MANHATTAN–Summer programming in the Office of Diversity is in full swing. Each day scholars have participated in activity-filled programs complete with learning and networking opportunities. Pre-collegiate students in the Junior MANRRS program have experienced life on a college campus and participated in activities around the Manhattan area. The Project IMPACT Urban Gardening Program has already volunteered in multiple areas around Kansas teaching the importance of healthy lifestyles. MAPS scholars are mid-semester in classes while KSRE Fellows are continuing their research and SUROP seminars.
During the week of June 12th, our office hosted the annual Switzer/KSU Agriculture Camp for its 10th year on campus. Campers attended leadership and networking seminars, farm tours, and even had a chance to visit the K-State Gardens and Insect Zoo. This summer alone, Junior MANRRS students have learned about the food science industry through visiting the Dairy Unit and Sheep/Meat Goat Center to introduce them to agriculture and farming.
MAPS scholars moved in on campus June 9th and since then have participated in three professional development workshops, corporate visits, and community service projects with their mentors so far this summer. Most recently, scholars visited the Cargill Innovation Center in Wichita, KS and Phillips 66 Corporate Office in Bartlesville, Ok. They also celebrated Independence Day with activities and a family barbecue at the Frith Community Center in the Jardine Apartment Complex. As they are nearing the last weeks of the program, scholars will continue studying for classes and participating in leadership and team-building activities around Manhattan.
Urban Gardening projects will be implemented from May through early fall. The program is designed to provide knowledge in planting herbs, fruits, and vegetables. It also demonstrates the benefits of healthy eating and nutritious foods. Students participate in leadership seminars that teach the importance of education as well. The program partners with non-for-profit organizations in Kansas including the KU Upward Bound and Wichita State Upward Bound programs.
KSRE Fellows continue collecting research and data regarding their respective topics as they near the end of the fellowship. They have participated in mentoring, a Juneteenth Celebration, and tour of Manhattan area attractions. The office looks forward to the final presentation and tangible results of their research on July 27th.
Throughout the summer The Office of Diversity will continue planning for our 2017 Kompass orientation in August. K-State community members are encouraged to take part in all programs hosted by our office.
Thank you to all scholars who have participated in our camps!
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Dr. Zelia Wiley at zwiley@ksu.edu or 785-532-6276.