News

For the second consecutive year, Emporia State University leads all state universities in percentage enrollment growth, as revealed in the Kansas Board of Regents’ (KBOR) fall 2026 census. The report shows 5,110 students enrolled at ESU, a 6% year-over-year increase in total enrollment. ESU leaders attribute the enrollment gains to the university’s consistent efforts to invest in students, affordability and academic programs.

Spooky science takes center stage this Halloween at ESU’s Prophet Aquatic Research and Outreach Center, where a special edition of Science Saturday will cap a month of fishing, reading and hands-on activities. Other October programs will teach attendees how to fly fish and help children explore the world of fish through stories, activities and book club discussions.

In October, Emporia State’s Peterson Planetarium invites you to immerse yourself in the glow of the sun with showings of “The Sun: Our Living Star.”

Join the Prophet Aquatic Research and Outreach Center at Emporia State University for an exciting, hands-on opportunity to learn how to tag monarch butterflies in Monarchs in Our Backyard. The first-ever monarch tagging event at PAROC will feature Prairie Steward volunteer Michele Kessler, who will invite guests to participate in real science and learn about the amazing journey behind the monarch's migration.

The Emporia State Art Program is hosting Art Unleashed, a fundraiser that will give attendees the opportunity to experience up to three art workshops presented by art faculty. The event is Friday, Sept. 18, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. and includes three blocks of sessions.

Emporia State University is prepared for campus visitors during Family and Friends Day on Saturday, Sept. 19. Planned activities cover more than 12 hours beginning with a fun run and ending with a moon observation night.

Emporia State University launches a full season of theatre productions with the Oct. 22 premiere of Disney’s “Frozen: The Broadway Musical.” The show will have an expanded run with five full productions presented over four days.

Celebrate a fun day of outdoor activities, fishing and learning when Emporia State University celebrates the 10th anniversary of Vamos a Pescar from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29.

Emporia State University’s Peterson Planetarium will mark the 20th anniversary of Pluto’s reclassification as a dwarf planet with two free public presentations led by Peterson Planetarium Director Mark Brown, a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador.

It may be the hottest time of year here in Kansas, but Emporia State’s Peterson Planetarium will take you to the darkest, most violent places in the galaxy, with temperatures far exceeding those of a hot summer day.