Dorothy Nelligan '47 still spreading purple pride at 105

Posted July 19, 2024

Dorothy Nelligan

As the K-State Alumni Association celebrates its 150th anniversary, we’re highlighting Dorothy Nelligan '47, one of our loyal Alumni Association members. She proudly spreads her purple pride for her alma mater, and we recently asked her to share some of her favorite K-State traditions and memories. 

What is your favorite memory from your time at K-State?  
Meeting new friends at the Clovia House.

What inspired you to pursue your education at K-State?
I grew up on a farm in Riley, Kansas, so Manhattan was close to home and had strong agricultural programs. I had a wonderful childhood on the farm in Riley. My experiences with my brothers, sister and many cousins from the city who would spend summers on the farm helped form my core values.

How did your experiences as a K-State student impact you as a person? What lessons that you learned at K-State did you carry with you?
I learned to teach and work with children. I carried this with me as I started my teaching career in Garden City, Kansas.

What motivated you to join the K-State Alumni Association and remain a member? 
To stay in touch with friends at K-State. I was also excited when nieces, nephews, cousins and others in the family chose to attend K-State.

What are some of your favorite ways to show your purple pride today?  
I wear purple almost every day. I watch K-State football and basketball whenever possible. Especially when they are playing KU! The current K-Stater magazine is always on the coffee table.