K-State of Mind: Photos from Homecoming 2025

Posted October 14, 2025

By Ashley Pauls
K-State Alumni Association

When you think about K-State, what first comes to mind?

Willie the Wildcat? Purple Pride ice cream? Anderson Hall? Game days at the Bill? Lifelong friendships forged on campus?

"K-State" means something different to every K-Stater, and we celebrated all that makes this university special during the 2025 Homecoming week, Oct. 5-11.

This year's theme was "K-State of Mind," commemorating the people, places, ideas and traditions that define our college experience, on campus and beyond.

"To me, K-State of Mind is the feeling when you walk on campus, enjoy time with your friends, and cheer on the 'Cats," said Student Homecoming Committee member Sophia Glanville, who is studying operations and supply chain management. "It inspires me to keep going, even when things are rough. If you think about K-State, its land-grant institution roots, and what our university stands for, it has kept going even when things are rough."

To fellow Student Homecoming Committee member Ethan Spindler, the theme brings to mind the rich agricultural heritage shared by the university and the state of Kansas.

"Kansas is built on the backs of farmers, and K-State chose to support and help them succeed and has been doing so for over 160 years," said Spindler, who is studying chemical engineering and biological engineering. "Our continuing innovation is designed to support the global food chain and support the industry that keeps Kansas running. This deep and rich heritage inspires a sense of pride to call this university home because they are doing so much good work. It also inspires a sense of loyalty in supporting this university so they can continue this mission and innovation."

2025 Student Homecoming Committee

Having a K-State of Mind is also about giving back — this year, the Homecoming Philanthropy 5K Run/Walk benefitted Be Able, a Manhattan nonprofit engaging with those in adversity by creating connections, cultivating skills and opening doors of opportunity.