All Belong Here

Business is for everyone

We are all different. We have different backgrounds, experiences, and ways of thinking.

In the College of Business we seek to ensure everyone is supported and has the opportunity to be successful.

Belonging is a critical part of our mission to educate and serve. When learners feel a sense of belonging, their grades skyrocket. When employees feel a sense of belonging, their dedication to teaching sores.

Our scholars program, Rise Up, won the 2023 Inspiring Programs in Business Award for it's phenomenal leadership support for business students.

Below find information about learning opportunities, affinity groups, and other initatives that help us make progress toward our goal of every student, faculty, and staff member experiencing belonging in the College of Business.

Programs for Incoming Freshmen

Get ahead this summer before college starts to be prepared for the rigors of university classes, meet friends for life, and interact with companies!

KOMPASS

MAPS

3.5 days - August 17-20, 2025
Early move-in to your assigned Residence Hall
On-campus industry visit with our corporate sponsor, Koch Ind.
Professional and academic opportunities.
Support from College Directors and Peer Mentors.
Learn more and apply now! Space is limited.

"Through this program, I met new friends, gained valuable mentors, and was introduced to campus in the most effective way possible. Even today, those same friends and mentors continue to provide me with support and access to opportunities."

-Christopher

The mission of MAPS is to challenge and support students as they make the transition to college with the ultimate goal being student success at Kansas State University.
2 week experience: May 30-June 13, 2025
Paid room and board during the 2-week program in K-State's Residence Halls.
Travel for industry tours/visits with our corporate sponsors, including Phillips 66 and Cargill.
Support from College Directors and Peer Mentors.
Learn more and apply now! Space is limited.
Application deadline: Friday, April 11, 2025. Apply now!

"I am incredibly grateful to have been a part of MAPS. The experiences and interactions I had during the program are truly priceless and continue to guide me through my college journey. Even with the program being only a couple of weeks, many of the faces I had the opportunity to meet still play a big part in my life and I could not image college without them by my side."

-Eric

Programs for Current Business Students

Rise Up Scholars Program

Rise Up Scholars is a leadership development program for high-achieving business students who are committed to personal growth, goal achievement, and fostering a supportive
community that empowers one another.

Application timeline:

Priority Application Window: May 1, 2025 – July 1, 2025
Regular Application Deadline: September 30, 2025 (if spots remain)

Learn More about Rise Up

Faculty/Staff Affinity Groups

Affinity groups are communities of people who share a common interest. These groups are open to everyone and provide the opportunity to learn about different identities and cultures.

K-State has the following Affinity Groups. We encourage your participation and engagement! Learn more here.

Alianza - Alianza is a faculty and staff organization that advocates the advancement of Hispanics and Latinos at Kansas State University.
Black Faculty and Staff Alliance - The Black Faculty and Staff Alliance is an organization that strives to bring together individuals who have an active interest in promoting racial equity at Kansas State University.
CATabilities - CATabilities is a new affinity group for faculty and staff with disabilities or chronic diseases.
The Indigenous Faculty and Staff Alliance - The Indigenous Faculty and Staff Alliance is K-State's affinity group for Native American, First Nations, and Indigenous peoples.
LGBTQ* Faculty and Staff Alliance - The purpose of LGBTQ*FSA is to support and advocate for sexuality and gender identity based issues on the Kansas State University campus.
Asian Pacific Islander Professionals - Supports faculty and staff who identify with with Asian and Pacific Island heritage and cultures.