By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The ARC Park Phase 3 expansion in Hays' Seven Hills Optimist Park, 33rd and Hillcrest, was originally proposed as an accessible baseball field.

Instead, it is now planned to be a multi-recreation area with permanent cornhole lanes, another picnic shelter, open green space, and a Quantis play structure for older kids.

The pivotal change in design plans came after the addition of turf fields at the Bickle-Schmidt Sport Complex, and the cost of the special accessible ball field tripled to nearly a million dollars.

Local athletes with The Arc Central Plains had the opportunity to practice at Bickle-Schmidt last fall and it was a perfect fit.

"The Special Olympics size for a ball field is 120 feet and there are at least two fields out at Bickle-Schmidt that are at least 150 feet. So, in cooperation with the city of Hays and Hays Rec, we did a sort of a beta test in October for our baseball/softball season. It went great," said Sarah Meitner, Arc of the Central Plains advisory board member. "The athletes loved it."

"There are some minor adjustments that will be made to the bases. We'll need to have a fence. The Arc is willing to make that investment," Meitner told Hays city commissioners.

Community needs and plans for phase 3 were then reevaluated by the advisory board.

"It was our goal to stay true to the initial mission of an inclusive playground."

The new recreational space will also include more sensory play equipment including two pulse tennis stations and an interactive sensory mural.

Cornhole, a favorite sport of many people, is a new Special Olympics Kansas sport with regional and state play.

"It's a great sport because it's accessible for all ages," Meitner said. "Athletes that are not able to keep up on the basketball court can still participate in the social aspects and the athletic fun."

The cornhole lanes will have turf in between them with shaded dugouts.

Commissioners had the most questions about the Quantis, manufactured by Landscape Structures. It's compared to a 'ninja course' and it's expensive - $465,000. There are currently only eight in the United States and none in Kansas.

The look and feel of playground equipment is changing, and it's more expensive, "especially if you put the label accessible or inclusive on it," Meitner said.&nbsp;

"The Quantis would put us ahead of the curve by building things like this in our community.

"It would be driving older kids to come and play at this versus playing at the [ARC] playground," Meitner added.

There have been incidents and complaints of misuse of the specialized accessible equipment with too many kids on it or those who are too big.&nbsp;

More fundraising and donations allowed for lighting and security cameras to be installed.&nbsp;

"This would make the park more family-friendly because it gets the big kids off the playground, and they can roughhouse a little bit.

"It also just continues to spread out the users."

The high-end cost estimate for the project is $1.67 million, according to Meitner. "We think there is some cushion in there to bring this down."

Fundraising has been underway for a while for phase 3 and is currently at a little more than $400,000.

Grant applications are in the works along with more fundraisers, including another lemonade stand challenge at the end of June.

The commission voted to approve the request to proceed with phase 3 after Kathy McAdoo, Arc executive director told commissioner the Arc organization already has enough of its own funds to cover the remaining cost.&nbsp;

"We could fund it today, although it would empty our accounts," McAdoo said.

The ARC Park has been gifted to the city of Hays which maintains it. The Arc plans to create an endowed designated fund for maintenance and equipment replacement expenses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jeff Boyle, parks department director, says the ARC Park maintenance is "pretty much self-sufficient. We're looking at dumping trash cans, cleaning the shelter, routine things that we do at all our shelters."

Boyle estimated the park's maintenance cost is about $5,000 a year.&nbsp;

"We made a commitment to the community. Phase 3 was part of that commitment. We have fundraised with the ball field in mind so there is money to put toward this area.

"But we want a place that will still have wide community use," Meitner said.

"After the playground opened (in September 2021) we saw a need for giving our middle school and high school kids a place to play as well. They're asking for it. They've been utilizing it. This (the amended phase 3 and the Quantis) answers that. It still expands the park, and then I think we'll be done," she said with a big smile.

The playground equipment is expected to be ordered later this year with installation and construction in the northwest corner of the park in 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683671903442.jpeg" alt="ARC Park redesign for Phase 3 with no baseball field. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>ARC Park redesign for Phase 3 with no baseball field. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe ARC Park Phase 3 expansion in Hays' Seven Hills Optimist Park, 33rd and Hillcrest, was originally proposed as an accessible baseball field.Instead, it is now planned to be a multi-recreation area with permanent cornhole lanes, another picnic shelter, open green space, and a Quantis play structure for older kids.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683652534060.jpeg" alt="Proposed Phase 3 of the Hays ARC Park. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Proposed Phase 3 of the Hays ARC Park. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The pivotal change in design plans came after the addition of turf fields at the Bickle-Schmidt Sport Complex, and the cost of the special accessible ball field tripled to nearly a million dollars.Local athletes with The Arc Central Plains had the opportunity to practice at Bickle-Schmidt last fall and it was a perfect fit."The Special Olympics size for a ball field is 120 feet and there are at least two fields out at Bickle-Schmidt that are at least 150 feet. So, in cooperation with the city of Hays and Hays Rec, we did a sort of a beta test in October for our baseball/softball season. It went great," said Sarah Meitner, Arc of the Central Plains advisory board member. "The athletes loved it.""There are some minor adjustments that will be made to the bases. We'll need to have a fence. The Arc is willing to make that investment," Meitner told Hays city commissioners.Community needs and plans for phase 3 were then reevaluated by the advisory board."It was our goal to stay true to the initial mission of an inclusive playground."The new recreational space will also include more sensory play equipment including two pulse tennis stations and an interactive sensory mural.Cornhole, a favorite sport of many people, is a new Special Olympics Kansas sport with regional and state play."It's a great sport because it's accessible for all ages," Meitner said. "Athletes that are not able to keep up on the basketball court can still participate in the social aspects and the athletic fun."The cornhole lanes will have turf in between them with shaded dugouts.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683671426053.jpeg" alt="The Quantis is often compared to a ninja course. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Quantis is often compared to a ninja course. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioners had the most questions about the Quantis, manufactured by Landscape Structures. It's compared to a 'ninja course' and it's expensive - $465,000. There are currently only eight in the United States and none in Kansas.The look and feel of playground equipment is changing, and it's more expensive, "especially if you put the label accessible or inclusive on it," Meitner said.&nbsp;"The Quantis would put us ahead of the curve by building things like this in our community."It would be driving older kids to come and play at this versus playing at the [ARC] playground," Meitner added.There have been incidents and complaints of misuse of the specialized accessible equipment with too many kids on it or those who are too big.&nbsp;More fundraising and donations allowed for lighting and security cameras to be installed.&nbsp;"This would make the park more family-friendly because it gets the big kids off the playground, and they can roughhouse a little bit."It also just continues to spread out the users."<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/uhWI09wn-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Sarah Meitner Phase 3" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>The high-end cost estimate for the project is $1.67 million, according to Meitner. "We think there is some cushion in there to bring this down."Fundraising has been underway for a while for phase 3 and is currently at a little more than $400,000.Grant applications are in the works along with more fundraisers, including another lemonade stand challenge at the end of June.The commission voted to approve the request to proceed with phase 3 after Kathy McAdoo, Arc executive director told commissioner the Arc organization already has enough of its own funds to cover the remaining cost.&nbsp; "We could fund it today, although it would empty our accounts," McAdoo said.The ARC Park has been gifted to the city of Hays which maintains it. The Arc plans to create an endowed designated fund for maintenance and equipment replacement expenses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeff Boyle, parks department director, says the ARC Park maintenance is "pretty much self-sufficient. We're looking at dumping trash cans, cleaning the shelter, routine things that we do at all our shelters."Boyle estimated the park's maintenance cost is about $5,000 a year.&nbsp;"We made a commitment to the community. Phase 3 was part of that commitment. We have fundraised with the ball field in mind so there is money to put toward this area."But we want a place that will still have wide community use," Meitner said."After the playground opened (in September 2021) we saw a need for giving our middle school and high school kids a place to play as well. They're asking for it. They've been utilizing it. This (the amended phase 3 and the Quantis) answers that. It still expands the park, and then I think we'll be done," she said with a big smile.The playground equipment is expected to be ordered later this year with installation and construction in the northwest corner of the park in 2024.

🎥Hays ARC Park Phase 3 revised for more inclusive recreation 

Two local property annexations have been approved by the Hays City Commission along with a resolution of support for housing tax credits for potential low-income housing.

High Plains Farm Credit FLCA owns the two properties adjacent to 11oo E. 43rd, which will be annexed into the city. High Plains plans to relocate its Hays office on Vine Street to the location north of Interstate 70. The agency will remodel the former Doerfler’s Harley Davidson building and construct a parking lot on the adjacent vacant lot.

Also to be annexed is the BBJ, LLC property, tracts 1, 2 and 4, located near 230th Avenue and 55th Street. The land is contiguous to the city limits. The action was triggered by the recent installation of city utility services and infrastructure necessary to serve the property.

The commission also agreed to issue a resolution of support for state low-income housing tax credits on behalf of Old Town Development, Inc., a multi-family real estate developer from Kansas City.

The developer has a purchase option on an eight-acre parcel near 22nd and Wheatland Avenue and intends to construct a 40-unit, income-restricted, apartment complex called Wheatland Commons.

The most recent housing survey for Hays shows a need for 1,000 low-income units are needed.

• Authorized a contract with CC Steel, LLC, Maple Plains, MN, for $372,200 for the completion of sanitary sewer point repairs originally scheduled for the year 2022. The company originally awarded the bid went out of business before it began the Hays project. Hays has been reimbursed by American Southern Insurance Company.&nbsp;

• Accepted the 2022 audit for the city by Adams Brown. No deficits were found.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683645341394.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners listen to Mayor Mason Ruder. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners listen to Mayor Mason Ruder. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostTwo local property annexations have been approved by the Hays City Commission along with a resolution of support for housing tax credits for potential low-income housing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683644291098.png" alt="High Plains Farm Credit&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>High Plains Farm Credit&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>High Plains Farm Credit FLCA owns the two properties adjacent to 11oo E. 43rd, which will be annexed into the city. High Plains plans to relocate its Hays office on Vine Street to the location north of Interstate 70. The agency will remodel the former Doerfler’s Harley Davidson building and construct a parking lot on the adjacent vacant lot.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683643993416.png" alt="Tracts 1,2 and 4 will be annexed. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Tracts 1,2 and 4 will be annexed. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Also to be annexed is the BBJ, LLC property, tracts 1, 2 and 4, located near 230th Avenue and 55th Street. The land is contiguous to the city limits. The action was triggered by the recent installation of city utility services and infrastructure necessary to serve the property.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683645607262.png" alt="Area of proposed Wheatland Commons development near 22nd and Wheatland Avenue. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Area of proposed Wheatland Commons development near 22nd and Wheatland Avenue. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The commission also agreed to issue a resolution of support for state low-income housing tax credits on behalf of Old Town Development, Inc., a multi-family real estate developer from Kansas City.The developer has a purchase option on an eight-acre parcel near 22nd and Wheatland Avenue and intends to construct a 40-unit, income-restricted, apartment complex called Wheatland Commons.The most recent housing survey for Hays shows a need for 1,000 low-income units are needed.In other business, the commission:• Authorized a contract with CC Steel, LLC, Maple Plains, MN, for $372,200 for the completion of sanitary sewer point repairs originally scheduled for the year 2022. The company originally awarded the bid went out of business before it began the Hays project. Hays has been reimbursed by American Southern Insurance Company.&nbsp;• Accepted the 2022 audit for the city by Adams Brown. No deficits were found.

Hays city commission approves annexations for new tenant for Doerfler’s, supports 40-unit apt. complex

RUSSELL COUNTY -&nbsp; The Lovegrass Music Festival Association (LMFA) is thrilled to announce that it has received a generous grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Such funding is critical in enabling the LMFA to continue to hold its annual free Lovegrass Music Festival. This will be the sixth year of the festival, which takes place at beautiful Wilson State Park from August 10th-12th, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The LMFA began as a simple idea between friends who frequent Wilson State Park. Each year the festival has grown in stature and reputation, boasting a lineup including some of the nation's most sought-after bluegrass musical acts. 

Thanks to support from generous donors, such as the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, music lovers flock to rural Kansas each August to enjoy an entirely free music festival that would cost them hundreds of dollars to attend elsewhere.&nbsp; As the festival has grown and flourished,&nbsp; attendees and bluegrass musicians from widening geographic areas have made the pilgrimage to scenic Russell County, Kansas, to enjoy music, community, and a reprieve from urban life.&nbsp;

"Each year it is a struggle to raise funds necessary to host such an event," says Aimee Riegel, LMFA executive director. "However, due to the tremendous support of local agencies, such as the Russell County Economic Development &amp; CVB, the Midland Railroad Hotel, local businesses, and individuals, coupled with the diligent efforts of our volunteer board of directors and committees, the event always becomes a memorable reality and a pure grassroots extravaganza.

"We are so thankful for the generous grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, as it allows our festival to remain free to the public while simultaneously providing exceptional roots musical programming," said Riegel.&nbsp; "We are so pleased that the Lovegrass Music Festival has provided rural Kansas communities with entertainment and arts exposure and significantly increased tourism in these counties. In addition, the festival creates a substantial economic impact in the neighboring Northwest Kansas communities each year."

Established through a generous estate donation from Dane G. Hansen, the Foundation awards grants and scholarships yearly to qualified recipients in Northwest Kansas who demonstrate a strong desire for community improvement. We are honored to be among such recipients.&nbsp;

You can find more information about the festival at&nbsp;<a href="https://t.sidekickopen07.com/s3t/c/5/f18dQhb0V1-gmb8cNj5GW5lFwVF2zGCwVN8Jbw_8QsRtKVnNfdl653gwnW16gGCt1Hpr2B101?te=W3R5hFj26QkHmW4mKDt243XXPBW49HSzw3_-rx_W3F6K8w4fJgDQn3ZsjYm213&amp;si=8000000001035368&amp;pi=19130e16-27a3-49f2-ad3a-58ec7a6ca5f1" target="_blank">www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com</a>&nbsp;and on Facebook.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683323411152.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted RUSSELL COUNTY -&nbsp; The Lovegrass Music Festival Association (LMFA) is thrilled to announce that it has received a generous grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Such funding is critical in enabling the LMFA to continue to hold its annual free Lovegrass Music Festival. This will be the sixth year of the festival, which takes place at beautiful Wilson State Park from August 10th-12th, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The LMFA began as a simple idea between friends who frequent Wilson State Park. Each year the festival has grown in stature and reputation, boasting a lineup including some of the nation's most sought-after bluegrass musical acts. Thanks to support from generous donors, such as the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, music lovers flock to rural Kansas each August to enjoy an entirely free music festival that would cost them hundreds of dollars to attend elsewhere.&nbsp; As the festival has grown and flourished,&nbsp; attendees and bluegrass musicians from widening geographic areas have made the pilgrimage to scenic Russell County, Kansas, to enjoy music, community, and a reprieve from urban life.&nbsp;"Each year it is a struggle to raise funds necessary to host such an event," says Aimee Riegel, LMFA executive director. "However, due to the tremendous support of local agencies, such as the Russell County Economic Development &amp; CVB, the Midland Railroad Hotel, local businesses, and individuals, coupled with the diligent efforts of our volunteer board of directors and committees, the event always becomes a memorable reality and a pure grassroots extravaganza."We are so thankful for the generous grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, as it allows our festival to remain free to the public while simultaneously providing exceptional roots musical programming," said Riegel.&nbsp; "We are so pleased that the Lovegrass Music Festival has provided rural Kansas communities with entertainment and arts exposure and significantly increased tourism in these counties. In addition, the festival creates a substantial economic impact in the neighboring Northwest Kansas communities each year."Established through a generous estate donation from Dane G. Hansen, the Foundation awards grants and scholarships yearly to qualified recipients in Northwest Kansas who demonstrate a strong desire for community improvement. We are honored to be among such recipients.&nbsp;You can find more information about the festival at&nbsp;<a href="https://t.sidekickopen07.com/s3t/c/5/f18dQhb0V1-gmb8cNj5GW5lFwVF2zGCwVN8Jbw_8QsRtKVnNfdl653gwnW16gGCt1Hpr2B101?te=W3R5hFj26QkHmW4mKDt243XXPBW49HSzw3_-rx_W3F6K8w4fJgDQn3ZsjYm213&amp;si=8000000001035368&amp;pi=19130e16-27a3-49f2-ad3a-58ec7a6ca5f1" target="_blank">www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com</a>&nbsp;and on Facebook.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lovegrass Music Festival Association receives Hansen grant 

I a group of Hays High School students launched the inaugural Ride/Bring You Animal to School Day on Monday. This all started last year, as the boys rode their horses to school on the last day of school, but members of the school administration didn’t think it was a good idea, so they made the students leave with the horses right away.

This year the students were persistent in asking for a day that would be allowed to ride their horses to school.

 They were told they needed to make the event educational

A class from Roosevelt Elementary School and a daycare took field trips to see the animals. These boys are hardworking farm kids. They were up before sunrise to get everything ready and did it on their own. Rain or shine these boys are raised how to care for these animals and a whole lot more.

Those students who participated are listed below. Kaden Haas Konner Haas Carter Werth Wyatt Grabbe Mark Grabbe Payton Brooks Harley Zimmerman John Stremel

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683579445540.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedI a group of Hays High School students launched the inaugural Ride/Bring You Animal to School Day on Monday. This all started last year, as the boys rode their horses to school on the last day of school, but members of the school administration didn’t think it was a good idea, so they made the students leave with the horses right away.This year the students were persistent in asking for a day that would be allowed to ride their horses to school.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683579484875.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure> They were told they needed to make the event educationalA class from Roosevelt Elementary School and a daycare took field trips to see the animals. These boys are hardworking farm kids. They were up before sunrise to get everything ready and did it on their own. Rain or shine these boys are raised how to care for these animals and a whole lot more.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683579517125.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>Those students who participated are listed below. Kaden Haas Konner Haas Carter Werth Wyatt Grabbe Mark Grabbe Payton Brooks Harley Zimmerman John Stremel<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683579547858.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683579577188.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683579603058.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683579626875.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683579648742.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683579669659.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>

📸  Hays High students launch Ride Your Animal to School Day

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683652730731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

The 18th annual John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activities Day (SACAD) was on April 19. The event was created in 2005 to allow university faculty, staff, and students to share their scholarly and creative work. From that initial in-person event, SACAD has grown to include in-person or online poster and oral presentations as well as a variety of creative works displays.

The SACAD committee, comprised of faculty, staff, and students, evaluated the scholarly and creative works and awarded prizes to the top-three submissions in the following categories:

- Empirical posters comprised of research,&nbsp;statistical analysis, or a program evaluation information

- Non-empirical posters that present information that is not based on research data

- Creative works, including ceramics, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, photography, and graphic design

SACAD is sponsored by the Fort Hays State University Scholarship Environment Committee, with support from the Office of the Provost, the Office of Scholarship and Sponsored Projects, university academic departments, and the deans from FHSU’s four colleges. Learn more about SACAD at: https://www.fhsu.edu/art-and-design/news-and-events/annual-sacad-art-exhibition

1. Alec Zaborniak&nbsp;(Hays)&nbsp;“Distribution and Tooth Morphoguilds of Mosasaurids (Squamata) of the Campanian Western Interior Seaway with Implications&nbsp;for Controls on Mosasaur”

2. Katelyn Strack and&nbsp;Sarah Elzay&nbsp;(Indianapolis, Ind.) “Native Bee Utilization of Sorghum and Community Richness in Western Kansas Agricultural”

3. Alexis Ibarra&nbsp;(Hays) “Launching a New Generation of Nicotine Users: The Dangers of Vaping in Adolescents”

1. Lindsey Schofield&nbsp;(Suffolk, Va.) “Implementation of Computerized Curricular Assistive Tools (CCAT) And Its Effect on Student Preparedness for the New NCLEX-RN Test Plan”

2. Kaylyn Blevins and&nbsp;Sandra Grubb&nbsp;(Fort Riley) “The Effects of Standardized Remediation on Nursing Pharmacology Evaluations”

3. Kaitlin Johnson&nbsp;(Council Grove) “Knowledge and Self-Efficacy Levels of Students Who Aim to Enter a Perinatal Specialty as New Graduate Nurses”

3. Katy Barbieri&nbsp;(Abilene) “The Effect of ISBAR Tool on Patient Safety”

Undergraduate empirical poster:&nbsp;

1. Kadrian Ayarza&nbsp;(Hays)&nbsp;“RNA Isolation of Aphids”

1. Westin Mash&nbsp;(Jamestown)&nbsp;“Does Weapon Type Affect a BattleBot’s Performance?”

2. Hannah Cross and&nbsp;Jaelynn Sutter&nbsp;(Hays) “Colors of Cannabis in the U.S; An Analysis of Race and Marijuana”

3. Willow Ludwig and&nbsp;Lauren Stallbaumer&nbsp;(Littleton, Colo.) “Attitudes Toward Stuttering of University Instructors: A Nation-wide Survey”

Undergraduate non-empirical poster:

1. Allissa Bird and Megan Crist&nbsp;(Larned) “The Lasting Effects of Childhood Trauma”

2. Jaclyn Begnoche and Audrey Manry&nbsp;(Clay Center) “Golden Hour Effects on Newborn Health”

1. Ken Hacker (St. John) “Three Amigos”&nbsp;

2.Elizabeth Sutherland (Mulvane) “Support”&nbsp;

3. Chloe Knipp (Hays) “Strawberry Ice Cream”&nbsp;

1. Celeste Hernandez (Manhattan) “Asshroom”&nbsp;

2. Jesus Sotelo (Wichita) “Bubbles and Seaweed”&nbsp;

3. Krista Ivey (Victoria) “Horsehead”&nbsp;

1. Rachel Unruh (Wichita) “Self-Portrait”&nbsp;

2. Kat Doty (Saint Bonifacius) “Tony”&nbsp;

3. Lexis Beesley (Dighton) “Rest”&nbsp;

1. Emily Schoeppner (Wichita) “My Mind’s Home”&nbsp;

2. Charlie Schmanke, “Frog in the Woods”

3. Kat Doty (Saint Bonifacius, Minn.) “Sicada”&nbsp;

1.&nbsp;Mariah Dechant (Hays) “Change”&nbsp;

2. Cami Moore (Hays) “Look What You Made Me Do”&nbsp;

3. Isabel Dixon (Colby) “Kindred Spark”&nbsp;

1. Jenny Cox (Edmond, Okla.) “Hivemind”&nbsp;

2. Loren McQueeny (Shawnee) “NYC”&nbsp;

3. Alex Juarez (Hays) “Winter Anxiety”&nbsp;

1. Hannah Kinderknecht (WaKeeney) “Arts and Crafts Bath”&nbsp;

2. Hannah Kinderknecht, “Batrhroom”

3. Hannah Kinderknecht, “Waiting Room”

1. Olivia Stinson (Omaha, Neb.) “Silent Teacher”&nbsp;

2. Olivia Stinson, “Old Keys Won’t Open New Doors”

Kat Doty (Saint Bonifacius, Minn.) “Gender Disphoria”&nbsp;

Briana Vandike (Bird City) “Blue Crackle Bowl”

PJ Stauffer (Glen Elder) &nbsp;“Expectations”&nbsp;

Mason Cloud (Wichita) “Knowledge is Power”

Tyler Dallis (Monett, Mo.) “Fragments of My Life”&nbsp;

Kailin Nielsen (Minden, Neb.) “Debauchery”&nbsp;

1. Poster: Yesenia Maldonado and Megan Waggoner&nbsp;(Hays),&nbsp;“Academic Persistence Among Traditional and Non-Traditional Social Work Students at Fort Hays State University: A Bivariate Analysis”

2. Creative Works: Kailin Nielsen (Minden, Neb.)

1. Magdalene Moy, Sydney Hicks, and Danielle Reilley,&nbsp;“Social Belonging Perceptions Across FHSU Students”

2. April Terry &amp; Ziwei Qi,&nbsp;“Trauma-informed court”

3. Kenneth Neuhauser, “The Wreck of Army Air Force Flight 294”

3. Cheryl Duffy and&nbsp;Claire Nickerson, “Writing Across the Curriculum Faculty Survey”

1. Christine Hober, “Using Rural Hospital-Wide Voices for Calls to Action”

2. Kathryn Amrein, “Empowering Students Through Experiential Learning Experience”

3. Christina Lawver and Shauna Keil, “SOS: Survey of Skills in Prelicensure Nursing Programs”

The FHSU Scholarly and Creative Activities Day is named in honor of the late Dr. John F. Heinrichs (1957-2014). A popular Geosciences professor, an internationally renowned Arctic researcher, and esteemed colleague, Dr. Heinrichs had a tremendous impact on Fort Hays State University. He was a key supporter of faculty and student research, and his efforts were largely responsible for launching Research and Creative Activities Week, now known as John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activities Day, in his honor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683297521317.jpeg" alt="FHSU student Kadrian Ayarza discussing her empirical research titled "RNA Isolation of Aphids. Photo by FHSU" />
 <figcaption>FHSU student Kadrian Ayarza discussing her empirical research titled "RNA Isolation of Aphids. Photo by FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsThe 18th annual John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activities Day (SACAD) was on April 19. The event was created in 2005 to allow university faculty, staff, and students to share their scholarly and creative work. From that initial in-person event, SACAD has grown to include in-person or online poster and oral presentations as well as a variety of creative works displays.The SACAD committee, comprised of faculty, staff, and students, evaluated the scholarly and creative works and awarded prizes to the top-three submissions in the following categories:- Empirical posters comprised of research,&nbsp;statistical analysis, or a program evaluation information- Non-empirical posters that present information that is not based on research data- Creative works, including ceramics, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, photography, and graphic design- A senior recognition awardSACAD is sponsored by the Fort Hays State University Scholarship Environment Committee, with support from the Office of the Provost, the Office of Scholarship and Sponsored Projects, university academic departments, and the deans from FHSU’s four colleges. Learn more about SACAD at: https://www.fhsu.edu/art-and-design/news-and-events/annual-sacad-art-exhibition2023 SACAD recognized work:Graduate empirical poster:1. Alec Zaborniak&nbsp;(Hays)&nbsp;“Distribution and Tooth Morphoguilds of Mosasaurids (Squamata) of the Campanian Western Interior Seaway with Implications&nbsp;for Controls on Mosasaur”2. Katelyn Strack and&nbsp;Sarah Elzay&nbsp;(Indianapolis, Ind.) “Native Bee Utilization of Sorghum and Community Richness in Western Kansas Agricultural”3. Alexis Ibarra&nbsp;(Hays) “Launching a New Generation of Nicotine Users: The Dangers of Vaping in Adolescents”Graduate non-empirical poster:1. Lindsey Schofield&nbsp;(Suffolk, Va.) “Implementation of Computerized Curricular Assistive Tools (CCAT) And Its Effect on Student Preparedness for the New NCLEX-RN Test Plan”2. Kaylyn Blevins and&nbsp;Sandra Grubb&nbsp;(Fort Riley) “The Effects of Standardized Remediation on Nursing Pharmacology Evaluations”3. Kaitlin Johnson&nbsp;(Council Grove) “Knowledge and Self-Efficacy Levels of Students Who Aim to Enter a Perinatal Specialty as New Graduate Nurses”3. Katy Barbieri&nbsp;(Abilene) “The Effect of ISBAR Tool on Patient Safety”Undergraduate empirical poster:&nbsp;1. Kadrian Ayarza&nbsp;(Hays)&nbsp;“RNA Isolation of Aphids”1. Westin Mash&nbsp;(Jamestown)&nbsp;“Does Weapon Type Affect a BattleBot’s Performance?”2. Hannah Cross and&nbsp;Jaelynn Sutter&nbsp;(Hays) “Colors of Cannabis in the U.S; An Analysis of Race and Marijuana”3. Willow Ludwig and&nbsp;Lauren Stallbaumer&nbsp;(Littleton, Colo.) “Attitudes Toward Stuttering of University Instructors: A Nation-wide Survey”Undergraduate non-empirical poster:1. Allissa Bird and Megan Crist&nbsp;(Larned) “The Lasting Effects of Childhood Trauma”2. Jaclyn Begnoche and Audrey Manry&nbsp;(Clay Center) “Golden Hour Effects on Newborn Health”3. Iran Mesta (Ness City)Undergraduate Ceramics:1. Ken Hacker (St. John) “Three Amigos”&nbsp;2.Elizabeth Sutherland (Mulvane) “Support”&nbsp;3. Chloe Knipp (Hays) “Strawberry Ice Cream”&nbsp;Sculpture:1. Celeste Hernandez (Manhattan) “Asshroom”&nbsp;2. Jesus Sotelo (Wichita) “Bubbles and Seaweed”&nbsp;3. Krista Ivey (Victoria) “Horsehead”&nbsp;Drawing:1. Rachel Unruh (Wichita) “Self-Portrait”&nbsp;2. Kat Doty (Saint Bonifacius) “Tony”&nbsp;3. Lexis Beesley (Dighton) “Rest”&nbsp;Painting:1. Emily Schoeppner (Wichita) “My Mind’s Home”&nbsp;2. Charlie Schmanke, “Frog in the Woods”3. Kat Doty (Saint Bonifacius, Minn.) “Sicada”&nbsp;Printmaking:1.&nbsp;Mariah Dechant (Hays) “Change”&nbsp;2. Cami Moore (Hays) “Look What You Made Me Do”&nbsp;3. Isabel Dixon (Colby) “Kindred Spark”&nbsp;Photography:1. Jenny Cox (Edmond, Okla.) “Hivemind”&nbsp;2. Loren McQueeny (Shawnee) “NYC”&nbsp;3. Alex Juarez (Hays) “Winter Anxiety”&nbsp;Design:1. Hannah Kinderknecht (WaKeeney) “Arts and Crafts Bath”&nbsp;2. Hannah Kinderknecht, “Batrhroom”3. Hannah Kinderknecht, “Waiting Room”Graduate Art:1. Olivia Stinson (Omaha, Neb.) “Silent Teacher”&nbsp;2. Olivia Stinson, “Old Keys Won’t Open New Doors”3. Olivia Stinson, “The Boat I Row”Recognition Awards:Kat Doty (Saint Bonifacius, Minn.) “Gender Disphoria”&nbsp;Briana Vandike (Bird City) “Blue Crackle Bowl”PJ Stauffer (Glen Elder) &nbsp;“Expectations”&nbsp;Mason Cloud (Wichita) “Knowledge is Power”Tyler Dallis (Monett, Mo.) “Fragments of My Life”&nbsp;Kailin Nielsen (Minden, Neb.) “Debauchery”&nbsp;People’s Choice Awards:&nbsp;1. Poster: Yesenia Maldonado and Megan Waggoner&nbsp;(Hays),&nbsp;“Academic Persistence Among Traditional and Non-Traditional Social Work Students at Fort Hays State University: A Bivariate Analysis”2. Creative Works: Kailin Nielsen (Minden, Neb.)Faculty empirical poster:1. Magdalene Moy, Sydney Hicks, and Danielle Reilley,&nbsp;“Social Belonging Perceptions Across FHSU Students”2. April Terry &amp; Ziwei Qi,&nbsp;“Trauma-informed court”3. Kenneth Neuhauser, “The Wreck of Army Air Force Flight 294”3. Cheryl Duffy and&nbsp;Claire Nickerson, “Writing Across the Curriculum Faculty Survey”Faculty non-empirical poster:1. Christine Hober, “Using Rural Hospital-Wide Voices for Calls to Action”2. Kathryn Amrein, “Empowering Students Through Experiential Learning Experience”3. Christina Lawver and Shauna Keil, “SOS: Survey of Skills in Prelicensure Nursing Programs”<h2>About John Heinrichs</h2>The FHSU Scholarly and Creative Activities Day is named in honor of the late Dr. John F. Heinrichs (1957-2014). A popular Geosciences professor, an internationally renowned Arctic researcher, and esteemed colleague, Dr. Heinrichs had a tremendous impact on Fort Hays State University. He was a key supporter of faculty and student research, and his efforts were largely responsible for launching Research and Creative Activities Week, now known as John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activities Day, in his honor.

FHSU 2023 scholarly, creative day winners announced

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —A petition to disorganize the USD 112 Central Plains school district has been filed. The Wilson High School Future Committee asked the USD 112 Board of Education to delay the closure of Wilson High School for one year. With no action regarding the issue taken at Monday's board meeting, the petition was filed with Ellsworth County Tuesday morning.

Long-time educator Roberta Meier, who helped file the petition, was disappointed the issue was not discussed Monday.

"That was very surreal because, with something this serious and historic, it shows their lack of understanding for what a disorganization is and how it will proceed," she said. "The only discussion was about who would pay for the election and the date."

Disorganization was brought up twice during Monday's board meeting. The body heard from Claflin resident Dave Wirth, who expressed frustration that only three of Wilson's 73 students visited Central Plains High School in Claflin after hearing about the closure in Wilson. 

He expressed further concern that voters may be willing to shut down their own elementary school in Wilson, and that no one is quite sure what disorganization would mean for USD 112.

"If you don't have any idea, you better find out, including the board members from Wilson, because I understand you're supporting this," Wirth said. "If you're not, I need to know now whether you are or aren't supporting this petition. Yes or no?"

Board Member Roger Robinson asked Wirth why he needed to know, and said Wirth did not need to know anything about him.  

"You're serving a public board?" Wirth asked. "Yes or no?"

Monday's meeting lasted nearly two-and-a-half hours. Late in the meeting, Superintendent Bill Lowry addressed the disorganization petition. He's been in touch with the Ellsworth County clerk's office and the state board of education, but answers about when the matter will be put on a ballot or who will pay for it are still undetermined.

"I just think it's important, if we get to that point, to try to educate all patrons on what 'yes' or 'no' means," Lowry told the board.

On Jan. 9, 2023, the USD 112 Central Plains Board of Education voted 5-2 to close Wilson High School at the close of the 2022-23 school year. The Wilson High School Future Committee was formed in October. The group visited Topeka several times to speak with state legislators about possible solutions. The disorganization petition will put the matter before voters in the district. If approved, the fate of the district would go before the state board of education. Beyond that, answers are few and far between.

"As far as precedence, there is none," Meier said. "When we asked the state how this would all play out and for advice, they just said basically we can ask the questions but there are no answers yet. We took an extra week to try to make sure we were getting this right."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683639987601.png" alt="The USD 112 Central Plains Board of Education met Monday night. A petition to disorganize the district was filed Tuesday morning in Ellsworth County." />
 <figcaption>The USD 112 Central Plains Board of Education met Monday night. A petition to disorganize the district was filed Tuesday morning in Ellsworth County.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostELLSWORTH COUNTY —A petition to disorganize the USD 112 Central Plains school district has been filed. The Wilson High School Future Committee asked the USD 112 Board of Education to delay the closure of Wilson High School for one year. With no action regarding the issue taken at Monday's board meeting, the petition was filed with Ellsworth County Tuesday morning.(Click below to watch Monday's meeting)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/80PL_WxEKWE?start=804" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Long-time educator Roberta Meier, who helped file the petition, was disappointed the issue was not discussed Monday."That was very surreal because, with something this serious and historic, it shows their lack of understanding for what a disorganization is and how it will proceed," she said. "The only discussion was about who would pay for the election and the date."Disorganization was brought up twice during Monday's board meeting. The body heard from Claflin resident Dave Wirth, who expressed frustration that only three of Wilson's 73 students visited Central Plains High School in Claflin after hearing about the closure in Wilson. He expressed further concern that voters may be willing to shut down their own elementary school in Wilson, and that no one is quite sure what disorganization would mean for USD 112."If you don't have any idea, you better find out, including the board members from Wilson, because I understand you're supporting this," Wirth said. "If you're not, I need to know now whether you are or aren't supporting this petition. Yes or no?"Board Member Roger Robinson asked Wirth why he needed to know, and said Wirth did not need to know anything about him. "You're serving a public board?" Wirth asked. "Yes or no?"Monday's meeting lasted nearly two-and-a-half hours. Late in the meeting, Superintendent Bill Lowry addressed the disorganization petition. He's been in touch with the Ellsworth County clerk's office and the state board of education, but answers about when the matter will be put on a ballot or who will pay for it are still undetermined."I just think it's important, if we get to that point, to try to educate all patrons on what 'yes' or 'no' means," Lowry told the board.On Jan. 9, 2023, the USD 112 Central Plains Board of Education voted 5-2 to close Wilson High School at the close of the 2022-23 school year. The Wilson High School Future Committee was formed in October. The group visited Topeka several times to speak with state legislators about possible solutions. The disorganization petition will put the matter before voters in the district. If approved, the fate of the district would go before the state board of education. Beyond that, answers are few and far between."As far as precedence, there is none," Meier said. "When we asked the state how this would all play out and for advice, they just said basically we can ask the questions but there are no answers yet. We took an extra week to try to make sure we were getting this right."

🎥Petition to disorganize USD 112 filed Tuesday morning

Fort Hays State University will recognize approximately 1,482 graduates during its spring commencement ceremonies on Friday and Saturday, May 12-13.

Graduates who have chosen to participate in person will be honored in two ceremonies Friday and two ceremonies Saturday at Gross Memorial Coliseum (GMC). All graduates will be recognized in two virtual ceremonies Saturday afternoon.

The ceremonies will begin Friday for undergraduate, master's, and Ed.S. candidates in the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at 8:30 a.m. Central time, followed by the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at 11 a.m. Central time.

Saturday’s ceremonies will begin for undergraduate, master’s, and Ed.S. candidates in the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship and Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics at 8:30 a.m., followed by the College of Education at 11 a.m.

Saturday’s virtual ceremonies will begin at 2 p.m. for the Ed.S. and master’s students. The undergraduate virtual ceremony will follow at 4 p.m.

All ceremonies – in-person and virtual – will be broadcast on the Tiger Media Network YouTube channel and the TMN Facebook page. Individuals are not required to sign up for a Facebook account to view the ceremonies.

Recordings of the virtual ceremonies will be archived on the FHSU YouTube channel, with the link provided on the commencement website on the “Programs and Videos” tab.

Doors to GMC and the adjoining Cunningham Hall will open at 7:45 a.m. daily. Graduates will check in at Gate 2 or Gate 3. The graduates will enter the area that says, “Graduate Entrance Only,” and guests will be asked to enter the door labeled guest door entrance (located at both gates).

Students are asked to wear their regalia to GMC. Graduates may arrange to pick up their regalia before May 11 at Victor E. Apparel &amp; Gift Co. in the Memorial Union by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:victore_co@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">victore_co@fhsu.edu</a>.&nbsp;Regalia will also be available before Friday and Saturday’s ceremonies at the Robbins Center (directly north of the GMC parking lot) from 7 to 11 a.m.

Graduates and faculty will be seated on the main floor of GMC. Guests will be seated on the balcony. The elevator is accessible by Gate 3. Seating for persons with mobility impairment and patrons in wheelchairs is available on the main floor; a commencement staff member will escort the individual(s) and one guest to the seating area on the GMC floor. There are no reservations for this area, and seating is limited. Drivers will find Gates 2 and 3, at the northwest and northeast corners, most convenient for dropping off passengers with disabilities.

An ASL interpreter will be shown on screen, visible from any seating area.

Traffic in the GMC area is anticipated to be high during the transition periods between each commencement ceremony. Parking lots adjacent to the coliseum typically fill up quickly, but parking is available on the main campus. In inclement weather, unpaved lots near GMC will be closed, making it necessary to park on the main campus.

Here are a few suggestions from the University Police to help ease the congestion:

Graduates, families, and friends are encouraged to sign and write a message on the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtL7F3Y6gAACH2hXHFu5O9j7YiSGdvjlLeJLHBPo0d9485VDTJ1k4Tc261IGTJ1ZoEXPVuKvbirQvT9JQxWswAeU-3DJrIq_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BeBzJKkctXxfrgqK1eQjsoHPJwgfsKtfY-2FgANpHZ-2FJZz6t9mG8tqDriKVuwylcWRJ7mjIoOQh-2Bkp9wkPIvFHHBV5CJKlK0RJyhCv3xN6THWstsWckP8RYqMD1cfcuhIf-2FJWDpy-2B0wQAEoFJuhwfmRFEPWL69rBD-2BhJNP0yFcMdoVDl9GWwPIKeRV0WRWu8rMtJEL417yUI-2F-2B-2FRYRqxOWnAOl4enMMt7bUb-2B4egcEJJAKpXcVhpyGf9jbFIyB1m59n" target="_blank">Kudoboard</a>:&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtL7F3Y6gAACH2hXHFu5O9j7YiSGdvjlLeJLHBPo0d948Qizz-2FWuNtJ0XpyqEO21RXA-3D-3DSU7T_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BeBzJKkctXxfrgqK1eQjsoHPJwgfsKtfY-2FgANpHZ-2FJZz6t9mG8tqDriKVuwylcWRJ7mjIoOQh-2Bkp9wkPIvFHHBWC5eE3gpNPaUjcwliF7P-2FxgLCB17BW9R6HeAJUXWm9g45-2BgOaTBYr5FApVwF0zH3t37yA-2FoYNCeCsnZYaEqJDYZGty5Fk7dD-2F8RwkIIShq39Eqbdv8YVyBOPutpjhZosrAuChy5QmdXx3otykEesT4nlqoG4Cwm5UHD0FwZdWJw" target="_blank">https://fhsutigers.kudoboard.com/boards/wsSOkQKp</a>&nbsp;Share photos and messages on Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook using the hashtag #tigergrad.

The in-person commencement ceremonies will be broadcast live at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtI3zIckflvbZurtB1Fa58GlxQUYoxm12qH5cYe27yK4-2FR4FRwlLrVqkzazlTfvVj6rPP8fsCprttOADntaoYeAc-3D-qFi_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BeBzJKkctXxfrgqK1eQjsoHPJwgfsKtfY-2FgANpHZ-2FJZz6t9mG8tqDriKVuwylcWRJ7mjIoOQh-2Bkp9wkPIvFHHBQAUrMhIZANwmFqkh70UdtZKuhF9WLoWiTP6RoIzeOk46vdk4gZdSgsiX7fliF-2F5yKo06pwn56OPLNB7x-2F0Nc6V01T2NWx-2FXrbt748-2F3x0juh-2FLyE2G7ONCuVJsUOoGYw-2BNWYJ6XE2GkXNJCJaWkDWFjuv-2BwkNgHNJccJv9LbDhZ" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTIXUNR_XQP7TX183o_vxCw&nbsp;</a>and the Tiger Media Network Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtCrpoyDrUwFCFG4KbhtETYQbc2Q2FMQAfD3-2FBJaUcoC9ucjlIT-2Bw-2BiXJx9NsTIlVDA-3D-3DzTzp_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BeBzJKkctXxfrgqK1eQjsoHPJwgfsKtfY-2FgANpHZ-2FJZz6t9mG8tqDriKVuwylcWRJ7mjIoOQh-2Bkp9wkPIvFHHBfOPMPducJ5d2ojKXrH4RVyoifzBp7K51ZSxtLs64FnilXbmacXQQ7CyrROoRz7Q8-2BcMojNkgnGpZOu-2FAgPeIJ9yhGr9l0ABCB0yo5VttwSkGgUDl7Q8nyJ7ysiyMJSPbGUOrxVIqdnXtlBRBJy1uXFcYEv4hv-2B5ivhreSfyo3ZD" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/tigermedianet/.</a>

The commencement schedule, maps, directions, links to accommodations in Hays, and general information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtKwGCSEfb6-2Fx37KuxE5mpJcnq3UXO20ENBhx-2B1UVzGlSa6rZ_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BeBzJKkctXxfrgqK1eQjsoHPJwgfsKtfY-2FgANpHZ-2FJZz6t9mG8tqDriKVuwylcWRJ7mjIoOQh-2Bkp9wkPIvFHHBXuKTFpD227fnVxk03dODYjSYnFo3h78WRlnPzBOXn7mDyY7FbqPwdcJ3ERUjy59EVg-2B-2ByRow-2Fn6umBkFdmcVWen1reXzyiNTTj5raDHGuJKMm8PnO3yOCVMWeKiBZIB4CahdO60BhyMNnB28RcAO-2BfowdqC2sUy2f7fY8SinNbX" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/commencement/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574441258055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University will recognize approximately 1,482 graduates during its spring commencement ceremonies on Friday and Saturday, May 12-13.Graduates who have chosen to participate in person will be honored in two ceremonies Friday and two ceremonies Saturday at Gross Memorial Coliseum (GMC). All graduates will be recognized in two virtual ceremonies Saturday afternoon.The ceremonies will begin Friday for undergraduate, master's, and Ed.S. candidates in the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at 8:30 a.m. Central time, followed by the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at 11 a.m. Central time.Saturday’s ceremonies will begin for undergraduate, master’s, and Ed.S. candidates in the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship and Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics at 8:30 a.m., followed by the College of Education at 11 a.m.Saturday’s virtual ceremonies will begin at 2 p.m. for the Ed.S. and master’s students. The undergraduate virtual ceremony will follow at 4 p.m.All ceremonies – in-person and virtual – will be broadcast on the Tiger Media Network YouTube channel and the TMN Facebook page. Individuals are not required to sign up for a Facebook account to view the ceremonies.Recordings of the virtual ceremonies will be archived on the FHSU YouTube channel, with the link provided on the commencement website on the “Programs and Videos” tab.Doors to GMC and the adjoining Cunningham Hall will open at 7:45 a.m. daily. Graduates will check in at Gate 2 or Gate 3. The graduates will enter the area that says, “Graduate Entrance Only,” and guests will be asked to enter the door labeled guest door entrance (located at both gates).Students are asked to wear their regalia to GMC. Graduates may arrange to pick up their regalia before May 11 at Victor E. Apparel &amp; Gift Co. in the Memorial Union by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:victore_co@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">victore_co@fhsu.edu</a>.&nbsp;Regalia will also be available before Friday and Saturday’s ceremonies at the Robbins Center (directly north of the GMC parking lot) from 7 to 11 a.m.Graduates and faculty will be seated on the main floor of GMC. Guests will be seated on the balcony. The elevator is accessible by Gate 3. Seating for persons with mobility impairment and patrons in wheelchairs is available on the main floor; a commencement staff member will escort the individual(s) and one guest to the seating area on the GMC floor. There are no reservations for this area, and seating is limited. Drivers will find Gates 2 and 3, at the northwest and northeast corners, most convenient for dropping off passengers with disabilities.An ASL interpreter will be shown on screen, visible from any seating area.Traffic in the GMC area is anticipated to be high during the transition periods between each commencement ceremony. Parking lots adjacent to the coliseum typically fill up quickly, but parking is available on the main campus. In inclement weather, unpaved lots near GMC will be closed, making it necessary to park on the main campus.Here are a few suggestions from the University Police to help ease the congestion:<ul>
 <li>Guests arriving for the second ceremony are encouraged to arrive no earlier than 9:45 a.m. Arriving too early will result in guests being forced to park farther away or face departing traffic from the first ceremony. Delaying arrival will also allow time for departing guests from the first ceremony to clear the area in preparation for the second ceremony.</li><li>Graduates driving themselves are encouraged to arrive early and park on the main part of campus and walk or take the shuttles to GMC. This will better ensure they avoid traffic congestion, get a parking spot, and arrive on time for their ceremony. Shuttles will be available both days before and after both ceremonies, with the drop-off station at Gate 3.</li><li>Faculty and staff attending are also encouraged to park on the main part of campus and walk or take the shuttles to the ceremonies.</li><li>All guests are encouraged to carpool when possible. Fewer cars will ease traffic congestion.</li><li>VIP parking is available on the west side of GMC, with handicapped parking on the east side.</li>
 </ul>Graduates, families, and friends are encouraged to sign and write a message on the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtL7F3Y6gAACH2hXHFu5O9j7YiSGdvjlLeJLHBPo0d9485VDTJ1k4Tc261IGTJ1ZoEXPVuKvbirQvT9JQxWswAeU-3DJrIq_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BeBzJKkctXxfrgqK1eQjsoHPJwgfsKtfY-2FgANpHZ-2FJZz6t9mG8tqDriKVuwylcWRJ7mjIoOQh-2Bkp9wkPIvFHHBV5CJKlK0RJyhCv3xN6THWstsWckP8RYqMD1cfcuhIf-2FJWDpy-2B0wQAEoFJuhwfmRFEPWL69rBD-2BhJNP0yFcMdoVDl9GWwPIKeRV0WRWu8rMtJEL417yUI-2F-2B-2FRYRqxOWnAOl4enMMt7bUb-2B4egcEJJAKpXcVhpyGf9jbFIyB1m59n" target="_blank">Kudoboard</a>:&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtL7F3Y6gAACH2hXHFu5O9j7YiSGdvjlLeJLHBPo0d948Qizz-2FWuNtJ0XpyqEO21RXA-3D-3DSU7T_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BeBzJKkctXxfrgqK1eQjsoHPJwgfsKtfY-2FgANpHZ-2FJZz6t9mG8tqDriKVuwylcWRJ7mjIoOQh-2Bkp9wkPIvFHHBWC5eE3gpNPaUjcwliF7P-2FxgLCB17BW9R6HeAJUXWm9g45-2BgOaTBYr5FApVwF0zH3t37yA-2FoYNCeCsnZYaEqJDYZGty5Fk7dD-2F8RwkIIShq39Eqbdv8YVyBOPutpjhZosrAuChy5QmdXx3otykEesT4nlqoG4Cwm5UHD0FwZdWJw" target="_blank">https://fhsutigers.kudoboard.com/boards/wsSOkQKp</a>&nbsp;Share photos and messages on Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook using the hashtag #tigergrad.The in-person commencement ceremonies will be broadcast live at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtI3zIckflvbZurtB1Fa58GlxQUYoxm12qH5cYe27yK4-2FR4FRwlLrVqkzazlTfvVj6rPP8fsCprttOADntaoYeAc-3D-qFi_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BeBzJKkctXxfrgqK1eQjsoHPJwgfsKtfY-2FgANpHZ-2FJZz6t9mG8tqDriKVuwylcWRJ7mjIoOQh-2Bkp9wkPIvFHHBQAUrMhIZANwmFqkh70UdtZKuhF9WLoWiTP6RoIzeOk46vdk4gZdSgsiX7fliF-2F5yKo06pwn56OPLNB7x-2F0Nc6V01T2NWx-2FXrbt748-2F3x0juh-2FLyE2G7ONCuVJsUOoGYw-2BNWYJ6XE2GkXNJCJaWkDWFjuv-2BwkNgHNJccJv9LbDhZ" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTIXUNR_XQP7TX183o_vxCw&nbsp;</a>and the Tiger Media Network Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtCrpoyDrUwFCFG4KbhtETYQbc2Q2FMQAfD3-2FBJaUcoC9ucjlIT-2Bw-2BiXJx9NsTIlVDA-3D-3DzTzp_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BeBzJKkctXxfrgqK1eQjsoHPJwgfsKtfY-2FgANpHZ-2FJZz6t9mG8tqDriKVuwylcWRJ7mjIoOQh-2Bkp9wkPIvFHHBfOPMPducJ5d2ojKXrH4RVyoifzBp7K51ZSxtLs64FnilXbmacXQQ7CyrROoRz7Q8-2BcMojNkgnGpZOu-2FAgPeIJ9yhGr9l0ABCB0yo5VttwSkGgUDl7Q8nyJ7ysiyMJSPbGUOrxVIqdnXtlBRBJy1uXFcYEv4hv-2B5ivhreSfyo3ZD" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/tigermedianet/.</a>The commencement schedule, maps, directions, links to accommodations in Hays, and general information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtKwGCSEfb6-2Fx37KuxE5mpJcnq3UXO20ENBhx-2B1UVzGlSa6rZ_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BeBzJKkctXxfrgqK1eQjsoHPJwgfsKtfY-2FgANpHZ-2FJZz6t9mG8tqDriKVuwylcWRJ7mjIoOQh-2Bkp9wkPIvFHHBXuKTFpD227fnVxk03dODYjSYnFo3h78WRlnPzBOXn7mDyY7FbqPwdcJ3ERUjy59EVg-2B-2ByRow-2Fn6umBkFdmcVWen1reXzyiNTTj5raDHGuJKMm8PnO3yOCVMWeKiBZIB4CahdO60BhyMNnB28RcAO-2BfowdqC2sUy2f7fY8SinNbX" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/commencement/</a>.

FHSU spring 2023 commencement is this week

Numerous students from Tiger Media Network recently earned statewide, regional, and national honors for their work during the last year.

TMN, the convergent media hub for Fort Hays State University students, has grown throughout the last five years and employs students from multiple majors at the university. Those students produce written articles for the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJNaW7kTzrHjWJVtcQdTculoP5liqsMPj2YD-2BqV1g9ba-2BSR5S_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BnGWyB-2Bz181Ele6VE2qZ-2BEqJTUV1wjsb0jQsrWActKedxGHwlGnVTzXZZOUc27nQTmwo2CzPLPIMwc6uVeTBYGNaH9IE6AeNGLssbmcs9V0D-2FSEJAzsJ6INQpxgwydJoabl4qUcfagW785ZJUQVkTf2VcFRe1olj2qmC2wB2Y64FGnQfYa-2BArTlbDQM5dJQsp3UwJttp2RmP67unFjBc6GN9UkjpKIeren62KiUJipSAmVveVpxRaHHae3mVvX6Hz">website</a>, audio, and video projects, as well as nearly 100 different sports and news productions throughout each school year.

“The work our students produce helps them develop leadership skills and civic engagement and provides a real-world learning environment – all things essential to producing engaged, global citizens,” said Nick Schwien, director of Tiger Media Network. “We are extremely proud of the professional work our students continually showcase, and the awards they have received recently are a great way for them to earn the recognition they deserve not only statewide but regionally and nationally as well.”

Multiple TMN students collaborated to earn second-place honors in the 2023 Broadcast Education Association Festival of Media Arts contest for Video Sports Live Game Production. Their submission was the student-produced, live broadcast of the 2022 NCAA Division II Central Region women’s basketball championship game between FHSU and Missouri Western.

BEA competitions do not separate universities into categories based on size or enrollment. Instead, the TMN students were in the same category as many larger NCAA Division I institutions.

“For our students and their work to be mentioned in the same breath as some of the top broadcasting schools in the country, regardless of size or division, is a testament to the quality students we have at Fort Hays and working for TMN,” said Russell Heitmann, news and sports director for TMN. “I am really proud of how much ownership the students take in the productions, so for their work to be recognized on a national scale speaks to the students and their abilities.”

Tiger Media Network was ranked 23rd in Top Winning Sports Programs from BEA in 2023. That ranking is based on student achievements at the BEA Festival of Media Arts, which is known as the preeminent international media competition focused on student and faculty creative endeavors. TMN students were ranked higher than multiple DI schools, including the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Baylor University, and West Virginia University. FHSU was the only university in Kansas ranked in the top 30.

“Through our co-curricular collaboration with TMN, we offer students exceptional&nbsp;opportunities to combine technical skills and creativity to develop compelling stories in multimedia format,”&nbsp;said Melissa Hunsicker-Walburn, chair of the Department of Informatics, which includes Tiger Media Network. “TMN is a learning lab that enhances and expands the opportunities for students to refine and improve their creative products. Award-winning, multimedia student portfolios help our students differentiate themselves in the job market thanks to organizations like BEA and KAB.”

FHSU students also earned nine awards from the Kansas Association of Broadcasters – including five first-place honors.

Freshman Caleb Todd won first in Sports Color Commentator or Sideline Reporter in the college audio category, and Freshman Garrett Wellbrock won first in Sports Play-by-Play in the college audio category.

Senior Tim Schoepflin won top honors for station promotion in the college visual category, and TMN swept the categories for best station website in the college audio and visual divisions.

In the Society of Professional Journalists Mark of Excellence Awards in Region 7, three TMN students were named finalists. Region 7 includes colleges from Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, and Nebraska.

Sophomore Madison Shapland and sophomore Caitlin Leiker were named finalists in the Photo Essay/Slideshow category. Junior Kerrigan Hutton was a finalist in the category for Television General News Reporting.

Tiger Media Network also received international coverage from NewTek and Vizrt for its student productions and learning environment for students.

<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtLCDv7-2BbotnDVIX6nG2l4onOXX0z3FpSXDjbGHIjQK3lrCjAxkcF0PlyaqRnY5fhopnAvzidNvemvfZWA8JMNj4-3DExkU_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BnGWyB-2Bz181Ele6VE2qZ-2BEqJTUV1wjsb0jQsrWActKedxGHwlGnVTzXZZOUc27nQTmwo2CzPLPIMwc6uVeTBYGO6Ks1lKD90US-2B2B-2B1HeS5SIk8IrzuHUvYyfq4igd6eftb678rUHDifEU0VVotjooVd8tJwz3UuCDtY2VqPBvjQSkvtaAIigQWTc9Vd9TFup90f-2BvW7-2ByJ4uRh5uQyItoP2-2F5-2BUXkyyKG4nA0ap57qF-2FlmWyaJCwWO1kJDyOthCx">• Continuing community at Fort Hays State University with Vizrt Group Tech</a>

<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtI3zIckflvbZurtB1Fa58Gmfdy31LYVb-2BBk8Kt5PuwC8i2sd9EYnRujH1aqW1fcYWg-3D-3D7j3W_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BnGWyB-2Bz181Ele6VE2qZ-2BEqJTUV1wjsb0jQsrWActKedxGHwlGnVTzXZZOUc27nQTmwo2CzPLPIMwc6uVeTBYGPh1pWyX0kBSEf-2Fo7nwRS5UZmAIeovBEjLQOWWmaJov4Ot-2BMIR3qRbesg11-2F8byjOvTAFfWcmAkzeZ4sS7h8z303gZD72fTs7bbYOXodHnpalrac7151EdyW1w85oWQ0SYTT0L4Jcb-2F4YO2EkDcCZPeY8KDpudWCAKDDPXOgazx1">• Telling Better Stories with Instant Replay at Fort Hays State University</a>

Kansas Association of Broadcasters Awards 2023

Kerrigan Hutton, College Visual category, Honorable Mention, Value Them Both Amendment

Devin Plummer, Jacob Caffrey, Riley Champney, College Visual category, second place, Silver Screen Podcasts

Kerrigan Hutton, College Visual category, Honorable Mention, Strategic Affiliation Q&amp;A with FHSU, NCK Tech, and NWK Tech

Sports Color Commentator or Sideline Reporter

Caleb Todd, College Audio category, First Place

Cayden Sanders, College Audio category, Second Place

Garrett Wellbrock, College Audio category, First Place

Tim Schoepflin, College Visual category, First Place, TMN Sports Broadcast Promo

Tiger Media Network, College Audio category, First Place

Tiger Media Network, College Visual category, First Place

Society of Professional Journalists&nbsp;Mark of Excellence Awards&nbsp;Region 7

• Madison Shapland, finalist, Photo Essay/Slideshow, FHSU men’s basketball vs. Northeastern State slideshow

• Caitlin Leiker, finalist, Photo Essay/Slideshow, Local farmers, Hays community members make 1,700 pounds of sauerkraut

• Kerrigan Hutton, finalist, Television General News Reporting, Value Them Both Amendment

Broadcast Education Association&nbsp;Festival of Media Arts 2023

Tiger Media Network, Second place, FHSU vs. Missouri Western women’s basketball regional title game

BEA School Rankings Based on Student Achievements&nbsp;2023 Rankings

Fort Hays State University, tied for 23rd, Top Winning Sports Programs

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578078123829.jpeg" alt="Hammond Hall (File photo)" />
 <figcaption>Hammond Hall (File photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Tiger Media NetworkNumerous students from Tiger Media Network recently earned statewide, regional, and national honors for their work during the last year.TMN, the convergent media hub for Fort Hays State University students, has grown throughout the last five years and employs students from multiple majors at the university. Those students produce written articles for the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJNaW7kTzrHjWJVtcQdTculoP5liqsMPj2YD-2BqV1g9ba-2BSR5S_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BnGWyB-2Bz181Ele6VE2qZ-2BEqJTUV1wjsb0jQsrWActKedxGHwlGnVTzXZZOUc27nQTmwo2CzPLPIMwc6uVeTBYGNaH9IE6AeNGLssbmcs9V0D-2FSEJAzsJ6INQpxgwydJoabl4qUcfagW785ZJUQVkTf2VcFRe1olj2qmC2wB2Y64FGnQfYa-2BArTlbDQM5dJQsp3UwJttp2RmP67unFjBc6GN9UkjpKIeren62KiUJipSAmVveVpxRaHHae3mVvX6Hz">website</a>, audio, and video projects, as well as nearly 100 different sports and news productions throughout each school year.“The work our students produce helps them develop leadership skills and civic engagement and provides a real-world learning environment – all things essential to producing engaged, global citizens,” said Nick Schwien, director of Tiger Media Network. “We are extremely proud of the professional work our students continually showcase, and the awards they have received recently are a great way for them to earn the recognition they deserve not only statewide but regionally and nationally as well.”Multiple TMN students collaborated to earn second-place honors in the 2023 Broadcast Education Association Festival of Media Arts contest for Video Sports Live Game Production. Their submission was the student-produced, live broadcast of the 2022 NCAA Division II Central Region women’s basketball championship game between FHSU and Missouri Western.BEA competitions do not separate universities into categories based on size or enrollment. Instead, the TMN students were in the same category as many larger NCAA Division I institutions.“For our students and their work to be mentioned in the same breath as some of the top broadcasting schools in the country, regardless of size or division, is a testament to the quality students we have at Fort Hays and working for TMN,” said Russell Heitmann, news and sports director for TMN. “I am really proud of how much ownership the students take in the productions, so for their work to be recognized on a national scale speaks to the students and their abilities.”Tiger Media Network was ranked 23rd in Top Winning Sports Programs from BEA in 2023. That ranking is based on student achievements at the BEA Festival of Media Arts, which is known as the preeminent international media competition focused on student and faculty creative endeavors. TMN students were ranked higher than multiple DI schools, including the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Baylor University, and West Virginia University. FHSU was the only university in Kansas ranked in the top 30.“Through our co-curricular collaboration with TMN, we offer students exceptional&nbsp;opportunities to combine technical skills and creativity to develop compelling stories in multimedia format,”&nbsp;said Melissa Hunsicker-Walburn, chair of the Department of Informatics, which includes Tiger Media Network. “TMN is a learning lab that enhances and expands the opportunities for students to refine and improve their creative products. Award-winning, multimedia student portfolios help our students differentiate themselves in the job market thanks to organizations like BEA and KAB.”FHSU students also earned nine awards from the Kansas Association of Broadcasters – including five first-place honors.Freshman Caleb Todd won first in Sports Color Commentator or Sideline Reporter in the college audio category, and Freshman Garrett Wellbrock won first in Sports Play-by-Play in the college audio category.Senior Tim Schoepflin won top honors for station promotion in the college visual category, and TMN swept the categories for best station website in the college audio and visual divisions.In the Society of Professional Journalists Mark of Excellence Awards in Region 7, three TMN students were named finalists. Region 7 includes colleges from Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, and Nebraska.Sophomore Madison Shapland and sophomore Caitlin Leiker were named finalists in the Photo Essay/Slideshow category. Junior Kerrigan Hutton was a finalist in the category for Television General News Reporting.Tiger Media Network also received international coverage from NewTek and Vizrt for its student productions and learning environment for students.<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtLCDv7-2BbotnDVIX6nG2l4onOXX0z3FpSXDjbGHIjQK3lrCjAxkcF0PlyaqRnY5fhopnAvzidNvemvfZWA8JMNj4-3DExkU_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BnGWyB-2Bz181Ele6VE2qZ-2BEqJTUV1wjsb0jQsrWActKedxGHwlGnVTzXZZOUc27nQTmwo2CzPLPIMwc6uVeTBYGO6Ks1lKD90US-2B2B-2B1HeS5SIk8IrzuHUvYyfq4igd6eftb678rUHDifEU0VVotjooVd8tJwz3UuCDtY2VqPBvjQSkvtaAIigQWTc9Vd9TFup90f-2BvW7-2ByJ4uRh5uQyItoP2-2F5-2BUXkyyKG4nA0ap57qF-2FlmWyaJCwWO1kJDyOthCx">• Continuing community at Fort Hays State University with Vizrt Group Tech</a><a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtI3zIckflvbZurtB1Fa58Gmfdy31LYVb-2BBk8Kt5PuwC8i2sd9EYnRujH1aqW1fcYWg-3D-3D7j3W_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BnGWyB-2Bz181Ele6VE2qZ-2BEqJTUV1wjsb0jQsrWActKedxGHwlGnVTzXZZOUc27nQTmwo2CzPLPIMwc6uVeTBYGPh1pWyX0kBSEf-2Fo7nwRS5UZmAIeovBEjLQOWWmaJov4Ot-2BMIR3qRbesg11-2F8byjOvTAFfWcmAkzeZ4sS7h8z303gZD72fTs7bbYOXodHnpalrac7151EdyW1w85oWQ0SYTT0L4Jcb-2F4YO2EkDcCZPeY8KDpudWCAKDDPXOgazx1">• Telling Better Stories with Instant Replay at Fort Hays State University</a><h2>Complete TMN award winners:</h2>Kansas Association of Broadcasters Awards 2023Best General News StoryKerrigan Hutton, College Visual category, Honorable Mention, Value Them Both AmendmentBest PodcastDevin Plummer, Jacob Caffrey, Riley Champney, College Visual category, second place, Silver Screen PodcastsPublic Affairs/Talk Show ProgramKerrigan Hutton, College Visual category, Honorable Mention, Strategic Affiliation Q&amp;A with FHSU, NCK Tech, and NWK TechSports Color Commentator or Sideline ReporterCaleb Todd, College Audio category, First PlaceCayden Sanders, College Audio category, Second PlaceSports Play by PlayGarrett Wellbrock, College Audio category, First PlaceStation Promotion AnnouncementTim Schoepflin, College Visual category, First Place, TMN Sports Broadcast PromoStation WebsiteTiger Media Network, College Audio category, First PlaceTiger Media Network, College Visual category, First PlaceSociety of Professional Journalists&nbsp;Mark of Excellence Awards&nbsp;Region 7• Madison Shapland, finalist, Photo Essay/Slideshow, FHSU men’s basketball vs. Northeastern State slideshow• Caitlin Leiker, finalist, Photo Essay/Slideshow, Local farmers, Hays community members make 1,700 pounds of sauerkraut• Kerrigan Hutton, finalist, Television General News Reporting, Value Them Both AmendmentBroadcast Education Association&nbsp;Festival of Media Arts 2023Video Sports Live Game ProductionTiger Media Network, Second place, FHSU vs. Missouri Western women’s basketball regional title gameBEA School Rankings Based on Student Achievements&nbsp;2023 RankingsFort Hays State University, tied for 23rd, Top Winning Sports Programs

FHSU's Tiger Media Network students earn multiple honors

TOPEKA - The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects, including three northwest Kansas counties.

The letting took place April 19, 2023, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652811732286.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA - The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects, including three northwest Kansas counties.The letting took place April 19, 2023, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683320255049.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NW Kansas bridges, highway among KDOT maintenance projects

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683296330943.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>