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K-State Today

Division of Communications and Marketing
Kansas State University
128 Dole Hall
1525 Mid-Campus Drive North
Manhattan, KS 66506
785-532-2535
vpcm@k-state.edu

December 8, 2023

29th cohort of McNair Scholars selected

Submitted by Emily Vieyra

The TRIO Ronald E. McNair Post-baccalaureate Achievement Program selected the 29th cohort of scholars through a competitive application process, including an interview. Scholars will soon begin work to find research mentors and plan summer research internships.

Since 1995, Kansas State University's TRIO McNair Scholars Program has promoted the scholarly development of academically talented first-generation, income-eligible college students and students from groups underrepresented in graduate education. The goal of the program is to increase the number of people from these groups holding graduate degrees and serving in the ranks of faculty and researchers.

The 29th cohort of McNair Scholars includes the following students:

  • Riley Brokeshoulder, junior in English.
  • Audrey Etgen, senior in psychology.
  • Isaac Hernandez, sophomore in accounting.
  • Katie Janzen, junior in fisheries, wildlife and conservation biology.
  • Lillianna Lamagna, junior in English.
  • Citlali Rocha-Ruiz, senior in mathematics.
  • Cassandra Rodriguez, senior in communication sciences and disorders.
  • Justus Rucker, junior in park management and conservation.
  • Abraham Valdez, sophomore in biology.
  • Fabel Yáñez, senior in environmental science.

In preparation for graduate school, McNair scholars will complete a research internship under a faculty mentor, write an article-length project and abstract, present their research, participate in weekly seminars to prepare graduate applications and explore topics in professionalism. For most scholars, this is a two-year commitment.

The McNair Scholars Program is actively recruiting participants as spots are available. Eligibility requirements apply. Eligible students with interest in graduate study and research are encouraged to contact mcnair@k-state.edu before Jan. 10, 2024, for consideration.

The application for the next cohort will be available in September 2024. Faculty and staff who know of good candidates should refer them to the program or contact the McNair office. For more information, see the program website at k-state.edu/mcnair. The McNair Scholars Program is a Federal TRIO Program administrated by the Department of Education and authorized by Congress.