K-State continues to rank among top employers

Forbes has included K-State on two prestigious lists — America’s Best Employers by State and America's Best Employers for Women — showcasing that employees find the university a great place to work.

The recognition reinforces K-State’s commitment to being an employer of choice in Kansas and higher education, where employees have the opportunities, resources and support they need to thrive.

“Fulfilling K-State’s land-grant mission takes people who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of our students, our state and our communities,” said Shanna Legleiter, chief Human Resources officer. “These recognitions are a meaningful reflection of the culture we’re building together. We want every employee to feel valued, supported and empowered to grow. Creating that kind of environment is essential to attracting and retaining the talented people who help K-State deliver on its mission every day.”

These recognitions mark the third time in the last eight months that K-State has been recognized for employer excellence. In May, the university was named a top employer among new graduates, and in January was recognized as a 2026 dream employer among students and employees.

No. 3 best employer in Kansas

America’s Best Employers by State were identified based on an independent survey of more than 245,000 employees working for companies with at least 500 workers. K-State ranked third in Kansas for the second straight year — the highest ranking of any college or university in the state — and behind only Pfizer biopharmaceutical company and the University of Kansas Health System in the overall rankings.

Survey participants were asked how likely they were to recommend their employer and to assess their workplace based on wages and benefits, management style, company reputation, flexibility and career advancement opportunities.

No. 216 best employer for women in the nation

America’s Best Employers for Women were identified based on a survey of more than 146,000 women, with more than 4 million employer evaluations considered across three years. K-State ranked No. 216 among the top 700 companies in the United States and No. 37 among 50 colleges and universities. It was one of only two Big 12 conference schools to make the list.

Survey participants were asked how likely they were to recommend their employer and to rate their current employer on pay equity, career development, parental leave, work-life balance, benefits for childcare or eldercare, and the employer’s handling of incidents related to sexual misconduct and discrimination.

— Submitted by Human Resources