Senior Profile: Josie Gage

Josie Gage isn’t just graduating—she’s launching. With degrees in Technology & Engineering Education and Secondary Education, plus certifications in Construction, Manufacturing, and Drafting/CAD Design, Josie is heading into the world equipped, empowered, and ready to build something great, literally!

This Maple City native has already made waves as President of the FHSU TEECA Chapter and was recently named National TEECA President for 2024–2025. Add back-to-back national championships in Teaching Lesson and a 2025 FHSU Torch Award nomination for her research on CTE/TEE educator job satisfaction, and it’s clear: Josie is a powerhouse in her field.

She’s accepted a position at Hodgeman County High School in Jetmore, Kansas where she’ll teach woods/drafting. Josie is excited to grow the program and get more students engaged in industrial arts.

Josie is quick to thank the people who’ve shaped her journey: her family back home for their constant love and long-distance support (eagerly awaiting hugs on graduation day), her best friend Saige for being a grounding presence and source of humor, and the entire Department of Applied Technology for becoming a second family. “They’ve pushed me, supported me, and made me feel seen and valued from the start,” she says. “There’s honestly not enough room on this page to express how much I love and admire them.”

As she looks to the future, Josie says it best herself:
“I’m ready to take the world on by storm.” And we believe her.

Congratulations, Josie, you’ve already built something extraordinary! We can’t wait to see what you create next. 🔨🐯

Senior Profile: Emma Cohn

Emma Cohn has always had her eye on the layers beneath the surface. Graduating with a degree in Geosciences – Geology and a certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Emma is set to take her skills into the real world with an exciting internship at Freeport-McMoran in Tucson, Arizona.

Emma is a proud alum of the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS), and has been deeply involved in the geosciences community at FHSU. She credits professors Jon Sumrall, Richard Lisichenko, and Tom Schaffer for their unwavering support, whether she needed help on a project, answers to tough questions, or simply a great conversation. Their mentorship helped shape her into the curious, capable, and grounded scientist she is today.

With a deep appreciation for Earth’s processes and a passion for exploration, Emma is ready to dig into the next chapter of her journey, and we have no doubt she’ll leave a lasting mark wherever she lands.

Congratulations, Emma! We can’t wait to see where your curiosity leads you next. 

     

Senior Profile: Jessica Saunders

From balancing books to balancing competition, Jessica Saunders has left a big mark on Fort Hays State University, both in the classroom and on the field. Hailing from Lehigh, Kansas, Jessica is a dual major in Accounting (Public Accounting) and Finance, and has proven herself a leader and high achiever in every aspect of student life. 

An accomplished student-athlete, Jessica brought her drive and leadership to both the volleyball court and the track, where she excelled as a competitor and team player. Her strong work ethic and positive presence earned the respect of her teammates and coaches, and she carried that same energy into her academic pursuits. A proud RCOBE Student Ambassador, Jessica was also honored as the RCOBE Finance Student of the Year, showing that her dedication goes far beyond athletics and earning her a nomination for the 2025 FHSU Torch Award.

Now, she’s heading to Wichita to begin her professional journey with AGH, a regional public accounting firm where she’ll take the next steps in her career while preparing for the CPA exam. With a strong foundation in finance, a competitive spirit, and a heart for leadership, Jessica is poised for great success in the world of accounting.

Congratulations, Jessica! We’re proud of all you’ve accomplished and can’t wait to see how you continue to lead and excel in your next chapter. 🏐🐯

Senior Profile: Chloe Knipp

A Wichita native and proud Tiger, Chloe Knipp is headed to the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Dentistry this fall, where she plans to spend the next four years working toward her dream of becoming a dentist, and maybe even specializing in orthodontics!

Chloe earned a degree in Chemistry with minors in Spanish and Biology. She made the most of her time on campus and beyond with standout accomplishments across academics, service, and the arts. Her accolades include Freshman Chemistry Student of the Year (shared with fellow Honorables Oaklynn and Braden), winning the English Writing Contest in 2022 for a powerful piece on college eating disorders, and taking top honors for her ceramic work during SACAD 2023. She also represented FHSU during a National Student Exchange semester at the University of Hawaii at Hilo in Fall 2023 and volunteered in Costa Rica, providing dental care—an experience that solidified her passion for the field.

Chloe is also a proud member of Delta Zeta sorority, and she’s quick to thank the many people who helped her along the way. “The chemistry department has been extremely helpful and personable,” she says. “I earned A’s in every single chemistry course because of the awesome professors who supported me.” She gives special thanks to Kevin, who walked with her through every step of the dental school application process and never hesitated to write another letter of recommendation when she needed it.

Her future goals? “Survive dental school” (an Honorable quest), and continue learning Spanish, which she’s excited to keep practicing as she builds her career.

We know she’ll bring the same energy, compassion, and excellence to dentistry that she brought to FHSU. Congratulations and best of luck, you’ve got this! 🦷🪥

Senior Profile: Macey Charles

There’s no such thing as “just a student” when it comes to Macey Charles from Russell Springs, Kansas. In just three years, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Education—all while getting married, having a baby, never taking fewer than 18 credit hours, working 20+ hours a week, teaching full-time her senior year, buying a house, and happily doing it all with zero student debt! 

Now a proud FHSU grad, Macey plans to continue teaching, enjoying life with her husband and son, and growing her beautiful family in the years to come.

Macey credits a powerhouse team for helping her get through the chaos with grace: Mr. Jeremy Ryan, Dr. Sophie Ano, advisor Staci Kinderknecht, and Kevin and Kathay in the Honors College for supporting her when she shifted to online school to begin teaching. A special shoutout goes to her parents and husband for keeping her going when life got to be a LOT. 

She’s grateful for the education and mentorship she received at FHSU, particularly from the agriculture department, and she hopes to one day make the same kind of impact on her students as her professors made on her.

Congratulations, Macey! You’re a force of nature, and we can’t wait to see what you grow next! 🌾🎓💪

Senior Profile: Adia Reynolds

From a young age, Adia Reynolds has been writing her story, and it’s clear that this is only the beginning. From Colorado Springs, majoring in English and earning a Grant Writing certification, she was the youngest-ever recipient of the Aspiring Authors Scholarship from the Colorado Authors Hall of Fame. Adia’s passion for words has already earned recognition beyond the classroom.

After graduation, Adia plans to pursue a career in publishing as a literary agent or editor, where her love for literature and eye for detail will no doubt shine. She's also on a personal mission to publish a book one day, and in the meantime, she’s keeping busy publishing short stories and poems in a variety of literary magazines.

Adia credits English professors Dr. Bartlett for showing her that her creative passions have a real place in academia, and Dr. Harrison for helping her see that graduate education, and everything beyond, is within her reach.

With talent, drive, and a storyteller’s heart, Adia is well on her way to making her mark in the literary world. We can’t wait to read what she writes next! ✍🐅

Senior Profile: Kiersten Kober

Kiersten Kober, from Roseland, Nebraska, has made the most of her time at Fort Hays State University, both in and out of the classroom. A dedicated student, majoring in Biology and minoring in Chemistry, she has earned a place on the Dean’s Honor Roll every semester and will be continuing her academic journey at Union Adventist University in Lincoln, Nebraska, where she has been accepted into the Physician Assistant Program!

During her time at FHSU, Kiersten was deeply involved in campus life, where she co-founded the Women in STEM club and served as its secretary for all three years. She was also a member of the Pre-Med Club and served as its treasurer in her final year.

Kiersten credits her parents for their unwavering support and encouragement, saying, “I wouldn’t be who I am today without you.” She also extends heartfelt thanks to Kevin, Kathay, and the entire Honors College team for their guidance, community, and (sometimes equally important) snacks. Her professors in chemistry and biology made a lasting impact with their dedication and care for both her academic success and personal growth. And to her friends, a thank you for the unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Congratulations, Kiersten! We can’t wait to see the amazing things you’ll accomplish as a future PA!

Senior Profile: Noah Erichsen

Congratulations, Noah Erichsen! A dedicated scholar from Ellsworth, Kansas, graduating with a double major in Environmental Geoscience and History, plus certifications in Global Studies and Geographic Information Systems, and was a 2025 Torch Award finalist!

Noah’s next adventure begins with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He’s currently awaiting permanent placement within the Kansas City District, but will kick off his post-grad career this summer with a temporary assignment at Harlan County Lake near Alma, Nebraska. There, he’ll serve as a Park Ranger and Natural Resource Specialist—roles that beautifully blend his academic passions with real-world impact.

Recognized as an FHSU Global Citizen Leader, Noah has made the most of his time at Fort Hays State University. He’s especially grateful to the professors who guided him along the way, including Hollie Marquess, Keith Bremer, Jon Summrall, and Peter Lillpopp, who each played a key role in his academic and personal development.

With a strong sense of purpose, service, and a deep respect for both history and the natural world, Noah is poised to make a meaningful difference wherever he lands next. It has been an honor to witness all your achievements! 🌍🗺️🌾

Senior Profile: Ella Burrows

Congratulations to Ella Burrows, a standout Political Science major from Satanta, Kansas, graduating with a Legal Studies Certificate and a bright future ahead! 

Ella has made an incredible impact during her time at Fort Hays State University, earning recognition as a Newman Civic Fellow and receiving the prestigious Delta Zeta Florence Hood Miner Award. Her academic excellence and civic leadership set her apart, and earned her the 2025 FHSU Torch Award—and she’s just getting started.

This fall, Ella will be attending Washburn University's School of Law to continue pursuing her passion for justice and public service. Her time at FHSU laid a solid foundation, and she is excited to build on it through legal studies and advocacy.

Ella credits much of her success to the guidance of Wendy Rohleder-Sook, her advisor and professor. “She has been a tremendous source of support throughout my time at FHSU,” Ella shared. With mentorship like that and her own drive, there’s no doubt she’s headed for great things.

We’re proud of all you’ve accomplished and can't wait to see the difference you'll make in the world. 🐯⚖️

Senior Profile: Kelsey Ward

Congratulations to Kelsey Ward, an Early Childhood Education major with a Certificate in Management, hailing from Ellsworth, Kansas!

Kelsey will be graduating this spring and stepping right into her dream career; she’s excited to begin teaching 2nd grade in Russell, Kansas. A Kansas Teacher Service Scholar, Kelsey has shown a deep passion for shaping young minds and is ready to bring her dedication and heart to the classroom.

Throughout her time at Fort Hays State University, Kelsey found a second home in the Teacher Education department. "Every professor is extremely supportive, knowledgeable, and personable,” she shared. “I’ve built many relationships and gained invaluable experience that have only deepened my love for teaching and learning."

One of Kelsey's most impactful experiences was working at Tiger Tots all four years of college, a role that gave her hands-on teaching practice and meaningful mentorship. She credits teacher Sara Stroup for being a major influence in her journey: "From mentoring me through educational and personal experiences to being a constant support in my life, I wouldn’t be who I am today without her."

Kelsey also expressed heartfelt gratitude to her husband, Adam, whose unwavering encouragement helped her grow both personally and professionally. "He pushes me to be my best self and step outside my comfort zone, where the most growth happens."

Congratulations, Kelsey! We’re so proud of you and can’t wait to see the incredible difference you’ll make in your future classroom. 🐯💛

Senior Profile: Mariah Blankenbaker

 Mariah is from Atlanta, Kansas and is earning a degree in Graphic Design with a certificate in Motion Design. Mariah will continue at FHSU to earn a Master's in Intermedia, focusing in Animation. 

It's always a joy to see students grow and learn and Mariah has out in the hard work to continue to develop her amazing art skills and we can't wait to see more of her future work! 

We're glad you'll be close to the Honors fam for a little while longer, Mari! Congratulations and keep creating! 

Senior Profile: Lauren Tai Huynh

 Lauren is from Wichita and is graduating with her degree in Graphic Design, with a Motion Design Certificate. She received 3rd place overall in the 2024 Leo Burnett Portfolio review. 

Lauren extends her thanks: "Thank you to the art department, more specifically Chaiwat and Karrie for pushing me and rooting for my success in so many ways! Thank you to Residential Life for being another family here for me! Thank you to AAOG for providing me the opportunity to go to school and have such great mentors and be a mentor for others!"

Lauren stepped up to be a CA and mentor other first-generation students to find their path to success. She's a proud and determined first generation student and we're proud of all her success and know she will go out and make an impact! 

Lauren plans to land in either Denver or Seattle in the near future. Best wishes to you, Lo, and congratulations!

Senior Profile: Morgan Lange

Morgan is from Longton, Kansas and she is earning her degree in Agricultural Business with a minor in Political Science. She was a member of the Dean's Honor Roll and a member of the Order of the Omega and Delta Tau Alpha Honors societies.

Morgan says: "Dr. Wendy Rohleder-Sook has been such a guiding faculty member for me when it has come to the LSAT, and all things law school! Also, the Honors College staff are always great!" 

All that hard work paid off, as this January, Morgan will be attending Washburn University School of Law to obtain her law degree and plans to practice rural or agricultural law!

We'll miss that big smile here, but we wish her all the best as she starts her law school journey!