http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents FHSU Current Events FHSU en-us http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4709For Alternative Winter Break, 19 Fort Hays State University students and one faculty member will volunteer with Tigers in Service in Tuscaloosa, Ala. The volunteers will work with Habitat for Humanity, Tuscaloosa, to build homes in the area. These homes are given to selected families who have completed all the requirements. From Jan. 12 through 19, volunteers will put in 8-hour days working on multiple houses and will bond with the local community. Shana Meyer, assistant vice-president for student affairs, will be the faculty sponsor for the trip. For the past 7 years, Tigers in Service has been taking groups of student volunteers to work on service projects outside of the state including reaching out to victims of Hurricane Katrina, working on hunger relief and working with communities in inner cities. Each year students leave with the knowledge and respect of a different community. Students are listed by hometown. Beloit: Brenna Johnson. Colorado Springs, Colo.: Tre' Giles. Concordia: Rachel Hasch. Firestone, Colo.: Sarah Myers. Fort Morgan, Colo.: Daniela Sanchez. Garden City: Gustavo Reyes. Grainfield: Tyler Weber. Hays: Shelby Smith, Becca Kohl. Halstead: Alayna Bergkamp. Iola: Britney Jacobs. Lenexa: Allison Maier Perryton, Texas: Alma Hidalgo. Plains: Juliana Herrera. Sharon: Mason Eck. St. John: Shaun Suppes. Topeka: Gabriel Garay. Wichita: Alesha Stroh Woodward, Okla.: Arin Powers Wed, 18 Dec 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4709http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4829Fort Hays State University's Department of Health and Human Performance and Campus Intramural and Recreational Sports 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 3 to June 13; June 17 to June 27; July 1 to July 12; and July 15 to July 25. All sessions will run Monday through Thursday. No classes will be taught on Thursday, July 4, in recognition of Independence Day. Applications will be taken until the classes are filled. Each class will accept 12 participants. 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 2 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, prepares students for more advanced courses, such as the water safety instructor course. On each day of each session, a parent-and-child class and a Level 1 class will begin at 8:30 a.m., a preschool aquatics class will be at 9:30 a.m., a Level 2 class at 10:30 a.m., a Level 3 class at 11:30 a.m., a Level 5 and a Level 6 class at 12:30 p.m., and a Level 4 class at 1:30 p.m. The Level 6 class will not be available during the June 3 through June 13 session. Each class will have a water safety instructor available as well as lifeguard assistants. Classes will last 30 to 45 minutes. The parent-child and preschool aquatics classes will last 30 to 35 minutes. On the first day of class, the water safety instructor may encourage the child to move up or down a level depending on the child's ability. 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. For private lesson information, contact Brittany Sheehan at 785-628-4373.Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4829http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4830Four students in the Department of Informatics at Fort Hays State University have accepted awards from the Kansas Association of Broadcasters. Anabel Sandmeier, a Limon, Colo., senior, received first place with her 2012-13 TV news anchor demo reel. Sophomore C.D. DeSalvo, Garden City, brought home second-place honors for his play-by-play football broadcast. Juniors Stephen Anderson, Kansas City, Kan., Garret Sager, Salina, and the KFHS crew as a whole earned honorable mentions for projects such as the 2012-13 televised Student Government Association presidential debate, spring 2012 newscasts and radio disc jockey airchecks. Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4830http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4827Dr. Beth Walizer, associate professor of teacher education, and Dr. Joyce Ellis, assistant professor of health and human performance, will present "Enhancing Academic Achievement Through Movement" on Monday, June 10, at Fort Hays State University's Sternberg Museum of Natural History. The workshop will illustrating how physical movement improves reading skills through cognitive functioning, increased motor abilities, promoting problem-solving skills and enhancing self-esteem. Lunch and refreshments are included in the $90 registration fee. Registration is due Monday, May 27, for graduate credit. The final deadline is Monday, June 3. The workshop is part of the Kansas Center for Innovative Education's summer workshop series. For more information or to register, visit www.fhsu.edu/kcie/events.Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4827http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4828Jessica Tormey, Derby, was named today as the recipient of the Torch Award as the outstanding graduating senior from the Class of 2013 at Fort Hays State University. She will receive a Bachelor of Science in business education and a B.S. in secondary education at Commencement, which begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 18, in Gross Memorial Coliseum. 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. Eugene Rice, associate professor and chair of the Department of Philosophy, was the Pilot Award Recipient, and Scott Jones, instructor of management and marketing, was given the Navigator Award. Dr. Marcy Aycock, a 1984 graduate of FHSU and president of the FHSU Alumni Association, introduced Tormey as the Torch Award winner. One faculty member, said Aycock, wrote of Tormey, "This student has demonstrated the self-will and determination to make her a successful student and contributor in society. It was very evident when I first met this individual that she would be a very special student to Fort Hays State University." She has been actively engaged in the Phi Beta Lambda and Collegiate DECA business organizations as well as FHSU’s Marketing Management Association, Student Government Association and Anderson VIP Ambassadors. She is also a former flutist in FHSU’s marching and concert bands and wind ensemble. In her work with the SGA, Tormey headed the highly important and sometimes very difficult Appropriations Committee for more than two full terms. Aycock also introduced the Pilot Award winner. Rice, she said, has produced "numerous scholarly publications and presentations, and in 2008 was selected as a Fulbright Visiting Specialist in Islamic Studies. In addition to numerous departmental and university committees, he served on the Kansas Board of Regents Core Outcomes Project representing the Philosophy Department." One student wrote of him, said Aycock, "This professor had the greatest attitude and kept a positive environment in the classroom at all times. This was not an easy class, but it made me think deeper than any class I have ever taken.” Alex Hendee, a senior from Roeland Park, who is completing his third term as the vice-president of the Student Government Association, presented Jones with his Navigator Award. Hendee said, "one of the graduating seniors who nominated Jones wrote that the professor 'treated me as a peer and worked with me outside of office hours to ensure I was successful. This individual is the epitome of what an outstanding advisor should be.' " The choice, said Hendee, was very difficult among the eight finalists but, in the end, he said, "despite the difficulty we faced making a decision, our choice was unanimous." 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, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4828http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4780The Dane G. Hansen Foundation has awarded the Department of Nursing at Fort Hays State University a $50,000 grant to provide scholarship support for undergraduate nursing students enrolled in the registered nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs. "This scholarship will help students afford a higher education from the Department of Nursing," said Dr. Christine Hober, chair of the Department of Nursing. "The expectations for the nursing profession have grown exponentially to include more complex patient care in all arenas of health care." "In addition to caring for complex patient needs," she said, "nurses are expected to demonstrate competency in the areas of evidence-based practice, health policy and cost, quality improvement, technology and information management systems, coordination of care, and collaboration with other professionals." A maximum of 25 students, enrolling full time or part time, will be eligible for this scholarship yearly. Applicants must live in a northwest Kansas county while attending Fort Hays State University, meet all admission criteria for the RN to BSN program, and agree to work full time in a northwest Kansas community for at least two years after graduation. Eligible counties are: Cheyenne, Cloud, Decatur, Ellis, Ellsworth, Gove, Graham, Jewell, Lincoln, Logan, Mitchell, Norton, Osborne, Ottawa, Phillips, Rawlins, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Saline, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Thomas, Trego and Wallace. For more information, contact the Department of Nursing at 785-628-4255.Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4780http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4781In a nationwide survey by U.S. News & World Report on best online programs for veterans, Fort Hays State University ranked ninth for the best bachelor's egree programs. The 153 bachelor's and master's degree programs surveyed were in education, nursing, engineering and business and are certified for two federal initiatives that help veterans reduce the cost of school -- the GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program. These institutions have also pledged to consider granting academic credit for military training and offer flexibility for distance learners taking courses at several schools. In order to qualify for the rankings, the programs had to be 100-percent online and numerically ranked in the broader U.S. News 2013 Best Online Education Programs rankings. For a complete listing of the rankings, visit http://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/bachelors/veteran-rankings?int=ec58cdThu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4781http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4782Fort Hays State University's Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree has gained approval of the American Chemical Society. Graduates of the FHSU chemistry program are eligible to be members of the society after graduation. A representative from the Committee on Professional Training visited the Chemistry Department in December 2011. After review, the committee concluded that the program met the "spirit and intent of the ACS guidelines for approved schools." "The ACS sets high standards for all parts of a degree program, so it is an honor rather than accreditation to have received their approval," said Dr. James Hohman, chair of the Department of Chemistry. "We had to update our degree program to meet the standards. We consider this an honor to be approved by the ACS."Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4782http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4826Fort Hays State University will launch a reconstituted academic journal later this month that will focus on student research. The first issue of the ALJ in Student Research will be published online on May 30 at www.academicleadership.org. Formerly known as the Academic Leadership Journal and housed within the College of Education and Technology, the new ALJ in Student Research is operated through the FHSU Graduate School. The journal is edited by Dr. Jerald W. Spotswood, assistant dean of the Graduate School. The ALJ in Student Research will publish undergraduate and graduate student articles from all disciplines, as well as faculty research that explores the intersection of student research with teaching and faculty research. "The new focus fits well with the Graduate School mission of promoting undergraduate and graduate research, and the publication of works by domestic and international students promotes our institutional mission of preparing students to be forward thinking and world ready," Spotswood said. The journal is housed at FHSU but represents a much wider spectrum of academia. The editorial board of the journal features both national and international scholars, and all submissions go through a blind review of at least two readings. Writers are given direction by the editorial board in an attempt to help students negotiate professional publication. The original Academic Leadership Journal, launched in 2003, was also published online. It was last published in 2012. Spotswood applied this year to the Library of Congress for a name change and a new International Standard Book Number (ISBN). The ALJ in Student Research will continue as an online journal with its new focus, new name and new editorial board. It will be published annually.Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4826http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4783Fort Hays State University President Edward H. Hammond began his State of the University address for 2013 with an unknown – that the budget is still uncertain because the Kansas Legislature has still not finished the state's budget, and then stated a known. "What we do know," he said, "is we've had an outstanding year, and the outstanding year is primarily because of each and every one of you, the work that you have put in to making our university not only truly unique but one that is looked upon by almost everyone in the state and a lot of people around the country as a very innovative, high-quality institution." Still, he said, the state budget state of flux "does change the fact that we still have to submit one to Topeka by the first of June." He proceeded to outline a "creative and innovative" approach. He had two primary objectives, to support and reward the creativity and innovation of the faculty and to continue "to try to guarantee that you are "adequately financially rewarded for the work that you do here at Fort Hays State University." "And so that's where our resources have gone." Most additional resources will go into eight or nine new faculty positions and in salaries for faculty and staff. He again lamented the fact that he cannot, by law, do anything for classified staff. The plan he outlined is to give raises of 2 percent merit pool, which will be added to base salaries. In addition, he will give an additional 2.5 percent in a bonus pool, to be paid across the 26 pay periods of the year. He went into the three sources of revenue for the university: the state, tuition, and growth. From the state, at best, he said, FHSU will hold even this year. Two proposals are in the Legislature: One will cut $700,000; the other cuts about $1.4 million or $1.5 million, basically a choice between a 2 percent or a 4 percent cut, he said. The governor's plan to hold higher education even, with no cut or increase, said Hammond, is not on the table. "It could get there quickly if they want to do it," he said, "but it currently isn't on the table." On tuition, the university is proposing a 3-percent increase, from about $108 to a little more than $111 per credit hour. Growth this year is not as much as last year, he said, but there is some growth money, and as a result of the tuition increase and growth, about $1.7 million will be available, the vast majority for the salary package, the 2-percent merit pool he is proposing in the budget for all unclassified employees. He noted that teaching faculty, through their bargaining unit, the AAUP, voted to distribute the 2-percent merit pool across the board, amounting to $1,100 per person. The bonus money, he said, is based on approximately $700,000 in energy savings expected from the two wind-power units, which will go online later this year. That amounts to another 2.5 percent. "If the Legislature does the right thing and not cut us during this year, sometime this fall or in January we'll flip that one-time bonus into your base," he said, which will make the merit pool total 4.5 percent. If, however, FHSU takes a 2-percent cut in state funding when the Legislature is done, the bonus will still be paid out in the coming fiscal year, but will end next year. If the university is cut more than 2 percent, he said, the bonus pool will still be paid out for FY2014, and the remainder of the cut will be made up out of strategic planning money, which has been done in the past. President Hammond drew applause at one point. He pointed to two summaries in the handout. One showed that, over the last four years, teaching faculty salaries across all ranks have increased by an average of 11.2 percent, which he said has not happened anywhere else. The applause came when he pointed to another table in the handout. This one showed that this year, for the first time in his 26 years as president, the average salary at each rank -- instructor, assistant professor, associate professor and full professor -- is higher at FHSU than at either Pittsburg State or Emporia State. The president also announced the recipients of the Faculty Awards for the spring semester. Dr. Beth Walizer, associate professor of teacher education, won the teaching award; Dr. Jennifer Bonds-Raacke, associate professor of psychology, was recognized for research; and Dr. Jenny Manry, assistant professor of nursing, was presented with the service award. All three recipients received a $500 award for their accomplishments. Tom Thomas, president of Commerce Bank, the corporate sponsor of the awards, presented the award checks. The convocation also featured the annual report from the president of the Faculty Senate, Dr. Emily Breit, assistant professor of economics, finance and accounting, and the annual meeting of the Graduate Faculty and the annual report of the dean of graduate studies, Dr. Tim Crowley. After the convocation, Lewis Automotive Group sponsored a reception for faculty, staff and administrators in one of the group's showrooms at 4440-4450 Vine.Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4783http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4784During a recent visit to Hong Kong, Dr. Houssain Kettani, professor of informatics and director of Fort Hays State University's Information Systems Engineering Program, was selected as a fellow in two international IT organizations: the International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology, and the Science and Engineering Institute. Both recognized Kettani for his research contributions and services. IACSIT is a registered non-profit international scientific association of distinguished scholars engaged in computer science and information technology. SCIEI is a non-profit association dedicated to promoting international education and university cooperation in the field of science and engineering.Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4784http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4785Fifteen education students at Fort Hays State University have been selected for special math and science teacher scholarships in three programs. The three programs are Noyce Teacher-Leader Scholars, Noyce Summer Scholars and the FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI) Steffens Scholarship. Some students earned scholarships are from more than one area. Noyce Teacher-Leaders is a competitive scholarship program that prepares students on at least junior level to become an outstanding science or mathematics teacher serving in a high-needs school district. These individuals are selected for one of six $12,000 scholarships, renewable for a second year. They will receive specialized coursework such as using distance learning technologies in the classroom, leadership and professional development on issues facing high-needs school districts. These students also will travel to conferences and will receive support over the first three years of their transition from students to teachers. Noyce Teacher-Leader Scholars are listed by hometown with classifications and majors: COLBY: Amanda Barnum, junior majoring in mathematics education. GARDEN PLAIN: Julie Weber, senior majoring in biology education. GREAT BEND: Karli Henning, senior majoring in biology education. JUNCTION CITY: Matt Spurlock, sophomore majoring in physics. PARKER, Colo.: Nathan Purdue, junior majoring in chemistry education. ST. JOHN: Nikolaus Boyle, senior majoring in mathematics education. The Noyce Summer Scholar program provides students a $2,400 stipend to work for the SMEI in summer youth programs. This program is open to FHSU students, community college students and students considering transferring to FHSU to enter the education program. Students must have completed at least the freshman year. Noyce Summer Scholars are listed by hometown with classifications and majors: EVERGREEN, Colo.: Hailey Davey, sophomore majoring in mathematics education. GARDEN CITY: Venessa Saucedo, sophomore majoring in mathematics eduation. GOESSEL: Aidan Winblad, junior majoring in physics. HAZELTON: Shauna Guyle, sophomore majoring in mathematics education. ST. FRANCIS: Christian Hilt, sophomore majoring in biology; Shayla Hilt, junior majoring in mathematics education. Each year, SMEI awards the Steffens Scholarship to promising secondary science, technology, engineering and mathematics students. Each recipient receives a $2,000 scholarship. Recipients are selected based on GPA, interest and letter of support. SMEI Steffens Scholarship recipients are listed by hometown with classifications and majors: DODGE CITY: Garrit Flax, junior majoring in biology education. EVERGREEN, Colo.: Hailey Davey, sophomore majoring in mathematics education. HAYS: David Adams, senior majoring in biology education. HAZELTON: Shauna Guyle, sophomore majoring in mathematics education. HILLSBORO: Jamie Spoonemore, senior majoring in mathematics education.Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4785http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4786For all high school students, Fort Hays State University Academic Advising and Career Exploration Center (AACE) will host "Your GPS to Major Exploration" from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Thursday, May 30, in McCartney Hall, room 114. Registration is $30 per student. The early registration deadline is Thursday, May 23. The workshop is designed to help high school students identify college academic programs that match their interests, abilities, values and strengths. Students will take two career assessments administered by an AACE staff member. The staff will also help each student interpret the results to find the best college majors, prepare for scholarship interviews and write college admissions essays. Participants will be provided lunch and snacks during the workshop and will have an opportunity to sign-up for a campus tour. Tours will be given after the completion of the workshops. For more information or to register, contact AACE at 785-628-5577 or email at advising@fhsu.edu.Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4786http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4787The 27 members of the 2013 class of the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science will walk across the stage at Commencement beginning at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 11, in the Fort Hays Ballroom on the second floor of the Memorial Union. This is the academy's third graduating class. They arrived at Fort Hays State University, home of KAMS, in August 2011. Following in the tradition of the first two classes, members of the 2013 class gave themselves a name: Voyagers. "Nine students out of the 27, exactly one third, will remain here at FHSU," said Ron Keller, KAMS director. "Three will be going to Kansas State University, five to the University of Kansas, two to Wichita State University, one to the University of Rochester, one to Iowa State University, one to Rice University, one to the Missouri University of Science and Technology, one to Rhodes University in Tennessee, two to the Colorado School of Mines and one to the University of Denver. One of our 2013 graduates is undecided between FHSU and the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology." Dr. Edward Hammond, FHSU president, will give the address at the KAMS Commencement. Two students, Katharine Goebel, El Dorado, and Alec Weaver, Olathe, will give speeches on behalf of their class. Faculty will be in full regalia, and students will wear gowns and mortarboards. A large reception will follow the graduation ceremony in the ballroom. Students will showcase memorabilia from their two years in KAMS and other accomplishments. The academy's co-founders, Dr. Donald Norwood and Professor Jerry Magliano, will also be present. "All the students plan to attend the KAMS Commencement and their high school graduation ceremonies," said Keller. "This class has been extremely active in and around the campus. They have served in the FHSU Student Government Association, as officers in other student organizations and in civic projects." Some of the many notable accomplishments by members of the Voyagers class include: · Deborah Denny was named a National Merit Finalist, and Morgen Smith and Rex Miller were named National Merit Semi-Finalists. · Lexia Aurand been named a Dane G. Hansen Leader of Tomorrow, one of only 10 individuals per year who receive the award. · Morgen Smith was recognized as a Kansas Governor’s Scholar as one of the top 1 percent of high school seniors. · Steven Powell released a music video in late March. · Hayley Disney and Quentin Aker were finalists in the Stockholm Water Challenge; they were recognized with the U.S. Army Certificate and cash award, they were finalists in the Bio Genius Competition, and they were second overall in Division I at the State Science and Engineering Fair. · Bliss Betzen and Cera Smart placed third in the Kansas Academy of Science 145th annual meeting and undergraduate poster presentation. The Kansas Board of Regents sited KAMS on the FHSU campus in 2008 following a selection process. The Kansas Legislature established the Academy to promote mathematics and science education, to reduce the "brain drain" in which many of the best and brightest young Kansans go away to out-of-state universities and never return, and to promote economic development by providing a well-educated workforce. Dr. Roger Schieferecke, KAMS associate director for student services, said students in the Voyagers class have been active in Custer Hall Council, the Residential Hall Association, Student Government Association, Pre-Med Club, Chemistry Club, chorale groups, marching band, orchestra, Christian Challenge, intramurals, the Hispanic American Leadership Organization, the American Democracy Project, FHSU Electric Car Team, Astronomy Club, Fort Hays Honor Society and many others. "They have flourished as individuals and will make everyone proud of them as they go forth to continue their education and establish their careers and their lives," said Keller. "This class has been awesome. We could share their stories forever. They have really embraced their research, which is a key component of the KAMS experience." Voyagers, the Class of 2013, are listed alphabetically by last name with sponsoring high school (in bold), parents and hometown: Quentin Aker, Northeast Magnet, Steven and Suzan Aker, Wichita. Lexia Aurand, Republic County, Clay and Gina Aurand, Belleville. Bliss Betzen, Parson High, Ron Betzen and Kim Foister, Parsons. Emily Cress, Sterling High, Galen and Edith Cress, Lyons. Eric Crook, Ottawa High, Craig and Sara Crook, Ottawa. Amber Curtis, Bucklin High, John and Sherry Curtis, Bucklin. Deborah Denny, Lyons High, John and Mary Denny, Hutchinson. Hayley Disney, Washburn Rural High, Barry and Jeanne Disney, Topeka. Joseph Dougherty, Anderson County Jr/Sr High, Joseph and Rachel Dougherty, Garnett. Samantha Elledge, Clay Center Community High, Michael Elledge and Mary Roth, Green. Andrew Foust, Augusta High, Nathaniel Foust and Sonya Elliott, Augusta. Katharine Goebel, El Dorado High, Thomas and Cecilia Goebel, El Dorado. Alex Hatfield, Bluestem High, Dennis and Melissa Hatfield, Leon. Jessica Hayes, Buhler High, Devon Hayes and Stephanie Neushafer, Buhler. Joshua Hoover, Washington County High, Gerald and Jill Hoover, Washington. Dallas Hyder, Olathe East, Robert and Sonja Hyder, Olathe. Jinho Jung, Yusof Ishak Secondary School, Paul Jang (uncle) and Hwang Yongnam, South Korea. Tengzhi Liu, Guangzhou Xiehe High, Chunming Liu and Feng Chen, China. Rex Miller, Olathe North, Fredrick and Julie Miller, Olathe. Trisha Penning, Atchison County Community High, Thomas and Theresa Penning, Atchison. Steven Powell, Maize High School, Regenald and Kathy Powell, Wichita. Laura Rokey, Sabetha High, Thomas and Rebecca Rokey, Sabetha. Cera Smart, Royal Valley High, Jay Smart and Melissa Slater, Mayetta. Morgen Smith, Holton High, Porter and Terri Smith, Holton. Brandon Tomas, Northeast Magnet, Jorge and Tina Tomas, Wichita. Alec Weaver, Spring Hill High, Gregg and Janice Weaver, Olathe. Luke Wright, Abilene High, Bruce and Lisa Wright, Abilene.Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4787http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4788Molly Johnson, a Phoenix, Ariz., sophomore at Fort Hays State University, won the Senior Miss Majorette of Kansas competition in Lenexa. She has been competing for 16 years and has won numerous awards and titles. Johnson is a second-time competitor in the event and came away with first place this year. Three preliminary events are modeling in an evening gown with an interview, a solo routine with one baton, and a strut routine. The judges take the highest scores in each event and determine the winner. Each contestant is judged three different times. Johnson has now qualified to compete at nationals in July for the title of Miss Majorette of America. Nationals are at Notre Dame, South Bend, Ind. "The title is mainly to promote the sport of baton twirling and to support your college," said Johnson. "I am extremely happy and can't wait to compete at nationals!" Johnson is a four-time national flag champion, a four-time national hoop champion and a two-time national three-baton champion. She was named Team Member of the Year by the Phoenix Superstars baton twirling team for several consecutive years in Phoenix among numerous other awards. "I was crowned Miss Twirling Athletes Outstanding Teen for three years, which allowed me to compete in the Miss Arizona's Outstanding Teen Pageant," said Johnson. "I won the talent award all three years, first runner up Quality of Life Award and Favorite Contestant Award." She began the sport as a little girl with her friends. "I was involved in dance also as a young girl, but I didn't really enjoy it as much as I did twirling," she said. "From then on, it has been a major part of my life and I don't know what or where I would be without it."Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4788http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4790Twelve graphic design students at Fort Hays State University won scholarships in the recent Leo Burnett Portfolio Scholarship Review. "Leo Burnett donates every year to our graphic design program," said Karrie Simpson Voth, professor of art and design. "They actually donate $10,000 annually, and of that money, half is set aside for student scholarships and the other goes into a fund that benefits all of the students in the program. We use that money to buy printers, paper, ink and to replace broken equipment. "Leo Burnett only supports a handful of universities, and FHSU is the smallest one of all," she said. Kerry Soukup, a 1999 FHSU graduate, and Amber Hampton, a 2001 and 2003 FHSU graduate, flew to Hays to review 26 student portfolios and to award $5,000 in student scholarships. Soukup is senior vice president and executive creative director, and Hampton is associate creative director for Leo Burnett. Leo Burnett is one of the most awarded creative communications companies in the world, creating work for some of the world's most valuable brands including Sprint, McDonald's. Kellogg's, Coca Cola and many others. The scholarship winners: Overall Senior Portfolios CHINA: Yi Min, third place, $500. HAYS: Cody Custer, second place, $750. WRAY, Colo.: Anthony Fecht, first place, $1,000. Overall Junior Portfolios GLENDALE, Ariz.: Timmy Parker, first place, $750. HAYS: Juan Coca Rodriguez, second place, $500. MAIZE: Josh White, third place, $300. LEO B Awards ARLINGTON, Texas: Cari Kelly, junior, $200. HUTCHINSON: Tyler Kruger, junior. $200. LIMA, Peru: Gabriela Saravia, junior, $200. SENECA: Julie Sperfslage, senior. $200. WICHITA: Tuan Huynh, senior, $200; Jane Tarbutton, senior, $200.Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4790http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4791With Gov. Sam Brownback as a special guest, Fort Hays State University officials gathered this morning to break ground for a new academic building. Rain forced the proceedings indoors, to the Memorial Union's Stouffer Lounge. Scheduled to open in June 2014, in time for the start of the 2014-2015 academic year, the 37,150-square-foot Center for Networked Learning will house the Virtual College, the Center for Teaching Excellence and Learning Technology, the Department of Informatics, the radio and TV studios, an integrated newsroom, and laboratories for FHSU's new information systems engineering program. The plans include 1,400 square feet of "shell space" for future growth. "Incredible advances in technology have transformed FHSU as an institution of higher learning, creating the need for a new model of academic space to capitalize on the potential of virtual learning environments, experience-based education, cultural enrichment and new approaches to discovery, research and creativity," said Dr. Edward H. Hammond, FHSU president. "The Center for Networked Learning will provide a perfect setting for these advances in education." The president also noted that the new academic building, with its emphasis on communication technology, comes at an opportune time. "I just received recommendations from the Task Force on Dissemination of News and Information," he said. "As we decide how to implement those recommendations for creating a new model of integrated student media, we will have the Center for Networked Learning available to provide whatever space is needed." Dr. Hammond thanked Gov. Brownback for attending the ceremony. "In light of Gov. Brownback's grand experiment to accelerate the Kansas economy, we are pleased to point out that this project will have a major impact on our local economy. Paul-Wertenberger Construction Inc. of Hays is our general contractor for the project, and RDH Electric and Werth Heating Plumbing and AC are sub-contractors. We are also pleased to emphasize that no state tax dollars were appropriated for this building." The president preceded his introduction of the governor with an announcement that the new building's lobby would be named the Dole Family Lobby, in honor of former Sen. Bob Dole, his brother and two sisters, for their history of support and service to the state and their financial support of this particular project as well. "Congratulations on a fabulous new facility," said Gov. Brownback. He picked up on Dr. Hammond's announcement of Sen. Dole's support, noting that, when Dole was first elected to the U.S. House, Kansas had six representatives. Now it is four, "headed toward three," he said. Kansas was then the 29th most populous state in the country; now it is 35th "headed toward 36th." The governor promoted his economic plans for the state as the counter to a program of "managed decline," and then pointed to Fort Hays State as perfect example of growth and progress, the antidote to "managed decline." "Fort Hays State is a great model of how you do it," said Gov. Brownback. "You provide a great education and you hold your tuition down, and strangely, people respond and your enrollment goes up dramatically. It's not without risk and it's not without difficulty, but if you don't do that, your trajectory is probably on the other path." He also gave a preview of the themes he would address at a news conference he would hold immediately following the ceremony to promote his plans for funding higher education in Kansas. "But," he said, "today's about Hays, Fort Hays State -- great growth, great future." And, speaking of the university's new information systems engineering program that will be housed in the building, he called it one of the key higher education investments to be made in the future of the state. "God bless you, congratulations," he concluded, "and go Tigers." Representatives for FHSU faculty and students also spoke during the ceremony. "Construction of the Center for Networked Learning is a great example of synergy between our forward-thinking, world-ready philosophy and the growth of the campus," said Dr. Chapman Rackaway, professor of political science and past president of the Faculty Senate. "When we build, we build smart. This project will create new opportunities for faculty and students. The timing syncs perfectly with the media task force's recommendations. Both provide us a chance to build interdisciplinary bridges that in the end will serve our students better." Kyle Calvin, president of the Student Government Association, called the beginning of construction on the Center for Networked Learning a monumental day for the university. "One of my reasons for coming to this campus nearly three years ago, besides its affordability and high-quality education, was the appealing campus," Calvin said. "Construction of this new academic building over Big Creek instead of through it is a testament to the university's continued preservation of the resplendent landscape and environment." He continued: "I can tell you already my favorite part about this building, before construction has even began, and that is it hasn’t come at the expense of the student. Neither student fees nor tuition were increased in order to construct this building. With this decision, FHSU has decided not to contribute to the increase of national student debt that now ranges above one trillion dollars. Also, by not forcing students to foot the bill, we are effectively allowing more access to higher education." The Center for Networked Learning, at a cost of more than $10.5 million, will complete an ambitious array of four major construction projects at FHSU. The first -- an extension of Dwight Drive -- was completed in July 2012. The total project cost for the road, which was built by Apac-Kansas Inc. of Hays, was about $500,000. Another recent capital project is the Schmidt/Bickle Indoor Training Facility, which is nearing completion. It is scheduled to open at the end of this month. With a cost of nearly $4.2 million, the 50,400-square-foot indoor athletic training facility is located at the southeast corner of the FHSU campus near the football stadium. The fourth project is the new residential facility on the site of the former Agnew Hall. The new Agnew Hall, with 123 beds, opened before the start of the current academic year. The second phase, Heather Hall, will provide an additional 107 beds when it opens in fall 2013. The total cost for the project is $9.2 million. Paul-Wertenberger Construction is also the developer/contractor for the Tiger Place project. Opportunities are available for alumni and friends to partner with FHSU in building and equipping the forward-thinking Center for Networked Learning. Donors may have their names attached to a space within the new facility, such as a photo studio, the newsroom, a student lounge, a conference room or any entryway. Spaces are first come, first served. For information about naming opportunities, call the FHSU Foundation at 785-628-5620 or visit http://foundation.fhsu.edu/cnl.php.Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4791http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4789Fort Hays State University has teamed up with American Student Assistance (ASA) on a movement to address the college affordability issue by revolutionizing how students and alumni finance and repay student loans. In 2012, ASA launched "SALT," a financial education membership program that teaches students how to borrow less and more wisely for higher education, how to repay student loans successfully, and how to build better overall financial skills in life. The ASA's goal with SALT is to transform students from passive financial aid recipients to proactive, financially savvy consumers who truly own their student loans and finances. Through this educational membership program, FHSU and ASA are helping students learn how to navigate higher education financing, successfully manage any resulting debt, and build money skills for life. FHSU joins a growing number of higher education institutions nationwide -- from four-year colleges to community colleges -- that have already signed on with the SALT movement. SALT schools' students and alumni automatically become SALT members and gain full access to the program's services. Multiple administrative offices on campus, from financial aid to student affairs, will actively partner with ASA to drive SALT awareness and engagement among students and alumni. While a college degree has never been more valuable than in today's global economy, many students are unsure of how to successfully pay for higher education. Approximately 12 million students borrow for college each year, but many make uniformed decisions, either borrowing more than they need to failing to take advantage of the lowest rates and flexible payment options. SALT is a dynamic, multi-channel program that combines online and offline interaction to deliver decision support, engaging content and one-on-one loan repayment guidance in a simple, useful and motivating experience. It uses a variety of channels to engage student and alumni members and positively influence behavior. Members receive proactive communication about student loan repayment options, repayment counseling with student loan experts, a personalized online dashboard to track all their federal and private student loans in one place along with multiple other benefits. SALT was created by the ASA, a 56-year-old nonprofit organization. Previous ASA programs have demonstrated that students provided with proactive, customized and targeted communication are 50 percent less likely to fail in loan repayment. For more information about SALT, go to saltmoney.org or follow SALT at www.facebook.com/saltmoney or @SALT_MONEY on Twitter.Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4789http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4792Students majoring in teacher education at Fort Hays State University have the opportunity to participate in a service learning project for Volcanes Primary School in Mexico. "The Volcanes Service Learning project provides an international service learning experience to teacher candidates in the on-campus and virtual sections of the diverse learners course," said Dr. Lorie Cook-Benjamin, assistant professor of teacher education. "The project is implemented through an Internet-based, clinical-based practice that focuses on multiple aspects of diversity." Cook-Benjamin said aspects of diversity include culture, ethnicity, nationality, religion, language, social class, social status, sexuality, gender, geographic region and ability/disability. After watching pre-recorded classroom sessions of Volcanes third- and fourth-grade students, FHSU students reflect on their course content and what is portrayed in the recordings. The project concludes with the teacher candidates creating a take-home activity focused on the diversity of language. The activity is then shared with the Volcanes staff, students and the students' families. "We do not have a set curriculum or textbooks in Volcanes, so we are always open to suggestions and new ideas for teaching English," said Megan Shelton, English coordinator at Volcanes and liaison for the Department of Advanced Education Programs. "This project has been designed so that the students can share what they are learning with their families. The candidates really enjoy creating these projects, and because some of our teachers and volunteers have little to no teaching experience, the lesson plans are extremely helpful." In addition to benefiting students at Volcanes Primary School, Cook-Benjamin said, this project also benefits the teacher candidates. "The project expands the candidates' connections within their educational career as well as in other careers," she said. "This is due to a virtual experience in another country, school system and culture. It also promotes commitment to lifelong learning, social relevance and global engagement." "It showed me that I have opportunities to really make a difference and that I can teach anywhere," said Karisa Kaiser, Hoisington senior. "I have the capabilities to spread knowledge across the world. The Internet has really broadened our spectrum and allows us to connect with others in distant places." "Service learning projects allow you to experience how activities work in the real world," said Lindsay Day, Liberal senior. "Seeing how students react to your lessons and other lesson plans allows the teacher candidate experience teaching in an authentic situation. It provides opportunities to address eduction problems and know how to prepare for them. I also feel this helps with experiencing diversity for those who might not have as much experience with diversity." "The Volcanes Service Learning Project helps provide a look at a completely different culture of students," said Margaret "Meg" Kepka, Lyons senior. "It helps to see how many children need good education and how much you can change one student's life." Shelton and Cook-Benjamin said that the connection between FHSU and Volcanes helps their teacher candidates make real world connections to diverse learners. After completing this project, many candidates have also expressed interest in teaching abroad. "The candidates realize that it does not take much to run an effective classroom where students are engaged and excited to be learning," said Shelton. "Many are shocked by how bare the classroom is in Volcanes but marvel at how excited the students are to learn, even without the use of individual iPads, Smartboards, elaborate classroom decorations or even AC." "I feel more confident about teaching students whose native language is not English," said Tricia Stockwell, Grayson, Ga., senior. "This project allowed me to see that all students can learn from a teacher who is willing to dedicate time to teach." "I feel lucky to have been able to go to such a good school growing up," said Carson Konrade, Spearville junior. "I think my favorite part of the project was knowing that we were all helping these children who were going to school without the greatest conditions." "The FHSU students are able to see that children are alike all over the world, and there's no need to feel apprehensive when teaching a child who is culturally or economically diverse from you," said Shelton.Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4792http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4793Alma Hidalgo, a Perryton, Texas, senior who will return to Fort Hays State University in August to pursue a graduate degree, won the biggest prize, a $1,000 scholarship, at the FHSU Foundation's inaugural Student Awareness Lunch on April 24. Dayna Ball, Ellinwood junior, won a $500 Community Drive Scholarship. Hays graduate student Shanae Barnes, WaKeeney junior Jerry Coleman, Winfield freshman Matt Kaiser, Atwood freshman Haley McCain and Beloit sophomore Kevin Williams each won a $100 scholarship. All scholarships are for use in fall 2013. Nearly 400 students turned out for lunch. Hot dogs and chips were served, and students were given the opportunity to meet Foundation staff, see the Robbins Center and enter for scholarship drawings. Scholarship winners were selected by random draw. The lunch closed out the Foundations's first-ever Student Awareness Campaign, begun this year with the objective of increasing awareness of what the Foundation does and how it has a direct impact on everyday campus life. The Foundation enlisted the help of a team from a Leadership Studies 310: Fieldwork in Leadership class to help with the campaign. Under the direction of the FHSU Foundation’s Annual Giving Department, the team of Travis Budke, Hays senior, Nolan Burns, Kensington senior, Danielle Dougherty, Little River senior, and Joel Iman, Agra sophomore, designed and printed 80 signs that were staked all over campus. Leadership Studies 310 is a flagship class of the Leadership Studies Department in which students select from a list of potential projects and work with their sponsor to plan and execute a strategic plan. The class is designed to teach service learning and takes the concepts learned in the classroom and applies them in the field.Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4793http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4794Fort Hays State University, the fastest growing university in the Kansas Board of Regents system over the past decade, will recognize a record number of graduates in three separate ceremonies this month. Students who are receiving advanced degrees will participate in Commencement at 6 p.m. Friday, May 17, 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 18, also in Gross Memorial Coliseum. In addition, members of the third graduating class of the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science, which is located at FHSU, will have their own Commencement a week earlier at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 11, in the Memorial Union Ballroom. FHSU has more than doubled its enrollment over the past decade, rising above 13,300 in the fall 2012 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 3,486 graduates this year, which includes associate, bachelor and graduate-level degrees. That is an all-time record. Degrees will go to students who completed graduation requirements in summer 2012, fall 2012 and spring 2013. This year's total of 3,486 compares to 3,151 last year, an increase of 10.6 percent. 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 less than two hours. An added convenience at the ceremonies on May 17 and May 18 will be a Commencement application that is accessible on smart phones. The app will be available for iPhone, Android and BlackBerry platforms, but not for iPads. It will be open to the public. No special access code is needed. The link to download the mobile app, which will launch the week of May 6, will be http://fhsugraduation.quickmobile.mobi. The app will be available on the App Store (iTunes) after it is launched. In the App Store, it will be available by simply searching for FHSU or FHSU Commencement (and a selection of other key words). Those attending either of the two Commencements will be able to use the app to access several features: · Schedule will generate a list of sessions and events with detailed overviews; · What's On will allow for an instant viewing of listed events in progress and events commencing within the following two hours; · Attendees will list names, hometowns and degrees of the graduates; · City Guide will locate hotels, restaurants and attractions utilizing Google Maps; · Info Booth will have important information about the Commencement ceremony; · Documents will have a campus map, a digital copy of the program and the Commencement DVD order form; · Facebook will link to the FHSU Commencement Facebook page; · Twitter will link to a Twitter feed about Commencement; and · Photos will allow users to upload photos to the mobile app database. In the case of something unexpected, such as an accident on U.S. 183 Bypass during the ceremony, the Commencement app will provide real-time information about how to avoid traffic problems. Doors will open at GMC for graduate students and their guests at 5 p.m. Friday, May 17. Water and soft drinks will be available following graduate Commencement in GMC's Victor E. Lounge. Doors will open at GMC for undergraduates and their guests at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 18. 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. Fred Logan, vice 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 17, which is open to all members and guests of the Class of 2013. 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.Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4794http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4795Fort Hays State University's master's degree in psychology has been ranked as the third-best buy in the nation by geteducated.com. Rankings are based off of the best buy for psychologist, counselors and social scientists seeking high-quality and low-cost online programs and comprehensive reviews of 71 online master's offered by regionally accredited universities. Geteducated.com is a website which strives to "Help America Get Educated about the best online degrees." The number one ranked school is California State University: Dominguez Hills which costs $9,900 and in last is the University of Southern California at $88,605. FHSU's degree costs $10,861, below the average $27,416. The top 33 are listed at, http://www.geteducated.com/online-college-ratings-and-rankings/best-buy-lists.Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4795http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4796Dr. Arvin Cruz, assistant professor of chemistry at Fort Hays State University, will host a Scholarly and Creative Activities Day presentation titled "Artificial Dyes Used in Solar Energy Conversion (What's A Carrot Got To Do With It?)" from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 1, in the Trails Room in the Memorial Union on the FHSU campus. Current science has tried to tackle the issue of energy consumption in various ways, including solar energy, but conversion of solar energy to useable electricity is only 50-percent effective. One approach to improve the conversion rate is to mimic photosynthesis using the materials derived from beta-carotene, which serves as molecular light-harvesting antennas. Cruz has worked with three students on this project: Jared Hass, Superior, Neb., junior, Diedre Kramer, Clayton freshman, and Shiloh Wedermyer, Quinter sophomore. The Scholarly and Creative Activities Day is a day to showcase and celebrate the research done by facutly and students at FHSU.Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4796http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4797President Edward H. Hammond and Provost Larry Gould will host a luncheon on Tuesday, May 7, in the Memorial Union to honor the services of ten Fort Hays State University faculty, in the Fort Hays Ballroom of the Memorial Union. The ten faculty members listed below either retired within the last year or will retire this spring or summer. Dr. Amy Finch, professor of communication disorders. Dr. Rita Hauck, professor of technology studies. Martha Holms, assistant professor of art and design. John Huber, associate professor of music and theatre. Suzanne Klaus, manager of Web Services at University Relations. Dr. Carol Moore, assistant professor of nursing. Dr. Paul Phillips, professor of geosciences. Lotti Porsi, R.N. student health center. Dr. Pam Shaffer, professor of English. Robert Swindler, instructional technology coordinator, College of Business and Entrepreneurship.Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4797http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4798The early registration deadline has passed for the Fort Hays State University Color OUT Cancer 5K event at 10 a.m., Saturday, May 4, but participants can register until the run starts. Late registration does not include a T-shirt, but participants can still be involved in all activities. The race will begin at Gross Memorial Coliseum with fluorescent powder flying as participants run or walk. Up 'til Dawn is hosting the run/walk to raise money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. "We hold many side events during the year and like to incorporate activities that are interesting to all ages," said Marcella Marez, instructor of communication studies and Up 'til Dawn advisor. "The kids at St. Jude love looking at the pictures from the events. It's all in the spirit of our theme this year, 'Find the SuperHero in You.'" The registration fee, $20, includes all activities for the day. Visit the Up 'til Dawn Facebook fan page to find the Color OUT Cancer event for more information or to register.Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4798http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4799More than $200,000 will be awarded at Fort Hays State University's College of Business and Entrepreneurship Annual Awards Ceremony at 3 p.m. Thursday, May 2, in the Memorial Union's Fort Hays Ballroom. A short social hour will follow. The 113 scholarships total approximately $93,000. Seventeen full-time graduate assistantships are to be awarded with stipends totaling $119,000. Donors of scholarships and students and their parents are invited to attend. For more information, contact the College of Business and Entrepreneurship at 785-628-5339.Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4799http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4800Fort Hays State University will participate in a delegation to Brazil from May 5 through 10 to meet with potential partner universities. The Institute of International Education is leading the delegation, which includes representatives from 15 U.S. institutions. In addition to FHSU, the participating institutions are Arizona State University, Ball State University, California State University-Long Beach, Central College, Howard University, Indian Hills Community College, Morgan State University, Parsons-The New School for Design, Savannah State University, SUNY Plattsburgh, the University of Tulsa, Washington and Jefferson College, Webster University, and Western Michigan University. Cindy Elliott, assistant provost for strategic partnerships, and Dr. Tim Crowley, dean of the Graduate School, will represent FHSU on the trip to Brazil. The study tour is the centerpiece of IIE's year-long International Academic Partnership Program focusing on Brazil. According to the IIE: "This timely visit comes at an exciting moment in U.S.-Brazil academic relations, with the Brazil Scientific Mobility Program in full swing and a major academic collaboration with Harvard and MIT in the works, following an unprecedented visit to Boston by Brazil’s president Dilma Roussef last year to sign agreements with these two campuses." IIE will lead the delegation of U.S. educators to São Paulo, Campinas, Recife, Salvador, and Brasília to visit public and private higher education institutions and meet with officials from the Fulbright Commission and other international organizations, as well as Brazil’s Ministry of Education, Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, and the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development. In addition, the delegation will participate in several high-level policy events, including a U.S.-Brazil Partnerships Roundtable in São Paulo. This roundtable discussion will include representatives of Brazilian higher education institutions from across the country and will focus on the challenges and opportunities in expanding U.S.-Brazil educational relations. “At a time when Brazil is emerging as a cultural and economic powerhouse in the region, and the United States looks to forging unprecedented ties in trade and scientific development, we at IIE believe the two countries should develop strong partnerships in higher education as well,” said IIE President and CEO Allan E. Goodman. IIE launched the International Academic Partnership Program in 2009 to help U.S. colleges and universities develop strategic plans for partnering with certain focus countries. IIE has led delegations to China, India, Brazil and Myanmar in the past few years. Recent research and reports issued by IIE’s Center for International Partnerships in Higher Education have highlighted the increasing importance of strategic international partnerships in building the capacity of academic institutions and providing a global environment for students and faculty. IIE is partnering with the Brazilian government on the new Brazil Scientific Mobility Program, which seeks to send 100,000 students overseas for science education and training, including 20,000 to the United States. IIE has been working closely with CAPES and CNPq to place the undergraduate scholarship students at U.S. universities. These scholarships are specifically targeted to produce a workforce that is trained in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields and has the language and cultural skills needed to succeed in the workplace. IIE anticipates there will be increased interest in coming to the United States to study as the students return to Brazil and share their experiences with their friends and classmates. IIE is working with EducationUSA to hold U.S. University Fairs in Brazil to connect the U.S. universities directly with students interested in STEM fields and to showcase opportunities for students to study in these fields at accredited U.S. colleges and universities. The fairs are being held on April 27 in Sao Paulo, April 29 in Recife and May 4 in Rio de Janeiro. This is part of a new series of U.S. University STEM Fairs in Latin America, which includes university fairs and school visits in several cities in Mexico, Brazil and Chile. Both the partnership program and the fairs will advance the international student exchanges with the region that are the centerpiece of President Obama’s "100,000 Strong in the Americas," an initiative launched in 2011 to increase international study in Latin America and the Caribbean, and the purpose of which is to "foster region-wide prosperity through greater international exchange of students, who are our future leaders and innovators." The initiative aims to build closer people-to-people ties among the people of the Western Hemisphere and to help address common challenges, including citizen security, economic opportunity, social inclusion and environmental sustainability. About the Institute of International Education The Institute of International Education is a world leader in the international exchange of people and ideas. An independent, nonprofit organization founded in 1919, IIE has a network of over 20 offices worldwide and over 1,000 member institutions. IIE designs and implements programs of study and training for students, educators, young professionals and trainees from all sectors with funding from government agencies, foundations, and corporations. IIE also conducts policy research and program evaluations, and provides advising and counseling on international education and opportunities abroad. Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4800http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4801"The Glass Menagerie," a four-character memory play by Tennessee Williams, will debut at Fort Hays State University beginning Thursday, May 2, and run through Sunday, May 5. Performances start at 7:30 p.m., Thursday through Saturday and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. All performances are at Felten-Start Theatre in Malloy Hall on the FHSU campus. The play depicts Amanda Wingfield, a faded and tragic remnant of Southern gentility who lives in poverty in a dingy St. Louis apartment with her son, Tom, and daughter, Laura. As the plot unfolds, the world of illusion that Amanda and Laura have striven to create in order to make life bearable collapses about them. As the title of the play informs us, the glass menagerie, or collection of animals, is the play’s central symbol. Laura’s collection o f glass animal figurines represents a number of facets of her personality. Like the figurines, Laura is delicate, fanciful and old-fashioned. Tickets are $15 for the general public and $7 for FHSU students and senior citizens. For more information, contact the Department of Music and Theatre at 785-628-4533.Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4801http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4802Seven organizations were honored at the recent 2013 Student Organization Awards hosted by Fort Hays State University's Center for Student Involvement. Up 'til Dawn's Letter Writing Event won Outstanding Service Award. Students raised money for St. Jude's Research Hospital by writing letters to family and friends. They also received a T-shirt and were provided refreshments and music from a DJ while writing the letters. Delta Zeta member Alma Hidalgo, Perryton, Texas, senior, won Diversity Ally of the Year for the second time in a row for sharing diversity within organizations and on campus. "Personally this means a lot because diversity is something that I am very passionate about. It is an honor to represent all diversity at FHSU," said Hidalgo. Outstanding Organization Advisor went to Becky Lee, assistant director of student residential life, for her creative work with new programs. To Write Love On Her Arms (TWLOHA), sponsored by the University Activities Board, won Best New Program. TWLOHA is a non-profit group dedicated to helping those who suffer from depression, addiction, self-injury and suicidal tendencies find hope, support and love. Most Improved Student Organization was awarded to Delta Tau Omega, the justice studies honorary society. The club had a 500 percent increase in membership and a 250 persent increase in active membership in service and career exploration. Students raised about $2,000 from the Oktoberfest Dunk Tank, Christmas for Kids Telethon and Bowl for Kids Sake and collected more than $500 in donation of goods and cash for Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Service of Northwest Kansas. "Career exploration allows students access to a wide variety of opportunities that may not have otherwise been known to them, leading to networking with professionals in the various career fields," said Tamara Lynn, instructor of justice studies and Delta Tau Omega advisor. Student Government Association received Program of the Year for work and experience lobbying at the Capitol as part of Higher Education Day. "Every year, Regents schools meet to lobby for students," said Chris Roberts, Salina sophomore, SGA's legislative affairs director. "This year, FHSU students were in charge of research and getting together team leaders. Over 40 students from FHSU and over 250 participated, advocating against cutting higher education budgets. FHSU students got a great opportunity to go out into the real world and lobby." Interfraternity Council received Outstanding Student Organization of the Year for winning two national awards for its battle on fraternity stereotypes and adopting smart risk-management rules. The council also raised more than $2,000 for Options to battle domestic violence in our community. They also grew to more than 160 members this year. For a complete list of nominees, visit http://www.fhsu.edu/award-winners.Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4802http://bigcat.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4803Four Fort Hays State University Masters of Fine Arts students will host MFA Thesis Exhibitions during the spring and summer semesters. The shows will showcase the artists' work throughout their college careers. The first show is Michael Knutson, Spearfish, S.D., from Friday, April 26, through Friday, May 17. The reception is from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Friday, April 26, in Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art in Rarick Hall room 102. Knutson's show will feature his paintings. Shawna Wagseng, Las Vegas, N.M., exhibits from Friday, May 24, through Friday, June 21, with the closing reception from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., on Friday, June 21, in Moss-Thorns Gallery. Wagseng's show will feature her paintings. Isaac Sandoval, Las Vegas, N.M., exhibits from Friday, June 17, through Friday June 29, with the reception 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., on Friday, June 21, at Hays Arts Council on 112 E 11th st. Sandoval's show will feature his sculptures. Ned Day, Miller, Neb., exhibits from Friday, July 19, through Friday, Aug. 16, with the closing reception from 7 to 9 p.m., Friday, Aug. 16, in Moss-Thorns Gallery. Day's show will feature his ceramics and sculptures. Moss-Thorns Gallery hours in the spring semester are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and in the summer Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All receptions are free to the public. Refreshments are provided.Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4803