True stories of students stepping up to help each other succeed
Before the advent of K-State Proud two decades ago, unexpected financial crises resulted in far too many students abandoning their dream of a degree. To students Matt King and Emily Besler (Scott), something as simple as a medical bill or car trouble should never come between K-Staters and academic success. In 2006, they set out to find a solution.
The pair had recently run for student body leadership, and while their campaign ultimately fell short, their T-shirt fundraising tactic was a huge success. After a few tweaks, the shirts immediately began drawing donations from fellow students for what they coined Student Opportunity Awards — short-term financial assistance to keep students enrolled until they’re back on their feet.
K-State Proud was born, and the rest is history.
Though K-State Proud was initially intended to be a one-week experiment, it’s still going strong today. Armed with the slogan “students helping students,” the initiative has made a world of difference for more students than Matt and Emily ever dreamed of helping.
Here are just a few of their stories:
Hannah Rogers
“When I was in graduate school, there was an unexpected death in my family. The sudden loss had a huge impact, and I had to arrange travel back home immediately.
“My K-State family supported me in many ways through my loss, and chief among them was the opportunity award that picked up the cost of my return home. Because of caring K-Staters, I was able to focus on being with my family. I will always be so grateful for the support I received back then. Without it, I don’t know if I would’ve been able to complete my graduate program.”
Athlene Nekuda
“As I was entering my final semester, my husband and I experienced several emergency home and medical expenses that impacted my ability to financially support the last requirements for my degree. The Student Opportunity Award allowed me to continue without the fear of how I was going to manage that expense.
“Not only did I graduate with my bachelor’s in human development and family studies, but I was nominated for outstanding HDFS senior and participated in undergraduate research. I currently work at Pawnee Mental Health Services’ crisis stabilization unit as a crisis mental health technician, and I’m working toward attending grad school for my master’s in clinical social work.”
Olawumi Adekunle
“I was facing significant financial pressure that made it challenging to focus on my studies. Architecture is a demanding program, with long studio hours, material costs, software needs and limited time for outside work, so there were moments when I had to carefully consider how I’d cover expenses while continuing in the program.
“The Student Opportunity Award through K-State Proud provided critical relief at a time when I needed it most. Just as importantly, it showed me there was a community of donors who believed in my potential and were willing to invest in my education. That encouragement strengthened my determination to persist, complete my degree and make the most of the opportunities available at K-State. It also deepened my appreciation for giving back, inspiring me to think about how I can support future students once I’m in a position to do so.”
Jessica Slama
“As a first-generation college student, I carried the goal of earning a degree not only for myself but for my family, as four of my older siblings were unable to complete their college education. I was working three jobs to cover rent and living expenses, while also trying to pay for a required summer class and textbooks.
“The Student Opportunity Award allowed me to enroll in the course, purchase my materials and dedicate more time and energy to my studies. I was able to stay on track with my degree and remain committed to my goal of becoming an elementary teacher. The award not only provided financial assistance but also reinforced my confidence that my education and future career were worth investing in. I am now working on my master’s degree at K-State and will always be a Wildcat!”
Support K-State Proud
K-State Proud is participating in K-State Day of Giving, which is just around the corner on April 8! For 24 hours, each college, campus and program will share their top-priority needs, and every gift counts.
Soon you can make a difference for the next generation of our K-Staters, so start thinking about what inspires your purple pride and gear up for 24 hours of matching opportunities, challenges and more. Watch university social media channels for the hashtag #KStateDayofGiving so you don’t miss out!
Image: CaleMitchell Photography