K-State Today

Letter to campus from Dean Mary Tolar

Submitted by Mary Tolar

Dear colleagues,

"By 2030, we will provide every degree-seeking student with applied learning experiences before they graduate, fulfilling our commitment to prepare students for life beyond K-State starting early in their college experience." With this imperative in our Next-Gen K-State strategic plan, we commit to deepening and expanding students’ real-time, real-world learning experiences, giving all students confidence and clarity in their future careers — and competence and purpose as they pursue it.

The Staley School of Leadership has been charged to engage faculty and staff across the university and community and industry stakeholders to advance this important work. I am writing today to update you on the steps we will take this year to build on the successful programs K-State has in place and begin to scale the work to meet our 2030 goal for all undergraduate students to benefit from an applied learning experience.

To elevate and deliver an impactful and unmatched student experience, applied learning at K-State must deliver on two counts. We must ensure it is both comprehensive and excellent. To do this, we must first establish baseline participation rates, a means by which to identify and evaluate types of applied learning experiences, and a mechanism to track and report student participation. We must also work to understand, support and build partnerships with industry, government and communities to provide excellent applied learning experiences that resonate with diverse learners, disciplines and professions. To ensure access to these experiences by all students, we will also work to secure necessary philanthropic support.

We must also undertake this work in phases, beginning with undergraduate students and then expanding to include all degree-seeking learners. As President Linton shared in his budget investment announcement, the university has provided $250,000 from the "One K-State" investment pool to launch our Next-Gen K-State initiative to expand the learning experiences available to our students outside classroom walls. With the help of Kerri Keller, executive director of career services, I am in the process of building a team and designing the work this year to:

• Engage academic partners across the university to define, identify and map excellent applied learning experiences already offered.
• Understand what opportunities, gaps and obstacles exist.
• Launch a grant program to incentivize the expansion of opportunities through our academic departments.
• Pilot a grant process to provide direct support to students to enable them to take advantage of these opportunities.

As a model next-generation land-grant institution, we will build on the world-class research of our faculty, our extraordinary alumni networks, and rich partnerships across the state and around the world to create and scale exceptional applied learning. We aim to not only empower students with experiences that position them for immediate and lifelong success but also to engage students as essential partners in serving our land-grant mission, helping our stakeholders meet the challenges they face right now across the state and beyond.

This is an exciting time at K-State. We will be sharing more information soon as plans develop. I look forward to working together with all of you as we make real-time, real-world learning experiences a true differentiator for our students and for K-State.

Sincerely,
Mary Tolar
Dean, Staley School of Leadership

Next-Gen K-State Applied Learning Imperative: Letter to campus from Dean Mary Tolar

Submitted by Mary Tolar

Dear colleagues,

As we find our rhythm with the spring semester, I find inspiration from our students. Their commitment to learning, contributing and connecting — with new ideas, with one another, with our communities — models Next-Gen K-State and inspires confidence in a truly bright future.

I am writing today to update you on progress to meet our 2030 goal for all students to benefit from an applied learning experience. The imperative in our Next-Gen K-State strategic plan is a commitment to provide every degree-seeking student with real-time, real-world learning experiences before they graduate. Last fall, I shared an update outlining the beginning phase of the work, investment from the One K-State fund, and steps we will take to build on the successful programs K-State has in place and begin to scale our offerings to include all degree-seeking students.

A core team is working diligently to create a framework for this imperative. The team's initial charge is to deepen the understanding of applied learning by examining models at peer institutions, reviewing the growing body of literature and considering various types of learning experiences. Their synthesis of the applied learning landscape in higher education is the foundation for developing a model for K-State that is both comprehensive and excellent, as called for in the strategic plan.

An essential first step is to define applied learning in a context that supports identifying, tracking and scaling exceptional learning experiences for all students. We must commit to a shared definition of applied learning, the types of applied learning experiences supported in our K-State model and shared definitions of each. The core team is providing draft definitions based on their early work.

We invite you to review and provide feedback on draft definitions for applied learning at K-State and the four initial applied learning experiences — education abroad, internships, service-learning and undergraduate research. Your input will be used to further refine the definitions and support the next steps of identifying and evaluating types of applied learning experiences. The survey is available through March 19.

Our work continues. Next steps in further shaping the framework for applied learning at K-State include:

• Engaging academic partners across the university to identify and map excellent applied learning experiences already offered.
• Understanding what opportunities, gaps and obstacles exist.
• Piloting a grant process to provide direct support to students to enable them to take advantage of these opportunities.
• Launching a grant program to incentivize the expansion of opportunities through our academic departments.

Engaging the larger university community to deepen the conversation about what applied learning means for our university is a vital part in building a sustainable program. The survey for your input on the definition of applied learning and the initial applied learning experiences is a start. Watch for additional updates and outreach in the coming months, and visit our website to learn more.

Real-time, real-world learning is what our students want, what K-State does well and what a bright future requires. There is good work ahead!

Sincerely,

Mary Tolar
Dean, Staley School of Leadership

Next-Gen K-State Applied Learning Imperative: Letter to campus from Dean Mary Tolar

Submitted by Mary Tolar

Dear Colleagues,

It's spring, and calendars are filled! I'm grateful for the teamwork behind this season's many markers of progress — dissertations defended, academic year projects nearing completion, annual awards celebrated, graduation and summer plans in motion. Thanks to many of you across the K-State community, we have also made progress this spring on a key Next-Gen K-State strategic imperative — to provide every degree-seeking student with applied learning experiences by 2030.

Our commitment to offer students real-time, real-world experiences at scale is one that requires monumental teamwork. It also requires us to be clear about what we mean by applied learning. In late February, the university community was invited to provide feedback on draft definitions for applied learning at K-State and four initial applied learning experiences. A feedback survey was made available from late February through mid-March, and we had great response, with nearly 200 responses from faculty, staff and students — undergraduate and graduate — representing eight colleges from Manhattan, Salina and online.

After review, we are happy to have landed on definitions that will guide us moving forward. Survey responses included thoughtful questions, additional examples of applied learning in action at K-State and offers to champion this effort. Applied learning is richly embedded within our university's past and present, and we are thankful for all those who have enthusiastically embraced this strategic imperative as a true differentiator for us as a next-generation land-grant university.

With applied learning defined, we now move forward with the important work of identifying and mapping existing experiences. A critical next step is to work with colleagues in academic units and across the university to identify experiences beyond our initial four that meet the applied learning definition. With that expanded set of experiences, and with assistance from a team of student interns conducting interviews, we will build an inventory of our applied learning experiences that will allow us to recognize excellence, clarify gaps, identify obstacles and develop opportunities as we build a scalable framework for K-State's signature applied learning experiences.

Our actions are intentionally designed to engage the larger university community at each level of this work. Your continued participation, communication and support are vital to Kansas State University becoming a model for applied learning done well as we strive to fulfill our commitment to expand access to applied learning experiences for all students.

Sincerely,

Mary Tolar
Dean, Staley School of Leadership

September 4, 2024

Schroeder to lead Next-Gen K-State applied learning initiative as executive director

Submitted by Staley School of Leadership

Kansas State University's Next-Gen K-State third strategic imperative is to provide every degree-seeking student with applied learning experiences by 2030. Following a national search this summer, Craig Schroeder, Ph.D., has been hired to lead this effort as the inaugural executive director of applied learning, effective Sept. 15.

Schroeder will play a pivotal role coordinating and advancing applied learning strategies and activities across the university. Together with colleagues across colleges and campuses, Schroeder will develop tracking and reporting mechanisms, as well as policies and procedures to guide development and implementation of applied learning experiences. As executive director, Schroeder will build and expand the network of stakeholders at the university and in communities, and he will support faculty to expand existing applied learning experiences and create new experiences.

Schroeder comes to K-State with experience at the University of Kentucky, where he founded and led a 15-year multi-level applied learning program providing STEM opportunity and access, and as part of a collaborative research group, helped build and scale the model at universities in seven additional states. He has extensive experience forging community and industry partnerships around applied learning. Most recently, Schroeder served as a regional innovation specialist with the Kentucky Department of Education, Division of Innovation, charged with supporting districts across the state in the implementation of applied learning.

"Throughout his 20+ year career in education and leadership, Craig has championed and led systemwide innovation," said Mary Tolar, dean of the Staley School of Leadership. "He has a proven record of deep commitment to equitable learning opportunities for all students that enhance graduate career readiness and community impact. We are excited for Craig's leadership as we advance the vision and goals of Next-Gen K-State."

Schroeder earned his doctorate in educational sciences from the University of Kentucky, along with an education specialist degree in educational leadership, and a master's degree in mathematics education. He also holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics and physics from Centre College as well as numerous teaching certifications.

Schroeder starts work in hybrid format this month before transitioning to the Manhattan campus in November.

Read the story on the Foundation's Webpage

Julie and Roger Davis of Santa Barbara, California, have kick-started the applied learning initiative at Kansas State University with a $2 million gift to name the program’s executive director position.

The Next-Gen K-State strategic plan aims to give every degree-seeking student an applied learning experience by 2030. Through study abroad, internships, service learning and undergraduate research, students apply knowledge and skills gained in the classroom to real-world settings.

Julie Davis, a 1978 K-State graduate in accounting, and her husband, Roger, have invested in K-State in a variety of ways. This most recent gift helps launch the campuswide applied learning initiative, which is housed in the Staley School of Leadership.

“We think of applied learning as the Holy Grail of higher education — a goal that many universities are trying to reach, however have not fully achieved,” said the Davises. “Establishing an endowed director position immediately energizes the launch of applied learning across K-State. Harnessing the power of K-State students who are out applying their learning across the state will be a force multiplier, enhancing both students’ learning and also the communities they serve.”

K-State’s ranking in Princeton Review demonstrates that students already think their college experience is tops, and applied learning elevates that experience even more.

“K-State is proud to offer one of the best student experiences in the country, and we are committed to elevating it even further through applied learning,” said K-State President Richard Linton. “Julie and Roger Davis have made a significant investment in what we identified as one of our highest priorities during our strategic planning process. By creating unmatched opportunities for students to develop their skills, we are preparing them to be more competitive in the workforce and ultimately stronger leaders. Thanks to the Davises’ generous gift, we can now recruit and hire the best leader for this initiative.”

Craig Schroeder has been hired to be the inaugural Julie and Roger Davis Executive Director for Applied Learning at K-State. Schroeder comes to K-State with experience at University of Kentucky, where he founded and led a 15-year multi-level applied learning program providing STEM opportunity and access. As part of a collaborative research group, Schroeder helped build and scale the model at universities in seven additional states.

“This endowment secures strong leadership of the initiative now and in the future,” said Mary Hale Tolar, dean of the Staley School of Leadership. “With this gift, Julie and Roger both fuel a successful launch and lay groundwork for all the great opportunities for future engagement to come.”

President Linton Next-Gen K-State monthly update

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Submitted by Richard Linton

Dear K-State community,

The past few weeks have been a time of evolution and change. I understand that these transitions may have brought concerns, and I want you to know that we are actively working to address your questions. Despite this period of uncertainty, our university must remain dedicated to our fundamental land-grant mission. I am deeply grateful for your continued commitment and resilience.

Our core commitment remains unwavering: student success and innovation. Our students and learners are the most crucial part of our university and the foundation we build daily. I am excited to share two new developments that will enhance our ability to deliver an unmatched and impactful student experience.

Introducing Willie: A 24/7 campus connection for first-year students
Willie, our beloved 'Cat, is now available to all first-year students as an AI virtual assistant accessible directly from their mobile devices. This innovative tool can:

• Proactively check in with first-year students
• Answer questions instantly
• Connect students to critical campus support services
• Provide on-demand assistance 24/7

This platform will help us quickly identify and address students' barriers, ensuring they have the necessary resources to succeed.

If continuing students have questions but aren't sure where to find answers, they can use the I Need Help feature in Navigate, and a K-State team member will reach out to help.

Transformational investment in applied learning
I am thrilled to announce a transformational gift from Paul and Sandra Edgerley that will help us deliver on our promise to provide every degree-seeking student with applied learning experiences before graduation.

This multiyear $20 million investment is a game-changing commitment to our students' futures. The gift builds university-level capacity to support and elevate applied learning experiences throughout the student journey. Specifically, the investment will support innovative, interdisciplinary, real-world learning models, including:

• University Honors Program grand challenges curriculum
• Strong Complex honors commons
• A vertically integrated student research pilot with the Kansas Water Institute
• Career development pathways in the College of Business Administration

These initiatives represent our strategic approach to scaling excellent, applied learning for all students, ensuring our graduates are academically prepared and professionally equipped to excel in their chosen fields.

Our ongoing commitment
Both Willie and our transformational applied learning investments reflect our broader mission: to create a supportive, responsive educational environment that empowers every student to achieve their full potential. These are just two ways we're innovating to support student success.

Thank you for all that you do to help make K-State the next-generation land-grant university.

As always, Go 'Cats!

Richard Linton
President

Applied Learning Experiences seeks student ambassadors

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Submitted by Applied Learning Experiences

The Applied Learning Experiences team invites undergraduate students from all backgrounds to apply to become Applied Learning Ambassadors. Be part of the 2030 goal of providing all students with applied learning opportunities, like internships, education abroad, research, community-engaged learning and more.

Applications from students passionate about promoting applied learning through sharing their experiences, working to define applied learning across the university community and staffing on-campus events are welcome. The team will offer strategic insight on imperative goals, offering student perspectives to steering committees. Ambassadors will serve a one-year term, selected late in the spring semester.

Apply by 11:59 p.m. Monday, March 24.

To learn more and to apply, visit our website.

The Applied Learning initiative is housed within the Staley School of Leadership. The Staley School also includes undergraduate and graduate leadership studies academic programs, leadership and service co-curricular programs, Scholar Development and Undergraduate Research, and the University Honors Program. The Staley School develops bold, curious, and connected learners to address our world’s most complex challenges. To learn more, visit the website at www.k-state.edu/leadership.

University steering committee established to develop, integrate applied learning experiences

Submitted by Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President

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Dear colleagues,

We are committed as a university to deepen and expand students’ real-time, real-world learning, delivering an unmatched, impactful student experience. Specifically, Imperative 3 of our Next-Gen Strategic Plan states that by 2030, every degree-seeking student will complete an applied learning experience (mandatory for undergraduates), fulfilling K-State’s commitment to prepare students for life beyond K-State.

In the past year, under the leadership of Dean Mary Tolar, we have done the foundational work of defining applied learning, initiating inventory, and building capacity. Dr. Craig Schroeder joined K-State as the inaugural Julie and Roger Davis executive director for applied learning in the fall and a “One K-State" strategic investment and transformational philanthropic gifts have positioned us to accelerate our efforts in exciting ways.

To achieve our bold goal of taking applied learning to scale, we must engage academic partners across the university to integrate applied learning experiences, or ALE, into the student experience. We must provide support and structure, develop and institute policies and procedures, and establish tracking and reporting mechanisms. We must also promote the value of these experiences with our students, university colleagues, and partners in communities and workplaces across the state and beyond.

Today I announce the formation of the Applied Learning Experiences University Steering Committee. This group is charged with guiding the universitywide, multi-year effort to drive progress on our Next-Gen K-State strategic imperative to provide all learners with applied learning opportunities.

The group will advance work two key priority areas:

1. Universitywide Policies, Processes and Systems: This will include co-developing and advancing policies, systems and processes that will be used by learners, faculty and administration to clarify expectations for student participation, identify ALE opportunities, monitor and report, and integrate with current institutional reporting and student-facing data systems.
2. Instructional and Implementation Support: This will include co-designing support for learners, faculty and departments/programs engaging with ALE through the development of grant opportunities, cohorts, teaching and learning workshops and guidance documents.

ALE University Steering Committee members include:

• Mary Tolar, dean, Staley School of Leadership, co-chair
• Craig Schroeder, Julie and Roger Davis executive director for applied learning, co-chair
• Karen Goos, vice provost, enrollment management, Office of the Provost
• Kevin Gwinner, dean, College of Business Administration
• Katie Kingery-Page, associate dean, College of Architecture, Planning and Design
• Sara Luly, director, University Honors Program, faculty senate president-elect
• Margaret Mohr-Schroeder, vice provost, academic affairs and innovation, Office of the Provost
• Dan Moser, associate dean, College of Agriculture
• Jack O’Malley, senior in management
• Joseph Pondillo, senior in political science
• Phillip Payne, associate dean, Graduate School
• Brad Regier, associate director, learning assessment, Data, Assessment, and Institutional Research
• Darrin Smith, associate dean, K-State Olathe
• Alysia Starkey, dean and CEO, K-State Salina
• Tim Steffensmeier, assistant vice president and director of engagement and outreach, Office of Engagement
• Bill Watts, associate vice president, academic and career engagement, Division of Academic Success and Student Affairs

I thank the steering committee members for their commitment to making applied learning a true differentiator for our K-State students. The success of this committee will depend on broadly engaging students, the university advising community, shared governance, academic leadership and other key stakeholders in the work. Collective effort across the university and with community and industry partners will get us to our goal.

Kansas State University students will be ready, more than ever, for the many opportunities that lie ahead.

Go 'Cats!
Jesse Perez Mendez
Provost and executive vice president