Welcome to Wichita State, Shockers! Or if it’s not your first time here – welcome back!
I love this time of year. It’s always so fun to meet new students and their families and to be part of the excitement of new beginnings!
I hope these first few weeks of campus life are a great experience for you. You may find yourself with a multitude of questions, from “Where is Jabara Hall?” to “Who’s my advisor?” If so, please know that’s OK! Everyone has questions. There is nothing wrong with that. You are not supposed to know everything. But, if you DO have questions, please ask them!
Go to OneStop, reach out to your instructors, your success coach or anyone really, and ask your question. We are all here to help.
In my role as provost of WSU, I am privileged to lead the academic experiences that shape your educational journey. My goal is to support every single one of you in academics and your growth as thoughtful, engaged and successful individuals.
From our offices in 107 Morrison Hall — please feel free come by and see me — my team and I are committed to enhancing your overall university experience in several ways.
For example:
- Academic excellence: Our team in Academic Affairs works with each college and student support offices to ensure that the academic experiences you are engaged in are intellectually stimulating and aligned with the demands of our evolving world.
- Diversity, equity and inclusion: As the most diverse campus in the state, I firmly believe that the vibrant mix of cultures and backgrounds that characterize Wichita State University is our most valuable asset. We strive to create a space where everyone flourishes.
- Supporting you holistically: Your emotional and physical well-being are crucial to your success. Our team collaborates with departments and offices across WSU to ensure that support systems are in place to address your holistic needs. That includes services such as counseling, health and wellness, tutoring, paid internships and co-ops, our Shocker Support Locker and many others… the list is extensive.
- Research and innovation: Wichita State is a hub for innovation and discovery, and we’ve built a solid reputation around solving problems for our community and our state. One way we do that is through the applied research happening across campus. Whether you’re a first-year undergrad or earning your Ph.D., there are tons of chances to participate in incredibly interesting and useful research.
- Applied learning: This term may be new to you. Basically, because of our location in Kansas’ largest city – and through the many partnerships we have with businesses all over the state and right here on our Innovation Campus — students have more opportunities than you’ll ever find in the typical college town to apply their learning in real-world settings through internships, co-ops, student employment and applied research positions. Last year, WSU students earned more than $30 million through nearly 9,000 of these applied learning experiences.
I’m honored to be a leader at Wichita State, and everyone in my office and across campus is dedicated to ensuring that your educational experience is transformative, inspiring and empowering.
I’m privileged to work alongside our talented faculty and staff to make this journey exceptional for each student. Our doors are always open, and your voices are heard.
If you have any questions about what you read here today, check out our website, ask me on my social media (@wsuprovost on Instagram; @WSU_Provost on X) or send an email here.
Have a great year.
Go Shockers!
Provost Shirley Lefever