Voting for this year’s Fort Hays State University Homecoming king and queen is now open.
Students can vote online until noon Friday. Students can also vote in person from 11 a.m to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday in the Memorial Union.
The candidates will be introduced at the bonfire on Thursday night, and they will take part in Saturday’s 11 a.m. parade.
The king and queen will be announced at halftime of Saturday night’s game against Missouri Western. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
Wyatt Trombley
Who are you?
My name is Wyatt Trombley, and I am a senior here at FHSU. My major is Applied Communications with a certificate in Leadership. I transferred from a community college last year and have loved FHSU since. A few clubs that I am a part of are PRSSA, SHRM, Catholic Tigers, SGA, VIP Ambassadors, and Honor Society. In my free time, you can catch me doing homework and working in the admissions office, giving tours.
Why did you choose Fort Hays?
I chose Fort Hays because of the family aspect that it had. While I didn’t start my college journey off as a tiger, I am sure glad that I ended it as one. Another reason that I chose FHSU is that both my parents and my older sister went here. I also chose FHSU because of the countless opportunities that I was told about on my visit, and it just felt like the right place for me.
What does being a homecoming candidate mean to you?
To me, being chosen as a homecoming candidate means a lot, because it shows that you can have an impact on someone, big or small. It is also more than just being a candidate; it is about school spirit, making memories that will last a lifetime, and celebrating everyone who calls FHSU home.
What has been your favorite college memory?
My favorite college memory would have to be the silent disco this year during welcome weekend. I really enjoyed making memories with students that I have never met, but acting like we have known each other forever. I was amazed because people were having fun and not caring about what others thought about them, and were being themselves.
Why should students vote for you?
Students should vote for me because I care about this school and the people in it. They should also vote for me because I try to be the reason someone smiles, and I truly want what is best for everyone on this campus.
What is something that makes you unique?
Something that makes me unique is that I have so many Legos that I have to have a spreadsheet for insurance purposes. I have also danced for 15 years of my life, both in a studio and competitively.
What advice would you give to freshmen?
Some advice that I would give to a Freshman and all students is to take the opportunities that are presented to you because you never know where they will take you. It is never too late to take the opportunity to find that passion, club, or group of friends. I would also tell them to never change who they are to fit in somewhere; there is a place for everyone at FHSU.
Ryan Funai
Who are you?
My name is Ryan Funai. I am an Accelerated Master’s Senior studying geology with a minor in biology. I am the president of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, involved in the Sternberg Geosciences Club, and have worked at Forsyth Library for over 3 years. Additionally, I am actively involved in cave research in Barber County, KS.
Why did you choose Fort Hays?
I chose FHSU because my mother, Dr. Angela Pool-Funai moved here in 2021 to take over the position of Dean of the Graduate School. I then moved to Hays in 2022.
What does being a homecoming candidate mean to you?
Being a homecoming candidate means that I get to spread Tiger Spirit for the homecoming festivities and engage with the community.
What has been your favorite college memory?
My favorite memory at FHSU was when I first got to tour the special collections at Forsyth Library. The vast ammount of history and fascinating artifacts is breathtaking. I would reccomend seeing the collections if given the chance
Why should students vote for you?
I think that students should vote for me because I am involved in the community through raising awareness on issues, working to clean up Hays, and providing support for local organizations.
What is something that makes you unique?
Something that makes me unique is that I am 1/4 Japanese. My grandfather on my dad’s side was born into a family of Japanese immigrants in the US in the early 1900s. This heritage is very special to me, and I encourage recognizing globally active citizens and all the work they do.
What advice would you give to freshmen?
Something I learned throughout my time here is not to be afraid to talk to people. Whether that is through tabling for your organization, telling someone that you like their outfit, or just sitting next to someone in the caf who is by themselves. We are all looking for friends, and people will recognize and appreciate people who enjoy talking to them.
Jordan Smith
Who are you?
My name is Jordan Smith. I am a senior majoring in HHP Teaching and Coaching. This is my third year working for Reslife as a Community Assistant, and I was also voted the Community Assistant of the year by students and faculty for the 24-25 school year. And I participate in various Intramurals.
Why did you choose Fort Hays?
I chose Fort Hays because of how much it would cost to get my bachelor’s degree, how close it was to home, and the great campus atmosphere.
What does being a homecoming candidate mean to you?
Being a homecoming candidate means a lot to me in the fact that I made a good enough impression on someone or multiple people for them to nominate me for this year‘s homecoming
What has been your favorite college memory?
I don’t know if I could pick one moment from college, but I will forever remember the number of great people I met over my time here who will be lifelong friends.
Why should students vote for you?
If I had to give one reason why I think students should vote for me, it would be that who else would have let you pied them in the face on the quad last Friday?
What is something that makes you unique?
Something that makes me unique is who else do you know would let students and faculty of Fort Hays State pie them in the face for 2 1/2 hours. For completely free.
What advice would you give to freshmen?
Your plan will change. You’ll probably switch majors, or careers, or even just the direction you thought life was going. That doesn’t mean you failed. It just means you’re figuring it out.
Cade Becker
Who are you?
I am Cade Becker, a junior from Hays/Plainville KS majoring in History. I am a senator for Student Government, the Vice President of SigEp, President of the Mock Trial Team, a VIP Ambassador, and a member of many other organizations. I also work for Student Engagement! I enjoy hiking and nerding out on various topics.
Why did you choose Fort Hays?
- I chose Fort Hays for the closeness to family and many of my friends were going here. Staying closer to home allowed me to stay more connected with family, save money, and really make the best out of my experience growing up in Hays. I am so proud to be a Tiger.
What does being a homecoming candidate mean to you?
Being a homecoming candidate means two things. For one, I never got the chance to be one in high school. I was somewhat more reserved in high school but made an exceptional effort to become more extroverted, to get involved, and grow my soft and social skills. For two, the opportunity shows that my efforts of doing so have worked and paid off. But it also is a showcase of personal growth, determination, and becoming a better man all around. The connections, friends, relationships, and everything all mean so much to me. I am so lucky to call everyone here a friend and a fellow brother, sister, friend, or Tiger.
What has been your favorite college memory?
My favorite college memory has to be when I went to New York City with the History Department for the American Historical Association’s national meeting. I learned so much and got to walk around New York. I saw so many neat things, learned so much, and had one of the best times of my life with students who were from all over the place. Some being on campus or online; it was powerful getting to connect to all.
Why should students vote for you?
Students should vote for me because I am not this flashy guy or someone I am not. I am friendly or kind to everyone I meet, I take the time to know people. I take the time to understand and connect with people. I always wish there was more kindness in the world, and I genuinely make an effort to be that myself. I am someone who wants everyone to feel included, like they belong. I also represent them in so many ways through Student Government, Ambassadors, and my job at Student Engagement. I’m up on the second floor of the Center for Student Success all the time, if you ever need or want anything; come stop by; even if it is just a little chat. Lastly, this is a goal I have had for ages; this opportunity means a lot to me.
What is something that makes you unique?
I am unique through three ways. One, I always have an open mind to new ideas, viewpoints, experiences, and enjoy learning and being creative. I am endlessly curious. Two, I hold strong values and interests. I am heavily interested into the history of things from fragrances, to aircraft, to world war II, to music. I also hold true with virtue, diligence, and brotherly love. Staying true to my core values of friendship, connection, and trust. Also being diligent in the hard struggles I have had in life with difficult situations growing up to simple issues such as ordinary stress to having a medical issue that impaired my driving and kept me from driving for 6 months. Three, I am wildly optimistic and I just try to be as encouraging and bubbly as I can. The world is too big and life is too short to not make everything worth while.
What advice would you give to freshmen?
Read this. Trust me. Do everything you can, you can sleep later. The world is too interesting, so big, and there is so much you can do. Get your work done, and have fun. Go to IHOP at 2 AM, go hangout with your friends, stay up late, go to class, go to a random club, talk to that person next to you in class, go see your mom and dad or grandparents, read that book, get out of your dorm room; just do what you want to do. Live life to the fullest. This is the best time of your life, it is up to you to take advantage of it. You will leave college, your friends will move far away and get jobs and have kids and have new friends and responsibilities. College is the time to grow, find yourself, and be yourself. This is the closest all of your friends and a ton of people your age will ever be congregated in one area. Make the most of it, you will not regret it. Thank you for those who read this.
Marcell Dely
Who are you?
I’m Marcell Dely, a senior at Fort Hays State University double majoring in Political Science and Criminal Justice. On campus, I’ve served as a Senator for International Students in the Student Government Association and as a VIP Ambassador for the President’s Office. I’ve been active in student leadership, campus events, and connecting with both local and international students.
Why did you choose Fort Hays?
I chose FHSU because it gave me the chance to pursue my education in the U.S. while still having a welcoming community that feels like home. As an international student from Hungary, I was looking for a place that valued diversity but also gave me opportunities to grow academically and personally and FHSU has done just that. As I’m part of the Men’s wrestling team, athletics was a huge deciding factor as well and FHSU showed during their recruiting that they value their athletes.
What does being a homecoming candidate mean to you?
It’s an honor to be nominated. To me, being a homecoming candidate is about representing the student body, showing Tiger pride, and celebrating the experiences that bring us together as a community.
What has been your favorite college memory?
Some of my favorite memories are the moments when the whole campus comes together, coming from Europe I’ve never experienced a real Football game before, I vividly remember my first game that I went to, it was a whole new experience! Another great memory was my international welcome week, where I had the chance to make friends with students from all over the world. Those little moments of connection are what make college unforgettable.
Why should students vote for you?
Students should vote for me because I genuinely care about this community. I’ve dedicated my time at FHSU to being a voice for students and making our campus better. I’d be proud to represent the Tiger spirit as Homecoming King.
What is something that makes you unique?
What makes me unique is my international perspective coming from Hungary and studying here in Kansas has given me a global outlook, and I love bridging cultures and connecting people who might not have crossed paths otherwise.
What advice would you give to freshmen?
Get involved, take risks, and don’t be afraid to meet new people. College goes by quickly, so make the most of every opportunity, whether that’s joining a club, going to an event, or starting a conversation with someone new.
Harper Lubbers
Who are you?
Hi everyone! My name is Harper Lubbers, and I’m one of your Homecoming Queen candidates! As a student here, I love to be involved, build connections, and show my Tiger Pride. I am currently a Robbins College (RCOBE) Ambassador, President of Alpha Kappa Psi, a second-year CA in Victor E. Village, Secretary of International Business Club, and a member of the Fort Hays Honor Society! I am a junior studying business management.
Why did you choose Fort Hays?
I chose Fort Hays because of the amount of accessible opportunities there were, such as scholarships, affordable tuition, and the fantastic business program in RCOBE! When I visited, I instantly fell in love with the campus and culture of Tiger Pride, as it truly felt like a place I could call home.
What does being a homecoming candidate mean to you?
Being a homecoming candidate to me is an opportunity to show my Tiger Pride by being able to give back to the school that has given me so much! It means getting to meet the students in such a special and unique way, and I am so thankful to have this opportunity!
What has been your favorite college memory?
My favorite college memory has been spending time with the friends that I have met through being involved in student organizations!
Why should students vote for you?
Students should vote for me because building connections and contributing to our campus through leadership, service, and supporting students is my top priority. I love dedicating my time to bettering our school and the student body, and this would enable me to continue doing so on a higher level!
What is something that makes you unique?
Something that makes me unique is my positive attitude and driven work ethic. I am not easily discouraged by hard situations and always make the most out of everything. I love to share this positivity with my friends and peers and encourage them in any way I can!
What advice would you give to freshmen?
Hi freshmen! Some advice I have for you is to get involved on campus! It can be just one club (or many!), but it is such a great way to improve yourself, learn, make friends, and add to your resumes. During college is the best time to put yourself out there, so do not hold back! You never know the impact that it can have on yourself, others, or the University as a whole!
Corbyn Marquees
Who are you?
My name is Corbyn Marquess I am a junior here at Fort Hays and my major is speech pathology. I am involved in numerous things around our campus, including student government association where I’m a senator for the college of Health and Behavioral Sciences, I am co-chair of DEI and Advocacy in our National Student Speech Language Hearing Association here on campus, I am a member of the Fort Hays Honor Society, I am Officer of Courtesy and Charm in Delta Zeta, and I shoot sports for Tiger Media Network. I also work on campus in the History and Philosophy Department. Outside of campus I do photography on the side and that has been very popular with the college students on campus, and I do a lot of service work, including earlier this year I planned and hosted a charity golf tournament for Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City and was able to raise over $12,000!
Why did you choose Fort Hays?
I chose Fort Hays because it’s not only close to my hometown, but as soon as I walked into campus, it also felt like home. I come from a small town, Plainville, Kansas, and having the feeling of smaller class sizes and a tight community was something I was used to and wanted to experience within college. I am so happy I made the decision to come to Fort Hays because it has provided me opportunities that I never thought were possible and has brought me a safe place where I am comfortable and feel like I can be fully and truly myself.
What does being a homecoming candidate mean to you?
I am proud to say that I am a Fort Hays Homecoming candidate this year. It makes me feel like I’ve done a good job on this campus and that I have shown so much tiger pride and been a role model that people thought I would represent the school well, which is such an honor and I am very grateful. Having this opportunity to show my tiger pride to my fellow students, tell them my why, and spread positivity these past two weeks has been very fulfilling and has filled my heart with so much joy.
What has been your favorite college memory?
I don’t have a specific favorite college memory, but I absolutely love any moment I get to hear our FHSU Marching Band. Whether it is at a football or basketball game, a welcome weekend event, the bonfire etc., they bring the hype, they show up and show out, and they are truly the meaning of FHSU. Whenever they play, you can see everyone’s faces in the crowd light up with tiger pride because their music makes you feel the colors black and gold. Music has been apart of my life for as long as I can remember. I have been a band kid my whole life, I play 5 instruments, and I still take drum lessons with the Dr. Helker here at Fort Hays. Hearing them play brings me so much genuine happiness. They are my favorite memory!
Why should students vote for you?
I just want to start off by saying that every single candidate chosen this year is incredible and I would be ecstatic to see any one of those girls win. But, I think you should vote for me because I am really relatable. I am goofy, don’t care what people think, I am kind to everyone, I care about my future, and I do a ton of volunteering and service for my community. I also truly exemplify our Tiger Pact. Academics is my top priority and I strive to be successful in my future. I work every single day to make sure everyone around me feels loved, supported, safe, and welcome, and I walk onto campus every morning proud to be a Tiger and wear my black and gold. This school is my home and I will always find a moment when I can brag on it to anyone who will listen. I think you should vote for me because I care.
What is something that makes you unique?
Something that makes me unique is my favorite food in the entire world is pickles! I can sit and eat an entire jar with the juice and all, which some people might find gross, but I think it is delicious and the best part of my day!
What advice would you give to freshmen?
The advice I would give to freshmen is to get to know and meet everyone you can. Don’t judge someone based on how they look, or talk, or anything else, because you never know who you can find a friend in. Everyone around you is in the same boat as you; nervous, scared, and starting a new chapter in their life. Get out there and meet all the people and make some new friends. I would also tell them to get involved on campus in clubs and organizations. Greek life is an amazing way to meet a lot of new people at once and find a family away from home. I could not stress it enough though; talk to everybody and join clubs!
Mackenzie Zimmerman
Who are you?
Hey there! I’m Kenzie Zimmerman, a senior majoring in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology. I’m pursuing five certificates and enrolled in the Accelerated Master’s Program at FHSU. I serve in leadership roles for the Criminal Justice Club, Christian Challenge, and am a proud founder of the FHSU Rotaract Club. I’m also active in five other organizations and represent FHSU nationally through the American Criminal Justice Association. I believe leadership is service, and I’m honored to be a Homecoming Royalty finalist!
Why did you choose Fort Hays?
I chose Fort Hays because it chose me! Because I am from here, I’ve felt like a Tiger all along, surrounded by a community that feels like home. I’m incredibly grateful for the scholarships and opportunities, especially through the Honors College, that have made college possible for me as a first-generation student. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the generosity of FHSU, and I’m proud to represent this amazing community and honor those who have invested in me.
What does being a homecoming candidate mean to you?
Being chosen as a Homecoming candidate is a tremendous honor. To me, this title is an opportunity to be an ambassador for our university, celebrating our traditions and connecting with students and alumni. It’s a testament to the hard work, involvement, and passion I’ve poured into my time here at FHSU. I am grateful for this opportunity to give back to the community that has given me so much and to show my pride in being a Tiger.
What has been your favorite college memory?
My favorite college memory was when I traveled with the Criminal Justice Club to Los Angeles for a national competition. While we were there, we volunteered at a soup kitchen on Skid Row. We served meals to people experiencing homelessness, and got to have conversations with them in doing so. I saw how they were so kind and grateful for the food we were giving them, and a lot of them were joyful despite their tough situation. It really opened my eyes to some of the stereotypes against people experiencing homelessness and how important it is to give back when you can.
Why should students vote for you?
Students should vote for me because I love serving our campus, especially in ways that aren’t always seen or celebrated. A lot of what I do happens behind the scenes, but I believe small, every day, or less visible efforts matter just as much. I’m not in it for recognition—I just care about giving back and supporting the people and organizations that make our campus feel like home.
What is something that makes you unique?
I got married at 19, so I’ve spent most of my college career balancing my marriage, studies, and job. It can be a lot sometimes, but luckily, I’ve got caffeine in one hand and Google Calendar in the other — and I haven’t dropped either yet. 10/10 would recommend.
What advice would you give to freshmen?
Get involved!! It makes your college experience so much better!
Star Parham
Who are you?
My name is Star Parham, and I am a senior here at Fort Hays State University. My major is Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. I am involved with Black Student Union, Alpha Kappa Psi, Society of Human Resource Management, Circle K International, FHSU Running Club, Vip Ambassadors, Rudd Scholar, HALO, and Student Government Association. I was also born and raised in Salina, Kansas.
Why did you choose Fort Hays?
I chose Fort Hays because when I came on my campus visit, I felt seen and welcomed. I say that because, as a first-generation student,t everything was new to me and I was navigating it alone. But once I came to campus, they assured me I wasn’t alone and that there was support here for me. Whether that be the celebrations for first-gen students or the friendliness from all the teachers and staff.
What does being a homecoming candidate mean to you?
Being a homecoming candidate to me means so much. I say that because since my Freshman year, I came out of the gate and got involved on campus, giving all I could. And as a senior, I feel as though I have done so much for this campus, and it was nice to see that people recognized that and nominated me for this opportunity. I wouldn’t be here, though if it wasn’t for my constituents, and to them I say thank you.
What has been your favorite college memory?
My favorite college memory was when I was able to volunteer for Swipe Out Hunger. It was my favorite event because food is something that I think everyone should have access to, and growing up, it was instilled in me to not let anyone go hungry. So when presented with an opportunity to help feed people across the country, I hurried to sign up. This event will forever hold a part in my heart.
Why should students vote for you?
Students should vote for me because I feel as though I have shown year after year what it means to truly be a tiger. Being a tiger to me means showing up for your community, spreading kindness, participating in service, and getting involved. So when I think of the vote, these are all the qualities that the individual should exemplify and show daily. Which I truly believe I do and have done my entire time here at Fort Hays. Whether that be through all my campus organizations, countless hours of service, and my true, authentic passion to make this university the best it can be. These are all the reasons I believe I should have the vote, but either way, please get out and vote.
What is something that makes you unique?
Something that makes me unique is my name. My name came from my mom who said “The stars are the closet thing to god in the sky”. Which growing up I thought it was cool but failed to relize just how important it would be to my life. As I got older I learned how my name held weight and truly attested to who I would be. That being someone that is gleaming, bright, and always shooting for the stars. My name has set me up to be the best person I can be and is something I love about myself.
What advice would you give to freshmen?
The advice that I would give to freshmen is to try everything at least once. I say that because this journey goes by quickly, and you don’t want to leave with any regrets of not doing something. Which is why I have explored so many clubs, service events, and even jobs through my time here as a tiger. And truly can say that when I graduate in May that I had the best time and did everything I wanted to do.
Grace McCord
Who are you?
- Hi, I’m Grace McCord, a senior majoring in Political Science with minors in History and Sociology, plus certificates in Gender Studies and Global Leadership On campus, I have been involved in Encounter Student Ministries, serve as President of Alpha Gamma Delta, Legislative Affairs Director for Student Government, Vice-President for Pi Sigma Alpha, VIP Tigers, National Student Exchange, PAL for a Freshman Learning Community, Honors College, FHSU Honors Society, Panhellenic Council, American Democracy Project, Newman Civic Fellow, and a few more clubs! Basically, if there’s a campus event with free snacks, there’s a chance I helped plan it! When I’m not working or volunteering, I’m usually hanging out with friends, cooking, or reading!
Why did you choose Fort Hays?
I was born and raised in Hays, so in a way, FHSU has always felt like home. I knew it was the right choice because of the people, kind, supportive, and always willing to help one another out. Staying here gave me the best of both worlds: a close-knit community with opportunities that keep pushing me to grow.
What does being a homecoming candidate mean to you?
It’s an incredible honor. To me, being a candidate represents not just my own journey, but the people and organizations that have shaped me here. It’s a chance to celebrate our Tiger family and everything we accomplish together!
What has been your favorite college memory?
My favorite memories all have one thing in common—they weren’t planned. They usually come from moments when I said “yes” to something spontaneous, like late-night Sonic runs after community service projects, where I ended up bonding with a whole new group of people.
Why should students vote for you?
I’ve spent the last three years on campus encouraging people to vote in local, state, and national elections, so I’ll give you the same advice I always do: vote for the person who truly cares about your community, the person you’d want to sit down with and get to know, because that’s who should represent you. I hope I’ve shown through my time here how much I love this campus and its people. I’ve worked hard to give back in every way I can, and it would be an honor to represent the student body that has given me so much.
What is something that makes you unique?
I love FHSU because it’s a place where people are truly encouraged to be themselves! I love the fact that it’s given me the space to explore who I am, and it turns out I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie. I went skydiving this summer!
What advice would you give to freshmen?
Say “yes” to opportunities that scare you, introduce yourself to people even if it feels awkward, and don’t be afraid to fail—it’s where the best growth happens! So many people are so excited you are here, lean on them and learn from them, we’re all a family.