The WSUAA is the “keeper of traditions,” and we’re excited to have an opportunity to build upon traditions and create new ones as we transition into the American Athletic Conference on July 1.
“The American,” as it’s called, creates opportunities to reach alumni, fans and potential students in markets that we haven’t traditionally traveled to, and Cincinnati, Greenville, Memphis, New Orleans, Orlando, Philadelphia, Storrs/Hartford create exciting new destinations for Shocker athletic play. If the welcome that the WSUAA has received is any indication, this relationship has great potential for long-term success.
Keep in mind that this move is far greater in scope than athletics: We will be aligning ourselves with institutions in metro-areas that serve as economic catalysts and as centers of research and cultural advancement. This move also aligns with our Strategic Enrollment Management Plan for recruitment, which includes the goal of increasing enrollment along the I-35 corridor by 18 percent yearly through fall 2020. The Shocker City Partnership tuition discount plan grants resident tuition rates to students in Kansas City, Mo., Tulsa, Oklahoma City and the Dallas metro-area. For more information, go to www.wichita.edu/shockercity.
Many plans for events at those new destinations are in the works, and we’re seeking volunteers to help start Chapter Networks. If this sounds interesting, contact Lynn Loveland, lynn.loveland@wichita.edu, or 316-978-3831.
Wherever it is you call home, we encourage you to “come home” to Wichita and see the changes on campus as we transform into the “Innovation University.” And if you can’t make it back, we’ll do our best to keep you informed about happenings on campus.
