Author: Caelin Bragg

Fueled by a boost in contracts from federal agencies and various military branches, Wichita State University continues to hold strong in its standings in the National Science Foundation (NSF) Higher Education Research and Development Survey, reporting $392 million in research expenditures in the latest survey. This marks a 7% increase over the previous year’s $366 million, reinforcing WSU’s position as a leading research institution.

Specifically, Wichita State ranks No. 1 in aerospace engineering research and development (R&D) from all funding services with a total of $350 million, No. 2 in engineering R&D funded by industry and defense with $283 million, and No. 9 in engineering R&D from all funding sources with $360 million.

“The dedication and expertise of our researchers make these rankings possible,” President Rick Muma said. “Our consistent performance in research rankings continues to attract top talent and strategic partnerships to our university and state, continuing to position Wichita State as an economic driver for the state.”

Join Zach Gearhart, chief of staff and executive director of government relations, for updates on the legislature relevant to Wichita State. The next meeting for the legislative session is scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16 in 262 Rhatigan Student Center, Herrman Room. The meeting is open to all faculty, staff and students.

Join President Rick Muma and his team as they prepare future Shockers for a lifetime of success. The President’s Team is raising money for the United Way’s Champions for Literacy initiative, which puts books and supplies into the hands of students in the Shocker Neighborhood.

Reading helps children build cognitive skills, gain a deeper understanding of the world, improve their concentration and fuel their imagination. As an educational driver for the state of Kansas, Wichita State is committed to helping students of all ages achieve success and become the leaders of tomorrow.

Students not reading proficiently by the fourth grade are four times more likely to drop out, and illiteracy often continues into adulthood. Donations to the campaign stay local to the Shocker Neighborhood through United Way of the Plains to alleviate illiteracy in the community.

Dr. Ali P. Gordon has been named as the next dean of the Wichita State University College of Engineering, effective June 7.

Gordon currently serves as a professor and the associate dean of graduate affairs at the University of Central Florida’s College of Engineering and Computer Science, a role he took as interim in 2018 before being appointed in 2019. During his tenure, Gordon has overseen over 30 graduate programs and 2,500 graduate students, and he architected the college’s strategic internationalization plan.

“Wichita State University is already a recognized powerhouse for engineering, computing, applied learning and research,” Gordon said. “As we strive for R1 status, the College of Engineering will be a key contributor to the transformation. With our talented students, distinguished faculty, dedicated staff and fully engaged industry partners already in place, achieving a bold new vision for this college is well within our reach. It is a privilege to lead the College of Engineering, and together we will author its next great chapter.”

Consider this your chance to defy gravity academically. Dive into power, identity and perspective through the lens of Wicked in Wicked: Perspectives from Oz (FYPF 102B), CRN: 24324. If you started after fall 2024, this course can fill Bucket 7 for General Education.

Longtime Wichita State broadcaster Mike Kennedy has been honored with the National Sports Media Association Kansas Sportscaster of the Year award.

Kennedy, the legendary play-by-play Voice of the Shockers, will retire at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, marking the close of a historic 46-year broadcasting career with the program.

In Exploring the World of Business (BADM 100), learn more about business innovation, how markets operate, entrepreneurial activities and socially responsible business decisions. Multiple class times are available, including fully online options. You can add classes to your spring schedule now through Monday, Jan. 26.

Wichita State will launch two graduate programs in forensic firearms and forensic biology in fall 2026, expanding the pipeline of trained specialists prepared for careers in federal, state and local crime laboratories.

The programs were developed in collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and regional partners at the Sedgwick County Regional Forensic Science Center and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, and they were created to meet a growing national need for examiners who can step into a lab and get to work.

Shop at the Koch Arena Shocker Store during men’s basketball games and receive a free basketball with $100 purchase while supplies last. Merchandise subtotal must be $100 or greater.

Student Health Services has flu vaccines available for WSU students, faculty and staff. Cost is $25 plus administration fee but may be free with your health insurance benefits (all plans are different). Financial assistance for self-pay students may be available for the administration fee. The Student Wellness Center is open for walk-ins 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.