Wichita State Poised For Massive Growth

[ShockBand]

Fencing up and dirt getting moved at what should be the NIAR new building just east of the new Business School It's always exciting to get new erection going. Go Shocks

Viagra should sponsor construction cranes.

[WstateU]

Viagra should sponsor construction cranes.

You beat me to it… he teed that one up.

[ShockBand]

Viagra should sponsor construction cranes.

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[RoyalShock]

You beat me to it… he teed that one up.

Yes, after that phrasing he should have known what was . . . coming.

[pogo]

Saw it coming a mile away. Just like to leave the low hanging fruit available to pick. I'm seldom disappointed.

[SubGod22]

This sounds like a big loss.

WBJ - Jeremy Hill will leave WSU economic research office after 15 years

Jeremy Hill will resign next month after 15 years as director of the Center for Economic Development and Business Research at Wichita State University.

Hill, credited with growing the CEDBR into a statewide resource for the public and private sectors, including expanding the annual Wichita Economic Outlook conference, has a "new opportunity on the horizon" that he plans to announce in July, he said in a LinkedIn post. His last day at WSU will be June 30.

In an interview, Hill said he was not looking for a new job.

"This is a career that I've been very happy with, I loved this community, I loved what I was doing," Hill said. "... I know we'll find someone else to take the center even further, I've been here for a while. There's another person that can continue to grow it and add value."

Chris Broberg, associate dean of faculty and research in the W. Frank Barton School of Business, will serve as an interim director during a search for Hill's replacement.

"Jeremy has been instrumental in redefining how economic data and forecasts impact not only businesses, but also policymaking in the region," Broberg said in a news release from the university. "While his leadership will be greatly missed at the center, we are excited about potential collaborations within him in the near future.”

CEDBR has become a go to resource on anything and everything regarding economic development and future forecasting for not only the metro area, but the state as a whole.

[SubGod22]

WSU - WSU partnership will help address Kansas' physician shortage

Wichita State University has signed a new admissions partnership agreement with the Kansas Health Science Center-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (KHSC-KansasCOM) that will help address Kansas’ physician shortage. This partnership comes on the heels of the recent groundbreaking ceremony of the Wichita Biomedical Campus, a collaboration between WSU and the University of Kansas, adjacent to KHSC-KansasCOM.

The agreement allows a select number of Wichita State students to accelerate their career path with a 3+4 program. Qualified students who meet admission requirements will have the opportunity to begin their first year of medical school in their senior year of undergraduate studies at WSU. After completing their first year at KHSC-KansasCOM, they will receive their bachelor’s degree from WSU, thereby having the opportunity to complete both undergraduate work and a medical degree in seven years.

“The current physician shortage is projected to only worsen in the coming decades. We are dedicated to a multifaceted approach to improve the health in our state and have a lasting impact,” said Tiffany Masson, Psy.D., president of Kansas Health Science Center. “We are elated to partner with Wichita State University to build the physician workforce of the future through a dedicated 3+4 program, which trains a qualified workforce at an expedited pace while reducing debt for students who aspire to become a physician.”

KHSC-KansasCOM will reserve first-year seats, beginning in the fall of 2025, for WSU students who meet specific course requirements within their undergraduate program and admissions criteria at KHSC-KansasCOM. The students will have the opportunity to transition to the college in pursuit of their medical degree with the class of 2029.

Wichita State University provides multiple academic pathways — including hundreds of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral program offerings — all with rich applied learning experiences. Graduates leave WSU with a blend of theoretical knowledge and comprehensive practical application, ensuring they are exceptionally prepared to make immediate, meaningful contributions in the health field.

"At Wichita State, we are dedicated to developing innovative programs and partnerships that benefit our students and community," said Wichita State President Richard Muma. "This 3+4 agreement enables our students to fast-track their academic and career goals, address the medical care shortages in Kansas communities and enhance health outcomes for millions in our region."

[pogo]

I think that sounds like an innovative solution to a growing problem. Go Shocks

[SubGod22]

WSU - NIAR adds test capability for electric aircraft

Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) is adding a new capability to its portfolio aimed at growing the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) market and attracting new business to the region and state.

Recently, NIAR broke ground on a new restrained flight test facility, which will include out-of-ground and in-ground effect test rigs.

The facility will provide eVTOL developers with a controlled environment for conducting restrained operation of test vehicles for research and testing to assess thrust characteristics, aerodynamics, system performance and failure conditions.

The facility features a 28-by-14-foot elevated test rig and a 20-by-20-foot ground level test rig with six-axis load cells, data acquisition systems and real-time data monitoring capabilities via a mission control room, allowing eVTOL manufacturers to evaluate vehicle system and aerodynamic performance.

The facility, which is located at Air Capital Flight Line on South Oliver in Wichita, is made possible through the Kansas Aviation Research and Testing Growth Initiative (KART), a program funded by the State of Kansas to strengthen aircraft industry technologies in the state.

Textron eAviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company focused on sustainable aviation solutions, is anticipating use of the facility upon completion and has served as a collaborator on the development.

“We’re thrilled to be collaborating with NIAR on the development of this test facility, as its design will allow us to simulate key aspects of the flight environment for our Nexus eVTOL,” said Kriya Shortt, president and CEO of Textron eAviation. “With the build of our first full-scale technology demonstrator underway and anticipated first flight for the Nexus in 2025, this hover ramp will support an important program milestone on our path to certification.”

Textron eAviation’s Nexus eVTOL is being designed to serve a range of purposes, including passenger transport, cargo and emergency medical services markets.

In addition to the new restrained flight test facility, NIAR supports eVTOL R&D programs through existing capabilities including material development, environmental and electromagnetic test, full-scale structural test and impact testing. Most recently, NIAR’s Advanced Virtual Engineering and Test lab completed battery pack drop tests on the electric propulsion system of Archer Aviation’s Midnight aircraft.

Electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle development programs are some of the newest and most active in the aerospace industry. According to JPMorgan, the eVTOL industry could be worth $1 trillion by 2040.

Completion of the restrained flight test facility is expected in late 2024.

[SubGod22]

Wichita State pimping all they have to offer on campus.

WSU - Everyone is welcome to enjoy a Wichita State-cation

Beyond the classrooms and lecture halls, Wichita State is a hub of vibrant culture, entertainment and adventure all year round. Whether you’re a local in search of new experiences or a visitor eager to immerse yourself in the Shocker spirit, WSU offers a plethora of activities that make the summer months shine.

You are hereby invited to a Wichita State-cation: From intriguing museums and picturesque selfie spots to exhilarating sporting events, captivating fine arts performances, and delectable dining options, Wichita State is the place to be. Join us and see why our campus is a welcoming, must-visit destination. Museums and galleries


Admission to all Wichita State museums and galleries is free and open to the public.

• Pizza Hut Museum: Two Wichita State students, brothers Dan and Frank Carney, started the Pizza Hut business in 1958. The restaurant has since become one of the biggest pizza chains in the world, and the original building resides at Wichita State as a museum. The hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
• Lowell D. Holmes Museum of Anthropology: Embark on a journey through time and space to explore the rich histories and cultures of people around the world through archaeological objects and artifacts. Note that this museum is open from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday during the fall and spring semesters and by appointment during the summer. To schedule a visit, email holmes.museum@wichita.edu or call 316-978-7068.
• The Ulrich Museum of Art: As the region’s source for modern and contemporary art, this museum connects viewers with artists and artworks that reflect our world today. Visitors can explore and enjoy exhibitions that feature emerging and established artists, works from our permanent collection, and traveling exhibitions. Current exhibits featured at the Ulrich include the “Flint Hills: A Tapestry of Color and Form,” “Fully Dimensional: Artists of the Outdoor Sculpture Collection,” “Urban Canvas: Exploring Muralism in Wichita,” and “Word, Thread and the Magnolia.” The Ulrich is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.
• The Martin H. Bush Sculpture Collection: While technically part of the Ulrich, Wichita State’s sculpture garden deserves its own spot on our list. Established in 1974, the Martin H. Bush Outdoor Sculpture Collection boasts 86 works spread across the 330-acre Wichita State Campus. Be sure to check out the collection's brand new installation, the “Adelante Juntos” mural at the Duerksen Fine Arts Amphitheater. The sculpture collection is open 24/7/365.
• Wilson K. Cadman Art Gallery: The Wilson K. Cadman Art Gallery is located on the first floor of the Rhatigan Student Center and serves as an exhibition space to talented student and community artists. The gallery showcases annual competitions, rotating exhibits and alternating features in the outer display. The gallery consists of two spaces, the main gallery and the Looking Glass. The Rhatigan Student Center is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday.
• Wichita State’s School of Art, Design and Creative Industries operates four galleries that display the curatorial and studio work of students, faculty and visiting artists:
• Located in McKnight West, room 205, the Clayton Staples Gallery features the work of visiting artists and ADCI graduate students as well as faculty curatorial projects.
• ProjectSpace is an in-house gallery located in McKnight Art Center Room 204, just east of the second-floor skywalk. The experimental, student-run gallery exists so students can take risks and push the limits of their work.
• PrintSpace displays the work of contemporary printmakers. Located adjacent to one of the print media studios in McKnight Art Center North, PrintSpace is a venue for print media inspiration and a place to learn about new trends in this versatile studio arts area. Discover new artists and unconventional printmaking techniques without ever leaving the print studio.
• ShiftSpace: The ShiftSpace student group programs the gallery, prepares exhibitions and engages in community outreach. ShiftSpace is a roaming gallery, so visit the gallery’s Facebook and Instagram accounts for details on when and where to see an exhibit.

I had not idea there was this much art and displays on campus.

Recreation and leisure


All activities listed below are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.

• Kouri Parcourse: Just outside the entrance to the Heskett Center, guests can enjoy a fully interactive and accessible outdoor workout on the eight exercise stations available on the Kouri Parcourse.
• Hang out at the Hammock Lounge: The Wichita State Hammock Lounge, nestled between Wallace Hall and Neff Hall, is the perfect spot to study, relax and hang—solo or with friends. Check out a hammock for free with your Shocker Card (for WSU students, staff and faculty) or driver’s license at the Ablah Library Front Desk or at the Heskett Center's guest service desk. 
• Pickleball for all: Four courts are located east of the Heskett Center. The courts are lighted, free and open until midnight. Bring your own equipment or Heskett members can check out equipment for no additional charge.
• Selfie tour: Visit wichita.edu/map and choose the “selfie spots” option under “Discover WSU,” and you’ll find dozens of picturesque places to document your Wichita State-cation. Snap your photo with the bronze WuShock sculpture, stand inside the gigantic letters of the Wichita State sign on the edge of the Innovation Campus, or strike a pose on the Promise Bridge.
• . Be sure to tag us when you post on social media: Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).
• Bowling and billiards: For less than $10, you can enjoy a round of bowling or shoot a game of pool in the basement of the Rhatigan Student Center at Shocker Grill & Lanes. Head to campus on Friday or Saturday evenings, and we’ll turn down the lights for some cosmic bowling.

I was more familiar with this. Though the pickleball courts will eventually disappear as the Wilkins construction progresses.

Watch us: Athletics and fine arts events

• On the field: There’s always an opportunity to cheer on the Shockers with a dozen NCAA women’s and men’s sports: baseball, women’s and men’s basketball, women’s bowling, cross country, men’s and women’s golf, softball, women’s and men’s tennis, track and field, and volleyball.
• On stage: Wichita State houses a tremendous amount of talent within our campus. From faculty recitals to student-produced plays and musicals, there is something for everyone on any of the multiple stages across the university.

This section was a little more obvious.

Dining destinations


Hungry? Head over to Wichita State. No matter where you are on our campus, there is always something cooking at Wichita State. You can also have your food delivered by one of our friendly robots through the Starship Technologies app.

• Braeburn Square: A diverse array of delicious dining awaits on our Innovation Campus at the corner of 21st and Oliver.
  • Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
  • Jersey Mike’s Subs
  • Sesame Mediterranean Grill
  • Social Tap Drinkery
  • Starbucks
  • Sungrano Pizza
  • Two Hands Corn Dogs
  • Wheatley’s Burgers
• Rhatigan Student Center: Located in the heart of campus, the Rhatigan Student Center offers multiple options to feed your cravings. Choices include Starbucks, Chickfila, Freddy’s Steakburgers, and Panda Express —or you can head downstairs for burgers and daily specials at Shocker Sports Grill & Lanes. 

I want to say as Braeburn continues to develop there may eventually be a few more options as well.

Shopping options

• Shocker Store: Commemorate your Wichita State-cation with some Shocker-ific gear. Shop at the Shocker Store locations at Braeburn Square or inside the Rhatigan Student Center.
• Pedego Electric Bikes: Cruise around campus on an electric bike from Pedego, which makes a complete line of electric bikes so you can easily find a perfect fit for your individual needs and personal style.

There’s so much to do and see on Wichita State’s campus, and the community is always welcome. If you’ve never been to campus, or if it’s been a while, sign up for a campus tour. We’d love to show you around.

Probably wouldn't hurt to eventually have a few more options here.

Nice to see WSU promoting what they have to offer. I learned a few things.

[SubGod22]

Kansas Reflector - Wichita State University's pioneering physician assistant program helps meet health care demand

Master’s level physician assistant programs at state universities are becoming more popular as demand for health care workers and training rises across Kansas following the pandemic, says Chris Dudley, the assistant clinical professor and admissions coordinator for the physician associate program at Wichita State University.

Founded in 1972, the Wichita State program was the first in Kansas. Since then, other higher learning institutions, including Kansas State University, have modeled their own courses after the WSU program.

“There’s always demand out there,” Dudley said. “It just depends on where you want to go for your career.”

Dudley worked as a PA at an orthopedics firm in Wichita for a dozen years before joining the staff at Wichita State. He received his undergraduate degree from WSU in 2008.

“The university president, Rick Muma, was my cardiology and pulmonology instructor at the time,” Dudley said.

In an email to Kansas Reflector, Muma said a majority of Kansas counties are underserved in relation to the availability of medical providers.

“The PA profession, since its inception in the 1960s, has been an excellent solution to quickly educate and train individuals and deploy them in areas such as Kansas that experience a shortage of PAs,” Muma said.

Before Muma was named Wichita State’s 15th president in 2021, he was a provost with the university and served as chairman and professor of the public health sciences and physician associate departments. He also has served as chairman for St. Louis University’s Department of PA Education and as an assistant professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch-Galveston Department of PA Studies.

Along with Wichita State and K-State, the University of Kansas and University of Missouri-Kansas City also have master’s level physician assistant programs. Butler Community College has a pre-physician assistant program available as an entry-level course.