Kansas State University

Why not us? Why not K-State? 2024 State of Our University celebrates the people driving K-State to be the next-generation land-grant university

Submitted by Office of the President

Students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of Kansas State University gathered last Wednesday in McCain Auditorium to celebrate the incredible work being done to become the next-generation land-grant university.

After a performance by In-a-Chord and an introduction from Student Body President Paige Vulgamore, President Richard Linton took the stage to share his message with the audience: Why not us? Why not K-State?

The question was derived from a recent conversation Linton had with a western Kansas farmer during one of the presidential regional community visits. While President Linton was sharing all the great people, programs and partnerships that are placing Kansas State University at the forefront of so many areas, the farmer looked at him and said, "Well then why not us? Why not K-State?"

President Linton continued this theme throughout his address, challenging the audience with the questions: Why not us? Why not K-State?

Why not us? Why not K-State? We have great people.
President Linton underscored that at the heart of the transformation to be the next-generation land-grant university are the people — students, faculty and staff — who form the core of its identity. He spoke passionately about the institution's commitment to providing students with meaningful learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Internships, research opportunities and study abroad programs were highlighted as vital components in preparing students not just for graduation but for lifelong success. He also made the exciting announcement that Kansas State University is projected to see an increase in their student enrollment.

He highlighted five individuals for their incredible work: Sydney Friedli, a K-State Salina student who is overcoming her diagnosis of severe scoliosis to become a professional pilot; Traci Brimhall, a professor who was named the poet laureate by Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly; Corey Williamson, an assistant vice president who has been instrumental in bringing people together through the creation of Community Healing Clubs; and Roger and Julie Davis, who recently gave an endowment for the new executive director of applied learning position.

Furthermore, the address emphasized the university's efforts to break down traditional academic silos. New interdisciplinary initiatives, such as the Kansas Water Institute, aim to foster collaboration across departments, leading to innovative solutions for complex global problems. Another example is the creation of the Biomanufacturing Training and Education Initiative, which has positioned the university as a national leader in this crucial field.

President Linton was also proud to announce that the university has seen a remarkable 22% increase in faculty-initiated research awards during fiscal year 2024, reflecting its growing influence in the research community. The growth, paired with the university's contribution to the state's economy, demonstrated the far-reaching impact of its faculty, staff and students. According to a recent report, for every dollar invested in the university, nearly $9 is generated in return for the state. In the fiscal year 2023 alone, the university's contributions amounted to $2.3 billion.

Why not us? Why not K-State? We have great programs.
In the address, President Linton highlighted the innovative programs that are shaping the future of the university and its students. The institution's unique ability to conduct advanced research, particularly in the area of biosecurity, was showcased as a key driver of this transformation. With state-of-the-art facilities like the Biosecurity Research Institute and the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, the university is not only tackling national challenges but also training the next generation of scientists and leaders.

Beyond research, President Linton spoke to the university's unwavering commitment to serving its local and global community. Through initiatives like the Small Town Studio, K-State 105 and K-State Research and Extension, the institution continues to engage with and support communities across the region. The university's mission as a land-grant institution remains at the forefront, ensuring that it stays connected to the needs of rural and urban areas alike.

At the K-State Olathe and Salina campuses, President Linton spoke of exciting new developments in advanced manufacturing and aerospace programs, all designed to meet the needs of emerging industries. These programs, along with new investments in infrastructure, reflect the institution's dedication to ensuring that both faculty and students have access to cutting-edge resources.

The university's success in athletics was also highlighted during the address. From championship victories to academic excellence, President Linton praised K-State's student-athletes for their accomplishments. These achievements, he noted, serve as yet another example of the university's commitment to excellence in all areas.

Why not us? Why not K-State? We have great partnerships.
The address emphasized the importance of partnerships in driving the university forward. President Linton acknowledged the critical role that alumni, government leaders and external stakeholders play in shaping the institution's future. Over the past year, the university received more than $192 million in contributions from alumni and supporters, with a significant portion dedicated to scholarships and student success. Additionally, K-State received more than $137 million in federal and state funding, underscoring the university's role as a key partner in shaping the future of the state and the nation.

These partnerships, President Linton said, are essential as the institution continues to grow and address the challenges of tomorrow.

Why not us? Why not K-State? We are the next-generation land-grant university.
As the address came to a close, President Linton offered a glimpse into the future, sharing optimism about the university's continued transformation. The focus on people, programs and partnerships will remain central to its mission, but the challenges ahead will require even greater collaboration and innovation. President Linton concluded with a powerful reminder that this is only the beginning, and it is going to take each and every one of us to move closer to becoming a true next-generation land-grant university, one where education, research and community engagement intersect to change the world.

President Linton ended the address with the powerful reminder that if we do good things for Kansas, we can do good things for the world.

Watch the full State of Our University address here.