Five fun facts about K-Stater magazine
By Tim Schrag '12
Over the past 75 years K-Stater magazine has told countless stories about the university and its alumni and friends. As we celebrate the K-Stater’s 75th anniversary in 2026 here’s five things we think you should know about the publication:
1. We’ve covered all the big moments in contemporary K-State history. Among them include seven K-State presidents, 26 bowl games, multiple Big 12 titles, three universitywide fundraising campaigns, record enrollments, the Covid-19 pandemic, fires, tornadoes and floods. The K-Stater has been there to support and celebrate the university through it all. It is a trusted source of news and views for alumni and friends of K-State and an important document of record for campus. Check out a full archive of past issues at k-state.com/kstater.
2. We’re a spinoff. Originally published as a supplement to the campus newspaper, The Industrialist, the K-Stater was added in 1951 to inform subscribers from the perspective of the Alumni Association. The Industrialist ceased publishing in 1955. We’re still standing strong telling K-State’s stories.
3. We take the color purple seriously. Each issue of the K-Stater uses special ink for purple to ensure it matches the official K-State royal purple (PMS 268-C).
4. We invented the K-S-U photo. It’s a vacation staple. 
A fun way to celebrate the fellowship of our university and all you need is three
Wildcats and a fun spot to take it. Tim Lindemuth ’77, who served as the K-Stater’s
editor from 1993-2012, launched the trend in 2008 with the help of David Mayes ’96,
the magazine’s photographer. The duo went to Bill Snyder Family Stadium during the
2007 season asking tailgaters to pose like Willie the Wildcat did after touchdowns.
From there it took off.
5. We love to hear from our readers. Every letter to the editor, story suggestion, K-S-U photo, completed coloring page, fact finder question or class note submission is appreciated. Please stay in touch with us! Emailing kstater@k-state.com is the best way to stay connected.