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Ben Sauceda encourages all students to lean into new experiences. "Try hard things. Do great things," he said.

Meet a Shocker: Ben Sauceda

April 29, 2026
By Sara Tank Ornelas

College of Education

When it comes to producing qualified educators, athletic trainers, exercise scientists and sport management professionals, nobody offers more than Wichita State's College of Education. We combine nationally accredited programs, exclusive scholarships and unmatched applied learning opportunities to give our students everything they need to build bright futures.

 

Wichitan Ben Sauceda chose Wichita State in part for the grants that helped him graduate with minimal student debt. Through applied learning at the Kansas Aviation Museum, he plans to continue working in the nonprofit sector after graduation, encouraging others to embrace challenges and “try hard things.” 

Ben is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring 2026 graduation. Learn more about his time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad. 

What degree will you be earning in May?

Bachelor of Applied Studies in organizational leadership and learning 

What is your hometown?

Wichita

What schools did you attend before coming to Wichita State?

  • Riverdale Christian Academy
  • Cowley County Community College 

When you were a little kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Baseball player for the Cubs 

What made you choose Wichita State University?  

I received grants. These helped me leave college with very little in student debt.  

What applied learning experiences did you participate in during your time here?  

The Kansas Aviation Museum served as my applied learning experience.  

What advice would you give other Wichita State students?

Don’t let uncertainty or fear keep you from doing difficult things that will help grow and stretch you into who you can be. Try hard things. Do great things.  

What are your plans after graduation?  

Continue to work in the nonprofit sector through the Kansas Aviation Museum, growing our impact for future STEAM students to learn.  

Fun question: You suddenly find yourself in the middle of a dance battle. What's the first move you're gonna hit 'em with? 

The Sprinkler 

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- and defense-funded engineering R&D and No. 9 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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