Kathy Ann 'Peaches' Keller, 76, of
Russell, Kansas and former Kansas City, Kansas, resident died on Thursday,
April 17, 2025, at her home.

Kathy was born on March 11, 1949,
in Kansas City, Kansas, the daughter of Henry Louise and Loretta June (Zimmer)
Keller.&nbsp; She grew up in Kansas City,
Kansas, most all her life and moved to Hays, Kansas, in 2016 and moved to
Russell, Kansas, in October 2024.&nbsp; She
was a free spirit that enjoyed coloring in her coloring books, reading
catalogs, long car rides, stuffed animals, her purse, collecting bracelets and
spending time with children.&nbsp; She most of
all enjoyed having fun and adventures with her close family and friends.

Her surviving family includes her
nieces Melissa Chlumsky and Kristina Keller both of Russell, Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her
parents and two brothers David C. and Michael P. Keller.

Cremation was selected by the
family and will have a graveside service at a later date at Chapel Hill
Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Kansas City, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745953582840.jpeg" alt="Kathy Ann 'Peaches' Keller" />
 <figcaption>Kathy Ann 'Peaches' Keller</figcaption>
 </figure>Kathy Ann 'Peaches' Keller, 76, of
Russell, Kansas and former Kansas City, Kansas, resident died on Thursday,
April 17, 2025, at her home.Kathy was born on March 11, 1949,
in Kansas City, Kansas, the daughter of Henry Louise and Loretta June (Zimmer)
Keller.&nbsp; She grew up in Kansas City,
Kansas, most all her life and moved to Hays, Kansas, in 2016 and moved to
Russell, Kansas, in October 2024.&nbsp; She
was a free spirit that enjoyed coloring in her coloring books, reading
catalogs, long car rides, stuffed animals, her purse, collecting bracelets and
spending time with children.&nbsp; She most of
all enjoyed having fun and adventures with her close family and friends.Her surviving family includes her
nieces Melissa Chlumsky and Kristina Keller both of Russell, Kansas.She was preceded in death by her
parents and two brothers David C. and Michael P. Keller.Cremation was selected by the
family and will have a graveside service at a later date at Chapel Hill
Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Kansas City, Kansas.

Kathy Ann 'Peaches' Keller

DALLAS - Fort Hays State's Ty Riley has earned the latest NCBWA Central Region Pitcher of the Week award, announced Tuesday by the writer's association.

Riley tossed his fourth complete game of the season Friday night against Northwest Missouri State, fanning 11 Bearcats while holding the visitors to just one run over nine innings of work. The Bentonville, Ark. native collected his ninth victory in the process, the most in the MIAA this season.

The righty scattered six hits and three walks across the contest, limiting NWMSU hitters to a batting average of .176. He lowered his ERA to 2.69 in the process, second best in the MIAA. Riley took the lead in the league with 106 strikeouts this season, setting a new school record in the process.

Riley has 46 strikeouts over his last four outings, averaging 12.9 strikeouts per nine innings over that span.

Isaac Pegors of UMary was named the regional hitter of the week after hitting four home runs and driving in 10 RBI last week.

This week's National Pitcher of the Week will be announced on Thursday. 

The 19th-ranked Tigers will wrap up the regular season later this week (May 1-3) at Rogers State before heading to Joplin, Mo. for the 2025 MIAA Championship Tournament May 7-10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745953178852.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsDALLAS - Fort Hays State's Ty Riley has earned the latest NCBWA Central Region Pitcher of the Week award, announced Tuesday by the writer's association.Riley tossed his fourth complete game of the season Friday night against Northwest Missouri State, fanning 11 Bearcats while holding the visitors to just one run over nine innings of work. The Bentonville, Ark. native collected his ninth victory in the process, the most in the MIAA this season.The righty scattered six hits and three walks across the contest, limiting NWMSU hitters to a batting average of .176. He lowered his ERA to 2.69 in the process, second best in the MIAA. Riley took the lead in the league with 106 strikeouts this season, setting a new school record in the process.Riley has 46 strikeouts over his last four outings, averaging 12.9 strikeouts per nine innings over that span.Isaac Pegors of UMary was named the regional hitter of the week after hitting four home runs and driving in 10 RBI last week.This week's National Pitcher of the Week will be announced on Thursday. The 19th-ranked Tigers will wrap up the regular season later this week (May 1-3) at Rogers State before heading to Joplin, Mo. for the 2025 MIAA Championship Tournament May 7-10.

⚾ FHSU's Riley named Central Region Pitcher of the Week

GREENSBORO, N.C. - The Fort Hays State baseball team moved up two more spots to No. 19 in the latest ABCA NCAA Division II Coaches Poll, released Tuesday by coaches association.

Now 32-12 on the year, the Tigers accumulated 120 points in the balloting process this week, up from 100 last week. This is the highest ranking achieved by the team this season, two higher than the previous high of 21st last week. The Tigers have now been listed in the coaches top 30 each of the last seven weeks.

Two other MIAA programs are in the poll this week, including fifth ranked Central Missouri and No. 22 Pittsburg State, while Central Oklahoma is receiving votes.

Fort Hays State and Central Missouri are tied for first place at 26-7 in the MIAA standings with three games to play. This is the first time the Tigers have cracked 30 wins since 2010, while FHSU's 26 conference victories are their most in a season since joining the MIAA in 2007.

The Tigers will wrap up the regular season at Rogers State this week (May 1-3) before traveling to Joplin, Mo. for the 2025 MIAA Baseball Championship Tournament May 7-10.

ABCA Division II Coaches Poll - 4/29/25 Rank - School - Record - Points 1 - Angelo State (Texas) - 41-7 - 295 2 - Tampa (Fla.) - 38-6 - 290 3 - Texas-Tyler - 41-9 - 275 4 - Minnesota State - 39-5 - 272 5 - Central Missouri - 35-10 - 260 6 - Westmont (Calif.) - 37-11 - 250 7 - Young Harris (Ga.) - 37-13 - 240 8 - Millersville (Pa.) - 34-7 - 225 9 - Lenoir-Rhyne (N.C.) - 40-9 - 220 10 - Florida Southern - 32-12 - 218 11 - Catawba (N.C.) - 36-12 - 200 12 - North Greenville (S.C.) - 42-11 - 190 13 - North Georgia - 36-13 - 180 14 - Davenport (Mich.) - 33-12 - 165 15 - Colorado Mesa - 33-10 - 154 16 - East Stroudsburg (Pa.) - 35-9 - 144 17 - Grand Valley State (Mich.) - 35-10 - 135 18 - Carson-Newman (Tenn.) - 35-15 - 125 19 - Fort Hays State (Kan.) - 32-12 - 120 20 - Francis Marion (S.C.) - 39-11 - 110 21 - Jefferson (Pa.) - 33-13 - 100 22 - Pittsburg State (Kan.) - 36-9 - 90 23 - West Florida - 31-17 - 80 24 - Point Loma (Calif.) - 32-12 - 70 25 - Belmont Abbey (N.C.) - 34-14 - 60 26 - Lewis (Ill.) - 34-12 - 55 27 - West Chester (Pa.) - 32-13 - 40 28 - Delta State (Miss.) - 32-16 - 30 29 - Northwest Nazarene (Idaho) - 38-12 - 20 T30 - Cal State Dominguez Hills - 28-17 - 10 T30 - Lander (S.C.) - 37-13 - 10

Others receiving votes: Bentley (Mass.); California (Pa.); Central Oklahoma; Lynn (Fla.); San Francisco State (Calif.); Ashland (Ohio); Valdosta State (Ga.); Mississippi College; Seton Hill (Pa.); Slippery Rock (Pa.); Felician (N.J.); Southern Arkansas; Arkansas-Monticello; Arkansas Tech

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745951976714.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsGREENSBORO, N.C. - The Fort Hays State baseball team moved up two more spots to No. 19 in the latest ABCA NCAA Division II Coaches Poll, released Tuesday by coaches association.Now 32-12 on the year, the Tigers accumulated 120 points in the balloting process this week, up from 100 last week. This is the highest ranking achieved by the team this season, two higher than the previous high of 21st last week. The Tigers have now been listed in the coaches top 30 each of the last seven weeks.Two other MIAA programs are in the poll this week, including fifth ranked Central Missouri and No. 22 Pittsburg State, while Central Oklahoma is receiving votes.Fort Hays State and Central Missouri are tied for first place at 26-7 in the MIAA standings with three games to play. This is the first time the Tigers have cracked 30 wins since 2010, while FHSU's 26 conference victories are their most in a season since joining the MIAA in 2007.The Tigers will wrap up the regular season at Rogers State this week (May 1-3) before traveling to Joplin, Mo. for the 2025 MIAA Baseball Championship Tournament May 7-10.ABCA Division II Coaches Poll - 4/29/25 Rank - School - Record - Points 1 - Angelo State (Texas) - 41-7 - 295 2 - Tampa (Fla.) - 38-6 - 290 3 - Texas-Tyler - 41-9 - 275 4 - Minnesota State - 39-5 - 272 5 - Central Missouri - 35-10 - 260 6 - Westmont (Calif.) - 37-11 - 250 7 - Young Harris (Ga.) - 37-13 - 240 8 - Millersville (Pa.) - 34-7 - 225 9 - Lenoir-Rhyne (N.C.) - 40-9 - 220 10 - Florida Southern - 32-12 - 218 11 - Catawba (N.C.) - 36-12 - 200 12 - North Greenville (S.C.) - 42-11 - 190 13 - North Georgia - 36-13 - 180 14 - Davenport (Mich.) - 33-12 - 165 15 - Colorado Mesa - 33-10 - 154 16 - East Stroudsburg (Pa.) - 35-9 - 144 17 - Grand Valley State (Mich.) - 35-10 - 135 18 - Carson-Newman (Tenn.) - 35-15 - 125 19 - Fort Hays State (Kan.) - 32-12 - 120 20 - Francis Marion (S.C.) - 39-11 - 110 21 - Jefferson (Pa.) - 33-13 - 100 22 - Pittsburg State (Kan.) - 36-9 - 90 23 - West Florida - 31-17 - 80 24 - Point Loma (Calif.) - 32-12 - 70 25 - Belmont Abbey (N.C.) - 34-14 - 60 26 - Lewis (Ill.) - 34-12 - 55 27 - West Chester (Pa.) - 32-13 - 40 28 - Delta State (Miss.) - 32-16 - 30 29 - Northwest Nazarene (Idaho) - 38-12 - 20 T30 - Cal State Dominguez Hills - 28-17 - 10 T30 - Lander (S.C.) - 37-13 - 10Others receiving votes: Bentley (Mass.); California (Pa.); Central Oklahoma; Lynn (Fla.); San Francisco State (Calif.); Ashland (Ohio); Valdosta State (Ga.); Mississippi College; Seton Hill (Pa.); Slippery Rock (Pa.); Felician (N.J.); Southern Arkansas; Arkansas-Monticello; Arkansas Tech

⚾ Tigers up two more spots in latest ABCA rankings

For the fifth consecutive year, the Schmidt Foundation will provide full-ride scholarships to five exceptional Fort Hays State University students. 

Over the past several weeks, Fort Hays State representatives visited area high schools to surprise each student in person. These announcements included life-changing news that the Schmidt Foundation would cover a full-ride scholarship for the students to attend FHSU beginning in the fall 2025 semester.

The selection committee seeks academically gifted students who demonstrate the leadership skills necessary to contribute significantly to FHSU, the Hays community, and the state of Kansas.

First-generation students from Kansas planning to major in healthcare, education, business, entrepreneurship, arts, or communications programs receive scholarship preference. Though preferred, it is not required that a student major in one of these areas to be considered for the scholarship.

Schmidt Foundation scholars receive financial support to cover 30 hours of tuition and fees for fall and spring courses, books, and room and board. Once accepted, recipients can renew their scholarship for up to three additional years by maintaining their academic standing and meeting the scholarship requirements.

Scholarship recipients for Fall 2025 include Montanna Voyles, Jaden Demercurio, Alicia Torres, Olivia Sutton, and Monique Carmona.

Montanna will graduate from Norwich High School this spring. After suffering the tragic losses of her mother and brother in the span of only a few years, Montanna struggled with grief and mental health issues. Her determination to attain a psychology degree and become a mental health therapist drives her forward in her quest to help others. “Despite the challenges,” she said. “I’m determined to succeed and show people that no matter what comes your way, you can always keep going.”

A Manhattan High School senior, Jaden has an unwavering commitment to his education. He has consistently maintained a high GPA despite family financial issues. Jaden hopes to pursue a degree in nursing to enable him to make a difference in the world. “This gift (the Schmidt Foundation Scholarship) would make me the first in my family to achieve a college degree,” he said. “A title that I would own with honor and gratitude.”

After graduating from Cimarron High School, Alicia once believed she would never go to college. However, the opportunity given to her by the Schmidt Foundation will enable her to pursue her passion for social work. The financial support of the Schmidt scholarship will “allow me to focus on my studies, work toward my degree in social work, ultimately pursue my passion, and break the cycle to create a better future for myself and others,” she said.

Olivia, Wichita East High School, has seen a series of challenges throughout her life that would overwhelm most people. Olivia experienced many years of instability. The constant in her life has been excelling in educational pursuits, mentoring, teamwork, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. “I am longing to build something greater than myself,” she said. Olivia plans to pursue a degree in medical diagnostic imaging for her future career as a radiologist. &nbsp;

Monique will graduate from Garden City High School. Growing up in a big family of Hispanic women, Monique has faced many challenges. Her mother taught her to be independent and work hard throughout her academic years. Monique has maintained a high GPA throughout high school. “I have a deep passion for becoming an ultrasound technician and studying radiology,” she said. “This field not only fascinates me but allows me to contribute to the community by providing essential healthcare services.”

For questions regarding the Schmidt Foundation Scholars application process, please contact the FHSU Office of Admissions at 785-628-5666,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tigers@fhsu.edu">tigers@fhsu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745935987915.png" alt="Left: Olivia Sutton. Top (left to right) Jaden Demercurio, Monique Carmona.&nbsp;Bottom: Montanna Voyles, Alicia Torres. Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>Left: Olivia Sutton. Top (left to right) Jaden Demercurio, Monique Carmona.&nbsp;Bottom: Montanna Voyles, Alicia Torres. Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFor the fifth consecutive year, the Schmidt Foundation will provide full-ride scholarships to five exceptional Fort Hays State University students. Over the past several weeks, Fort Hays State representatives visited area high schools to surprise each student in person. These announcements included life-changing news that the Schmidt Foundation would cover a full-ride scholarship for the students to attend FHSU beginning in the fall 2025 semester.The selection committee seeks academically gifted students who demonstrate the leadership skills necessary to contribute significantly to FHSU, the Hays community, and the state of Kansas.First-generation students from Kansas planning to major in healthcare, education, business, entrepreneurship, arts, or communications programs receive scholarship preference. Though preferred, it is not required that a student major in one of these areas to be considered for the scholarship.Schmidt Foundation scholars receive financial support to cover 30 hours of tuition and fees for fall and spring courses, books, and room and board. Once accepted, recipients can renew their scholarship for up to three additional years by maintaining their academic standing and meeting the scholarship requirements.Scholarship recipients for Fall 2025 include Montanna Voyles, Jaden Demercurio, Alicia Torres, Olivia Sutton, and Monique Carmona.Montanna will graduate from Norwich High School this spring. After suffering the tragic losses of her mother and brother in the span of only a few years, Montanna struggled with grief and mental health issues. Her determination to attain a psychology degree and become a mental health therapist drives her forward in her quest to help others. “Despite the challenges,” she said. “I’m determined to succeed and show people that no matter what comes your way, you can always keep going.”A Manhattan High School senior, Jaden has an unwavering commitment to his education. He has consistently maintained a high GPA despite family financial issues. Jaden hopes to pursue a degree in nursing to enable him to make a difference in the world. “This gift (the Schmidt Foundation Scholarship) would make me the first in my family to achieve a college degree,” he said. “A title that I would own with honor and gratitude.”After graduating from Cimarron High School, Alicia once believed she would never go to college. However, the opportunity given to her by the Schmidt Foundation will enable her to pursue her passion for social work. The financial support of the Schmidt scholarship will “allow me to focus on my studies, work toward my degree in social work, ultimately pursue my passion, and break the cycle to create a better future for myself and others,” she said.Olivia, Wichita East High School, has seen a series of challenges throughout her life that would overwhelm most people. Olivia experienced many years of instability. The constant in her life has been excelling in educational pursuits, mentoring, teamwork, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. “I am longing to build something greater than myself,” she said. Olivia plans to pursue a degree in medical diagnostic imaging for her future career as a radiologist. &nbsp;Monique will graduate from Garden City High School. Growing up in a big family of Hispanic women, Monique has faced many challenges. Her mother taught her to be independent and work hard throughout her academic years. Monique has maintained a high GPA throughout high school. “I have a deep passion for becoming an ultrasound technician and studying radiology,” she said. “This field not only fascinates me but allows me to contribute to the community by providing essential healthcare services.”For questions regarding the Schmidt Foundation Scholars application process, please contact the FHSU Office of Admissions at 785-628-5666,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tigers@fhsu.edu">tigers@fhsu.edu</a>

Schmidt Foundation awards full-ride scholarships to five incoming FHSU students with big dreams

It was a great weekend for the Hays High girls swim team of back-to-back meets in Salina and Wichita.

Sophomore Jaylen Hughes made state qualifying times in three events (50 free, 100 free, and 100 back) this weekend. In addition to Senior Izabel Schmidt’s many state-qualifying times, the relay team is also state-qualified in all three relays. 

They are hosting a home meeting today at 4 p.m. at Fort Hays State University and welcome community support.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689953330396.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedIt was a great weekend for the Hays High girls swim team of back-to-back meets in Salina and Wichita.Sophomore Jaylen Hughes made state qualifying times in three events (50 free, 100 free, and 100 back) this weekend. In addition to Senior Izabel Schmidt’s many state-qualifying times, the relay team is also state-qualified in all three relays. They are hosting a home meeting today at 4 p.m. at Fort Hays State University and welcome community support.

🏊 Successful weekend of swimming for Hays High girls

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State senior catcher Madison Pierce was named to the 2025 All-MIAA Softball Team on Tuesday. She was a second-team selection and it is the first all-conference selection of her career at FHSU.

Pierce has put together a strong offensive season for Fort Hays State, entering the MIAA Tournament with a team-leading .367 batting average, 22 RBIs, 28 runs scored, 47 hits, 17 walks, and .438 on-base percentage. She has six doubles and five home runs. Defensively, she has thrown out 43 percent of players attempting to steal bases, while holding a .982 fielding percentage for the season. Pierce ranks second on the career putouts list at FHSU with 1,057, but it is the most by any player with four years of eligibility. She also ranks second on the career caught stealing list by catchers with 39.

Pierce is the highest selection on the All-MIAA team for the Tigers since 2022 when Peyton Shepard earned a second-team selection in the outfield.

Below is the All-MIAA Softball Team for the 2025 season.

2025 MIAA SOFTBALL POSTSEASON AWARDS &amp; ALL-MIAA TEAMS Player of the Year – Terin Ritz – Central Oklahoma, Sr. Pitcher of the Year – Kiki Pickens – Missouri Southern, So. Defensive Player of the Year – Rylee Lemos – Central Oklahoma, Jr. Freshman of the Year – Bailey Dillon – Missouri Southern Coaching Staff of the Year – Central Oklahoma – Cody White, Jon Hunter, Jordan Dixon and Jacee Minter

ALL-MIAA FIRST TEAM Pitcher: Kiki Pickens – Missouri Southern Pitcher: Sydney Rader – Missouri Western Pitcher: Brooke Weimer – Central Missouri Catcher: Abbey Rogers – Rogers State First Base: Katie Gray – Missouri Southern Second Base: McKayla Carney – Rogers State Shortstop: Heather Arnett – Pittsburg State Third Base: Kaylee Lyon – Rogers State Outfield: Bailey Dillon – Missouri Southern Outfield: Rylee Lemos – Central Oklahoma Outfield: Courtney Storey – Pittsburg State Designated Player: Taylor Thompson – Central Missouri Utility/Pitcher: Terin Ritz – Central Oklahoma* *Unanimous Selection

ALL-MIAA SECOND TEAM Pitcher: Ava Laurent – Pittsburg State Pitcher: Harley Culie – Rogers State Pitcher: Jade Sanders – Rogers State Catcher: Madison Pierce – Fort Hays State First Base: Jaden LaBarge – Washburn Second Base: Alexis Tanguma – Washburn Shortstop: Emily Deramus – Central Oklahoma Third Base: Kadyn Trochim – Pittsburg State Outfield: Lillie Filger – Northwest Missouri Outfield: Makenzie Sais – Washburn Outfield: Callie Yellin – Rogers State Designated Player: Chloe Bohuslavicky – Rogers State Utility/Pitcher: Madison Heinle – Northeastern State

GOLD GLOVE TEAM Pitcher: Sydney Rader – Missouri Western Catcher: Abbey Rogers – Rogers State First Base: Katie Gray – Missouri Southern Second Base: Rylee Anglen – Central Oklahoma Second Base: Jadyn Sheffield – Central Missouri Shortstop: Curstin Todd – Northwest Missouri Third Base: Kadyn Trochim – Pittsburg State Outfield: Erin Boles – Washburn Outfield: Juliana De Luna – Emporia State Outfield: Taylor Jones – Missouri Western Outfield: Rylee Lemos – Central Oklahoma (Team Includes Ties)

HONORABLE MENTION Central Missouri: Bailey Brumley (First Base) Central Oklahoma: Kennedy Clark (Catcher); Rylee Anglen (Second Base); Brooklyn Ryan&nbsp;(Outfield) Emporia State: Sydney Wagner (Shortstop); Brooke Flewelling (Third Base); Taryn Burkhardt (Outfield) Missouri Southern: Kate Thurman (Catcher); Kylee Jacks (Outfield) Nebraska Kearney: Mary Chvatal (Shortstop) Northeastern State: Korynn Tindel (Shortstop); Maddie Messenger (Third Base) Northwest Missouri: Jadyn Streigle (Pitcher); Skylar Pieper (First Base); Malia Cuevas(Second Base); Omara Love (Outfield) Pittsburg State: Aydenne Brown (Pitcher); Alleyna Rushing (Outfield); Amaya Snyder (Designated Player)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745948777421.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State senior catcher Madison Pierce was named to the 2025 All-MIAA Softball Team on Tuesday. She was a second-team selection and it is the first all-conference selection of her career at FHSU.Pierce has put together a strong offensive season for Fort Hays State, entering the MIAA Tournament with a team-leading .367 batting average, 22 RBIs, 28 runs scored, 47 hits, 17 walks, and .438 on-base percentage. She has six doubles and five home runs. Defensively, she has thrown out 43 percent of players attempting to steal bases, while holding a .982 fielding percentage for the season. Pierce ranks second on the career putouts list at FHSU with 1,057, but it is the most by any player with four years of eligibility. She also ranks second on the career caught stealing list by catchers with 39.Pierce is the highest selection on the All-MIAA team for the Tigers since 2022 when Peyton Shepard earned a second-team selection in the outfield.Below is the All-MIAA Softball Team for the 2025 season.2025 MIAA SOFTBALL POSTSEASON AWARDS &amp; ALL-MIAA TEAMS Player of the Year – Terin Ritz – Central Oklahoma, Sr. Pitcher of the Year – Kiki Pickens – Missouri Southern, So. Defensive Player of the Year – Rylee Lemos – Central Oklahoma, Jr. Freshman of the Year – Bailey Dillon – Missouri Southern Coaching Staff of the Year – Central Oklahoma – Cody White, Jon Hunter, Jordan Dixon and Jacee MinterALL-MIAA FIRST TEAM Pitcher: Kiki Pickens – Missouri Southern Pitcher: Sydney Rader – Missouri Western Pitcher: Brooke Weimer – Central Missouri Catcher: Abbey Rogers – Rogers State First Base: Katie Gray – Missouri Southern Second Base: McKayla Carney – Rogers State Shortstop: Heather Arnett – Pittsburg State Third Base: Kaylee Lyon – Rogers State Outfield: Bailey Dillon – Missouri Southern Outfield: Rylee Lemos – Central Oklahoma Outfield: Courtney Storey – Pittsburg State Designated Player: Taylor Thompson – Central Missouri Utility/Pitcher: Terin Ritz – Central Oklahoma* *Unanimous SelectionALL-MIAA SECOND TEAM Pitcher: Ava Laurent – Pittsburg State Pitcher: Harley Culie – Rogers State Pitcher: Jade Sanders – Rogers State Catcher: Madison Pierce – Fort Hays State First Base: Jaden LaBarge – Washburn Second Base: Alexis Tanguma – Washburn Shortstop: Emily Deramus – Central Oklahoma Third Base: Kadyn Trochim – Pittsburg State Outfield: Lillie Filger – Northwest Missouri Outfield: Makenzie Sais – Washburn Outfield: Callie Yellin – Rogers State Designated Player: Chloe Bohuslavicky – Rogers State Utility/Pitcher: Madison Heinle – Northeastern StateGOLD GLOVE TEAM Pitcher: Sydney Rader – Missouri Western Catcher: Abbey Rogers – Rogers State First Base: Katie Gray – Missouri Southern Second Base: Rylee Anglen – Central Oklahoma Second Base: Jadyn Sheffield – Central Missouri Shortstop: Curstin Todd – Northwest Missouri Third Base: Kadyn Trochim – Pittsburg State Outfield: Erin Boles – Washburn Outfield: Juliana De Luna – Emporia State Outfield: Taylor Jones – Missouri Western Outfield: Rylee Lemos – Central Oklahoma (Team Includes Ties)HONORABLE MENTION Central Missouri: Bailey Brumley (First Base) Central Oklahoma: Kennedy Clark (Catcher); Rylee Anglen (Second Base); Brooklyn Ryan&nbsp;(Outfield) Emporia State: Sydney Wagner (Shortstop); Brooke Flewelling (Third Base); Taryn Burkhardt (Outfield) Missouri Southern: Kate Thurman (Catcher); Kylee Jacks (Outfield) Nebraska Kearney: Mary Chvatal (Shortstop) Northeastern State: Korynn Tindel (Shortstop); Maddie Messenger (Third Base) Northwest Missouri: Jadyn Streigle (Pitcher); Skylar Pieper (First Base); Malia Cuevas(Second Base); Omara Love (Outfield) Pittsburg State: Aydenne Brown (Pitcher); Alleyna Rushing (Outfield); Amaya Snyder (Designated Player)

🥎 FHSU's Pierce named Second Team All-MIAA catcher

The Fort Hays State University Alumni Office has announced nominees for its three honorary commencement awards. Recipients of each award will be announced at a press conference on Tuesday, May 6, at 9 a.m. in the Memorial Union’s Peter Werth Black and Gold Room located on the second floor, with refreshments to follow. 

The public is welcome to join in celebrating these outstanding Tigers. 

A video recording of the press conference will be posted on the FHSU Alumni Office Facebook page after the event for those who are unable to attend in person.

Thirty-one seniors were nominated for the 2025 Torch Award, which acknowledges classroom excellence, leadership, participation in professional organizations, and student, civic, or research activities.

Six graduate students from the 2024-2025 academic year received Lighthouse Award nominations, honoring exceptional students completing graduate programs.

The graduating class of 2025 nominated eighteen faculty members for the Pilot Award, recognizing classroom excellence, ongoing research, and service activities.

The Torch and Pilot Awards, created in 1974, and the Lighthouse Award, established in 2018, are presented annually. The nominees listed below completed all requested information by the deadline specified by FHSU’s Alumni Office.

Nominees are listed alphabetically by state and hometown.

Kelsi White, Communication Sciences and Disorders

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Isaiah Russell, English (Writing)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Taylor Bynum, Medical Diagnostic Imaging

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David Solis-Enriquez, History

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Noah Erichsen*, Environmental Geosciences and History

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Margaret Savage, English (Writing) and Spanish

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Isabella Ostmeyer, Medical Diagnostic Imaging

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Emilee Augustine, Medical Diagnostic Imaging

Joanna Carrillo-Maldonado*, Business Administration (Management), Political Science, and Spanish

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jessica Saunders, Accounting (Public) and Finance

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kiley Whipple, Agriculture Education and Secondary Education

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jaylah Hurley, Medical Diagnostic Imaging

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kinley Brown, Elementary Education

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Josie Gage, Technology and Engineering Education

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Gracie Vontz, Medical Diagnostic Imaging

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Megan Jones, Accounting (Public) and Finance

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kirsten Evans, Marketing

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Alyssa Mikkelson, Communication Studies

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Miriam Benavides-Ortega, English (Writing)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ella Burrows*, Political Science

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Stephanie Miller, Medical Diagnostic Imaging

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Claire Olson, Communication Sciences and Disorders

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Parker Opat, Agriculture

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nevaeh Copenhaver*, Psychology

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Morgan Barba, Agriculture Education and Secondary Education

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lee Darte, Business Education (Corporate Communication)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kathryn Dilsaver, Accounting

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sierra Blackburn, Medical Diagnostic Imaging

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jenna Schmit*, Speech-Language Pathology

Callyn Anderson, Business Administration (Digital Marketing)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chelsea Kiefer, Public History

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Allyson Baloga*, Education Specialist (School Psychology)

Nominees are listed alphabetically by last name.

Dr. Kevin Amidon*, professor, Modern Languages and Philosophy; director, Honors College

Dr. Christa Beiker, professor, chair, Allied Health

Erica Bittel, instructor, Visual and Performing Arts - Art and Design

Grant Coffman, instructor, Communication Studies, Law and Political Science

Dr. Kelly Cole, associate professor, Nursing

Eric Deneault*, professor, Applied Technology

Dr. Reade Dowda, associate professor, Advanced Education Programs

Dr. Marco Macias, associate professor, History and Philosophy

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745943437121.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University Picken Hall. Photo courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University Picken Hall. Photo courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Alumni OfficeThe Fort Hays State University Alumni Office has announced nominees for its three honorary commencement awards. Recipients of each award will be announced at a press conference on Tuesday, May 6, at 9 a.m. in the Memorial Union’s Peter Werth Black and Gold Room located on the second floor, with refreshments to follow. The public is welcome to join in celebrating these outstanding Tigers. A video recording of the press conference will be posted on the FHSU Alumni Office Facebook page after the event for those who are unable to attend in person.Thirty-one seniors were nominated for the 2025 Torch Award, which acknowledges classroom excellence, leadership, participation in professional organizations, and student, civic, or research activities.Six graduate students from the 2024-2025 academic year received Lighthouse Award nominations, honoring exceptional students completing graduate programs.The graduating class of 2025 nominated eighteen faculty members for the Pilot Award, recognizing classroom excellence, ongoing research, and service activities.The Torch and Pilot Awards, created in 1974, and the Lighthouse Award, established in 2018, are presented annually. The nominees listed below completed all requested information by the deadline specified by FHSU’s Alumni Office.* Denotes finalists for each award.2025 TORCH AWARD NOMINEESNominees are listed alphabetically by state and hometown.KansasCHENEYKelsi White, Communication Sciences and DisordersCODELL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Isaiah Russell, English (Writing)DERBY&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Taylor Bynum, Medical Diagnostic ImagingDODGE CITY&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David Solis-Enriquez, HistoryELLSWORTH&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Noah Erichsen*, Environmental Geosciences and HistoryGARDNER&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Margaret Savage, English (Writing) and SpanishGRINNELL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Isabella Ostmeyer, Medical Diagnostic ImagingHAYS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Emilee Augustine, Medical Diagnostic ImagingJoanna Carrillo-Maldonado*, Business Administration (Management), Political Science, and SpanishElizabeth Clingan, English (Writing)Sophia Garrison, Art HistoryLauren Wagner*, Business AdministrationHILLSBORO&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jessica Saunders, Accounting (Public) and FinanceINGALLS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kiley Whipple, Agriculture Education and Secondary EducationINMAN&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jaylah Hurley, Medical Diagnostic ImagingKANSAS CITY&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kinley Brown, Elementary EducationMAPLE CITY&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Josie Gage, Technology and Engineering EducationOBERLIN&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Gracie Vontz, Medical Diagnostic ImagingOLATHE&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Megan Jones, Accounting (Public) and FinanceOTTAWA&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kirsten Evans, MarketingSALINA&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Alyssa Mikkelson, Communication Studies&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Miriam Benavides-Ortega, English (Writing)SATANTA&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ella Burrows*, Political ScienceSPEARVILLE&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Stephanie Miller, Medical Diagnostic ImagingTOPEKA&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Claire Olson, Communication Sciences and DisordersWAKEENEY&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Parker Opat, AgricultureWAKEFIELD&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nevaeh Copenhaver*, PsychologyColoradoHENDERSON&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Morgan Barba, Agriculture Education and Secondary EducationIllinoisLITCHFIELD&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lee Darte, Business Education (Corporate Communication)NebraskaLINCOLN&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kathryn Dilsaver, AccountingSUPERIOR&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sierra Blackburn, Medical Diagnostic Imaging2025 LIGHTHOUSE AWARD NOMINEESNominees are listed alphabetically by state and hometown.KansasCANEYElizabeth Burch*, Social Work (Clinical)GARNETT&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jenna Schmit*, Speech-Language PathologyTOPEKACallyn Anderson, Business Administration (Digital Marketing)Taylor Province, EnglishNorth CarolinaRALEIGH&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chelsea Kiefer, Public HistoryNorth DakotaMINOT AIR FORCE BASE&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Allyson Baloga*, Education Specialist (School Psychology)2025 PILOT AWARD NOMINEESNominees are listed alphabetically by last name.Dr. Kevin Amidon*, professor, Modern Languages and Philosophy; director, Honors CollegeDr. Christa Beiker, professor, chair, Allied HealthErica Bittel, instructor, Visual and Performing Arts - Art and DesignGrant Coffman, instructor, Communication Studies, Law and Political ScienceDr. Kelly Cole, associate professor, NursingEric Deneault*, professor, Applied TechnologyDr. Reade Dowda, associate professor, Advanced Education ProgramsJayme Goetz, instructor, MathematicsDr. Marco Macias, associate professor, History and PhilosophyDr. Marcella Marez, assistant professor, Communication Studies, Law, and Political ScienceHollie Marquess*, lecturer, History and PhilosophyDr. Iryna McDonald, assistant professor, AgricultureDr. Phillip Olt*, associate professor, Advanced Education ProgramsZach Pixler, assistant professor, Applied TechnologyDr. Wendy Rohleder-Sook, assistant professor, chair, Communication Studies, Law, and Political ScienceDr. Matthew Smalley, associate professor, English and Modern LanguagesDr. Whitney Whitaker, associate professor, chair, PsychologyDr. Hsin-Yen Yang, professor, Communication Studies, Law, and Political Science

FHSU Alumni Office announces 2025 Torch, Lighthouse, Pilot Award nominees

Mary Ann Froelich, 90, of Gorham,
Kansas, died on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the Main Street Manor in Russell,
Kansas.

Mary Ann was born on May 17, 1934,
in Ransom, Kansas, the daughter of Herbert J. and Dorothy M. (Christy) Whitney.
She grew up in Utica, Kansas, and graduated from Utica High School in 1952. She
met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Morris J. Froelich in Lawrence,
Kansas, on November 14, 1952. From this union, Mary Ann and Morris were blessed
with two children, Morris Alan and Shelley. Mary Ann continued her education by
attending Fort. Hays State University, graduating with her bachelor's degree in
Elementary Education in 1972 and her master’s degree in 1982. The Froelich
family made their home in Gorham, Kansas, where Mary Ann taught at Gorham Grade
School for 25 years. Mary Ann was the organist for over 50 years at the Gorham
Community Church where she and Morris were longtime members.

Mary Ann enjoyed music, crafting,
reading, playing the piano and church organ, genealogy, collecting knick knacks
and spending countless hours enjoying time with her family, especially her
grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Surviving family include her son,
Morris Alan Froelich (Marie) of Hays, Kansas; daughter, Shelley Oden (Bruce) of
Russell, Kansas; 4 grandchildren, Jill Russell (Bill); Walter Oden, Jr. (Angel
Roe); Pamela Oden (Mike Slater); and Jaimie Oden; one granddaughter-in-law,
Savanna Froelich; 7 great grandchildren, Kaeleah Russell; Brynn Russell;
Severin Oden; Marissa Strickland (William); Afton Froelich; Joselin Froelich;
and Victoria Froelich.

She was preceded in death by her
parents; husband Morris on August 08, 2021; 3 sisters, Vickie Whitney, Sandy
Gaona and Lynette Russell; one grandson, Clint Froelich and 2 infant great
grandchildren, Talon and Piper Froelich.

Cremation has been selected by the
family. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, May 10,
2025, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, Kansas. Visitation will
be from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. on Friday, May 09, 2025, at the mortuary, with the
family available to greet guests from 6 P.M. to 7 P.M. The family suggests
memorials to the Main Street Manor Activity Fund and sent in care of the
mortuary. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of
the funeral service arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745941790488.jpeg" alt="Mary Ann Froelich" />
 <figcaption>Mary Ann Froelich</figcaption>
 </figure>Mary Ann Froelich, 90, of Gorham,
Kansas, died on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the Main Street Manor in Russell,
Kansas.Mary Ann was born on May 17, 1934,
in Ransom, Kansas, the daughter of Herbert J. and Dorothy M. (Christy) Whitney.
She grew up in Utica, Kansas, and graduated from Utica High School in 1952. She
met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Morris J. Froelich in Lawrence,
Kansas, on November 14, 1952. From this union, Mary Ann and Morris were blessed
with two children, Morris Alan and Shelley. Mary Ann continued her education by
attending Fort. Hays State University, graduating with her bachelor's degree in
Elementary Education in 1972 and her master’s degree in 1982. The Froelich
family made their home in Gorham, Kansas, where Mary Ann taught at Gorham Grade
School for 25 years. Mary Ann was the organist for over 50 years at the Gorham
Community Church where she and Morris were longtime members.Mary Ann enjoyed music, crafting,
reading, playing the piano and church organ, genealogy, collecting knick knacks
and spending countless hours enjoying time with her family, especially her
grandchildren and great grandchildren.Surviving family include her son,
Morris Alan Froelich (Marie) of Hays, Kansas; daughter, Shelley Oden (Bruce) of
Russell, Kansas; 4 grandchildren, Jill Russell (Bill); Walter Oden, Jr. (Angel
Roe); Pamela Oden (Mike Slater); and Jaimie Oden; one granddaughter-in-law,
Savanna Froelich; 7 great grandchildren, Kaeleah Russell; Brynn Russell;
Severin Oden; Marissa Strickland (William); Afton Froelich; Joselin Froelich;
and Victoria Froelich.She was preceded in death by her
parents; husband Morris on August 08, 2021; 3 sisters, Vickie Whitney, Sandy
Gaona and Lynette Russell; one grandson, Clint Froelich and 2 infant great
grandchildren, Talon and Piper Froelich.Cremation has been selected by the
family. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, May 10,
2025, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, Kansas. Visitation will
be from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. on Friday, May 09, 2025, at the mortuary, with the
family available to greet guests from 6 P.M. to 7 P.M. The family suggests
memorials to the Main Street Manor Activity Fund and sent in care of the
mortuary. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of
the funeral service arrangements.

Mary Ann Froelich

The <a href="https://www.kwo.ks.gov/home">Kansas Water Office</a> has announced a scheduled water release from Cedar Bluff Reservoir in Trego County will begin May 5 to support water supplies for the cities of Hays and Russell.

This release will help recharge the groundwater resources and increase streamflow in the Smoky Hill River, benefiting municipal water wells for both communities.

The decision to release water follows written requests by the City of Hays on March 31 and the City of Russell on April 2.

Both cities have dedicated water storage rights within Cedar Bluff Reservoir which allows them to request water releases when groundwater and river conditions require it.

Currently, groundwater levels along the Smoky Hill River near Hays and Russell have dropped significantly due to dry conditions. Low groundwater levels can limit the ability of cities to draw sufficient water for residents and businesses.

The upcoming release is strategically planned at a critical time before summer heat and vegetation growth further reduce groundwater recharge effectiveness.

Releasing water during late spring maximizes its benefit.&nbsp;Cooler temperatures and lower levels of plant activity in May enable more of the released water to seep into the groundwater, replenishing the aquifer efficiently.

If the release were delayed until the hotter months, more water would evaporate or be used by plants before reaching underground reservoirs.

This timing ensures that the cities' wells and water infrastructure will have adequate supplies heading into the traditionally dry summer months.

The combined release from the Artificial Recharge Pool, water specifically stored for groundwater replenishment, and the City of Russell's reserved water supply will start May 5 and is expected to continue at least through May 16.

Residents living along the Smoky Hill River from Cedar Bluff Reservoir downstream to areas near Schoenchen and Pfeifer should be aware of higher water flows during this period. Increased water flow may affect low-lying areas or property located within or near the river channel.

Officials have emphasized that this scheduled release will have minimal impact on Cedar Bluff Reservoir’s overall water levels.&nbsp;The amount released is carefully calculated and will not significantly affect recreational opportunities or other water uses at the reservoir.

The volume being released represents water already designated and reserved for municipal use by Hays and Russell, rather than additional water being drawn from other reservoir allocations.

The Kansas Water Office, in partnership with the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources and the cities of Hays and Russell, will closely monitor groundwater levels, streamflow, and weather conditions throughout the release period.

This proactive approach is part of a broader water management strategy designed to ensure long-term water availability for both cities.

Regular management practices like these help maintain a sustainable water supply during periods of drought or prolonged dry spells, which frequently impact western Kansas communities.

Officials advise the public to remain informed and aware of river conditions during the release period.

Updates and additional information regarding the release schedule and conditions can be obtained from the <a href="https://www.kwo.ks.gov/home">Kansas Water Office.</a>

For additional information or questions regarding water management and local impacts, residents may contact their city water departments directly or visit the <a href="https://www.kwo.ks.gov/home">Kansas Water Office website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745942440796.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe <a href="https://www.kwo.ks.gov/home">Kansas Water Office</a> has announced a scheduled water release from Cedar Bluff Reservoir in Trego County will begin May 5 to support water supplies for the cities of Hays and Russell.This release will help recharge the groundwater resources and increase streamflow in the Smoky Hill River, benefiting municipal water wells for both communities.The decision to release water follows written requests by the City of Hays on March 31 and the City of Russell on April 2.Both cities have dedicated water storage rights within Cedar Bluff Reservoir which allows them to request water releases when groundwater and river conditions require it.Currently, groundwater levels along the Smoky Hill River near Hays and Russell have dropped significantly due to dry conditions. Low groundwater levels can limit the ability of cities to draw sufficient water for residents and businesses.The upcoming release is strategically planned at a critical time before summer heat and vegetation growth further reduce groundwater recharge effectiveness.Releasing water during late spring maximizes its benefit.&nbsp;Cooler temperatures and lower levels of plant activity in May enable more of the released water to seep into the groundwater, replenishing the aquifer efficiently.If the release were delayed until the hotter months, more water would evaporate or be used by plants before reaching underground reservoirs.This timing ensures that the cities' wells and water infrastructure will have adequate supplies heading into the traditionally dry summer months.The combined release from the Artificial Recharge Pool, water specifically stored for groundwater replenishment, and the City of Russell's reserved water supply will start May 5 and is expected to continue at least through May 16.Residents living along the Smoky Hill River from Cedar Bluff Reservoir downstream to areas near Schoenchen and Pfeifer should be aware of higher water flows during this period. Increased water flow may affect low-lying areas or property located within or near the river channel.Officials have emphasized that this scheduled release will have minimal impact on Cedar Bluff Reservoir’s overall water levels.&nbsp;The amount released is carefully calculated and will not significantly affect recreational opportunities or other water uses at the reservoir.The volume being released represents water already designated and reserved for municipal use by Hays and Russell, rather than additional water being drawn from other reservoir allocations.The Kansas Water Office, in partnership with the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources and the cities of Hays and Russell, will closely monitor groundwater levels, streamflow, and weather conditions throughout the release period.This proactive approach is part of a broader water management strategy designed to ensure long-term water availability for both cities.Regular management practices like these help maintain a sustainable water supply during periods of drought or prolonged dry spells, which frequently impact western Kansas communities.Officials advise the public to remain informed and aware of river conditions during the release period.Updates and additional information regarding the release schedule and conditions can be obtained from the <a href="https://www.kwo.ks.gov/home">Kansas Water Office.</a>For additional information or questions regarding water management and local impacts, residents may contact their city water departments directly or visit the <a href="https://www.kwo.ks.gov/home">Kansas Water Office website</a>.

Cedar Bluff Reservoir water releases for Hays, Russell to begin Monday

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The first bison calf of the year was born at Frontier Park during Easter weekend. The second calf was born this weekend.

On April 13, the city of Hays posted last year's calves and the one open cow headed off to new pastures, making room for new arrivals.

The city of Hays maintains this historic bison herd as a living reminder of the community's heritage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745934295969.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe first bison calf of the year was born at Frontier Park during Easter weekend. The second calf was born this weekend.On April 13, the city of Hays posted last year's calves and the one open cow headed off to new pastures, making room for new arrivals.The city of Hays maintains this historic bison herd as a living reminder of the community's heritage.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745934328517.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745934344001.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745934384068.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745934396733.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745934410282.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745934420898.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

📷 Second bison calf born at Hays' Frontier Park

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745933713060.png" alt="Smoky Hills PBS" />
 <figcaption>Smoky Hills PBS</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted

Hays dentists featured on tonight's 'Doctors on Call' on Smoky Hills PBS

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)

Tuesday, April 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Tampa Bay Rays, 5:30pm

Wednesday, April 30 KJLS: Fort Hays State
SB vs. Emporia State, 2:40pm &nbsp;KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Tampa Bay Rays, 5:30pm

Thursday, May 1
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
SB (if win 4/29) vs. Central Oklahoma, 10:40am
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Tampa Bay Rays, 11:30am 
 KFIX: Hays High BSB
(DH) vs. Liberal, 3:45pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian SB (DH) at Hays, 3:45pm

Friday, May 2
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
SB (if win 5/1) vs. TBD, 11:40am
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian BSB (DH) vs. Russell, 3:45pm
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Baltimore Orioles, 5:30pm

Saturday, May 3
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
SB (if win 5/1) vs. TBD, 11:40am
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Baltimore Orioles, 5:30pm

Sunday, May 4
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Baltimore Orioles, 12:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Tuesday, April 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Tampa Bay Rays, 5:30pmWednesday, April 30 KJLS: Fort Hays State
SB vs. Emporia State, 2:40pm &nbsp;KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Tampa Bay Rays, 5:30pmThursday, May 1
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
SB (if win 4/29) vs. Central Oklahoma, 10:40am
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Tampa Bay Rays, 11:30am 
 KFIX: Hays High BSB
(DH) vs. Liberal, 3:45pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian SB (DH) at Hays, 3:45pmFriday, May 2
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
SB (if win 5/1) vs. TBD, 11:40am
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian BSB (DH) vs. Russell, 3:45pm
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Baltimore Orioles, 5:30pmSaturday, May 3
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
SB (if win 5/1) vs. TBD, 11:40am
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Baltimore Orioles, 5:30pmSunday, May 4
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Baltimore Orioles, 12:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

#21 Fort Hays State looks for the series win as they play the rubber game of their 3-game series with NW Missouri State, It's also Senior Day on Sunday, April 27, 2025 at Larks Park in Hays, Kan.

#21 Fort Hays State looks for the series win as they play the rubber game of their 3-game series with NW Missouri State, It's also Senior Day on Sunday, April 27, 2025 at Larks Park in Hays, Kan.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind-BSB vs. NW Missouri State" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qfjte-189508c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind-BSB vs. NW Missouri State

A local man is trying to gather youth for a mountain bike team based in Hays.

A national mountain bike league has opportunities to expand in western Kansas.

Keith Gustin, a mountain bike enthusiast, is serving as a league volunteer.

Gustin is seeking youth in sixth through 12th grades who are interested in competing, donors to support the team, volunteer coaches and assistance in building mountain bike trails in Ellis County.

The trails are a minimum of four miles of single track. It's usually a loop.&nbsp;

The<a href="https://nationalmtb.org/"> National Interscholastic Cycling Association</a> has teams in 32 states. This is the fifth season Kansas has had a competitive league, with 11 teams in the state.

The mission of the organization is to "Build strong minds, bodies, character and community through cycling."

The association conducted a bike race at Wilson Lake on April 6.

Other Kansas courses are in Manhattan, Topeka, Lawrence and Louisburg, which is south of Kansas City.

There is usually travel involved in the races. Most events are two days. Gustin said there are often camping opportunities for families hoping to save money on travel costs.

Gustin said he is researching race courses and practice locations for a potential team.

Gustin said parents often serve as coaches and ride with the youth during practice.&nbsp;

Most youth own their bikes. However, the league doesn't want ownership of a bike to be a barrier to participation, Gustin said.

Youth can ride entry-level bikes purchased from a bike shop, which typically cost between $400 and $600. A street bike from a big box store probably would not hold up to the rigors of the sport, he said.

The league has scholarships to help with expenses, Gustin said.

The season starts in January with students learning basic bike safety skills before they hit the courses.

Mountain biking is an Olympic sport with a national team. Colleges around the country also have teams with some opportunities for scholarships, Gustin said.

Gustin's son is too young to compete yet, but Gustin and his family are passionate about cycling.

"It's a great activity. It's a good way to get outdoors. It's great exercise. The team, there's a community element to it," Gustin said.

He said he thought establishing trails in Ellis County could attract events to Hays and have a positive impact on economic development.

"You go camp out at the roundabouts, and you see a lot of people passing through on I-70, and a lot of them have bikes. Those are not cheap bikes," he said.

For more information, contact Keith Gustin at 785-259-9456.

You can also fill out an interest form at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://forms.gle/7tsFaMLxbz8L6AhE8">https://forms.gle/7tsFaMLxbz8L6AhE8</a>

<a href="https://kansasmtb.org/">Kansas NICA</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745865154161.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA local man is trying to gather youth for a mountain bike team based in Hays.A national mountain bike league has opportunities to expand in western Kansas.Keith Gustin, a mountain bike enthusiast, is serving as a league volunteer.Gustin is seeking youth in sixth through 12th grades who are interested in competing, donors to support the team, volunteer coaches and assistance in building mountain bike trails in Ellis County.The trails are a minimum of four miles of single track. It's usually a loop.&nbsp;The<a href="https://nationalmtb.org/"> National Interscholastic Cycling Association</a> has teams in 32 states. This is the fifth season Kansas has had a competitive league, with 11 teams in the state.The mission of the organization is to "Build strong minds, bodies, character and community through cycling."The association conducted a bike race at Wilson Lake on April 6.Other Kansas courses are in Manhattan, Topeka, Lawrence and Louisburg, which is south of Kansas City.The season runs from April through May.There is usually travel involved in the races. Most events are two days. Gustin said there are often camping opportunities for families hoping to save money on travel costs.Gustin said he is researching race courses and practice locations for a potential team.Gustin said parents often serve as coaches and ride with the youth during practice.&nbsp;Most youth own their bikes. However, the league doesn't want ownership of a bike to be a barrier to participation, Gustin said.Youth can ride entry-level bikes purchased from a bike shop, which typically cost between $400 and $600. A street bike from a big box store probably would not hold up to the rigors of the sport, he said.The league has scholarships to help with expenses, Gustin said.Safety equipment is also required.The season starts in January with students learning basic bike safety skills before they hit the courses.Mountain biking is an Olympic sport with a national team. Colleges around the country also have teams with some opportunities for scholarships, Gustin said.Gustin's son is too young to compete yet, but Gustin and his family are passionate about cycling."It's a great activity. It's a good way to get outdoors. It's great exercise. The team, there's a community element to it," Gustin said.He said he thought establishing trails in Ellis County could attract events to Hays and have a positive impact on economic development."You go camp out at the roundabouts, and you see a lot of people passing through on I-70, and a lot of them have bikes. Those are not cheap bikes," he said.For more information, contact Keith Gustin at 785-259-9456.You can also fill out an interest form at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://forms.gle/7tsFaMLxbz8L6AhE8">https://forms.gle/7tsFaMLxbz8L6AhE8</a><a href="https://kansasmtb.org/">Kansas NICA</a>

Riders sought for youth mountain bike team in Hays

Fort Hays State University’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI) is hosting a variety of summer camps for youth entering grades second through eighth. Camps are restricted to a maximum of two per student and they are filling quickly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

All camps run four days per week, Monday through Thursday. Sessions are all three hours each –&nbsp;some in the morning from 9 a.m. to noon and others in the afternoon from 1 to 4 p.m.&nbsp;

GIRLS ROBOT-O-RAMA CAMP,&nbsp; June 2 — 5, Cost $70, Girls entering grades 5 – 8, limited to first 24 registrants. Girls will learn to build, program, and test LEGO robots using LEGO EV3 software.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ROBO CHALLENGE&nbsp;CAMP,&nbsp; June 2 — 5, Cost $70, Students entering grades 5 – 8, limited to first 24 registrants. Students will learn to build, program, and test LEGO robots using LEGO EV3 software.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ENERGY IS EVERYWHERE AM CAMP,&nbsp; June 9 — 12, Cost $70, Students entering grades 2 – 3, limited to first 24 registrants.&nbsp; Students will create circuits, utilize potential &amp; kinetic energy to learn about gravitational energy, let the sun do the cooking and so much more.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ENERGY IS EVERYWHERE PM CAMP,&nbsp; June 9 — 12, Cost $70, Students entering grades 4 – 5, limited to first 24 registrants. Students will create circuits, utilize potential &amp; kinetic energy to learn about gravitational energy, let the sun do the cooking and so much more.&nbsp;

WEATHER WIZARDRY AM CAMP,&nbsp; June 23 — June 26, Cost $70, Students entering grades 2 – 3, limited to first 24 registrants. Students will discover weather through experimenting, hands-on activities, and building weather measuring devices.&nbsp;

WEATHER WIZARDRY PM CAMP,&nbsp; June 23—June 26, Cost $70, Students entering grades 4 – 5, limited to first 24 registrants. Students will discover weather through experimenting, hands-on activities, and building weather measuring devices.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The registration fee for each camp is $70, and the registration deadline is Wednesday, May 7.&nbsp;Registration will be on a first-come, first-serve basis with a maximum of two camps per student.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information about the summer camps, contact Cari Rohleder by phone at 785.628.4743 or by email at <a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>.

More information and registration flyers can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0YVxp4teFa-2BId-2Bc7RQ68rKGw1nUnmm4EsNTigZ4On-2BXUPlfE_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOVeLW1ldsZFLuJdDjUmLhNuzISKVicTNw9Yz8g9LQ4fXeMr07gz6S9zF94ip7wd0didXs9cgDyG8HIxk8EqemT6hn6SzENCtxKFQlrFB-2Fx-2BA9N-2FF7-2BHH97RoLy2fRUy8MMdSDrO5IhjRwTSQXCm1us5Kk2c3AvroLZhwqdK-2FLMmNLhffdkiAJZLIxbWWWQkmdYFnyD9dwa1scW577mv8efofTXOB-2BnnL-2FevszbNBuKvDiEsWdeO7bzOVP9eD9LfGp">https://www.fhsu.edu/smei/camps/</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745340999214.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute summer camps. Photo courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute summer camps. Photo courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI) is hosting a variety of summer camps for youth entering grades second through eighth. Camps are restricted to a maximum of two per student and they are filling quickly.&nbsp;&nbsp;All camps run four days per week, Monday through Thursday. Sessions are all three hours each –&nbsp;some in the morning from 9 a.m. to noon and others in the afternoon from 1 to 4 p.m.&nbsp;This year’s camps include:&nbsp;GIRLS ROBOT-O-RAMA CAMP,&nbsp; June 2 — 5, Cost $70, Girls entering grades 5 – 8, limited to first 24 registrants. Girls will learn to build, program, and test LEGO robots using LEGO EV3 software.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ROBO CHALLENGE&nbsp;CAMP,&nbsp; June 2 — 5, Cost $70, Students entering grades 5 – 8, limited to first 24 registrants. Students will learn to build, program, and test LEGO robots using LEGO EV3 software.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ENERGY IS EVERYWHERE AM CAMP,&nbsp; June 9 — 12, Cost $70, Students entering grades 2 – 3, limited to first 24 registrants.&nbsp; Students will create circuits, utilize potential &amp; kinetic energy to learn about gravitational energy, let the sun do the cooking and so much more.&nbsp;&nbsp;ENERGY IS EVERYWHERE PM CAMP,&nbsp; June 9 — 12, Cost $70, Students entering grades 4 – 5, limited to first 24 registrants. Students will create circuits, utilize potential &amp; kinetic energy to learn about gravitational energy, let the sun do the cooking and so much more.&nbsp;WEATHER WIZARDRY AM CAMP,&nbsp; June 23 — June 26, Cost $70, Students entering grades 2 – 3, limited to first 24 registrants. Students will discover weather through experimenting, hands-on activities, and building weather measuring devices.&nbsp;WEATHER WIZARDRY PM CAMP,&nbsp; June 23—June 26, Cost $70, Students entering grades 4 – 5, limited to first 24 registrants. Students will discover weather through experimenting, hands-on activities, and building weather measuring devices.&nbsp;&nbsp;The registration fee for each camp is $70, and the registration deadline is Wednesday, May 7.&nbsp;Registration will be on a first-come, first-serve basis with a maximum of two camps per student.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about the summer camps, contact Cari Rohleder by phone at 785.628.4743 or by email at <a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>. More information and registration flyers can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0YVxp4teFa-2BId-2Bc7RQ68rKGw1nUnmm4EsNTigZ4On-2BXUPlfE_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOVeLW1ldsZFLuJdDjUmLhNuzISKVicTNw9Yz8g9LQ4fXeMr07gz6S9zF94ip7wd0didXs9cgDyG8HIxk8EqemT6hn6SzENCtxKFQlrFB-2Fx-2BA9N-2FF7-2BHH97RoLy2fRUy8MMdSDrO5IhjRwTSQXCm1us5Kk2c3AvroLZhwqdK-2FLMmNLhffdkiAJZLIxbWWWQkmdYFnyD9dwa1scW577mv8efofTXOB-2BnnL-2FevszbNBuKvDiEsWdeO7bzOVP9eD9LfGp">https://www.fhsu.edu/smei/camps/</a>.&nbsp;

FHSU 2025 science summer camp registration now open

&nbsp;FHSU University Communications

Fort Hays State University is proud to host the 66th annual Western Kansas Technology Education Fair at Gross Memorial Coliseum on Friday, May 2. 

This exciting event showcases the talents and innovation of junior high and high school students from across Kansas enrolled in technology education programs. Students will present projects ranging from handcrafted furniture and metal works to CAD drawings and advanced drafting. Doors open to the public at 8 a.m., and projects will be available for viewing until 3:30 p.m. Admission is free.

On Thursday, May 1, students and teachers will check in and prepare their displays. The following day, the fair welcomes faculty, students, and community members to admire the creative and technical achievements of Kansas youth. Every project is carefully judged and awarded a ribbon or medal. Throughout the day, students will also compete in live contests, including communication, a quiz bowl-style technology challenge, and problem-solving events. The fair will conclude with an awards ceremony at approximately 3:30 p.m.

“We’re excited to continue the tradition of hosting the annual technology fair,” said Kim Stewart, Department of Applied Technology chair. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to welcome students and teachers from across the region to Fort Hays State University and to highlight the creativity and skill showcased in their projects.”

The fair is entirely coordinated and run by students from FHSU’s Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA) and the FHSU-Student Chapter-Associated General Contractors (AGC), giving attendees a unique look at leadership in action.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745339103693.jpeg" alt="Western Kansas Technology Education Fair at Fort Hays State University. Photo courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Western Kansas Technology Education Fair at Fort Hays State University. Photo courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University is proud to host the 66th annual Western Kansas Technology Education Fair at Gross Memorial Coliseum on Friday, May 2. This exciting event showcases the talents and innovation of junior high and high school students from across Kansas enrolled in technology education programs. Students will present projects ranging from handcrafted furniture and metal works to CAD drawings and advanced drafting. Doors open to the public at 8 a.m., and projects will be available for viewing until 3:30 p.m. Admission is free.On Thursday, May 1, students and teachers will check in and prepare their displays. The following day, the fair welcomes faculty, students, and community members to admire the creative and technical achievements of Kansas youth. Every project is carefully judged and awarded a ribbon or medal. Throughout the day, students will also compete in live contests, including communication, a quiz bowl-style technology challenge, and problem-solving events. The fair will conclude with an awards ceremony at approximately 3:30 p.m.“We’re excited to continue the tradition of hosting the annual technology fair,” said Kim Stewart, Department of Applied Technology chair. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to welcome students and teachers from across the region to Fort Hays State University and to highlight the creativity and skill showcased in their projects.”The fair is entirely coordinated and run by students from FHSU’s Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA) and the FHSU-Student Chapter-Associated General Contractors (AGC), giving attendees a unique look at leadership in action.