Senior Profile: Hannah Wiebe

Hannah in Peru!

Hannah is from Andover, Kansas and is earning her degree in Psychology with a minor in Spanish. 

She was an FHSU Cross Country and Track and Field athlete, a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters, President of the Pre-Professional Healthcare Club, member of the Fort Hays Honor Society-including serving as Community Service Committee Coordinator, member of the Spanish Club-including service as Vice President, served as a Tiger Ambassador, and was on the Encounter Serve Team. 

Hannah was also awarded 1st place for her Undergraduate Literature Review Oral Presentation for the Great Plains Students' Psychology Convention, awarded for Best Program for Disability Awareness Week by FHSU Student Engagement, won an MIAA Excellence Award, D2ADA Academic Achievement Award, and was on the Dean's Honor Roll. 

Hannah is taking a well earned gap year to spend time at home in Andover, doing some traveling, and working as a Physical Therapy Aid in a pediatric clinic, as well as working as a Registered Behavior Technician with children with Autism. She will then pursue a Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy. 

"First and foremost, my Mom, Dad, and sister, Rachel, have been my greatest support system for as long as I can remember and their pride and belief in me has only been amplified throughout my past few years in college. My parents raised me to be a kind, ambitious, and highly motivated individual, and for that, I am forever thankful. Moving forward, I continue to look to my sister as a role model as I follow in her footsteps in pursuit of a career in PT. 

Secondly, I believe the Psychology Department in its entirety deserves an esteemed recognition. I have never come across a group of such respectful and thoughtful individuals-- including both faculty and my peers. They have not only educated me inside of the classroom and uniquely supported my research endeavors, but they have also collectively shaped my experience in higher education and thus my perspective of the world. In particular, I would like to thank Dr. Ken Windholz for his intentionality and meaningful investment into each of his students. His wisdom and friendship is immeasurably valuable."

With her many other ambitions, Hannah hopes to one day own her own dance studio! She loves brownies and spending time outdoors, and looks forward to having some time to read, paint, and garden. 

There's no evidence that there is anything Hannah can't accomplish, and she puts her all into her work. She really makes sure she's doing everything she can be well prepared, well trained, and be of service to others; she will do much good in her field. Don't forget to take as good care of yourself as you do others--we wish you the best, Hannah! 

Senior Profile: Ashley Achilles

 Ashley is from McPherson and is earning her degree in Agriculture, with a certificate in Accounting. 

"I have had a great support system all through college that I couldn’t have succeeded without. I have also had numerous professors in the ag department that have guided me, encouraged my growth, and provided me with opportunities I wouldn’t have found on my own." 

After graduation Ashley plans to work as an Agronomist in Central Nebraska, and to eventually own her own farm with her own herd of cows. She's excited to see where the Ag industry takes her!

She's going to be a great asset in Nebraska and her future cows will be lucky to have her! 

For now, we hope she takes a little time to enjoy the summer days in her happy place--her backyard with her friends and dogs. Best wishes from the HC, Ashley! 

Senior Profile: Addison Mininger

Addison is from Hesston, Kansas and is earning her degree in Political Science. Addison previously graduated from the KAMS program, where she was nominated as Resident of the Year in 2021! She was also awarded 2nd place for her work at the Wichita Area American Chemical Society Symposium. 

Addison plans to attend law school in the future but will work in the field for a bit after graduation. 

Reflecting on her time here at FHSU, she says "KAMS gave me the opportunity to be here from the beginning. The staff have continued to encourage, foster and advise academic achievement. Kevin (Honors College Director) has directed me through my major change, research project development, and integration into FHSU's 'general population'."

Among many other things she committed time to, Addison is a member of Phi Kappa Phi, National Society for Leadership and Success, and FHSU Young Democrats. 

Addie's proclivity to climb trees that she might not be able to gracefully get out of is a great metaphor (though also quite literally true) that shows her commitment to taking on challenges others shy away from. Law school may be a pretty big tree, but she will most definitely climb it and lead the way for others. 

Wishing you the best of luck, Addie! 

 

“You have to act as if it were possible to radically transform the world. 

And you have to do it all the time.” 

~ Angela Davis

Senior Profile: Levi Hickert

 Levi is from Hays, and is earning a degree in Pre-engineering Physics with a minor in Mathematics. He plans to complete the dual degree program in Engineering at K-State, where he will transfer this coming fall, and will receive his degree in Physics from FHSU. 

Levi was President of the Physics and Engineering Club, and a member of Astronomy Club, College Republicans, and Tigers Motorcycle Club. He was granted a spot on the Dean's Honor Roll every semester at FHSU.

"I would like to thank all of the profs in the Physics Department. The relationships I've developed with each of them has really made my time at FHSU great. Having daily conversations with Clark, Deyo, Kayvan, and Maseberg over lunch really made the physics department feel like home. Also, having Gavin as a research mentor and reference really gave me the opportunity to excel not only on paper, but in practice as well. I also can't forget about my daily chats with Kelly, our department administrative assistant. Finally, all of my buddies in the physics department, some of which are also a part of the Honors College. I wouldn't be here without them, truly. If I hadn't met them in my first semester of college, I would not have stuck with Physics for this long. I am truly grateful to all of them. They kept me sane and allowed me to achieve what I have so far!"  

When he's not in the lab, Levi enjoys collecting and shooting vintage firearms, mountain hiking, history, and motorcycles. His goal, once he graduates, is to work in the defense industry in vehicle or weapon systems development--which he hopes will take him around the world! 

Levi brings a great work ethic to everything he does, so K-State is lucky to have him! Show them how it's done, Levi, and best of luck! 

Senior Profile: Clay Burk

Fellow pre-engineering collaborator Levi (left), Kevin and Victoria (center), and Clay (right)

Clay is from Hays and is majoring in Physics, with a minor in Mathematics. 

He plans to complete the dual degree program in Engineering at K-State, where he will transfer this coming fall, and will receive his degree in Physics from FHSU. 

Clay was a member of the Physics Club and Astronomy Club, but it was a rare treat to see him out and about, away from his work with the physics department. (If you need to know how to lure out physics students, we recommend snacks.) He plans to become a mechanical engineer. 

"Pretty much every professor in the physics department has contributed tremendously to my success by pushing me to do my best academically." 

Clay is humble, mindful, and committed to his work so we're sure he'll only continue to get better with new resources at his fingertips. Take good care of him, K-State. Best of luck, Clay! 

Senior Profile: Brynn Wooten

Brynn is from Westminster, Colorado and is earning degrees in Geology and Biology, as well as certificates in Museum Studies and Zoology. 

Here are some of the things Brynn accomplished, just at her time here at FHSU: 

National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship
Barry Goldwater Foundation 2021 Goldwater Scholar
Geological Society of America J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholar
Association for Women Geoscientists Maria Luisa Crawford Field Study Scholar
Honorable Mention for Undergraduate Excellence in Paleontology and Expanding Representation in Geosciences Award
Kansas Geological Society Kansas Geological Foundation Scholar
Fort Hays Honor Society
Dean's Honor Roll
Phi Theta Kappa
Honors College scholarship awardee and Peer Mentor
Werth STEM Scholar
Committee for 2023 FHSU Pilot Award
FHSU Geosciences Department Christopher Schmidt Geology Scholar, Longpine Field Scholar, Women in Geosciences Award, and Myrl V. Walker Scholar

Is that all, you might ask? Nope. She was also a member of FHSU Concert Choir, Smoky Hill Chorale community choir, FHSU Women's Chorale, Sternberg Geosciences Club, Biology Club, and was a Sternberg Museum volunteer. Brynn was a finalist for the 2023 FHSU Torch Award for outstanding undergraduate seniors.

Having long been involved in research, and museum and field work, Brynn's goal is to develop a career in research and teaching in paleontology, or as a museum curator. You can take Brynn out of the museum but...she'll just go back! 

"I would like to acknowledge the Geosciences Department, Biology Department,  Sternberg Museum, and Honors College for contributing to my success throughout college. I chose to attend FHSU because 1) it has excellent geology and biology programs which allowed me to take graduate-level courses in paleontology, taxonomy/systematics, and museum studies (coursework rarely available to undergrads at other colleges), 2) it gives me the opportunity to work at the Sternberg Museum, and 3) it has the Honors College. The idea of being in the Honors College and living in the honors dorm, where I could interact with other like-minded scholars, was very appealing to me. The support I received from the Honors College scholarships allowed me to continue my museum work, focus on my studies, and participate in extracurricular activities in the Honors College and university choirs. These FHSU institutions have been pillars of my college experience, not just academically, but also the means by which I have met so many interesting people along the way. I have had a lot of great professors at FHSU, but I would like to specifically acknowledge four professors (Drs. Laura Wilson, Kevin Amidon, Lorelei Patrick, and Jeanne Sumrall) and a Sternberg curator (Dr. Aly Baumgartner) for their advice, mentorship, and recommendation letters. They went above-and-beyond and were instrumental in my success here at FHSU and my future in grad school." 

Brynn will continue her academic journey this fall at Vanderbilt University in Nashville. 

As proud as we are of all of Brynn's academic commitment and success, we're as proud of who she is as a person. She's an advocate for students, a dedicated student of life, a loyal friend, and a rescuer of skunks (among other critters, no doubt). She will open doors Vanderbilt didn't even know were shut and they will be better for it, just as we are at FHSU. There is no question that she will succeed in her goals and we can't wait to see what else she accomplishes. Congratulations, Brynn!

Senior Profile: Faith Little

 Faith calls Holton, Kansas home, but has made her mark here in Hays. She is earning her degree in Communication Studies, with a Minor in Sociology. She also has certificates in Leadership, Grant Writing, and Non-profit organizations. 

She is a member of the Track & Field and Cross Country teams. as well as being involved in Christian Challenge, VIP Ambassadors, Tiger Forever, and Sigma Nu Tau (Entrepreneurship Honors Society). 

Along with the Honors College, Faith was a member of Hansen Hall, during which she received 1st Place in the Kansas Startup Competition (2020 & 2021), and in the Faulker Challenge earned 3rd place in 2022, and was a finalist in 2021. She also was awarded a Congressional Award Bronze Medal in 2021, and was on the Dean's Honor Roll. 

On those who support and inspire her, Faith says, "My parents are very supportive of me and my goals. They have provided so much valuable wisdom in my life. Coach Jason McCullough and Coach Brett Meyer have helped me reach my athletic goals and helped me grow as a person. The Communication, Business, and Leadership professors have been especially encouraging to me. Professor Yang and Marez in the Communication department have been great mentors. Pat McGinnis at Breathe Coffee House has inspired me a lot in the ministry and nonprofit realm. Garrett Kahrs has encouraging me in my writing pursuits." 

In her free time she loves reading, running, book binding, and watercolor painting. Faith is never without a project! 

We're happy to say she has chosen to remain at FHSU to earn her Master's of Business Administration, with an emphasis in Digital Marketing. She will also continue to compete with her Track and Cross Country teams. 

She hopes to work within a church or non-profit doing marketing and communications, and to continue her entrepreneurial pursuits of photography and book binding. 

Faith does everything wholeheartedly and has, perhaps, endless talents. We wish her the best of success in continuing her education and beyond! 

"Success means doing something sincerely and wholeheartedly." ~ Bruce Lee

Senior Profile: Brendan Chapman

Brendan is a hometown son, from Hays. He's earning his degree in History, Secondary Education. 

He says the entire History department was instrumental in guiding him to develop his writing and research skills. He plans to continue on the academic path and will attend FHSU to earn his Master's degree. 

You'll rarely see Brendan without his bright smile and laid back attitude. We can't wait to see him in the classroom, making a difference in the lives of his students. Teaching can be a wild ride but we know he'll hang on and have a great time doing it. Congratulations, Brendan! 

Senior Profile: Cole Berry

Cole is from Topeka and is earning his degree in Organizational Leadership. He also has a Leadership Studies Certificate, was named a Newman Civic Fellow, was on the Dean's Honor Roll, and was a Homecoming nominee! 

Cole has been a member of Christian Challenge and several FHSU bands. When he has free time you'll find him outdoors playing frisbee. 

"The leadership department has been a great blessing to me the four years that I have been here. I was welcomed into the department by all the faculty and they made my time at FHSU enjoyable. I know most all of the campus leadership faculty by name and have good relationships with them all through classes, advising, and various events. They made sure to get to know me and show that they cared about me as a person. Another group has definitely been my band family. I have always loved being in band, and my four years here with the FHSU bands strengthened that even more. From our directors, upperclassmen, to classmates they all gave me a group of people who I could have fun with and really embrace being at FHSU. Finally, the group that I am connected with the most is Christian Challenge. I have gained so many friendships through that group both student and mentors. Without being taken in with this group I don't know what my college life would have been like. They were a rock to me both in my faith and in education knowing that I could rely on them for support, fun, and encouragement in all I do." 

We're very pleased we'll see Cole around campus for a little longer, as he'll remain at FHSU to complete his Master's in Leadership Studies. It's been great to see Cole take on leadership roles in the things he cares about and he will certainly find success as he continues to do so. We wish him all the best! 

“The task of leadership is not to put greatness into humanity, 

but to elicit it, for the greatness is already there.” 

– John Buchan

Senior Profile: Reilly Madden

Reilly is from Boulder, Colorado and is earning degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders and Criminal Justice. She is also a member of the FHSU Women's Soccer team and the NSSLHA (National Student Speech-Language Hearing Association).  

Among her many successes, Reilly earned numerous awards and recognitions as a student athlete: 

2022 CSC Academic All-District Team
D2CCA All-Central Region Second Team 2022
All-MIAA All-Tournament Team 2022
All-MIAA First Team 2022
All-MIAA Third Team 2021
All-MIAA Team Spring 2020-21
3X MIAA Scholar-Athlete
4X Academic Honor Roll

She will continue here at FHSU for her Master's in Speech-Language Pathology and play a final year of soccer.

Reilly was also a nominee for the 2023 Torch Award for outstanding seniors. 

On her time here, Reilly says, "Tara Marshall and April Terry have both helped me greatly with my success and always believed in me. They have both been there for my ever changing plans and schedules and their doors are always open."  

We know they'd both agree that Reilly put in all the hard work to get her where she is, and she will continue to be a great support to her team and her programs. 

Congrats Reilly, we look forward to seeing all you continue to do as a Tiger and wish you the best of luck here and beyond! 

Senior Profile: John Gamez-Ramos

 

John is from Ellis, and is earning his BBA in Management with a Concentration in Entrepreneurship. 

He is a member of Sigma Nu Tau, and was involved with the Hansen Hall entrepreneurship community. 

John loves golf. Like, really loves golf. 

On those who have helped him succeed, John says "my parents for being so supportive of me and helping me in any way they can, the Business program for allowing me to compete in competitions and expand my knowledge of the business realm, and to all the scholarships (especially from the generosity of the Honors College) I have received to reach to the point where I am today." 

John hopes to use his skills to work in the insurance industry. The golf skills might help there too. 

From day one at FHSU John has jumped in to take advantage of opportunities and gain experience, and he doesn't let anything get in his way, so he will certainly find success in whatever he puts his mind to. Congratulations! 

From one Frontier to Another: Oaklynn in Alaska

By Oaklynn Carman, a sophomore majoring in Chemistry.

This past fall, I had the opportunity to participate in an exchange with the University of Alaska-Fairbanks through the National Student Exchange. This program allows you to have the experience of an international exchange with the conveniences of not leaving the US. I chose this over a typical study abroad program because it was easier for me to find the courses I needed to take within the US. That being said, Alaska was basically like living in a different country. 

I got to experience multiple things that are unique to Alaska. This started the moment my plane landed at 10pm and it was still completely bright out. This was a lot more enjoyable than the end of the semester when it was dark all day. I also got to experience the joys of -30*F weather. This is not something I particularly enjoyed but it was a part of the experience. I was lucky enough to leave right before -40*F hit though. One of the most amazing things I witnessed was the Northern Lights. Every time I saw them, no matter if it was the third time that week, I was in awe of them. Watching them dance and shift while surrounded by the friends I made there is one of my top ten moments.

Left: 10pm plane arrival. Middle: 11am sunrise Right: Northern Lights behind my apartment.

I obviously was still in school but it looked a little bit different than it does in Kansas. I spent less time doing traditional homework and more time in other classes. I took rock climbing as a class. I participated in RockTober which is a challenge to climb a vertical mile in the month of October. This meant you had to climb up the wall 186 times which doesn’t sound too difficult but trust me, it was. I did complete it though. Another fun thing I got to participate in was research with sled dogs. We took blood draws from the sled dogs before and after they ran a race to explore the effects of blueberries. This was such an interesting experience that I am so grateful to be able to participate in. 

Left: Puppies at Sled Dog Research 

Right: Rock Climbing Success

No recap of my time in Alaska would be complete without mentioning the amazing people I met. From writing songs and constantly doing the cotton-eyed joe, to Sunday dinners and adopting a plastic frog. These strangers, now closest friends, made my experience what it was and for that I am forever thankful. 

Left: Christmas celebration

Right: Ivory Jacks Line Dancing  

Overall, this semester was filled with lessons in the form of chemistry lectures and life rules. This once in a lifetime experience is something I would recommend to anyone. If you get the opportunity, take the chance. 

Senior Profile: Caitlin Tinkham

Caitlin joined FHSU as a transfer student from Colby. With the Honors College she has served as a Peer Mentor and held a position as Co-Coordinator for Student Success and Engagement. She was also a member of Catholic Disciples. Caitlin is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance, with a concentration in Health Promotion and Fitness Programming. She will also complete a certificate in Social Media Marketing this spring. 

She hopes to some day create her own business in massage, as an esthetician, or doing photography!

Caitlin states that her Health and Human Performance professors have been kind and understanding, helping her to work around questions and concerns. She adds, "I have a group of friends who are supportive to me and an awesome fiancé who I am very blessed to have."

She's loves music and is striving to become the best version of herself. 

We like all versions of Caitlin and know she will continue to find her strengths and can accomplish anything she sets her mind to. We wish you the best of luck!