February 2012 | News Releases | News and Communications Services

February 2012 news releases

Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012

University's alert system tested Wednesday morning

At 11:25 a.m. today the Kansas State University Alert System was inadvertently tested.

A competitive edge: IBM project helps students acquire skills in growing field of business analytics

A team of Kansas State University students is taking part in an IBM-sponsored project that's giving members firsthand experience with using data mining of customer information to help improve company performance.

Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2012

Increasing international relations: University opening Vietnam office

Kansas State University is expanding its international outreach to welcome students from Vietnam.

Students from Overland Park, Wichita advance to Truman Scholarship finals

Kansas State University students Erin White, Overland Park, and Rachel Hoppins, Wichita, have been named finalists for the 2012 Harry S. Truman Scholarship.

Making a difference: Four high school seniors earn Edgerley-Franklin scholarships for urban community service

Outstanding contributions to the urban communities in which they live have earned four high school seniors the Edgerley-Franklin Urban Leadership Scholarship from Kansas State University.

News tip: Foreign relations expert can comment on Russian elections

A Kansas State University expert on Russia is available to comment on the upcoming presidential election in Russia, where Prime Minister Vladimir Putin is making another run at the presidency against the country's third richest man and New Jersey Nets owner, Mikhail Prokhorov, and other rivals.

Monday, Feb. 27, 2012

Fighter for racial justice: Bob Zellner to present spring Dorothy L. Thompson lecture on civil rights

A longtime civil rights activist who counted Martin Luther King Jr. as a friend and mentor will be the speaker for the spring 2012 Dorothy L. Thompson Civil Rights Lecture Series at Kansas State University.

Serving up success: Housing and dining services' assistant director receives Silver Plate Award

A Kansas State University staff member will receive of the food service industry's most prestigious honors. Mary Molt, assistant director of housing and dining services, has been named a recipient of a 2012 Silver Plate Award from the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association, or IFMA.

Romance and melody: Pianist Jim Brickman to perform at McCain Auditorium March 11

America's romantic piano sensation is coming to Kansas State University's McCain Performance Series. Jim Brickman will perform at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 11, in McCain Auditorium.

Friday, Feb. 24, 2012

K-State master's degree program in adult education expanding to Olathe campus

A Kansas State University master's program is expanding to the university's Olathe campus, with the first course being offered this summer.

Quality assured: Early Childhood Education Center retains national accreditation

Making snow is not a typical child's activity, but Kansas State University's Hoeflin Stone House Early Childhood Education Center is not a typical child care facility. Lessons in critical thinking and problem solving are just one of many reasons for Stone House's recent reaccreditation, along with a dedication to early education.

Come one, come all: College of Engineering invites community to 90th Open House celebration

In the 1920s, the College of Engineering and the Manhattan community came together to celebrate the exciting things taking place at Kansas State University. Now, 90 years later, there's still reason to celebrate.

Scholarly success: Architectural engineering students honored by national organization

Two Kansas State University architectural engineering students are being honored for their leadership, scholarship abilities and potential service in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration industry.

Legal learning: Online paralegal certificate course begins March 5

Kansas State University is making it easy for professionals interested a paralegal career to earn a paralegal certificate online.

Move it in or move it out: Furniture Amnesty Day March 6 in City Park

It's all about furniture, it's free and it's for everyone. Kansas State University's Manhattan Good Neighbors and Acacia fraternity have teamed up for Furniture Amnesty Day, a free furniture exchange and disposal event Tuesday, March 6, in the south parking lot by the swimming pools in Manhattan's City Park.

Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012

Redefining the resume: Management expert says non-paper approach in recruitment becoming more common

Online or on paper? It's a factor that job seekers need to consider, according to a Kansas State University human resource management expert.

Two graduate students honored at research summit for science benefiting Kansas

Two Kansas State University graduate students have been named the KansasBio winners at the ninth annual Capitol Graduate Research Summit.

Witchcraft mayhem and music: K-State Opera Theatre to perform 'The Crucible'

A witch hunt will be under way as Kansas State University's Opera Theatre presents "The Crucible," an opera by Robert Ward.

Population expert Paul Ehrlich to give 'Can we save the world?' lecture

With 7 billion people living on Earth, can we save the world from overpopulation, environmental degradation and mass starvation? Paul Ehrlich, president of the Center for Conservation Biology and Bing professor of population studies at Stanford University and a National Academy of Sciences member since 1985, aims to answer that question at Kansas State University for the Provost's Excellence in Scholarship Lecture at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 7, in Forum Hall at the K-State Student Union.

Guitars to gardens: Original Dixie Chick to open University Gardens Luncheon Series

A founding member of the original 1980s' country group the Dixie Chicks will mix garden talk and music in the first presentation of the 2012 Friends of the Kansas State University Gardens Luncheon Series.

Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012

Understanding open spaces: To celebrate prairie landscapes, research says to take an aesthetic approach

A Kansas State University researcher and former park ranger is helping people take a new view of the prairie and see it as more than a seemingly empty landscape.

Making their mark: 12 distinguished alumni participate in Alumni Fellows Week

Twelve distinguished Kansas State University alumni will address students and faculty in 68 classes and receptions Feb. 22-24 during the 2012 Alumni Fellows Week.

Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012

Growing opportunities: Research collaboration with Australian plant biosecurity center set to secure food supplies, increase academic exchanges

Officials at Kansas State University and at Australia's leading plant pests research center are finalizing an agreement for a collaboration aimed at increasing agricultural security in both countries.

Lively literature: English department to sponsor several literary events in March

Several guest lectures and a variety of literary events, all sponsored by the department of English, will take place at Kansas State University throughout March.

Monday, Feb. 20, 2012

Spring Landon Lecturer: Secretary of Agriculture to speak April 10

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack will present Kansas State University's spring 2012 Landon Lecture at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 10, in McCain Auditorium.

Passion pitfall: Research finds that rekindling a romance often extinguishes a couple's happiness

Before renewing romance with an ex, it may be better to move on to the next.

New Olathe campus consumer research center cracking the case on tastiest black walnuts

The new Sensory Analysis and Consumer Research Center at Kansas State University Olathe will conduct its first consumer test on a Kansas product: black walnuts.

Spring into culture: March offers music, dance, theater and art events for all

Art, music, dance and theatrical performances will take center stage at several Kansas State University cultural events in March.

Friday, Feb. 17, 2012

New center expands university's sensory, consumer research expertise to Olathe campus

Kansas State University Olathe's Sensory and Consumer Research Center is now open and under the management of Marianne Swaney-Stueve.

Executive learning: More than 100 business students are making connections with mentors through new program

Students are taking advantage of the Kansas State University Business Executive Mentor Program.

Recognizing service: Blue Key Senior Honorary receives several awards at national conference

Kansas State University's chapter of Blue Key Senior Honorary has frequently ranked among the nation's best, and this year is no different.

Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012

International recognition: Doctoral student presenting research on literacy in Sudan to United Nations

A Kansas State University doctoral student is getting international attention for her research involving literacy and education in Sudan.

Plan for success: EXCITE! workshop all about getting college scholarships

Success in attaining scholarships is the focus of a Kansas State University EXCITE! -- EXploring sCIence, Technology and Engineering -- workshop for ninth- and 10th-grade girls, Friday, March 2, at Kansas State University.

Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012

Charting a new course: Geology professors, alumni address fracking issues through chemical research

The economic viability and environmental effects of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, has raised questions and concerns, but research by Kansas State University geology professors and alumni may help solve these issues.

2012 Goldwater scholarship nominees share interest in research

Kansas State University has nominated four students -- Sterling Braun, Fort Scott; Joshua Ericson, Junction City; Graciela Orozco, Kanopolis; and Angela Grommet, Wichita -- for the 2012 Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship.

Job lessons: Future teachers get chance to connect with more than 60 school districts at education on-campus interviews

Future teachers are about to get an education in networking and job searching.

Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012

Food scientist John Floros named dean of College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension

A renowned food scientist and academic leader with significant experience at top-ranked land-grant universities will be Kansas State University's new dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension.

Active status: University ranks as top military-friendly institution for fifth year in a row

Kansas State University is getting another salute from Military Advanced Education, which has ranked the university as a top military-friendly institution for soldiers and their families for a fifth consecutive year.

See what all the noise is about: McCain hosts international sensation 'Stomp'

Sounds of unconventional percussion and rhythm will fill Kansas State University's McCain Auditorium in a two-night performance event.

History in pieces: Human ecology textiles expert goes on road to identify African-American treasures for Smithsonian project

As the nation celebrates Black History Month, one Kansas State University expert is doing her part to identify treasured pieces of African-American history one textile at a time.

What's in a name: Sales initiative receives makeover to help students in future careers

A few adjustments to a program in Kansas State University's College of Business Administration will help sales-minded graduates hit the ground running.

Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

In the running: Four students nominated for Truman scholarships

Kansas State University has nominated four students -- Courtney Frantz, Derby; Erin White, Overland Park; Lora K. McGraw, Salina; and Rachel Hoppins, Wichita -- for the 2012 Harry S. Truman Scholarship.

A night on Broadway: Ebony Theatre to host concert by two Broadway performers

A bit of Broadway is coming to Kansas State University's Nichols Theatre. Broadway actors Nikki Renee Daniels and Joshua Henry will perform a concert at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27. Sponsored by K-State's Ebony Theatre, the performance is free and open to the public.

Art talk: Three faculty members to discuss their work in the Beach Museum exhibition '2011 Department of Art Faculty Biennial'

Three members of Kansas State University's art faculty will present artist talks about their work as part of the "2011 Department of Art Faculty Biennial" exhibition on display through March 16 at the university's Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art.

Destination success: Get down to the business of finding a job, internship at Business and Hospitality Career Fair

Kansas State University students interested in jobs or internships in the business or hospitality fields can connect with more than 75 employers Wednesday, Feb. 22, at the Business and Hospitality Career Fair.

Friday, Feb. 10, 2012

Cats at the capitol: 10 graduate students to present research that benefits state

Studies that range from the shelf life of meats to improving unpaved roads with plant material are among the research topics that will be presented by Kansas State University graduate students at the Capitol Graduate Research Summit.

Trumpet blasts and big band brass: Doc Severinsen and his big band at McCain Feb. 26

Talented musicians and their brassy instruments will be the star of an upcoming performance in Kansas State University's 2011-2012 McCain Performance Series.

Black History Month: Ebony Theatre presents 'Crumbs From the Table of Joy'

Kansas State University's Ebony Theatre will honor Black History Month with performances of "Crumbs From the Table of Joy," written by African-American playwright Lynn Nottage.

Constructing for a cause: Engineering student organizations building trump tower replica made of canned food

Two engineering student organizations at Kansas State University are joining together for a nationwide event aimed at feeding the hungry.

A social affair: Students aid in planning 2012 All-University Open House events

Before visitors start connecting at this year's social media-themed All-University Open House, Kansas State University students are volunteering their time to plan the event that includes the entire K-State community.

Thursday, Feb. 9, 2012

In the zone: With optimal conversations, research finds young couples experience less relationship stress, higher satisfaction

The happiest young couples may be involved in a different kind of engagement.

Class acts: Five high school seniors earn Kassebaum Scholarships

Kansas State University's Kassebaum Scholarship is being awarded to four high school seniors from Kansas and one from Missouri.

Black History Month brings speakers, cultural presentations and more to campus

In honor of the national celebration of Black History Month, Kansas State University's Black Student Union will host several cultural events in February aimed at this year's theme, "Beginning of a Legacy."

Time to GROW: Workshop for middle school girls explores universal design

Scientists and engineers are some of the first to create products and improve medical treatments to assist people with disabilities. To demonstrate to young women the role they can play in universal design, the GROW, or Girls Researching Our World, program at Kansas State University will host "Helping Hands."

Positive influence: Senior from Wichita finds his voice in Black Student Union

Kansas State University's Bronson Blackwell attributes his development as a person, leader and scholar to his attendance at a Black Student Union meeting three years ago.

Two is better than one: Second session of spring Evening College courses begins March 8

With the second round of accelerated eight-week Evening College courses starting March 8, students at Kansas State University have the chance to complete another class before the end of spring term.

Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2012

A best buy: New guide lists K-State among the best values in the nation

A new guide lists Kansas State University as one of the top undergraduate schools in the nation offering excellent academics, generous financial aid and/or a relatively low cost of attendance.

Engaged in good works: Civic leadership earns 13 high school seniors scholarships

Kansas State University has selected recipients of the university's 2012 Civic Leadership Scholarships, which are sponsored by Kansas Farm Bureau and Farm Bureau Financial Services.

Page-turner: 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks' is university's 2012 common reading book

Debates on race, research and bioethics won't be a surprise on the Kansas State University campus next fall -- they'll be encouraged, and all because of the book "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks."

No shock here: University's chapter of electrical and computer engineering society rates again among the best

For the second year in a row, a Kansas State University electrical and computer engineering honor society is among the nation's best.

Leadership for extraordinary times: 16th annual seminar explores challenges facing leaders in Kansas today

Leadership for the challenges being faced in our organizations and communities today is the focus of the 16th annual K-State Leadership Seminar, "Leading in Extraordinary Times," from 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Thursday, March 15, at the K-State Student Union.

Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2012

Presidential material: Two Kansas high school seniors receive state's largest scholarship

Two high school seniors from Kansas are receiving the Presidential Scholarship -- the largest award in the state -- from Kansas State University.

A taste of Mexico: Culinary workshop with chef Taji Marie to explore Mexican cuisine

Kansas will get a little taste of Mexico on Feb. 23 and 24 when chef Taji Marie conducts the annual Culinary Enhancement Workshop at Kansas State University. The theme of this year's workshop is "Authentic Flavors from the Regions of Mexico" and will showcase the regional diversity of Mexican cuisine.

Monday, Feb. 6, 2012

The right recipe: Engineering research improves laser detectors, batteries

Think of it as cooking with carbon spaghetti: A Kansas State University researcher is developing new ways to create and work with carbon nanotubes -- ultrasmall tubes that look like pieces of spaghetti or string.

Emerging markets: Business students travel to South America to learn from successful corporations

A group of 14 students from the College of Business Administration at Kansas State University recently spent 13 days in South America to find out about the growing markets of Argentina and Chile.

Friday, Feb. 3, 2012

Hershey's president and CEO to be distinguished business lecturer

Audience members are in for a sweet treat as John P. Bilbrey, president and CEO of the Hershey Co., presents the spring distinguished lecture for Kansas State University's College of Business Administration.

Picture perfect: Landscape photographer Earl Iversen is Friends of the Beach Museum gift print artist for 2012

A landscape photographer known for his work with Kansas grassroots art sites is the 2012 Friends of the Beach Museum of Art gift print artist. The honor, awarded by the support group for Kansas State University's art museum, showcases one of the best artists in the state or region each year.

For mature audiences: Jim Henson puppeteers bringing 'Stuffed and Unstrung' to McCain Feb. 19

World-renowned puppeteers of The Jim Henson Company will take over Kansas State University's McCain Auditorium in their performance of "Stuffed and Unstrung."

Planning for 2025: College of Business Administration selects Andrus to direct research efforts

An experienced researcher will be the director of research in the College of Business Administration at Kansas State University.

Ready to soar: K-State Salina students achieve pilot and flight ratings

Aviation students at Kansas State University at Salina landed key pilot certifications and flight ratings during the fall 2011 semester.

Order in the court: Mock trial club organizes first public trial for Saturday

Expect no objections to the motion from the Kansas State University Mock Trial Club to hold its first mock trial before a public audience.

Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012

Before the ring: Marriage therapist says high-conflict couples have work to do before saying 'I do'

A Kansas State University marriage therapist has Valentine's Day advice for couples contemplating commitments and engagement rings: Mix romance with a generous portion of reality.

Hail the chief: Myra Gordon's good works earn her chieftancy title of African village

At Kansas State University, Myra Gordon has many titles. She's associate provost for diversity; she's adviser to the Black Student Union; she's chair of the Martin Luther King Jr. Observance Week Committee; and she's on or heads several other committees.

News tip: Five ways to get straight to the heart on Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is just a few weeks away and Kansas State University experts are ready to help with tips for making the day perfect.