On July 2, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed into law the Morrill Act, which allowed for the creation of land-grant colleges in eligible U.S. territories. On Feb. 16, 1863, Bluemont Central College in Manhattan, Kansas, became Kansas State Agricultural College, the first operational school created under the Morrill Act. The university, now known as Kansas State University, continues to thrive. 

University Name Changes

The university has been known by several names throughout its history, before becoming the Kansas State University or "K-State" we know and love today!

K-State Presidents

Fifteen presidents have led Kansas State University since Joseph Denison took the helm in 1863. From ordained ministers, agricultural specialists and a Harvard graduate to a physicist, the brother of a U.S. president and an engineer, these leaders have come from all walks of life and left their mark on the institution.

K-State Traditions

From the Wabash Cannonball, to Willie the Wildcat, to scoops of Call Hall ice cream, K-State has many beloved traditions that continue to be treasured by K-Staters today. 

K-State Memorabilia

At the K-State Alumni Association, we're proud to be the keepers of tradition, preserving K-State history, artifacts and memories for generations to come.

K-State Alumni Association Presidents

Though the job title may have changed somewhat over the years, what has remained a constant with the leaders of the K-State Alumni Association is their purple pride and love for Kansas State University. 

World War I Memorial Stadium

The stadium commemorates the sacrifice of more than 1,200 Aggies from Kansas State Agricultural College called into service when the United States entered World War I in 1917. During the course of the war, 48 of them paid the ultimate price and lost their lives in service of their country.