Good morning Wichita. It’s Monday, May 6, and here are the top stories as you begin your week.
Wichita is making strides in community development, with the recent appointment of Cameron Jackson as the new community services representative for District 1. In other news, Na’shell Williams, a leader in the Way to Work Youth Employment Program, has been named the winner of the 2024 Excellence in Public Service Award.
Wichita is also addressing the issue of affordable housing in the city, with $5 million allocated from the American Rescue Plan Act. Lastly, seven seniors from Wichita Public Schools have been awarded the Rudd Scholarship to attend Wichita State University this fall, covering the full cost of their four-year education.
Cameron Jackson: New community services representative for Wichita District 1
Meet Cameron Jackson, the new community services representative for Wichita District 1. As liaison between citizens and Councilman Brandon Johnson, Jackson is settling into his role and becoming a familiar face in the community. Originally from Houston, he most recently served as assistant director for civic leadership at Rice University before relocating for this position. Learn more about Jackson and his plans for the community in this article.
Na’shell Williams wins 2024 Excellence in Public Service Award for transforming Wichita’s Way to Work Program
Na’shell Williams, a leader in the City of Wichita’s Way to Work Youth Employment Program, has been named the winner of the 2024 Excellence in Public Service Award. The annual program recognizes outstanding employees from the City of Wichita, Sedgwick County, and the Wichita Public Schools who demonstrate exceptional performance, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to their community. Williams’ dedication to supporting young individuals facing challenges has expanded the program’s scope and established a groundbreaking partnership with Wichita State University. Her unwavering commitment to the youth and community has earned her this prestigious award and a $2500 prize from the DeVore Foundation.
Wichita allocates $5 million for affordable housing fund to address housing needs
Wichita, Kansas, has allocated $5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to address the pressing issue of affordable housing in the city. Developers and remodelers can now apply for up to $40,000 per house to purchase or renovate affordable homes, with priority given to former public housing units being sold by the city. The Affordable Housing Fund aims to improve neighborhood stability and expand quality affordable housing options, particularly in Northeast and Southwest Wichita. The application deadline is in late June, and awards will be announced in late 2024.
Wichita Public Schools seniors awarded full-ride scholarships to WSU
Seven seniors from Wichita Public Schools have been awarded the Rudd Scholarship to attend Wichita State University this fall. The scholarship covers the full cost of their four-year education, including tuition, fees, on-campus housing, and coaching support. Among the winners are two African American students and a first-generation Hispanic. The scholars will pursue degrees in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, and astrophysiology. The Rudd Scholarship Program aims to support Pell Grant-eligible high school students in Kansas to attend top Kansas universities.
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