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21. My Fair Lady is based on George Bernard Shaw's play "Pygmalion." Featured songs are "Wouldn't it be Lovely?" and "With a Little Bit of Luck." Reserved seating tickets are $40 for the public, $38 for senior citizens and children under the age of 18, and $31 for FHSU students with valid student ID. Unreserved seating is $36, $34 and $27, respectively. For more information on any of these events contact the Department of Music and Theatre at 785-628-4226. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4464http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4465Dr. Hong Wang, an assistant professor of instructional technology at Fort Hays State University, will be published along with two professors from Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Meyers, and the University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, and also with two doctoral students at Purdue University and Virginia Tech. Their writing project will appear in the first issue of the 2012 Journal of Distance Education in China. "It's a great experience to collaborate with scholars and professionals in the field of educational technology. It's my honor to participate in this exciting project, bridging Chinese and American cultures in the field of educational technology and representing Fort Hays State University in the most prestigious distance education journal in China," said Dr. Wang, who is also the coordinator of instructional design for the Center for Teaching Excellence and Learning Technology. This article examines the opportunities and challenges faced by instructional design in online learning, the work of leading U.S. scholars about educational technology, and the national standards for educational technology programs. It also introduces the current status and development trends of educational technology in the U.S. to Chinese educators, specifically focusing on online learning and instructional design. Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4465http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4466Verlin and Elaine Pfannenstiel have been announced by the Fort Hays State University Foundation as the newest members of the Lyman Dwight Wooster Society. The society's members have included FHSU in their estate plans or designate a deferred gift for the university through the FHSU Foundation. Both Pfannenstiels are graduates of FHSU, Verlin received a degree in business administration in 1972 and Elaine received a degree in sociology in 1988. Verlin received the FHSU Alumni Achievement Award in 1992 and is a current member of the FHSU Foundation Board of Trustees, serving on many committees within the board. "Joining the Wooster Society provides an excellent opportunity for FHSU to ensure future growth and expansion in education," he said. The Pfannenstiels are involved with many civic projects in Russell and Rooks counties and work with the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce. For more information on the Wooster Society or for more information on donating, log on to fhsugift.org or call Brad Botz, FHSU Foundation director of planned giving at 785-628-5888. Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4466http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4467American Democracy Project and the Global Leadership Project at Fort Hays State University will host the Red Hand Day on Thursday, Feb. 9, in the Memorial Union Lobby from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Red Hand Day brings awareness to child soldiers and tries to urge the governments of countries like Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and Yemen to either ratify or sign the optional protocol. Red Hand Day was started in Germany and is now a campaign throughout the world. It usually takes place on Feb. 12, as on that date in 2002, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict became legally binding. FHSU students, faculty and staff, and the community are invited to paint their hand red, place it on a paper, and write a note. Participants can sign letters urging governments to sign or ratify the optional protocol. Letters can also be sent to United States senators and representatives to urge the end of blanket waivers of military aid to countries who still have child soldiers. The American Democracy Project is focused on getting students civically engaged on campus and wants students to be informed with the events taking place in our democracy. The Global Leadership Project is focused on bringing positive change globally. "I had learned about the event as a freshman and wanted to bring this event to campus to inform students of this issue and what students can do to try to bring change to the situation," said Jen Verhagen, Holland, Mich., senior and student coordinator of ADP. For more information, contact the American Democracy Project or Global Leadership Project at adp@fhsu.edu or 785-628-5399.Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4467http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4474NOTE TO EDITORS, NEWS DIRECTORS: Print quality photos can be
downloaded from the Foundation folder on the page at https://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/news_photos.php HAYS, Kan. -- The Fort Hays State University Foundation recently welcomed Leanna Roberts as the new executive assistant to President and CEO Tim Chapman. She will also support Foundation Development directors and members of the Board of Trustees. Roberts originally from Ogallala, Neb, graduated from FHSU in 2009 with a bachelor's degree in communications, emphasis in public relations, and was a member of the FHSU volleyball team from 2005-2008. She worked the past three years in the Office of Admissions at FHSU as the recuiter for Nebraska and North Central Kansas. The Foundation also announces James Gerstner's promotion to director of annual giving. He will be responsible for managing annual campaigns at the Foundation, such as the Tiger Call Phonathon, the Campus Drive, the Community Drive, and the new social media campaign "I Fed the Tiger." The previous director of annual giving, Melanie Bailey, is now the new director of corporate and Foundation relations. She will collaborate with non-profit organizations and larger corporations. Angie Palombo recently transitioned to executive assistant of marketing and communications. She provides support to Jared Schiel, the director of marketing and athletic development. She will also serve as the main point of contact and event manager for the Robbins Center.Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4474http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4475The Kansas Small Business Development Center (KSBDC) has announced the 2011 Emerging and Existing Businesses of the Year. Each of the eight KSBDC selected one emerging and one existing business for the award. In total, 16 Kansas small businesses will be recognized at a ceremony in Topeka on Tuesday, March 13. The businesses were selected from more than 2,500 entrepreneurs who received KSBDC services in 2011. "The businesses were selected after careful consideration by our regional directors and consultants," said Greg Panichello, KSBDC state director. "The continuing difficult national economy has provided numerous opportunities for small businesses to adapt and prosper in response. Collectively, we feel these 16 small businesses are excellent examples of small business adaptation and success in challenging times." During the last two months, business owners participated in video interviews, which will be presented at the awards ceremony. In addition, the award recipients will be presented with a plaque by their state legislators. The award recipients will also be recognized by the Kansas House and Kansas Senate. Resolutions recognizing the business owners will be presented by Sen. Tom Holland D-Baldwin City and Rep. Don Hill R-Emporia. Both are KSBDC Advisory Board members. The keynote speaker for the event is Martha Bartlett Piland, president and chief executive officer of MB Piland Advertising & Marketing, Topeka. In 1998, she started the company with an innovative new philosophy -- Fat Free Advertising™. Her goal was to provide small- and medium-sized clients with "big agency" strategic planning and creative experience. She utilized the expertise of KSBDC consultants when she was starting her business. "The professionals from the KSBDC provide a depth of expertise to anyone thinking about starting a business. I think they've seen it all, so they have great perspective," she said. "I appreciated their sound advice in MB Piland’s startup phase, and as an established business owner, I find the KSBDC a good resource for objective feedback and opportunities for continued learning." Emerging and Existing Businesses of the Year: Studio K Photography Kelli Higgins, owner Burlington AT-HOME Health Care Inc. David and Teresa Hurlocker, owners Emporia The Kitchen and Closet Solution Dustin Rupke and Brent Seib, owners Hays RoadRuner Manufacturing LLC Brad and Marie Skolout, owners Levant Project Fitness LLC Joey Kelch, owner Garden City The Main ARTery Jeani Gustafson, owner Ulysses Emily Hart Bridal Emily Miller-Brown, owner Leawood hr-haven inc. Belinda Waggoner, ownerOverland Park The Wreath Depot Steve LaForge and Jim Bennett, owners Tonganoxie Risley Chiropractic Scott Risley, owner Lawrence Phelps’s Hog Heaven Rick and Carol Phelps, owners Coffeyville Kids Kingdom Mona and Leland Hull, owners Iola Billy Vanilly Allyson Fiander, owner Topeka Renaissance Cellars Winery Tim Akers, Eric Stevenson, Marcia Stevenson and Rich Stevenson, owners St. Marys Clearwater Engineering Inc. David and Diane Cool, owners Clearwater Grassland Gardens Nursery & Flower Farm Trish Remley, owner Miltonvale For more information, contact Anne Woods, KSBDC assistant director of marketing and training, at 785-296-6514. About KSBDC The Kansas Small Business Development Center Network is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Kansas Department of Commerce. KSBDC is nationally accredited through the Association of Small Business Development Centers by congressional mandate. KSBDC receives funding from and partners with higher education and economic development organizations to provide Kansas entrepreneurs with no-cost business consulting and resources for starting, maintaining and growing their businesses. The statewide host for the KSBDC is Fort Hays State University. For more information about the KSBDC Network, contact 877-625-7232 or www.kansas.gov/ksbdc.Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4475http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4476Sixteen Fort Hays State University students and one faculty member spent Jan. 8 through Jan. 14 in Austin, Texas, for the Tigers in Service Alternative Winter Break. The theme for the trip this year was hunger relief in Texas. The team served meals to more than 600 people and distributed food rations to more than 200. "We worked with the Capital Area Food Bank in Austin, which provides less fortunate individuals with food items designed to make meals," said John Montgomery, instructor of leadership studies. "We also worked in their warehouse inspecting and packaging food items and with Caritas of Austin, which is similar to a soup kitchen. The final organization that we worked with is the Round Rock Serving Center in Round Rock, Texas, where we helped sort through clothes and various donated items for their organization." Students who were on the trip were: Andover: Sara Khan, junior. Aurora, Colo.: Jordon Roston, senior. Berryton: John Aguilar, junior. Castle Rock, Colo.: Emily Brettmann, sophomore. El Dorado: Kelly Nuckolls, senior. Garden City: Gustavo Reyes, junior. Goff: Matthew Niehues, junior. Greensburg: Justine Chadd, senior. Grenola: Kate Kill, sophomore. Hays: Jenna Schulte, sophomore. Hillsboro: Anthony Esau, junior. Hoisington: Bryant Davis, sophomore; Micala Jamison, junior. Solomon: Sarah Werling, freshman. Spring Hill: Ryan Bosse, senior. Wichita: Camille Gaddis, junior. "I think my favorite part of the trip was realizing homeless and hungry people are no different from any of us college students. All they want is a smile, some courtesy and respect," said Nuckolls. "I wanted to serve people during this Christmas season instead of just always helping myself. I had a month off of break and giving up one week to serve others was the best decision I made," said Chadd. The Tigers in Service Alternative Breaks have been offered to students for the past eight years and have gone to more than 10. Students interested in going on an alternative break trip need fill to out applications with Tigers in Service. Contact Tigers in Service for more information about its upcoming spring break trip at 785-628-4401.Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4476http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4477Forsyth Library at Fort Hays State University has announced a new exhibit on display on the top floor of the library donated by Del Ruff, Hutchinson native and graduate of Pittsburg State University. "The Ruff India Collection" is artifacts from Bombay, India and Ceylon that were collected by Ruff's father Glenn Ruff, who graduated from Fort Hays State University in 1929 and served in the American Red Cross, Military Welfare, from 1943-1945. Among the artifacts are coconut wood, ebony and ivory elephants, brass bowls, silver jewelry, and an antique snake charmer's flute. The exhibit may be viewed during library hours Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to midnight, Friday 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m. to midnight.Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4477http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4478Students involved in Greek life at Fort Hays State University raised more than $7,400 for local and national philanthropies and worked more than 1,500 hours of community service in fall 2011. The FHSU fraternity and sorority community is comprised of two sororities and four fraternities representing 159 university students. Information was self-reported by each chapter president for a report compiled by the Center for Student Involvement. Altogether, the Greek community performed 1,834 hours of community service during the semester. This means more than 23 hours of service was performed per member. Individual chapters donated a total of $7,445.29 to various charities or about $50 per member. Organizations receiving donations included Big Brothers Big Sisters; Children's Miracle Network; Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland; Herndon Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic; Options; Run for Regan; Special Olympics; St. Jude Children's Research Hospital; the Susan G. Komen Foundation; and United Way of Ellis County. Eighty-six percent of FHSU fraternity and sorority members are involved in co-curricular or community organizations such as the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, band, English Club, athletics and the Student Government Association along with many others. Twenty-six Greek community members were on the fall 2011 Dean's Honor Roll. For more information on Greek Life contact the Center for Student Involvement or www.fhsu.edu/greek.Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4478http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4462Two great musical performers, Eric Fritz and the Strung Out Trio, will perform as part of the Cottonwood Artist Series presented by the Fort Hays State University Department of Music and Theatre. Fritz, a tuba player from Hutchinson, will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 31, in the Palmer Recital Hall located in Malloy Hall, room 115, on campus. Fritz received his Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Southern California and went on for his Master of Music from the Juilliard School. He currently teaches at the University of Veracruz School of Music and the Instituto Superior de Musica del Estado de Veracruz, in Salamanca, Spain. He will be accompanied by Priscilla Hearn. The Strung Out Trio is Nathanael May, pianist; Matt Gould, guitar; and Beth Schneider-Gould, violin. The performance is at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 13, in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center in Sheridan Hall. Strung Out Trio has performed in Turkey, Cypress, Italy and throughout the United States. They have received four Grammy nominations and were awarded a prestigious Barlow Commissioning Grant in 2011. Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4462http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4463Twelve students from Fort Hays State University will volunteer at the Topeka Rescue Mission Center on Saturday, Jan. 28. The event is a part of the Kansas Board of Regents initiative to help fight hunger on college campuses, in the community and throughout the state and is sponsored by Tigers in Service, a student organization of the Center for Civic Leadership that promotes community service and volunteerism among students, and Kansas Corps. Students will assist in serving lunch to the homeless in the Topeka area, help organize food in the distribution center and receive a tour of the entire rescue mission center facilities. This event also coincides with Kansas Day, commemorating the admission of the state as the 34th state in the Union on Jan. 29, 1861. For more information, contact Tigers in Service at 785-628-5537.Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4463