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Online and Adult Learner Student Week

Wu Shock and OAL Students

November is a month of celebration as it marks National Distance Learning Week and National Non-Traditional Week. Our office takes great pride in recognizing our Shocker Students making great strides in their academic studies!

Help Us Recognize OAL Students!

Whether you're a fellow student, family member, staff member, faculty or nominating yourself, help us recognize student hard work and achievements. Submit your nomination by October 30th.

OAL Student Spotlights

We are proud of all our students! Get to know the journey of our students who exemplify hard work, perseverance, and relentless focus. 

Student Bios

Online and Adult Learning Students

Happy Online & Adult Learner Week! This week is all about celebrating you and your incredible journey towards achieving your educational goals. Your resilience and perseverance are truly inspiring, and we are proud to have you as part of the Shocker family. Whether you are balancing work, family, or other commitments, your dedication to completing your degree is commendable. Let’s take this week to recognize and celebrate your strengths and accomplishments. Keep pushing forward and know that the Office of Online & Adult Learning is here to support you every step of the way!

Dr. Brett L. Petersen-Bruner, Associate Vice Provost for Student Success and Persistence

OAL Student Week

November is all about YOU, our incredible students! We're celebrating National Distance Learning Week and National Non-Traditional Student Week with a full slate of events designed to inspire, connect, and reward. And guess what? Every time you participate, you’ll be entered to win our OAL Student Shocker Giveaway — so bring the energy, bring the spirit, and let’s make this week unforgettable! Join us November 17-21

  • Fill in the Blank Fun: OAL Shocker Edition

    Monday, November 17

    Fill In the Blank Fun! Join the conversation on our OAL discussion boards in Blackboard or on our social media to finish prompts for "Being an OAL Shocker feels like…”.

    Explore creative Fill-in-the-Blank prompts and share your experiences. You’ll find posts across all our student groups—whether you’re in our Online, PACC, or part of our first-generation community. 

    Blackboard Log In

  • OAL Resource Highlight: Financial Aid Pop-Up Stream

    Wednesday,  November 19
    Stream our Financial Aid Pop-Up for tailored financial aid insights with Heather Hill and Dr. Amber Anderson. Whether you're planning ahead or navigating aid now, this session is packed with value.

    Stream Now

  • Celebrate with us in-person or virtually

    Thursday, November 20

    Celebrate your small wins and milestone, grab a treat, and join us for some lighthearted fun!

    • Stop by any time from 8:30-5:00pm for light refreshments
    • Meet Candace Dave from the Office of Student Engagement and Belonging from 10:00-12:00
    • Virtual Social & Games with your peers and our staff from 11:00-12:00 

    Join Virtual Social

  • Shocker Spirit Day!

    Friday, November 21

    Wear your Black & Yellow loud and proud! Snap a pic and send it to us via social media or email oal@wichita.edu for a final chance to win the giveaway!

Support that Matters: Helping Online and Adult Learners Thrive

Our office is dedicated to finding innovative ways to support, connect, and empower students on their academic journeys. From new programs to impactful initiatives, we're committed to providing resources that truly make a difference in students' lives. Let’s take a look at the latest projects we've been working on to help our learners succeed!
 
Adult Learner Community & Connections (ALCC) Program
The Adult Learner Community & Connections program is an exciting new initiative designed to support students returning for their first semester after a break. This program, a year-long project developed by our dedicated staff, takes a holistic approach with eight interactive online modules focused on well-being. Each module empowers adult learners by building confidence in technology skills and familiarizing them with at least five essential campus resources.
 
The program features the support of eight experienced ALCC Peer Ambassadors, who guide students through their transition back to school. These ambassadors serve as role models, providing motivation, encouragement, and first hand insights to inspire and positively influence incoming students as they begin their educational journey.
 
Shocker Comeback Program: Supporting Students on Their Path to Graduation
The Shocker Comeback Program is a brand-new initiative designed to support students who were close to graduating but had to step away from their studies. Our office is here to help them reignite their academic journey and reach the finish line! With personalized guidance from our staff and a scholarship dedicated to returning students, this program removes obstacles and enables them to complete their degrees. We’re excited to welcome them back and see them achieve their dreams!
 
Parents And Caregiver Community (PACC): A Community of Strength and Support

Join our Shocker PACC—a community designed to bring together students who balance the challenges of caregiving with the demands of school. We know this journey requires strength, resilience, and determination, and it's one that’s made easier with the support of others who truly understand.

PACC provides a space for students to connect on a personal level, share their stories, ask questions, and exchange valuable resources. It’s more than a group; it’s a network of encouragement, understanding, and inspiration. We believe in the power of community, and PACC is here to remind student caregivers that they’re never alone on their path to success. We look forward to seeing what this group of students can do for one another!

Shocker Busy Bins Initiative
Understanding the challenges faced by parents balancing school and caregiving,  we are excited to launch the Shocker Busy Bins Initiative. This initiative aims to make campus a more welcoming and inclusive space for students who occasionally need to bring their children to campus.
 
These bins are thoughtfully designed to engage children in independent play, allowing parents a bit of focused time to study, complete assignments, or meet with our staff—all while remaining attentive to their children nearby. Each bin is carefully curated with age-appropriate educational items—such as puzzles, books, and creative materials—that foster cognitive development and enriching activities. These bins will not only keep children entertained but provide a meaningful experience, making every visit to campus valuable for both parent and child. 
 
 
 

View Past Recipients

OAL Week Students 2023

OAL Week students 2024

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