Dear Wildcats,

Before I jump into this week's topic, I would first like to congratulate everyone who voted in last week's SGA elections, as well as those who were elected into positions. I am excited to begin the transition period to bring Danny and Annie on board.

This past week K-State students had the unique opportunity to chat online with our new Provost, April Mason. Monday evening, Mason answered 19 questions ranging from her favorite part about K-State to suggestions regarding advising and curriculum changes.

While most K-State students are probably aware of Mason's role as Provost, many had questions about what her specific duties were. Mason's main role as Provost is to serve as the Chief Academic Officer of K-State. She works directly with deans to develop curriculum, the state Board of Regents to promote higher education, and serves on the president's cabinet. She also serves on numerous boards and committees that oversee academics on campus, whether its the library, the honors program, international programs, leadership studies, or diversity programs.

Throughout her two months here at K-State, Mason has taken various tours of K-State facilities and has spent time learning about current academic programs. President Schulz recently announced his goal to chart K-State as one of the Top 50 Public Universities in the nation by 2025. Mason said that maintaining the K-State family atmosphere while expanding our academic programs is possible while we strive for a Top 50 spot.

"The balance of the personal touch and the push for higher ranking is a delicate one, but one I think we can accomplish. K-State has a culture, a hands on caring environment and has high academic accomplishments," Mason said.

Online chats with K-State administration are a tradition that began just this past year. Thus far, K-State has hosted three online chats, two with Schulz and most recently this one with Mason.

If you have not taken the opportunity to get your questions answered from K-State's top administration, don't worry. Schulz will be hosting one last chat this semester on March 28 from 7-8 p.m.