Shocker Blast: Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Featured Stories

Mia Dennett, a junior from Salina, works on costume for a show

Paid applied learning helps Wichita State theater students build this stage of their careers

Creating two hours of a dramatic production on stage at Wichita State’s Wilner Auditorium can take long hours and weeks of work.

WSU students charged with that behind-the-scenes labor now earn more money for their time and expertise, thanks to State of Kansas Applied Learning Funds. Twenty-three students are paid to work in more types of career-focused jobs, such as social media, costumes, fund-raising, lighting and scenes in the School of Performing Arts — all while still earning their degree.

The paid applied learning allows the School of Performing Arts to boost its student workforce and increase their pay. Paid positions in this field, said Cheyla Clawson, director, School of Performing Arts said, are usually at a low pay rate and are hard to find outside the university.

News

Samuel Jones brought on as new director of Military and Veteran Services

Wichita State welcomes Samuel “Sam” Jones as the new director of Military and Veteran Services. Sam brings a strong background in military service, higher education administration and veteran support. His dedication to enhancing military-connected students’ experiences and fostering a supportive environment makes him an ideal fit for this role.

With experience leading veteran services at WSU and other institutions, Sam is passionate about building connections and empowering students through comprehensive support initiatives. His leadership will elevate the university’s commitment to serving the military and veteran community.

The Office of the Vice President, Dr. Marché Fleming-Randle, is excited to welcome Sam back and looks forward to his positive impact.

Meet Sam at the Military and Veteran Student Center in 318 Shocker Success Center to learn more about available resources and support and join in welcoming Sam to Shocker Nation.

Dr. Steven Skinner appointed interim dean of the College of Engineering

Dr. Steven Skinner, professor of electrical and computer engineering, will assume the role of interim dean of the College of Engineering beginning June 9 to facilitate a smooth transition from Dean Anthony Muscat, whose last day at Wichita State will be June 30.

Skinner is an experienced leader who previously served as interim dean from 2019 to 2020. He brings a steady, collaborative approach and a deep commitment to students and faculty, and to the mission of the university.

The university is grateful for his leadership in the College of Engineering as the university begins the search for a new permanent dean.

Shocker rowing finishes recruitment video – learn more about the program and its history

For over 50 years, Shocker Rowing has forged champions, built lifelong friendships and shaped the spirit of determination. Now, as it honor its legacy, Shocker rowing invite you to be part of the future. Learn what it means to be a Shocker rower.

Sedgwick County Budget Simulator - Help us prioritize our funding and resources.

Hugo Wall School welcomes Sedgwick County residents to engage in innovative budget simulator project

WSU faculty, staff and students who are Sedgwick County residents are invited to take part in the Sedgwick County Budget Simulator. The online tool offers an opportunity for residents to understand more about the county’s budget and operations while providing a platform for them to express their opinions.

Hugo Wall School of Public Affairs Regents Distinguished Professor of Public Finance, Dr. David Guo, contributed to developing the simulator, an interactive tool designed to enhance public engagement and transparency in the budgeting process.

The Sedgwick County Budget Simulator serves as an opportunity for citizens to dive deep into the intricacies of Sedgwick County’s finances. Users can explore the allocation of public funds and understand the nuanced trade-offs involved in making budget decisions. The last day to participate in the budget simulator is May 23.

Training Opportunities and Workshops

Naloxone Administration Training May 30th at 11 am in RSC room 257. Parts of a first aid kit below caption.

CORRECTION: Naloxone administration training available May 30 – Sign up now

Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids. Health, Outreach, Prevention and Education (HOPE) Services is presenting DCCCA’s one-hour naloxone administration course from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, May 30 to the WSU community to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and respond to an overdose crisis using naloxone and other available resources.

Students can sign up for trainings online and staff/faculty can register via myTraining.

Student in a #WSUWeSupportU Suspenders T-Shirt with training details including Mental Wellness and Preventing Suicide Training is Monday, Jun. 2nd from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in 313 Rhatigan Student Center - Prairie Room. Follow us on social media @wsuhopeservices.

Suspenders4Hope offers free Mental Wellness and Preventing Suicide in the LGBTQ+ Community Training

Attend the Suspenders4Hope #WSUWeSupportU Mental Wellness and Preventing Suicide Training for the LGBTQ+ Community from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, June 2 in 313 Rhatigan Student Center, Prairie Room.

Learn about tools to support the community and assist someone in need. Students, staff and faculty are welcome to sign up for the training under the myTraining section of myWSU or on the registration website. All participants will receive a free suspenders #WSUWeSupportU T-shirt.