News

Seven impactful advocates for Emporia State University will be honored with presidential awards during the 2025 Black & Gold Gala on Oct. 31, a highlight of Homecoming week. The awards recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership, advocacy, and dedication have made a significant impact on the university and the broader community.

Dr. Muhammad Nashatizadeh’s approach to leadership is a simple approach: listen carefully, study the details and guide others toward clarity. During Homecoming week, he will share how insights from neurology can help build a meaningful life with Emporia State students and the community as he delivers the 2025 Sam and Jeannene Hayes Lecture.

Five outstanding Emporia State University graduates will be honored with the university’s highest alumni recognition — the Distinguished Alumni Award — during the Black & Gold Gala on Oct. 31, part of ESU’s Homecoming 2025 celebration. The award recognizes alumni who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in their careers and meaningful service to their professions, communities and alma mater.

Emporia State University Theatre presents “The Rocky Horror Show,” a musical by Richard O’Brien. Performances are scheduled for Oct. 23, 24, 25, 30 and Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. There will be a special midnight show on Oct. 31. All performances will be held in the Karl C. Bruder Theatre in King Hall.

Hornets near and far can celebrate Emporia State University’s Homecoming Oct. 22 through Nov. 2 on campus. Events during this Year of Celebration include the Homecoming musical, football game, parade, special group reunions and a Black & Gold Gala.

Not everyone in the Shafer family has an unbreakable personal connection to Emporia State University. But it does seem that way.

On Thursday, May 1, Emporia State University honored 25 seniors nominated for the Dwight and Ida C. Newberg Outstanding and Distinguished Senior awards, recognizing their excellence both inside and outside of the classroom.

Those who are curious about the art of glassblowing and glass forming will enjoy a peek behind the curtain this weekend during the annual Glass Blowout at Emporia State University.

With eyes on its past and its future, Emporia State University enjoyed an expansive Founders’ Day celebration on Friday, Feb. 14, that acknowledged the institution’s birthday, a campus anniversary, a ribbon-cutting and the awarding of scholarships to two students.

Emporia State University alumni Ross Bjork and Brian Pracht brought Hornet pride to the national stage at the College Football Playoff National Championship Game in Atlanta.