Master's student is first from K-State to receive MAGS Thesis Award
Thursday, May 8, 2025
Cole King, a recent graduate with a master's degree in public health, was awarded the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools/ProQuest Distinguished Master’s Thesis Award during the April 2025 MAGS conference held in Indianapolis, Indiana.
King is the first Kansas State University master’s student to be recognized with this award.
King's thesis delves into the critical link between maternal immune activation, often triggered by infection, during pregnancy and an increased risk of neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. His research highlights the commonality of immune dysfunction in both situations.
The inspiration for this significant work stemmed from King's desire to integrate his interests in neuroscience and public health, building upon his experiences working with his major professor, Bethany Plakke Anderson, assistant professor in psychological sciences.
King's research proves that "maternal choline supplementation may be an effective intervention to bolster nervous system development, especially in the context of inflammatory exposures."
King noted that this work is “vital in light of novel infectious diseases like COVID-19, where large numbers of children have been exposed to maternal immune activation events before birth.”
Being the first K-State master's student to receive this award holds deep significance for King.
"I believe it reflects the exceptional quality of engagement and mentorship I received from faculty throughout my time at K-State," said King, who graduated in May 2024. "I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support K-State provided and for their continued engagement with me as an alumnus."
Upon graduating, King was accepted into Yale School of Medicine, crediting his master’s experience at K-State as a pivotal foundation in preparing him to pursue a medical degree.
"The high-quality mentorship and support I got allowed me to take on projects and publish, which made me a more competitive applicant for medical school and helped me get into a very competitive program," he said.
King's research, recognized with the prestigious award, highlights the impactful graduate research and mentorship at K-State. As the first K-State master's student to receive this distinction, King’s achievement inspires other graduate students while reinforcing the university’s dedication to cultivating scholars equipped to tackle today’s most pressing societal challenges.