May 3, 2024
Delivering on the Promise conversations underway across Kansas
Submitted by Office of the Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff
A key element of the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan is to expand engagement between the university, extension and Kansas communities. To better understand the wants and needs of these communities, K-State Research and Extension and the Office of Engagement are hosting 84 idea conversations at 28 locations across the state. These discussions are coined as "Delivering on the Promise," representing K-State's commitment to helping Kansans solve problems, address challenges and explore opportunities.
So far, 43 discussion sessions have been facilitated in communities across Kansas. Ideas and opportunities generated during these sessions range from partnerships with trade and vocational institutions to joint efforts to address issues like child care, health care, and affordable and safe housing. Information gathered is being used to devise plans for more collaborative work among extension, university colleges and departments. This collaboration extends beyond campus, too. These sessions have also brought forth new external partnership ideas which the university plans to explore further.
"We want to thank those who have already attended our session. We have learned so much," said Gregg Hadley, assistant vice president and director for extension. "It is exciting to think about what we will discover about the extension and engagement needs of Kansans once sessions conclude."
The meetings, hosted by local K-State Research and Extension offices, engage community members through discussion sessions with internal stakeholders like extension agents and board members, as well as non-users and users of extension services. However, information gathering is not limited to in-person meetings. K-State Research and Extension and the Office of Engagement also want to hear your insights and ideas. To contribute ways K-State can engage in efforts to help your community address challenges and generate opportunities, submit this form.
"If you were not able to attend a local meeting, we encourage you to submit ideas and opportunities by the end of the summer," said Tim Steffensmeier, assistant vice president and director of engagement and outreach. "Ideas gathered will be organized by Roots and Legacies Consulting and made available on our website once the project is completed."
Learn more about Delivering on the Promise conversations by visiting the Engagement at K-State website.