Cecilia Mary (Cahoj) Allen, 'Ceci', 102, of Brewster, passed
away on March 25, 2025, at Prairie Senior Living Center, in Colby, KS. Ceci was
a woman of strong faith and quiet spirit, a devoted wife, a loving mother, a
cherished grandmother, a precious great grandmother, and a reliable friend.

She was one of ten children, born September 6, 1922, on the
family farm east of St. John Church, rural Rawlins County, KS, to Joseph and
Mary (Dvorak) Cahoj. Her first eight grades of school were at Prairie View
School, 2 ½ miles north of her home. She attended two years of high school in
McDonald, KS. The last two years of high school were at the Catholic boarding
school, Notre Dame Academy, in Omaha, NE. She attended college at Fort Hays
State College, receiving a 3-year teaching certificate, later returning to
complete a bachelor’s degree in Education. She was a highly respected teacher
for 41 years, acquiring a reputation for helping kids to excel in reading.
Although she “officially” retired, she continued to teach her grandchildren and
eventually great grandchildren to read well into her 90’s.

On August 10, 1954, she married Everett (Jr.) Allen in
Atwood, KS, in a double wedding with her brother. To this marriage three
children were born: Nolan, Anita and Donard. They spent their married life in
Brewster, both working at the school. After retiring they spent their winters
in Tucson, AZ, enjoying hiking and golf. Ceci was a devoted wife and mother.
She was very involved in all aspects of her children’s activities including
religious education, 4-H and sports. Ceci was renowned for her excellent cooking
ability (especially her pecan gooey cinnamon rolls), her love of playing cards,
her many years of aerobics, bike rides, and participating in Walk Across
Kansas. She was emphatic about card playing to keep your mind healthy and
physical activity to keep your body healthy (line dancing until she was 90),
she continued to play cards until just a few weeks before passing. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband;
siblings, Emery, William, Leonard, Edward, Agnes, Henry and Henrietta.

Survivors include her sons Nolan (Geralyn) of Hays, Kansas
and Donard (Colleen) of Brewster, KS; her daughter Anita (Tony) Horinek of
Colby, KS; sisters Mary Ann Reinert, Greeley, CO and Carmelita (David) Berndt,
Minneapolis, KS; 10 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; and many nieces,
nephews and friends. Ceci’s strong reliance on God, generosity and exemplary
work ethic will live on in her family (and most likely her love of playing
cards).

The family will be celebrating her life at Baalmann
Mortuary starting with a visitation from 5:00-7:00 pm on Sunday, March 30,
2025, with a Vigil to follow at 7:00 pm. The funeral Mass will be at Sacred
Heart Catholic Church in Colby, KS on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 10:00 am.
Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery. A luncheon at the Catholic Church
will be held after the burial services. In lieu of flowers, suggested memorial
contributions are to Sacred Heart Church, Colby, or the Salina Diocese, sent in
care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701.&nbsp;For information or
condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743109960490.jpeg" alt="Cecilia Mary (Cahoj) Allen, 'Ceci'" />
 <figcaption>Cecilia Mary (Cahoj) Allen, 'Ceci'</figcaption>
 </figure>Cecilia Mary (Cahoj) Allen, 'Ceci', 102, of Brewster, passed
away on March 25, 2025, at Prairie Senior Living Center, in Colby, KS. Ceci was
a woman of strong faith and quiet spirit, a devoted wife, a loving mother, a
cherished grandmother, a precious great grandmother, and a reliable friend.She was one of ten children, born September 6, 1922, on the
family farm east of St. John Church, rural Rawlins County, KS, to Joseph and
Mary (Dvorak) Cahoj. Her first eight grades of school were at Prairie View
School, 2 ½ miles north of her home. She attended two years of high school in
McDonald, KS. The last two years of high school were at the Catholic boarding
school, Notre Dame Academy, in Omaha, NE. She attended college at Fort Hays
State College, receiving a 3-year teaching certificate, later returning to
complete a bachelor’s degree in Education. She was a highly respected teacher
for 41 years, acquiring a reputation for helping kids to excel in reading.
Although she “officially” retired, she continued to teach her grandchildren and
eventually great grandchildren to read well into her 90’s.On August 10, 1954, she married Everett (Jr.) Allen in
Atwood, KS, in a double wedding with her brother. To this marriage three
children were born: Nolan, Anita and Donard. They spent their married life in
Brewster, both working at the school. After retiring they spent their winters
in Tucson, AZ, enjoying hiking and golf. Ceci was a devoted wife and mother.
She was very involved in all aspects of her children’s activities including
religious education, 4-H and sports. Ceci was renowned for her excellent cooking
ability (especially her pecan gooey cinnamon rolls), her love of playing cards,
her many years of aerobics, bike rides, and participating in Walk Across
Kansas. She was emphatic about card playing to keep your mind healthy and
physical activity to keep your body healthy (line dancing until she was 90),
she continued to play cards until just a few weeks before passing. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband;
siblings, Emery, William, Leonard, Edward, Agnes, Henry and Henrietta.Survivors include her sons Nolan (Geralyn) of Hays, Kansas
and Donard (Colleen) of Brewster, KS; her daughter Anita (Tony) Horinek of
Colby, KS; sisters Mary Ann Reinert, Greeley, CO and Carmelita (David) Berndt,
Minneapolis, KS; 10 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; and many nieces,
nephews and friends. Ceci’s strong reliance on God, generosity and exemplary
work ethic will live on in her family (and most likely her love of playing
cards).The family will be celebrating her life at Baalmann
Mortuary starting with a visitation from 5:00-7:00 pm on Sunday, March 30,
2025, with a Vigil to follow at 7:00 pm. The funeral Mass will be at Sacred
Heart Catholic Church in Colby, KS on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 10:00 am.
Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery. A luncheon at the Catholic Church
will be held after the burial services. In lieu of flowers, suggested memorial
contributions are to Sacred Heart Church, Colby, or the Salina Diocese, sent in
care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701.&nbsp;For information or
condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

Cecilia Mary (Cahoj) Allen, 'Ceci'

By<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sam-foglesong/">&nbsp;SAM FOGLESONG</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/27/heres-an-update-from-hays-kansas-my-wife-was-rehired-after-doge-cuts-maybe/?emci=d2af36f4-980a-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&amp;emdi=2e4bf5df-e90a-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

In a March 5 ruling, the Merit Systems Protection Board ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture to temporarily reinstate nearly 6,000 probationary employees who had been terminated en masse on Feb. 13.

The ruling found reasonable grounds to believe that the terminations had violated “Federal laws and regulations governing reductions-in-force (RIFs) and probationary terminations.”

Six days later, the USDA issued its own announcement indicating that it would “place all terminated probationary employees in pay status and provide each with back pay, from the date of termination.” while they develop a phased plan for their return to work.

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/04/heres-the-latest-from-hays-kansas-elon-musk-fired-my-wife/">My wife was one of the 6,000 USDA probationary employees</a>&nbsp;unceremoniously fired Feb. 13 at the behest of Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency. We observed these developments with mixed emotions.

On the one hand, we felt vindicated. One of the most insulting elements of the terminations — the baseless claim that they were a result of poor performance — was central to the decision declaring the firings unlawful. But vindication is not always comforting.

For many recently terminated federal employees — including my wife — the leadup to their termination was more disconcerting than the firing itself. During this period, they received a flurry of emails that communicated veiled threats about the permanence of their positions and a disregard for the value of their work. The result was a hostile state of limbo.

Much of this seemed intentional. As Russel Vought, director of the United States Office of Management and Budget, said: “We want the bureaucrats to be traumatically affected. … We want them to not want to go to work because they are increasingly viewed as the villains.”

So, when my wife received news of her termination, there was a limited sense of relief that this kind of hostility and uncertainty was over.

Some of our federal employee friends who were fired have left Kansas, moved in with their families or are interviewing for new positions. For them, the news that they were to be “temporarily reinstated” plunged them back into uncertain waters and made it difficult to plan for the future.

As my wife interviews for new jobs and considers alternative career paths, she knows that she may be “rehired” at any moment. But even then there is no guarantee that she wouldn’t simply be fired again in a few months.

The ruling and this renewed uncertainty highlighted the irony that the Department of Government Efficiency is creating an enormous amount of waste and inefficiency.

In keeping with the meme and trolling lore that informs Musk and DOGE’s operations, it was as if they couldn’t resist justifying the termination of thousands of probationary employees with an unwarranted slight about their performance. In doing so, they contravened standard reduction in force procedures.

As a result, 6,000 federal employees will receive salary and benefits for a month of inactivity. Moreover, they will continue to be paid to stay at home while the USDA worksout a plan for some of them to be reinstated while others are dismissed in line with standard procedures. How’s that for government efficiency?

Across the country, the chaos and unpredictability of the Musk/DOGE cuts have made it significantly harder for individual offices to function. For government employees and department leaders alike, planning projects and managing schedules has become nearly impossible when there’s no certainty about who will still have a job tomorrow, or whether funding for critical projects will remain in place.

Had Musk and DOGE pursued their cuts in a more methodical manner, much of this waste, disruption, and inefficiency could have been avoided.

But focusing on these inefficiencies alone is to miss the forest for the trees. The recklessness of Musk and DOGE isn’t just the byproduct of their adherence to meme and troll culture — it is a deliberate strategy rooted in their fundamental&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/04/take-it-from-this-kansan-officials-in-washington-d-c-tamper-with-federal-workforce-at-our-peril/">disdain for the civil service itself</a>. They are not trying to fix the system, they are trying to break it. By creating dysfunction, they validate their own argument that the government doesn’t work.

When Musk pranced around on stage at the CPAC conference with his “chainsaw for bureaucracy” he wasn’t signaling his intentions for methodical restructuring or communicating a new vision for the federal workforce. He was foreshadowing its demise. Indeed, had he been able to wield a diesel-powered clear cut logging machine, it would have been a much more honest portrayal of his intentions.

Concerned citizens should take note of the individual abuses and waste generated by DOGE while remaining aware of its broader agenda. The ultimate goal is for the public to relinquish responsibility for protecting public lands, conserving wildlife, and preserving history and archaeology based on the flimsy hope that the private sector might do a better job. As I wrote last time, this is a very dubious proposition.

Before concluding, I want to address two anticipated criticisms.

The first is the inevitable whataboutism that will point to previous administrations’ callousness toward workers, such as Joe Biden’s suggestion in 2019 that displaced coal miners could transition to tech jobs, stating: “Anybody who can go down 3,000 feet in a mine can sure as hell learn to program as well.”

This type of response assumes both my endorsement of such frivolous remarks and my political affiliations, which are&nbsp; false and irrelevant respectively. More importantly, it serves as a deflection — an excuse to avoid engaging with the problems that Musk and DOGE have created. Rather than fostering solidarity over shared grievances, the “welcome to the club” comments I expect to receive will be laden with schadenfreude, as if the real takeaway is that the “other side” is finally feeling the same pain.

The second likely criticism is a perceived lack of gratitude for the back pay my wife and thousands of other civil servants are receiving. But this overstates the value of money as a remedy for the confusion, disrespect, and upheaval. It also misjudges the character of many federal workers like my wife.

For those dedicated to preserving history, safeguarding public lands, and protecting national parks and wildlife, the work itself is more important than the paycheck. They don’t just want compensation. They want to return to their jobs and continue serving the public.

Sam Foglesong is a scholar of African Studies and a writer who lives in Hays.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743087977583.jpeg" alt="Billionaire Elon Musk arrives for a meeting with Senate Republicans at the U.S. Capitol on March 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C.&nbsp; Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images" />
 <figcaption>Billionaire Elon Musk arrives for a meeting with Senate Republicans at the U.S. Capitol on March 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C.&nbsp; Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images</figcaption>
 </figure>OPINIONBy<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sam-foglesong/">&nbsp;SAM FOGLESONG</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/27/heres-an-update-from-hays-kansas-my-wife-was-rehired-after-doge-cuts-maybe/?emci=d2af36f4-980a-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&amp;emdi=2e4bf5df-e90a-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>In a March 5 ruling, the Merit Systems Protection Board ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture to temporarily reinstate nearly 6,000 probationary employees who had been terminated en masse on Feb. 13.The ruling found reasonable grounds to believe that the terminations had violated “Federal laws and regulations governing reductions-in-force (RIFs) and probationary terminations.”Six days later, the USDA issued its own announcement indicating that it would “place all terminated probationary employees in pay status and provide each with back pay, from the date of termination.” while they develop a phased plan for their return to work.<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/04/heres-the-latest-from-hays-kansas-elon-musk-fired-my-wife/">My wife was one of the 6,000 USDA probationary employees</a>&nbsp;unceremoniously fired Feb. 13 at the behest of Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency. We observed these developments with mixed emotions.On the one hand, we felt vindicated. One of the most insulting elements of the terminations — the baseless claim that they were a result of poor performance — was central to the decision declaring the firings unlawful. But vindication is not always comforting.For many recently terminated federal employees — including my wife — the leadup to their termination was more disconcerting than the firing itself. During this period, they received a flurry of emails that communicated veiled threats about the permanence of their positions and a disregard for the value of their work. The result was a hostile state of limbo.Much of this seemed intentional. As Russel Vought, director of the United States Office of Management and Budget, said: “We want the bureaucrats to be traumatically affected. … We want them to not want to go to work because they are increasingly viewed as the villains.”So, when my wife received news of her termination, there was a limited sense of relief that this kind of hostility and uncertainty was over.Some of our federal employee friends who were fired have left Kansas, moved in with their families or are interviewing for new positions. For them, the news that they were to be “temporarily reinstated” plunged them back into uncertain waters and made it difficult to plan for the future.As my wife interviews for new jobs and considers alternative career paths, she knows that she may be “rehired” at any moment. But even then there is no guarantee that she wouldn’t simply be fired again in a few months.The ruling and this renewed uncertainty highlighted the irony that the Department of Government Efficiency is creating an enormous amount of waste and inefficiency.In keeping with the meme and trolling lore that informs Musk and DOGE’s operations, it was as if they couldn’t resist justifying the termination of thousands of probationary employees with an unwarranted slight about their performance. In doing so, they contravened standard reduction in force procedures.As a result, 6,000 federal employees will receive salary and benefits for a month of inactivity. Moreover, they will continue to be paid to stay at home while the USDA worksout a plan for some of them to be reinstated while others are dismissed in line with standard procedures. How’s that for government efficiency?Across the country, the chaos and unpredictability of the Musk/DOGE cuts have made it significantly harder for individual offices to function. For government employees and department leaders alike, planning projects and managing schedules has become nearly impossible when there’s no certainty about who will still have a job tomorrow, or whether funding for critical projects will remain in place.Had Musk and DOGE pursued their cuts in a more methodical manner, much of this waste, disruption, and inefficiency could have been avoided.But focusing on these inefficiencies alone is to miss the forest for the trees. The recklessness of Musk and DOGE isn’t just the byproduct of their adherence to meme and troll culture — it is a deliberate strategy rooted in their fundamental&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/04/take-it-from-this-kansan-officials-in-washington-d-c-tamper-with-federal-workforce-at-our-peril/">disdain for the civil service itself</a>. They are not trying to fix the system, they are trying to break it. By creating dysfunction, they validate their own argument that the government doesn’t work.When Musk pranced around on stage at the CPAC conference with his “chainsaw for bureaucracy” he wasn’t signaling his intentions for methodical restructuring or communicating a new vision for the federal workforce. He was foreshadowing its demise. Indeed, had he been able to wield a diesel-powered clear cut logging machine, it would have been a much more honest portrayal of his intentions.Concerned citizens should take note of the individual abuses and waste generated by DOGE while remaining aware of its broader agenda. The ultimate goal is for the public to relinquish responsibility for protecting public lands, conserving wildlife, and preserving history and archaeology based on the flimsy hope that the private sector might do a better job. As I wrote last time, this is a very dubious proposition.Before concluding, I want to address two anticipated criticisms.The first is the inevitable whataboutism that will point to previous administrations’ callousness toward workers, such as Joe Biden’s suggestion in 2019 that displaced coal miners could transition to tech jobs, stating: “Anybody who can go down 3,000 feet in a mine can sure as hell learn to program as well.”This type of response assumes both my endorsement of such frivolous remarks and my political affiliations, which are&nbsp; false and irrelevant respectively. More importantly, it serves as a deflection — an excuse to avoid engaging with the problems that Musk and DOGE have created. Rather than fostering solidarity over shared grievances, the “welcome to the club” comments I expect to receive will be laden with schadenfreude, as if the real takeaway is that the “other side” is finally feeling the same pain.The second likely criticism is a perceived lack of gratitude for the back pay my wife and thousands of other civil servants are receiving. But this overstates the value of money as a remedy for the confusion, disrespect, and upheaval. It also misjudges the character of many federal workers like my wife.For those dedicated to preserving history, safeguarding public lands, and protecting national parks and wildlife, the work itself is more important than the paycheck. They don’t just want compensation. They want to return to their jobs and continue serving the public.Sam Foglesong is a scholar of African Studies and a writer who lives in Hays.&nbsp; <h2></h2><h2></h2>

Update from Hays: My wife was rehired after DOGE cuts. Maybe?

William W. 'Bill' Hayes, 71, Fort Dodge, died Saturday,
March 22, 2025 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.

He was born March 14, 1954 in Hays, the son of William Dwayne
and Alice Jean (Dennison) Hayes.&nbsp; He graduated from Hays High School in
1972 and received an Associate Degree from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;
Bill served in the U.S. Army from 1972 to 1975.&nbsp; He worked for 10 years as
a Sheriff’s Deputy with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, 18 years with the Department
of Corrections in Larned, and 6 years at Larned State Hospital, where he
retired in 2011 as a Special Investigator II.&nbsp; Bill was a member of the
Hays VFW and Eagles Lodge and he loved playing poker, going to the casino,
fishing, and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his two daughters, Megan Orth and husband
Jeremy of Englewood, CO and Samantha Sunley and husband Duane of Castle Rock,
CO, two brothers, Alan Hayes of Cheyenne, WY and Jason Hayes and wife Christy
of Topeka, three sisters, Sharon Wood of Pearland, TX, Pam Haslett and husband
Michael of Gardner, and Jan Hayes of Thornton, CO, four grandchildren, Brett,
Griffin, and Freya Orth and Colton Minear, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Kim
Hayes, and a sister-in-law, Sandy Hayes.

Funeral services and military honors by the Hays VFW Post
#9076 Honor Guard will be at 11:00 am on Friday, April 11, 2025 at Hays
Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; 

Visitation will be from 9:30 am until
service time at the funeral home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to St. Jude
Children’s Research Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project.&nbsp; Condolences
and memories of Bill may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742849795157.jpeg" alt="William W. 'Bill' Hayes" />
 <figcaption>William W. 'Bill' Hayes</figcaption>
 </figure>William W. 'Bill' Hayes, 71, Fort Dodge, died Saturday,
March 22, 2025 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.He was born March 14, 1954 in Hays, the son of William Dwayne
and Alice Jean (Dennison) Hayes.&nbsp; He graduated from Hays High School in
1972 and received an Associate Degree from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;
Bill served in the U.S. Army from 1972 to 1975.&nbsp; He worked for 10 years as
a Sheriff’s Deputy with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, 18 years with the Department
of Corrections in Larned, and 6 years at Larned State Hospital, where he
retired in 2011 as a Special Investigator II.&nbsp; Bill was a member of the
Hays VFW and Eagles Lodge and he loved playing poker, going to the casino,
fishing, and spending time with his family.Survivors include his two daughters, Megan Orth and husband
Jeremy of Englewood, CO and Samantha Sunley and husband Duane of Castle Rock,
CO, two brothers, Alan Hayes of Cheyenne, WY and Jason Hayes and wife Christy
of Topeka, three sisters, Sharon Wood of Pearland, TX, Pam Haslett and husband
Michael of Gardner, and Jan Hayes of Thornton, CO, four grandchildren, Brett,
Griffin, and Freya Orth and Colton Minear, and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Kim
Hayes, and a sister-in-law, Sandy Hayes.Funeral services and military honors by the Hays VFW Post
#9076 Honor Guard will be at 11:00 am on Friday, April 11, 2025 at Hays
Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 9:30 am until
service time at the funeral home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to St. Jude
Children’s Research Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project.&nbsp; Condolences
and memories of Bill may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

William W. 'Bill' Hayes

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Workforce Committee recognized housing shortages as one of many factors driving the region’s broader workforce struggles.

The committee, led by Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of the Chamber in Hays, met for its first meeting Tuesday to discuss workforce recruitment, development and retention for Ellis County.

"This is hopefully going to be the first of many for a concentrated effort to take some of our biggest challenges that we've been experiencing as a county workforce," Wasinger said.

Several representatives from local institutions, such as Fort Hays Technical Northwest, the city of Hays, Grow Hays, Hess Services, HaysMed, and the Kansas Department of Commerce, attended the meeting.

Almost all attendees cited difficulty hiring and keeping staff, as no new workers are entering the area. Matt Orr, vice president of operations at Hess Services, said housing issues make attracting talent especially difficult.

"We're probably to the point where we're all fishing in the same shallow pool without the opportunity to have something that's driving people into the pool," he said.

Orr said Hess Services is especially in need of welders, heavy equipment operators and drivers, as the company competes with firms from Wichita to Kansas City for the same talent.

Several representatives named the housing shortage as the biggest barrier. Vice Mayor Mason Ruder said the city of Hays has offered incentives to boost construction, but the lack of subcontractors and funding remains challenging.

"We basically opened up every possible incentive you could have to build homes," he said. "The process to get those incentives takes almost a year, and that's before you've broken ground. ... It takes a long time to get the funds to make it viable."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/edaf4c5a-5c5b-4c5a-b5c2-1d9d70d4b8a0">SEE RELATED STORY: Grow Hays expects more housing in 2025</a>

In addition to housing issues, local employers face difficulty competing with the higher wages offered by larger cities and national companies.

Ben Shears, president of Fort Hays Tech Northwest, shared student insights and said many local students and workers are leaving Ellis County to pursue higher-paying jobs.

"The salary competition is real. The wages outside of the area are pulling kids out, and there's no doubt about it," Shears said.

Orr said Hess Services struggles to attract candidates for specialized roles because of its rural location and less competitive pay. The company has had a professional structural engineer position open for about four years.

The Chamber in Hays works with various local organizations. Wasinger said nonprofits' salaries cannot keep up with those of the private or government sectors.

"What a lot of nonprofits are experiencing is not being able to even compete with nearly as much as what the for-profit business centers are able to offer," she said.

Wasinger said her organization could not fill a marketing position because of intense competition in the job market.

The meeting delved deeper into Generation Z workers and their workplace behaviors, highlighting how priorities like flexibility and quality of life shape a new generational mindset around job expectations.

Shears said Gen Z is highly transient and won’t hesitate to move on in search of a better school or work experience.

"They work to live, not live to work," Shears said. "Gen Z wants something they can get behind and that has a mission they attach to. If employers can't give those things, they're gonna have a real struggle trying to pull Gen Z."

Ruder said he’s spoken with several local business owners who have unrealistic expectations about the type of employee they hope to hire.

"They want them to have all these credentials before they get there, with no investment from the employer to employee aside from 'Here's your salary. Here's the job. Do it. Then we'll talk as we get down the road,'" he said.

Ruder said the most effective approach he has seen among small businesses is hiring and training employees by working directly with them.

Katie Dorzweiler, chairwoman of the Chamber Board of Directors, said she sees employees often have unrealistic expectations, such as expecting to advance quickly right after finishing school.

"I feel like what we're seeing is a different expectation from the employee standpoint, that they're going to make the salary right out of the gate," Dorzweiler said.

Julia Brown, Workforce Services Specialist with the Kansas Department of Commerce, also attended the committee meeting and recommended using virtual job fairs and posting openings on the <a href="https://www.kansasworks.com/">KansasWorks website</a>. She added Ellis County has seen low turnout for job fairs.

Several representatives at the meeting discussed scholarships and programs that have succeeded in keeping the next generation of workers within the area. These sponsorships often include agreements for students to work for the business after graduation, which helps build local retention.

The next workforce committee meeting is at 2 p.m. on April 29 at the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau.

You can follow the Chamber in Hays on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysAreaChamber/'">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743026280600.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Workforce Committee recognized housing shortages as one of many factors driving the region’s broader workforce struggles.The committee, led by Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of the Chamber in Hays, met for its first meeting Tuesday to discuss workforce recruitment, development and retention for Ellis County."This is hopefully going to be the first of many for a concentrated effort to take some of our biggest challenges that we've been experiencing as a county workforce," Wasinger said.Several representatives from local institutions, such as Fort Hays Technical Northwest, the city of Hays, Grow Hays, Hess Services, HaysMed, and the Kansas Department of Commerce, attended the meeting.Almost all attendees cited difficulty hiring and keeping staff, as no new workers are entering the area. Matt Orr, vice president of operations at Hess Services, said housing issues make attracting talent especially difficult."We're probably to the point where we're all fishing in the same shallow pool without the opportunity to have something that's driving people into the pool," he said.Orr said Hess Services is especially in need of welders, heavy equipment operators and drivers, as the company competes with firms from Wichita to Kansas City for the same talent.Several representatives named the housing shortage as the biggest barrier. Vice Mayor Mason Ruder said the city of Hays has offered incentives to boost construction, but the lack of subcontractors and funding remains challenging."We basically opened up every possible incentive you could have to build homes," he said. "The process to get those incentives takes almost a year, and that's before you've broken ground. ... It takes a long time to get the funds to make it viable."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/edaf4c5a-5c5b-4c5a-b5c2-1d9d70d4b8a0">SEE RELATED STORY: Grow Hays expects more housing in 2025</a>In addition to housing issues, local employers face difficulty competing with the higher wages offered by larger cities and national companies.Ben Shears, president of Fort Hays Tech Northwest, shared student insights and said many local students and workers are leaving Ellis County to pursue higher-paying jobs."The salary competition is real. The wages outside of the area are pulling kids out, and there's no doubt about it," Shears said.Orr said Hess Services struggles to attract candidates for specialized roles because of its rural location and less competitive pay. The company has had a professional structural engineer position open for about four years.The Chamber in Hays works with various local organizations. Wasinger said nonprofits' salaries cannot keep up with those of the private or government sectors."What a lot of nonprofits are experiencing is not being able to even compete with nearly as much as what the for-profit business centers are able to offer," she said.Wasinger said her organization could not fill a marketing position because of intense competition in the job market.The meeting delved deeper into Generation Z workers and their workplace behaviors, highlighting how priorities like flexibility and quality of life shape a new generational mindset around job expectations.Shears said Gen Z is highly transient and won’t hesitate to move on in search of a better school or work experience."They work to live, not live to work," Shears said. "Gen Z wants something they can get behind and that has a mission they attach to. If employers can't give those things, they're gonna have a real struggle trying to pull Gen Z."Ruder said he’s spoken with several local business owners who have unrealistic expectations about the type of employee they hope to hire."They want them to have all these credentials before they get there, with no investment from the employer to employee aside from 'Here's your salary. Here's the job. Do it. Then we'll talk as we get down the road,'" he said.Ruder said the most effective approach he has seen among small businesses is hiring and training employees by working directly with them.Katie Dorzweiler, chairwoman of the Chamber Board of Directors, said she sees employees often have unrealistic expectations, such as expecting to advance quickly right after finishing school."I feel like what we're seeing is a different expectation from the employee standpoint, that they're going to make the salary right out of the gate," Dorzweiler said.Julia Brown, Workforce Services Specialist with the Kansas Department of Commerce, also attended the committee meeting and recommended using virtual job fairs and posting openings on the <a href="https://www.kansasworks.com/">KansasWorks website</a>. She added Ellis County has seen low turnout for job fairs.Several representatives at the meeting discussed scholarships and programs that have succeeded in keeping the next generation of workers within the area. These sponsorships often include agreements for students to work for the business after graduation, which helps build local retention.The next workforce committee meeting is at 2 p.m. on April 29 at the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau.You can follow the Chamber in Hays on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysAreaChamber/'">Facebook</a>.

Ellis County Workforce Committee highlights employment issues

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is pleased to announce the promotions of Tom Harbaugh, Adam Fisher, and Andy Tewell to key leadership positions within the organization. These individuals bring extensive experience, expertise, and commitment to supplying reliable electricity to Sunflower’s member cooperatives in central and western Kansas.

Tom Harbaugh was promoted to senior manager of transmission line operations, planning, and training. 

In his new role, Harbaugh oversees Sunflower’s transmission line resources, ensuring all activities are carried out with a focus on safety, efficiency, and reliability. He also leads the development and implementation of long-term strategic plans designed to optimize transmission line performance, aligning these efforts with the organization's broader goals while adhering to regulatory, environmental, and industry standards.

 Harbaugh’s leadership extends to construction management, where he oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of major transmission line projects. He establishes procedures and work practices to support knowledge retention, effective training, and consistent transmission operations. Additionally, Harbaugh is responsible for fostering collaboration across departments and with external stakeholders to enhance operational effectiveness and ensure system reliability. 

A native of Great Bend, Harbaugh has been with Sunflower since 1999. He began his career as a journeyman lineman and has held multiple leadership roles, including senior line technician, line crew chief, and line technician supervisor. 

He and his wife, April, reside in Great Bend with their children, Darian, Ashlyn, Cameron, and Jordyn.&nbsp;

Sunflower promoted Adam Fisher to manager of transmission technical services and project management. 

In this role, Fisher manages all transmission geotechnical services and project management activities to support Sunflower’s engineering, operations, and member cooperative systems. As the primary liaison between Sunflower’s transmission technical services group and Sunflower’s members, he develops plans and objectives that align with Sunflower’s goals, while coordinating efforts with other departments and external agencies to ensure seamless project execution.&nbsp;

A native of Hays, Fisher has been with Sunflower since 2005. He began his career as an engineering technician and has since advanced through positions such as lead transmission technician and transmission geotechnical services supervisor. 

He and his wife, Erica, live in Hays with their sons, Kenneth and Joseph.&nbsp;

Andy Tewell was recently promoted to senior manager of generation engineering and environment. 

In his new role, Tewell leads Sunflower’s generation engineering and environment departments, ensuring generation resources are operated and maintained in compliance with environmental permits, federal and state regulations, and North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards. He also coordinates activities across departments and with external agencies to drive efficiency, reliability, and environmental stewardship. 

With his extensive expertise and strong commitment to operational excellence, Tewell is well-positioned to support Sunflower’s mission to build a stronger, brighter future by providing member-driven, world-class service. “I’ve always been impressed with Sunflower’s focus on supporting and developing its people, and I have learned a great deal since joining the team,” he said. A native of Taylorville, Ill., Tewell holds a bachelor of science in mechanical engineering, a bachelor of arts in management, and is a licensed professional mechanical engineer. 

He joined Sunflower in 2016 as the generation engineering supervisor. 

He and his wife, Jodie, reside in Garden City. 

Sunflower congratulates Harbaugh, Fisher, and Tewell on their well-earned promotions and looks forward to their continued contributions in advancing the organization’s mission and vision.&nbsp;

About Sunflower Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is a regional wholesale power supplier operating a system of solar, wind, natural gas, and coal-based electric generating plants and approximately 2,400 miles of electric transmission infrastructure. The focus of Sunflower’s 400+ workforce is supplying reliable energy at the lowest possible cost to its seven members who serve electric consumers living in central and western Kansas. Visit Sunflower’s website at sunflower.net. Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association, WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Scott City, Kansas. Southern Pioneer Electric Company, Medicine Lodge, is also a member of Sunflower.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724359836024.jpeg" alt="Sunflower Electric" />
 <figcaption>Sunflower Electric</figcaption>
 </figure>Sunflower Electric&nbsp;Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is pleased to announce the promotions of Tom Harbaugh, Adam Fisher, and Andy Tewell to key leadership positions within the organization. These individuals bring extensive experience, expertise, and commitment to supplying reliable electricity to Sunflower’s member cooperatives in central and western Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742915591064.png" alt="Tom Harbaugh. Photo courtesy Sunflower Electric&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Tom Harbaugh. Photo courtesy Sunflower Electric&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Tom Harbaugh was promoted to senior manager of transmission line operations, planning, and training. In his new role, Harbaugh oversees Sunflower’s transmission line resources, ensuring all activities are carried out with a focus on safety, efficiency, and reliability. He also leads the development and implementation of long-term strategic plans designed to optimize transmission line performance, aligning these efforts with the organization's broader goals while adhering to regulatory, environmental, and industry standards. Harbaugh’s leadership extends to construction management, where he oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of major transmission line projects. He establishes procedures and work practices to support knowledge retention, effective training, and consistent transmission operations. Additionally, Harbaugh is responsible for fostering collaboration across departments and with external stakeholders to enhance operational effectiveness and ensure system reliability. A native of Great Bend, Harbaugh has been with Sunflower since 1999. He began his career as a journeyman lineman and has held multiple leadership roles, including senior line technician, line crew chief, and line technician supervisor. He and his wife, April, reside in Great Bend with their children, Darian, Ashlyn, Cameron, and Jordyn.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742915691426.png" alt="Adam Fisher. Photo courtesy Sunflower Electric" />
 <figcaption>Adam Fisher. Photo courtesy Sunflower Electric</figcaption>
 </figure>Sunflower promoted Adam Fisher to manager of transmission technical services and project management. In this role, Fisher manages all transmission geotechnical services and project management activities to support Sunflower’s engineering, operations, and member cooperative systems. As the primary liaison between Sunflower’s transmission technical services group and Sunflower’s members, he develops plans and objectives that align with Sunflower’s goals, while coordinating efforts with other departments and external agencies to ensure seamless project execution.&nbsp;A native of Hays, Fisher has been with Sunflower since 2005. He began his career as an engineering technician and has since advanced through positions such as lead transmission technician and transmission geotechnical services supervisor. He and his wife, Erica, live in Hays with their sons, Kenneth and Joseph.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742915806002.png" alt="Andy Tewell. Photo courtesy Sunflower Electric" />
 <figcaption>Andy Tewell. Photo courtesy Sunflower Electric</figcaption>
 </figure>Andy Tewell was recently promoted to senior manager of generation engineering and environment. In his new role, Tewell leads Sunflower’s generation engineering and environment departments, ensuring generation resources are operated and maintained in compliance with environmental permits, federal and state regulations, and North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards. He also coordinates activities across departments and with external agencies to drive efficiency, reliability, and environmental stewardship. With his extensive expertise and strong commitment to operational excellence, Tewell is well-positioned to support Sunflower’s mission to build a stronger, brighter future by providing member-driven, world-class service. “I’ve always been impressed with Sunflower’s focus on supporting and developing its people, and I have learned a great deal since joining the team,” he said. A native of Taylorville, Ill., Tewell holds a bachelor of science in mechanical engineering, a bachelor of arts in management, and is a licensed professional mechanical engineer. He joined Sunflower in 2016 as the generation engineering supervisor. He and his wife, Jodie, reside in Garden City. Sunflower congratulates Harbaugh, Fisher, and Tewell on their well-earned promotions and looks forward to their continued contributions in advancing the organization’s mission and vision.&nbsp;About Sunflower Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is a regional wholesale power supplier operating a system of solar, wind, natural gas, and coal-based electric generating plants and approximately 2,400 miles of electric transmission infrastructure. The focus of Sunflower’s 400+ workforce is supplying reliable energy at the lowest possible cost to its seven members who serve electric consumers living in central and western Kansas. Visit Sunflower’s website at sunflower.net. Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association, WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Scott City, Kansas. Southern Pioneer Electric Company, Medicine Lodge, is also a member of Sunflower.&nbsp;

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation announces leadership promotions

HAYS, KS – USD 489 Early Childhood Connections is now accepting applications for enrollment in its high-quality early childhood education programs for the upcoming school year. Families with young children are encouraged to apply to ensure their child receives a solid foundation for future academic success. USD 489 Early Childhood Connections provides comprehensive early learning opportunities designed to support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Our programs serve children from birth to age five, offering a nurturing and engaging environment that promotes school readiness and lifelong learning.

"Early childhood education is a critical investment in a child's future," said Donna Hudson-Hamilton, Director of Early Childhood Services. "Our programs help young learners build the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. We encourage all eligible families to explore the opportunities available through Early Childhood Connections."

Enrollment is open to families in Ellis, Rush, Russell, and Rooks Counties. Programs include options for prenatal through age three and Pre-Kindergarten services, with eligibility based on age, income, and other qualifying factors. In addition to educational programming, enrolled families receive access to valuable resources such as health screenings, family support services, and community partnerships.

Spaces are limited, and families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. To make an enrollment inquiry visit www.usd489connections.com or call 785-623-2430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738084118566.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, KS – USD 489 Early Childhood Connections is now accepting applications for enrollment in its high-quality early childhood education programs for the upcoming school year. Families with young children are encouraged to apply to ensure their child receives a solid foundation for future academic success. USD 489 Early Childhood Connections provides comprehensive early learning opportunities designed to support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Our programs serve children from birth to age five, offering a nurturing and engaging environment that promotes school readiness and lifelong learning."Early childhood education is a critical investment in a child's future," said Donna Hudson-Hamilton, Director of Early Childhood Services. "Our programs help young learners build the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. We encourage all eligible families to explore the opportunities available through Early Childhood Connections."Enrollment is open to families in Ellis, Rush, Russell, and Rooks Counties. Programs include options for prenatal through age three and Pre-Kindergarten services, with eligibility based on age, income, and other qualifying factors. In addition to educational programming, enrolled families receive access to valuable resources such as health screenings, family support services, and community partnerships.Spaces are limited, and families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. To make an enrollment inquiry visit www.usd489connections.com or call 785-623-2430.

🎾 FHSU's Faucz named MIAA Tennis Athlete of the Week

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The local service group Women Who Lead will present proposed improvements and updated amenities to Hays' Sunrise Park, 19th and McArthur Road, during Thursday's city commission meeting.

The nonprofit organization recently adopted Sunrise Park and wants to pursue grants and fundraising opportunities to upgrade the park's existing amenities.&nbsp;

 Phase 1 would include upgrading the existing infield conditions on the two ballfields and repairing the backstop on one of the fields, adding three additional holes to the disc golf course, adding a kiosk and signage to the disc golf course, installation of a solar light on the new park sign, and a new basketball court.

Phase 2 would involve replacing the existing playground equipment with new and updated equipment. According to Jeff Boyle, parks director, the equipment needs to be replaced as it is more than 20 years old.

During the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/909306ea-6223-4960-bd5f-99c19bb83817">recent commission retreat</a>, commissioners discussed the need for an updated parks master plan and how the city will continue to pay for upgraded amenities and playground equipment.&nbsp;

A joint meeting with the Hays Recreation Commission will be scheduled later this spring.

In other business, the commission will consider setting a public hearing date for a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District Heart for Phase 4 of the Tallgrass 2nd Addition project northeast of 22nd Street and Wheatland Drive.

The local developer, Heart of America, has requested the district and proposes that the city finance and construct the district-eligible costs related to the project. The city would utilize district revenues to offset its costs.

Heart of America would also provide a deposit equal to 30% of the projected infrastructure costs. The deposit could be utilized by the city to pay for the infrastructure costs or to pay debt service on general obligation bonds issued for the project costs.

If the Reinvestment Housing Incentive District is created, the fund would collect incremental property tax revenues for a maximum period of 25 years, an estimated $6.8 million.

Jesse Rohr, public works director, will present several minor amendments and updates to the public building code for adoption.

• Exempting permit requirements for small buildings, for fences smaller than 120 square feet and six-foot tall fences, and for certain decks. • Removal of fire sprinkler requirements for one- and two-family dwellings. • Allowing low ceiling lofts and alternative stairways or ladders so the loft can be accessed with standard stair requirements.&nbsp; • Code non-compliant stairways in existing buildings will be allowed to remain the same during remodeling or made to be compliant. • Battery storage systems and electric vehicle chargers in residential homes.&nbsp;

Commissioners will also consider the mayor's recommendation appointing Al Klaus to a four-year-term on the Hays Housing Authority Board.

The complete agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03272025-1536">here</a>.

The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743008578546.jpeg" alt="Sunrise Park, 19th Street and McArthur Road. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Sunrise Park, 19th Street and McArthur Road. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe local service group Women Who Lead will present proposed improvements and updated amenities to Hays' Sunrise Park, 19th and McArthur Road, during Thursday's city commission meeting.The nonprofit organization recently adopted Sunrise Park and wants to pursue grants and fundraising opportunities to upgrade the park's existing amenities.&nbsp; Phase 1 would include upgrading the existing infield conditions on the two ballfields and repairing the backstop on one of the fields, adding three additional holes to the disc golf course, adding a kiosk and signage to the disc golf course, installation of a solar light on the new park sign, and a new basketball court.Phase 2 would involve replacing the existing playground equipment with new and updated equipment. According to Jeff Boyle, parks director, the equipment needs to be replaced as it is more than 20 years old.During the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/909306ea-6223-4960-bd5f-99c19bb83817">recent commission retreat</a>, commissioners discussed the need for an updated parks master plan and how the city will continue to pay for upgraded amenities and playground equipment.&nbsp;A joint meeting with the Hays Recreation Commission will be scheduled later this spring.In other business, the commission will consider setting a public hearing date for a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District Heart for Phase 4 of the Tallgrass 2nd Addition project northeast of 22nd Street and Wheatland Drive.The local developer, Heart of America, has requested the district and proposes that the city finance and construct the district-eligible costs related to the project. The city would utilize district revenues to offset its costs.Heart of America would also provide a deposit equal to 30% of the projected infrastructure costs. The deposit could be utilized by the city to pay for the infrastructure costs or to pay debt service on general obligation bonds issued for the project costs.If the Reinvestment Housing Incentive District is created, the fund would collect incremental property tax revenues for a maximum period of 25 years, an estimated $6.8 million.Jesse Rohr, public works director, will present several minor amendments and updates to the public building code for adoption.They include:• Exempting permit requirements for small buildings, for fences smaller than 120 square feet and six-foot tall fences, and for certain decks. • Removal of fire sprinkler requirements for one- and two-family dwellings. • Allowing low ceiling lofts and alternative stairways or ladders so the loft can be accessed with standard stair requirements.&nbsp; • Code non-compliant stairways in existing buildings will be allowed to remain the same during remodeling or made to be compliant. • Battery storage systems and electric vehicle chargers in residential homes.&nbsp;Commissioners will also consider the mayor's recommendation appointing Al Klaus to a four-year-term on the Hays Housing Authority Board.The complete agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03272025-1536">here</a>.The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Hays Sunrise Park improvements championed by Women Who Lead

&nbsp;FHSU University Communications

A reception to recognize the FHSU Department of History and Philosophy’s first named professorship will take place April 10 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. in the Schmidt Foundation Art and Design Hall Atrium. 

Hollie Marquess, lecturer of history, will be named the inaugural Dr. Leo Oliva Distinguished Professor of History.

“Hollie Marquess is uniquely qualified to fill this named professorship,” said Dr. David Macey, Dean of FHSU’s College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. “Her exceptional commitment to her students, her innovative and engaging pedagogy, and her dedication to mentorship both inside and outside of the classroom exemplify the values that shaped Dr. Oliva’s career.”

This professorship honors Oliva’s legacy of transformative teaching and mentorship. An emeritus FHSU professor and historian, Oliva, who graduated from FHSU, earned a master’s degree in American history and a doctorate in American Studies at the University of Denver. He is the author of several books and many articles about Kansas and the frontier West, and he edited the Santa Fe Trail Association’s quarterly journal,&nbsp;Wagon Tracks, for 25 years.

Deep appreciation for the lifetime impact of Oliva inspired Glenn Walker, his former student, to provide funding for the creation of the Dr. Leo Oliva Distinguished Professorship of History.

“I was impressed that: one, he was a good teacher; two, he had very high standards; and three, he would help you get to those expectations,” Walker said, “That impressed me a great deal. He helped me to improve a lot.”

Walker underwent some “intellectual whipping” as a graduate student of Oliva’s, but Oliva’s efforts to help him grow as a historian made a true difference in his life.

Walker taught social studies for 22 years and served as a high school principal. He earned an M.S. from FHSU in 1975 and went on to complete a doctoral degree in Teaching and Leadership at the University of Kansas. Following his retirement from public education, he headed the secondary education program at Bethany College in Lindsborg.

Walker sought a means to honor a current professor at FHSU and discovered that a named professorship is one of the highest possible honors.

“I’m glad FHSU is honoring Dr. Oliva with this professorship,” he said. “It will bring Dr. Oliva some more credit. I want people to understand that he was appreciated.”

Marquess was selected for this named professorship through a competitive review process. A native of Plainville, she earned her B.A. and M.A. in history at FHSU. She has been a faculty member in the history program since 2016.

Marquess, who specializes in American history; women, gender, and sexuality; and the Midwest, has been published in “Kansas History: A Journal of the Central Plains”&nbsp;and the “Middle West Review.” In addition to mentoring 60 undergraduate students, Marquess hosts the Victor E. History Podcast, which gives FHSU history majors a platform for sharing their original research.

Marquess said being named the Dr. Leo Oliva Distinguished Professor of History is a great honor.

“I was a first-generation college student in the history program at FHSU, and I know firsthand how life-changing it is when someone invests in your success,” she said. “The professorship is an enormous honor, but it is also a remarkable gift that I will use to enhance the experiences of our students and better position them to succeed.”

Oliva, who fully embodies the teacher-scholar role, has left an incredible legacy at FHSU; Marquess said she is “delighted to get to play a role in carrying on that legacy through the Dr. Leo Oliva Professorship.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742999271864.jpeg" alt="Leo Oliva and&nbsp;Hollie Marquess. Photo by Fort Hays State University" />
 <figcaption>Leo Oliva and&nbsp;Hollie Marquess. Photo by Fort Hays State University</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;FHSU University CommunicationsA reception to recognize the FHSU Department of History and Philosophy’s first named professorship will take place April 10 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. in the Schmidt Foundation Art and Design Hall Atrium. Hollie Marquess, lecturer of history, will be named the inaugural Dr. Leo Oliva Distinguished Professor of History.“Hollie Marquess is uniquely qualified to fill this named professorship,” said Dr. David Macey, Dean of FHSU’s College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. “Her exceptional commitment to her students, her innovative and engaging pedagogy, and her dedication to mentorship both inside and outside of the classroom exemplify the values that shaped Dr. Oliva’s career.”This professorship honors Oliva’s legacy of transformative teaching and mentorship. An emeritus FHSU professor and historian, Oliva, who graduated from FHSU, earned a master’s degree in American history and a doctorate in American Studies at the University of Denver. He is the author of several books and many articles about Kansas and the frontier West, and he edited the Santa Fe Trail Association’s quarterly journal,&nbsp;Wagon Tracks, for 25 years.Deep appreciation for the lifetime impact of Oliva inspired Glenn Walker, his former student, to provide funding for the creation of the Dr. Leo Oliva Distinguished Professorship of History.“I was impressed that: one, he was a good teacher; two, he had very high standards; and three, he would help you get to those expectations,” Walker said, “That impressed me a great deal. He helped me to improve a lot.”Walker underwent some “intellectual whipping” as a graduate student of Oliva’s, but Oliva’s efforts to help him grow as a historian made a true difference in his life.Walker taught social studies for 22 years and served as a high school principal. He earned an M.S. from FHSU in 1975 and went on to complete a doctoral degree in Teaching and Leadership at the University of Kansas. Following his retirement from public education, he headed the secondary education program at Bethany College in Lindsborg.Walker sought a means to honor a current professor at FHSU and discovered that a named professorship is one of the highest possible honors.“I’m glad FHSU is honoring Dr. Oliva with this professorship,” he said. “It will bring Dr. Oliva some more credit. I want people to understand that he was appreciated.”Marquess was selected for this named professorship through a competitive review process. A native of Plainville, she earned her B.A. and M.A. in history at FHSU. She has been a faculty member in the history program since 2016.Marquess, who specializes in American history; women, gender, and sexuality; and the Midwest, has been published in “Kansas History: A Journal of the Central Plains”&nbsp;and the “Middle West Review.” In addition to mentoring 60 undergraduate students, Marquess hosts the Victor E. History Podcast, which gives FHSU history majors a platform for sharing their original research.Marquess said being named the Dr. Leo Oliva Distinguished Professor of History is a great honor.“I was a first-generation college student in the history program at FHSU, and I know firsthand how life-changing it is when someone invests in your success,” she said. “The professorship is an enormous honor, but it is also a remarkable gift that I will use to enhance the experiences of our students and better position them to succeed.”Oliva, who fully embodies the teacher-scholar role, has left an incredible legacy at FHSU; Marquess said she is “delighted to get to play a role in carrying on that legacy through the Dr. Leo Oliva Professorship.”

FHSU honors legacy of Dr. Leo Oliva with distinguished professorship in history

The 24th ranked Tigers host Emporia State in the first game of a 3-game midweek conference series on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Larks Park in Hays, Kan.

The 24th ranked Tigers host Emporia State in the first game of a 3-game midweek conference series on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Larks Park in Hays, Kan.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind: BSB vs. Emporia State (March 25, 2025)" 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=q4r27-1861861-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. Emporia State

A new kind of harvest is taking root in Hays, growing not just fresh produce but opportunity and purpose for individuals with disabilities.

Matthew Bender, business development director for the Arc of Central Plains, is leading the social enterprise, inspired by his son Oliver, who was born with Down syndrome.

"In essence, gardening gives both the students and our staff the opportunity to work on their [occupational therapy] and [physical therapy] goals, all while enjoying the beautiful outdoors and everything Kansas has to offer," Bender said.

Harvest Hays, a program under the Arc of Central Plains, empowers individuals with disabilities through teamwork and high tunnel farming.

Bender said the nonprofit began in the summer of 2023 to teach vocational and life skills to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

"We thought farming with our community would be the best way to do that," he said.

The program is a collaboration between the Arc, Bethesda Place and USD 489's WeKan Center. Bender said last year was only a half-growing season, with planting starting on July 1.

Despite the late start, Harvest Hays produced more than 1,000 pounds of produce sold to places like Verdant Bistro and Klema Apple Market in Russell.

The 5-acre site includes three high tunnels, offering about 6,000 square feet of protected growing space to extend the growing season.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service provided a grant to help build the high tunnels.

Harvest Hays plans to grow more than 40 varieties this season, including tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, herbs, melons and potatoes. The group is also exploring food processing options such as spice blends.

"This year, I'm anticipating anywhere from 400 to 500 plus plants," Bender said. "I wouldn't mind hitting that ton mark. That'd be a cool benchmark to hit."

Bender said Harvest Hays is also finalizing a subscription-based program that allows families to sign up for a $10 weekly box, with contents that vary based on what is in season and ready to harvest.

If you want to learn more about Harvest Hays, you can email Bender at mbender@arcofcentralplains.org or visit <a href="https://arcofcentralplains.org/">The Arc of Central Plans website</a>.

You can also follow Harvest Hays on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Harvest-Hays/61563145056285/?_rdr">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742841334348.jpeg" alt="Produce grown by Harvest Hays from the 2024 season. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Produce grown by Harvest Hays from the 2024 season. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Harvest Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=5ucqh-185e0d4-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA new kind of harvest is taking root in Hays, growing not just fresh produce but opportunity and purpose for individuals with disabilities.Matthew Bender, business development director for the Arc of Central Plains, is leading the social enterprise, inspired by his son Oliver, who was born with Down syndrome."In essence, gardening gives both the students and our staff the opportunity to work on their [occupational therapy] and [physical therapy] goals, all while enjoying the beautiful outdoors and everything Kansas has to offer," Bender said.Harvest Hays, a program under the Arc of Central Plains, empowers individuals with disabilities through teamwork and high tunnel farming.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742913501976.jpeg" alt="Harvest Hays participants working on the garden for the 2025 season. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Harvest Hays participants working on the garden for the 2025 season. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742913538610.jpeg" alt="Harvest Hays participants gardening inside a high tunnel. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Harvest Hays participants gardening inside a high tunnel. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Bender said the nonprofit began in the summer of 2023 to teach vocational and life skills to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities."We thought farming with our community would be the best way to do that," he said.The program is a collaboration between the Arc, Bethesda Place and USD 489's WeKan Center. Bender said last year was only a half-growing season, with planting starting on July 1.Despite the late start, Harvest Hays produced more than 1,000 pounds of produce sold to places like Verdant Bistro and Klema Apple Market in Russell.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742914408282.jpeg" alt="Harvest&nbsp;Hays participants inside a high tunnel for farming. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Harvest&nbsp;Hays participants inside a high tunnel for farming. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The 5-acre site includes three high tunnels, offering about 6,000 square feet of protected growing space to extend the growing season.The Natural Resources Conservation Service provided a grant to help build the high tunnels.Harvest Hays plans to grow more than 40 varieties this season, including tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, herbs, melons and potatoes. The group is also exploring food processing options such as spice blends."This year, I'm anticipating anywhere from 400 to 500 plus plants," Bender said. "I wouldn't mind hitting that ton mark. That'd be a cool benchmark to hit."Bender said Harvest Hays is also finalizing a subscription-based program that allows families to sign up for a $10 weekly box, with contents that vary based on what is in season and ready to harvest.If you want to learn more about Harvest Hays, you can email Bender at mbender@arcofcentralplains.org or visit <a href="https://arcofcentralplains.org/">The Arc of Central Plans website</a>.You can also follow Harvest Hays on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Harvest-Hays/61563145056285/?_rdr">Facebook</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742913596428.jpeg" alt="Three participants at the Hays Harvest gardening site. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Three participants at the Hays Harvest gardening site. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 Post Podcast: Harvest Hays grows produce through individuals with disabilities

ROCK CREEK – The Hays High baseball team split their season
opening doubleheader at Rock Creek Tuesday. The Indians took the opener 8-1
before losing the nightcap 5-4.

Game 1: Hays 8, Rock Creek 1
 The Indians jumped out early with two runs in the top of the first. An
error, a walk and a wild pitch moved runners into scoring position. Brett
Rhoades then hit a line drive to left which scored Cooper Johnson. Carter Graham later scored on
a wild pitch.

HHS added four in the third on a Rhoades groundout, a Camden
Sanders fielders choice and Landon Hardman two-run single which pushed the lead to 6-1.

Carter Graham opened the fourth with a single and scored on
Rhoades triple. Trace Jacobs sac fly drove in Rhoades to push the lead to 8-1.

Cooper Johnson (1-0) allowed one unearned run on three hits
over six innings with seven strikeouts and two walks and picked up the win.

Rhoades had two of the Indians five hits and drove in three
runs.

Game 2: Rock Creek 5, Hays 4
 Rock Creek jumped out early with three in the first. Camden Sanders got the
Indians on the board in the top of the second on a one-out RBI single.

Rock Creek would answer with a run in the bottom of the inning for a 4-1 lead.

Jalen Smith’s two-run single in the third pulled Hays within
a run at 4-3. They tied the game on a Jonathan Cano single in the sixth
but Rock Creek scored the go-ahead run in the bottom of the inning on a wild pitch.

HHS got a baserunner in the seventh but fly out and strike
out ended the game.

Trace Jacobs (0-1) pitched 2/3 of an innings of relief and suffered the
loss. Carter Graham made the start allowed three earned runs on four hits over 2
innings. Jalen Smith allowed a run on three hits in 3 1/3 innings of relief.

Jalen Smith led the offense with two hits and drove in two.

Hays PostROCK CREEK – The Hays High baseball team split their season
opening doubleheader at Rock Creek Tuesday. The Indians took the opener 8-1
before losing the nightcap 5-4.Game 1: Hays 8, Rock Creek 1
 The Indians jumped out early with two runs in the top of the first. An
error, a walk and a wild pitch moved runners into scoring position. Brett
Rhoades then hit a line drive to left which scored Cooper Johnson. Carter Graham later scored on
a wild pitch.HHS added four in the third on a Rhoades groundout, a Camden
Sanders fielders choice and Landon Hardman two-run single which pushed the lead to 6-1.Carter Graham opened the fourth with a single and scored on
Rhoades triple. Trace Jacobs sac fly drove in Rhoades to push the lead to 8-1.Cooper Johnson (1-0) allowed one unearned run on three hits
over six innings with seven strikeouts and two walks and picked up the win.Rhoades had two of the Indians five hits and drove in three
runs.Game 2: Rock Creek 5, Hays 4
 Rock Creek jumped out early with three in the first. Camden Sanders got the
Indians on the board in the top of the second on a one-out RBI single.
Rock Creek would answer with a run in the bottom of the inning for a 4-1 lead.Jalen Smith’s two-run single in the third pulled Hays within
a run at 4-3. They tied the game on a Jonathan Cano single in the sixth
but Rock Creek scored the go-ahead run in the bottom of the inning on a wild pitch.HHS got a baserunner in the seventh but fly out and strike
out ended the game.Trace Jacobs (0-1) pitched 2/3 of an innings of relief and suffered the
loss. Carter Graham made the start allowed three earned runs on four hits over 2
innings. Jalen Smith allowed a run on three hits in 3 1/3 innings of relief.Jalen Smith led the offense with two hits and drove in two.

⚾ HHS splits season opener at Rock Creek

HAYS, Kan. - No. 24 Fort Hays State baseball used the home run ball to deliver a 15-5 run-rule victory over Emporia State Tuesday at Larks Park. The Tigers&nbsp; scored 12 of their 15 runs off of&nbsp; four home runs, which included a pair of two-run blasts by Derek Woolwine and grand slams from Zane Knox and Tony Moore..

It's the fourth time this season the Tigers&nbsp; (20-6, 15-2 MIAA) have hit four home runs in a game and it's the fastest the program has reached 20 wins since 2006 when they did it in their first 25 games.&nbsp;

The Tigers jumped out to an early lead in the first inning. After Cesar Saavedra&nbsp;was hit by a pitch to start the game, Woolwine&nbsp;launched a two-run blast to left field, putting Fort Hays State on top 2-0. Two innings later Trey DeGarmo walked then promptly stole second before Woolwine delivered his second two-run homer to center to extend the lead to 4-0.

Emporia State answered with a four-run fourth. TJ Racherbaumer lead off the inning with a triple then Noah Steele homered to center. Back-to-back homers from Cooper Schwindt and Jovanni Toledo tied the game 4-4.&nbsp;

FHSU answered with three in the bottom of the inning. Saavedra was hit by a pitch for the second time, Tony Moore followed with a walk. DeGarmo came through with an RBI single to put the Tigers back in front. Brady Kreutzer ripped a clutch two-run triple, bringing home which scored Moore and DeGarmo to extend the Tigers' advantage to 7-4.

After the Hornets scratched across an unearned run in the fifth to cut the deficit to 7-5, the Tigers' erupted in the sixth. Zane Knox launched a grand slam to right field, extending the lead to 11-5. The Tigers put the game away in the seventh. Luis Ayala drew a leadoff walk, Copper Howell followed with a bunt single then a Saavedra walk&nbsp;set the stage for Tony Moore. The Hoisington freshman delivered a grand slam to right-center to end the game.

Mike Acierno made the start for the Tigers and pitched three scoreless innings before giving up the four runs in the fourth. Brett Jacobs (2-0) pitched the final 3 2/3 innings and allowed one unearned run on two hits and picked up the win.

The first place Tigers head to Warrensburg for a key MIAA series with No. 3 Central Missouri beginning Friday at Crane Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742952827469.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Derek Woolwine (22) is congratulated by Trey DeGarmo (5) and Brady Kreutzer (13) after hitting a two-run homer against Emporia State on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Larks Park in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Derek Woolwine (22) is congratulated by Trey DeGarmo (5) and Brady Kreutzer (13) after hitting a two-run homer against Emporia State on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Larks Park in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostHAYS, Kan. - No. 24 Fort Hays State baseball used the home run ball to deliver a 15-5 run-rule victory over Emporia State Tuesday at Larks Park. The Tigers&nbsp; scored 12 of their 15 runs off of&nbsp; four home runs, which included a pair of two-run blasts by Derek Woolwine and grand slams from Zane Knox and Tony Moore..<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2063305832&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/fhsu-baseball-coach-justin" title="Justin Wichert Postgame vs. Emporia State ()March 25, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Justin Wichert Postgame vs. Emporia State ()March 25, 2025)</a></div></div>It's the fourth time this season the Tigers&nbsp; (20-6, 15-2 MIAA) have hit four home runs in a game and it's the fastest the program has reached 20 wins since 2006 when they did it in their first 25 games.&nbsp;The Tigers jumped out to an early lead in the first inning. After Cesar Saavedra&nbsp;was hit by a pitch to start the game, Woolwine&nbsp;launched a two-run blast to left field, putting Fort Hays State on top 2-0. Two innings later Trey DeGarmo walked then promptly stole second before Woolwine delivered his second two-run homer to center to extend the lead to 4-0.Emporia State answered with a four-run fourth. TJ Racherbaumer lead off the inning with a triple then Noah Steele homered to center. Back-to-back homers from Cooper Schwindt and Jovanni Toledo tied the game 4-4.&nbsp;FHSU answered with three in the bottom of the inning. Saavedra was hit by a pitch for the second time, Tony Moore followed with a walk. DeGarmo came through with an RBI single to put the Tigers back in front. Brady Kreutzer ripped a clutch two-run triple, bringing home which scored Moore and DeGarmo to extend the Tigers' advantage to 7-4.After the Hornets scratched across an unearned run in the fifth to cut the deficit to 7-5, the Tigers' erupted in the sixth. Zane Knox launched a grand slam to right field, extending the lead to 11-5. The Tigers put the game away in the seventh. Luis Ayala drew a leadoff walk, Copper Howell followed with a bunt single then a Saavedra walk&nbsp;set the stage for Tony Moore. The Hoisington freshman delivered a grand slam to right-center to end the game.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2063306060&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/fhsu-baseball-vs-emporia" title="#24 Fort Hays State BSB Highlights vs. Emporia State (March 25, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">#24 Fort Hays State BSB Highlights vs. Emporia State (March 25, 2025)</a></div></div>Mike Acierno made the start for the Tigers and pitched three scoreless innings before giving up the four runs in the fourth. Brett Jacobs (2-0) pitched the final 3 2/3 innings and allowed one unearned run on two hits and picked up the win.UP NEXTThe first place Tigers head to Warrensburg for a key MIAA series with No. 3 Central Missouri beginning Friday at Crane Stadium.

⚾ No. 24 Tigers erupt in run-rule win over Hornets

GREAT BEND - The High girls soccer team opened the 2025 season with an impressive 9-2 win at Great Bend Tuesday. 

HHS (1-0) got a hat trick from Karlee Crispin. Kinslee Newll and Dani Willeford both added two goals. Sienna Lummus and Annie Humphrey also scored a goal.

The Indians are back on the road at Junction City on Tuesday, April 1.

Hays PostGREAT BEND - The High girls soccer team opened the 2025 season with an impressive 9-2 win at Great Bend Tuesday. HHS (1-0) got a hat trick from Karlee Crispin. Kinslee Newll and Dani Willeford both added two goals. Sienna Lummus and Annie Humphrey also scored a goal.UP NEXTThe Indians are back on the road at Junction City on Tuesday, April 1.

⚽ HHS girls open season with big win at Great Bend

BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Golf placed seventh out of 18 teams competing at the NSIC Preview Invitational, held at Adams Pointe Golf Club. Cooper Scheck turned in another top-10 finish individually in a tie for eighth, while the Tigers charged up seven positions in the team standings by shooting 1-under as a team in round two.

The Tigers were 14th as a team after the first round when they shot 15-over par as a team (303). The shaved 16 strokes off that score in the second round with a 1-under 287. Three Tigers were at even or better on the second day after all five team scorers shot over par in the first round.

Scheck charged up the leaderboard on day two after shooting a 2-over 74 in the first round. He carded a 4-under 68 on day two with six birdies and just two bogeys, moving up 32 places in the individual standings to a tie for eighth at 2-under par overall. The 4-under par round tied two other golfers for the best score on day two and was just one stroke shy of the best round carded in the tournament, a 67 shot by tournament champion Thomas Gutzner of Concordia-St. Paul who finished at 9-under par overall. Scheck had 11 birdies overall in the tournament and was at 5-under par overall at one point on day one.

Playing as an individual, Parker Krob had a solid tournament individually shooting even par overall. He shot a 1-under 71 in the first round and then a 1-over 73 in the second round. He was a par machine on day one with 15 to go with two birdies and one bogey. He had four birdies and five bogeys in the second round to go with nine pars. He tied for 14th individually.

Cole Streck shot 2-over par overall to finish 25th. He shot a 2-over 74 on the first day and then an even-par 72 on day two. He had seven birdies throughout the tournament. Jackson Rader finished 55th at 6-over par. He shot 78 on the first day before an even-par 72 on the second day. Rader carded the only eagle of the tournament for FHSU, while also notching six birdies.

Jacob George finished at 9-over par overall with rounds of 78 and 75. He had two birdies in the tournament. Jordan McCaslin was 13-over par overall with rounds of 77 and 80. He had five birdies in the tournament.

Concordia-St. Paul won the tournament as a team at 4-under par overall (572). Bemidji State and Friends tied for second at 2-under par overall. Winona State was also under par as a team at -1. The Tigers finished 18 strokes back of the winning pace with a total of 590.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742945135377.png" alt="&nbsp; FHSU Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; FHSU Athletics photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsBLUE SPRINGS, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Golf placed seventh out of 18 teams competing at the NSIC Preview Invitational, held at Adams Pointe Golf Club. Cooper Scheck turned in another top-10 finish individually in a tie for eighth, while the Tigers charged up seven positions in the team standings by shooting 1-under as a team in round two.The Tigers were 14th as a team after the first round when they shot 15-over par as a team (303). The shaved 16 strokes off that score in the second round with a 1-under 287. Three Tigers were at even or better on the second day after all five team scorers shot over par in the first round.Scheck charged up the leaderboard on day two after shooting a 2-over 74 in the first round. He carded a 4-under 68 on day two with six birdies and just two bogeys, moving up 32 places in the individual standings to a tie for eighth at 2-under par overall. The 4-under par round tied two other golfers for the best score on day two and was just one stroke shy of the best round carded in the tournament, a 67 shot by tournament champion Thomas Gutzner of Concordia-St. Paul who finished at 9-under par overall. Scheck had 11 birdies overall in the tournament and was at 5-under par overall at one point on day one.Playing as an individual, Parker Krob had a solid tournament individually shooting even par overall. He shot a 1-under 71 in the first round and then a 1-over 73 in the second round. He was a par machine on day one with 15 to go with two birdies and one bogey. He had four birdies and five bogeys in the second round to go with nine pars. He tied for 14th individually.Cole Streck shot 2-over par overall to finish 25th. He shot a 2-over 74 on the first day and then an even-par 72 on day two. He had seven birdies throughout the tournament. Jackson Rader finished 55th at 6-over par. He shot 78 on the first day before an even-par 72 on the second day. Rader carded the only eagle of the tournament for FHSU, while also notching six birdies.Jacob George finished at 9-over par overall with rounds of 78 and 75. He had two birdies in the tournament. Jordan McCaslin was 13-over par overall with rounds of 77 and 80. He had five birdies in the tournament.Concordia-St. Paul won the tournament as a team at 4-under par overall (572). Bemidji State and Friends tied for second at 2-under par overall. Winona State was also under par as a team at -1. The Tigers finished 18 strokes back of the winning pace with a total of 590.

⛳Scheck finishes top 10, Tigers place seventh at NSIC Preview

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. - Katie Wagner DeGarmo of Fort Hays State received a second All-America honor for the 2024-25 season on Tuesday (Mar. 25). She was named to the D2CCA All-America Team as a third-team selection. DeGarmo was one of 21 women nationwide in NCAA Division II to earn D2CCA All-America honors for the year.

DeGarmo is just the third player in FHSU Women's Basketball history to receive All-America honors from multiple organizations in the same year, joining Kate Lehman (2014 and 2015) and Tatyana Legette (2019). DeGarmo was already named a WBCA All-America selection for the second-straight year back on March 20. She is also only the third player in program history to earn All-America honors in multiple years (2024 and 2025), joining Annette Wiles (1989 and 1990) and Kate Lehman (2014 and 2015).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742944553442.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsRUSSELLVILLE, Ark. - Katie Wagner DeGarmo of Fort Hays State received a second All-America honor for the 2024-25 season on Tuesday (Mar. 25). She was named to the D2CCA All-America Team as a third-team selection. DeGarmo was one of 21 women nationwide in NCAA Division II to earn D2CCA All-America honors for the year.DeGarmo is just the third player in FHSU Women's Basketball history to receive All-America honors from multiple organizations in the same year, joining Kate Lehman (2014 and 2015) and Tatyana Legette (2019). DeGarmo was already named a WBCA All-America selection for the second-straight year back on March 20. She is also only the third player in program history to earn All-America honors in multiple years (2024 and 2025), joining Annette Wiles (1989 and 1990) and Kate Lehman (2014 and 2015).The D2CCA All-America team is voted on by school athletic communications professionals nationwide in NCAA Division II. The award was formerly sponsored by Daktronics when Kate Lehman earned a first-team selection in 2015, but has since changed to D2CCA. DeGarmo and Lehman are the only two in program history to receive Daktronics or D2CCA All-America honors.As a third-team selection, DeGarmo was among the top 15 in voting for the D2CCA All-America Team. She was among the top 10 for players selected as All-America by the WBCA, earning first-team honors.DeGarmo wrapped up one of the greatest careers in program history by averaging 17.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.6 steals per game in 2024-25, while knocking down 49.2 percent of her shots from the floor in 33 contests. She ranked in the top 10 in the MIAA in points (third), rebounds (third), assists (10th) and field-goal percentage (seventh).DeGarmo was the MIAA Player of the Year for a second year in a row in addition to earning D2CCA All-Central Region First Team honors for the second-consecutive season. She was named to the MIAA All-Tournament Team and also earned a spot on the NCAA Central Region All-Tournament Team.The graduate student scored in double figures 31 times this season, including nine games with 20 or more points. She recorded 10 double-doubles on the year, bringing her career total to 46. Her 567 points scored in 2024-25 are sixth-most in a single season in program history.DeGarmo finished her career with 2,299 points in 156 games, ranking second in program history. She is the leading rebounder in school history with 1,248, while ranking fourth in assists (408), tied for second in steals (236), and second in field goals made (865).She helped the Tigers to 28 wins in 2024-25, sixth-most in school history. The Tigers surpassed 20 wins for the 14th consecutive season, extending the longest streak in NCAA Division II.DeGarmo was the lone player from the MIAA named to the D2CCA All-America Team. All five players from the Central Region on the national ballot received All-America honors.FIRST TEAM * Bri Stoltzman, Southwest Minnesota State Rylie Bisballe, Grand Valley State Grace Foster, Lubbock Christian Alisha Little, Colorado State-Pueblo Nala Williams, Cal State Dominguez Hills * Ron Lenz National Player of the YearSECOND TEAM Emily Chmiel, East Stroudsburg Ashley Ingram, Texas Woman's Caroline Martin, North Georgia Olivia Reed Thyne, Colorado Mesa Emilee Weakley, Frostburg StateTHIRD TEAM Sage Hawley, Harding Sunny Huerta, Central Washington Diamond McDowell, Anderson Katie Wagner DeGarmo, Fort Hays State Lili Wilken, Alabama-HuntsvilleHONORABLE MENTION Lindsey Becher, Concordia-St. Paul Destiny Garrett, Georgia Southwestern Hannah Giddey, Southern Nazarene Melanie Hoyt, Saint Anselm Leslie Huffman, Fairmont State Zoe Miller, Ashland