KU News Release

KU admissions counselors to visit students in three Kansas cities to increase diversity

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas admissions team goes on the road this month for the fifth annual Multicultural Roadshow, aimed at recruiting more students of color to KU and increasing the diversity of the student body.

The group will visit community centers, churches and high schools in Wichita, Topeka and Kansas City, Kan., this week. During these visits, KU representatives will distribute information on admissions requirements, financial aid, student involvement opportunities and fields of study available at the university.

The following week, KU representatives will return to the three communities to host evening receptions in which students and parents will enjoy an admissions presentation, food, a student panel and, in Kansas City and Topeka, step performances. There will be giveaways, and one lucky student in each city will win a $500 textbook certificate. The Baby Jay mascot also will be on hand.

The receptions will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 28 at Central Park Community Center, 1534 SW Clay, in Topeka; 6 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 29 at the Wichita Public Library, 223 S. Main St.; and 6 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 30 at the West Wyandotte Public Library, 1737 N. 82nd St., in Kansas City, Kan.

“The Multicultural Roadshow is an excellent opportunity for students to meet with representatives from different academic departments,” said Courtney Cobb, an admissions counselor who is directing the Multicultural Roadshow. “Students will also be able to see what resources KU has to offer and witness the experience of being a student at the University of Kansas.”

Invitations are sent to students a few weeks in advance of the events.

“We send out postcards to invite students to the event and posters are being mailed to high schools,” said Lisa Pinamonti Kress, director of admissions and scholarships.

KU’s efforts to recruit a diverse student body are paying off. In 2007, 12.1 percent of KU students identified themselves as Asian, Hispanic, African-American or American Indian.

For more information or to register for the Multicultural Roadshow, visit the Office of Admissions and Scholarships Web site.

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The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. University Relations is the central public relations office for KU's Lawrence campus.