Dear Alumni and Friends of the College of Applied Studies,

Guided by our mission to empower professionals through education, research, innovation, and community engagement, our College continues to create lasting impact for students, alumni, and communities across Kansas and beyond. As we look to the future, I am excited to share that we have requested approval from the Kansas Board of Regents to return to our historic name—the College of Education—to better reflect our mission and honor nearly a century of excellence preparing educators and leaders.

Because of your support for applied learning, mentoring new professionals, and providing scholarships, our students are able to persevere, succeed, and reach their highest potential. Your contributions also sustain innovative programs like the WISE Clinic, where graduate students apply their learning in a real-world counseling setting that benefits the broader community.

This fall, we launched our new Ph.D. in Education and Behavioral Studies and a new online M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis, expanding opportunities for advanced research and careers in education, counseling, and applied behavioral sciences. With record-high enrollment exceeding 740 participants statewide, Wichita State’s Teacher Apprentice Program™ (TAP™) continues to expand Kansas’s teacher pipeline by helping paraeducators earn their degrees and remain in the school districts where they already make a difference.

In 2026, we will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the College of Education, marking a century of impact and innovation. We look forward to honoring this milestone with our alumni and partners as we continue shaping the future of learning together.

Thank you for your continued support and for the countless ways you make a difference through Wichita State University.

With appreciation,
Jennifer Friend, Dean