Wichita State University
WSU News
Shocker graduate Tayana Martin (front) will be graduating in December with a degree
in sport management.
Meet a Shocker: Tayana Martin
Dec. 10, 2025
Sport management
Wichita State University's COSMA-accredited sport management programs take students beyond the classroom, honing their skills and developing contacts in real-world settings.
College of Applied Studies
When it comes to producing qualified educators, athletic trainers, exercise scientists and sport management professionals, nobody offers more than Wichita State's College of Applied Studies. We combine nationally accredited programs, exclusive scholarships and unmatched applied learning opportunities to give our students everything they need to build bright futures.
Cohen Honors College
The Cohen Honors College at Wichita State challenges ambitious students in any major to build a better future through rigorous classes, problem solving across disciplines, independent and collaborative research, and community service.
Tayana Martin chose Wichita State for its proximity to home, reputation and the opportunities available to students. She encourages future Shockers to take advantage of all the university has to offer and take time to enjoy the college experience.
Tayana is one of more than 1,200 students eligible for fall 2025 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.
Major
Bachelor of Arts in sport management
Hometown
Wichita
High school
Wichita Heights High School
When you were a little kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a baker and own my own bakery.
What made you choose Wichita State University?
I chose WSU because I wanted to stay close to home. Growing up in Wichita, I was already familiar with the university and the wide range of opportunities it offers. I knew WSU would provide a strong foundation both my academic and professional growth.
Did you earn any scholarships?
I received the Velma L. Wallace Education Scholarship during the 2023-2024 school year and have been fortunate to renew it each year through graduation. This scholarship has been a tremendous help in covering the cost of my courses, and I am very grateful for the support in offsetting my tuition expenses.
What applied learning experiences did you participate in during your time here?
I’ve had the opportunity to complete my internship here on campus with Ennovar, where I serve as an operations specialist on the operations team. This experience has allowed me to work alongside great leaders and colleagues while applying the knowledge and skills I’ve gained from my courses to real-world projects.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
The advice I would give other WSU students is to truly live in the moment and cherish your college experience because it goes by faster than you think! Take advantage of every opportunity to make connections and to learn from both your classes and the people around you. College is not only about earning your degree but also growing personally and professionally, so make the most of every experience!
What's next for this grad?
After graduation, my goal is to apply everything I’ve learned toward building a career that I am truly passionate about. I’m excited to bring my skills, knowledge and work ethic to a company where I can contribute meaningfully and continue to grow in my role. In addition, I plan to continue coaching club volleyball, as working with my team of athletes continues to inspire me and helps me grow as a coach and leader.
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 25,000 students between its main campus and the WSU Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech), including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student-centered and innovation-driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students. The National Science Foundation ranked WSU No. 1 in the nation for aerospace engineering R&D, No. 2 for industry-funded engineering R&D and No. 8 overall for engineering R&D.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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