Forbes names K-State a dream employer among students, employees
Kansas State University is one of just 27 colleges and universities across the country — and one of three in the Big 12 Conference — that Forbes has named a 2026 dream employer among students and employees.
The recognition highlights the university's commitment to being an employer of choice in Kansas and higher education, providing K-State employees with the opportunities and resources they need to thrive.
It marks the fourth time in just 11 months that K-State has been recognized for excellence as an employer. In August 2025, the university earned the No. 3 spot on Forbes' list of best employers in Kansas, the highest ranking of any college or university in the state. In July, the university ranked No. 3 on Forbes' list of America's Best Employers for Women, and in February, it was recognized as one of America's Best Midsize Employers.
K-State ranked No. 399 overall among 500 organizations that made the dream employers list and No. 14 among colleges and universities. The university was also one of only three Big 12 Conference peers to be included on the list, along with Arizona State at No. 425 and Baylor College of Medicine at No. 436.
To develop the rankings, Forbes surveyed 10,000 college students and 140,000 employees across the country at organizations that employ at least 1,000 people. The students were asked to identify which employers they considered their dream employers and how excited they would be to receive an offer from the company. Students were also asked to rate the appeal of the employer based on growth opportunities, quality of work, salary and company reputation.
Employees were asked about their ideal employers and whether they would recommend their current or previous employer to others. Current workers were also asked to evaluate their organizations on various aspects, including wages, health benefits, professional development, working conditions and the ability of employees to express their ideas.
— Submitted by Human Resources