November 8, 2024
KSUnite: Building on Our Strengths
Dear K-State family,
It is my pleasure to invite you to join us for KSUnite on Wednesday, Nov. 13, at the K-State Student Union. This event demonstrates our ongoing efforts to create an environment where all Wildcats can thrive, and it serves as a celebration of our shared commitment to creating a better K-State for all. The day will offer engaging activities, discussions and opportunities to embrace our next-gen values that embody what it truly means to be Wildcats.
Here’s a look at what we have planned and why it matters:
Community Portrait Project
10 a.m.-2 p.m., Union Welcome Lounge
This interactive exhibit allows you to create a video portrait and view the stories of other Wildcats. Rooted in our people-centered value, this project reminds us that the unique identity, voice and experience of every Wildcat contributes to the K-State culture.
Community CATs Cupboard Food Drive
10 a.m.-2 p.m., Union Welcome Desk
Giving back to those in need is an expression of our collective impact. We encourage you to bring a food or personal hygiene donation. Your generosity will directly support students who may be facing food insecurity. Together, we show that Wildcats care for the well-being of one another.
Community Resources Fair
11 a.m.-2 p.m., Union first-floor concourse
Our learner-focused value comes to life at this fair, where you can connect with programs and services that help our students thrive academically and personally. These students and staff are committed to ensuring every Wildcat has the support they need to succeed in career and life.
Featured departments:
• DASSA offices
• Affinity groups
• Student ombudsperson
• Office of Institutional Equity
• Truth, Racial Healing, Transformation Campus Center
• Human Resources
• Staley School of Leadership
• Beach Museum of Art
• Health-Promoting University
Community Feast by Qdoba
11:15 a.m., Union Courtyard
Enjoy a delicious lunch catered by Qdoba! The first 150 attendees will receive FREE lunch, so be sure to arrive early! Grab a bite and enjoy the connection with fellow Wildcats before the afternoon events kick off.
Community Voices Panel
Noon-1:15 p.m., Union Courtyard
The Community Voices Panel lies at the heart of KSUnite and upholds all our values, bringing together diverse perspectives from faculty, staff, students and alumni. Through this meaningful conversation, we’ll share our vision for the future of K-State and the ways in which we can continue to build an environment where all Wildcats can contribute and feel supported.
Our panelists include:
• Don Saucier, university distinguished teaching scholar and professor of psychological sciences
• Eulonda "Lonnie" Moore, education specialist with Facilities
• Victoria Nibarger, alumna and foreign service officer for the U.S. Department of State, Una Chapman Cox Fellow
• Xatyiswa "Exy" Maqshalala, doctoral student in leadership communication, graduate teaching assistant
• Andrew Le, junior in political science, SGA senator, DEIB committee chair
Community Ice Cream Social
1:15 p.m.-2 p.m., Union Courtyard
Ending the day on a sweet note, this social event underscores our value of connection. Take this chance to relax, engage with fellow Wildcats and enjoy some Call Hall ice cream served up by university leaders, including Thomas Lane, Kevin Gwinner, Ethan Erickson, Rana Johnson and Bin Ning.
As a reminder, KSUnite is more than just an event — it’s a movement that reinforces the work we do year-round to create real, sustained change. This is your chance to actively engage in shaping the inclusive, supportive environment we all strive for. By coming together, we show that we are truly One K-State — a campus where everyone has an opportunity to achieve their best. We look forward to seeing you there!
Sincerely,
Rana Johnson
Vice president for diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging