K-State Olathe unveils new student success center designed with student access in mind
Monday, April 1, 2024 | Written by Beth Jones
OLATHE — Kansas State University Olathe is taking a bold step in providing a welcoming, accessible space for its students with the unveiling of its new student success center.
The center was designed with one of K-State Olathe’s strategic imperatives in mind, which is to deliver an unmatched and impactful student experience. This university-wide goal is part of the recently released Next-Gen Strategic Plan.
On the second floor of the Olathe campus building, the space now occupied by the new center was previously used as office space. Completely redesigned, the student success center provides a welcoming, accommodating location for students to study, connect with their student success coaches and complete proctored exams.
“This space was created to help fulfill K-State Olathe’s goal of delivering an exceptional student experience,” said Kimberly Voight, director of student services at K-State Olathe. “It also will help us serve the anticipated enrollment growth due to the addition of new academic programs, especially undergraduate completion programs.”
Voight and her team will maintain offices directly in the student success center, ensuring that students always have access to a member of the student services team when they have questions or need support.
“The design team did an exceptional job of creating a welcoming space for students that serves as a one-stop shop to support our diverse student body," said Voight. “It provides study space, computer access, lounge areas and close proximately to the student services team members who can provide support and connect them to the resources available in Manhattan.”
The student success center features on-site computers students can use to complete homework or work on projects, along with a space for printing, copying and scanning.
Additionally, the space will provide coffee and snacks for students, along with a Cat’s Cupboard, which is a resource for students who may be experiencing food insecurities and need help with non-perishable items.
The student services team will be hosting a student appreciation night on April 2 with a formal open house later in the spring.