Remi Baldock

Junior in Civil Engineering

Tonganoxie, Kansas

Favorite Quote: 

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” — Theodore Roosevelt

Interests: 

• Golfing 

• Traveling 

• Reading

I have interviewed Bill Snyder on a podcast!

1. Why is K-State important to you?

K-State is important to me because of the people. Every day I get to walk to class, and almost every time I see a friend of mine. I have never had so many people sacrifice their time to support me until I came to Manhattan, and I believe that is what built K-State, I believe that is what makes K-State unique, and I believe that is why K-State continues to grow and prosper.

2. Why did you decide to run for Ambassador?

I ran for Ambassador because of the amazing opportunities that I have had at K-State thus far. I want to reach out to as many prospective students as possible, so that they are aware of the opportunities and experience that they will have as a Wildcat. I also want to be able to connect with alumni so they know that the KSU experience is still best in the state, and is continuing to elevate! 

3. What is your favorite K-State memory? 

As someone who grew up with the opportunity to attend many Kansas State Football games, it is safe to say that football was my first connection to the university. One of the great memories I have is when we clinched the 2012 Big 12 Title against Texas. I’ll never forget the feeling I had seeing Willie the Wildcat on top of the press box, with the stadium booming as we chanted “K-S-U”!

4. If you could invite one K-State alum back to campus for a day, who would it be and what would you show them? 

I would invite Eric Stonestreet '95, because he is someone that I know has a love for this university, and I would also like to tell him how much I enjoyed watching him in the show Modern Family! I think that I would like to show him all of the upgrades that we have had on campus, and in the Manhattan community.

Evelynn Ediger

Junior in Political Science and Global Food Systems Leadership, and following the pre-law track

Abilene, Kansas

Favorite Quotes:

“The proudest thing I can claim is that I am from Abilene.” — Dwight D. Eisenhower

“In seeking success, you must also seek fulfillment. Ask yourself not only what you want to be but who you want to be.” — Elizabeth Dole 

Interests:

• Going to K-State football games (Caturdays are the best!)

• Hiking the Konza at sunset

• Traveling with my friends and family

This past summer, I worked on the Hill for U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, while living with my uncle — a proud K-State alum! A few highlights included exploring the West Wing of the White House, giving Capitol tours, and meeting incredible K-State alumni; it was an unforgettable experience that fueled my passion for public service!

1. Why is K-State important to you?

K-State has taught me the importance of intentionality in everything I do, whether it is student government, Alpha Xi Delta or my academics. I’ve experienced firsthand how the faculty, staff and administrators go beyond their roles to truly invest in students. Their encouragement has pushed me to seek out meaningful connections and grow into a stronger version of myself. Because of K-State, I know I am both supported and challenged to reach my full potential.

2. Why did you decide to run for Ambassador?

I chose to run for Student Ambassador because of the deep gratitude I feel toward K-State. Over the past three years, I’ve been encouraged, supported and challenged to grow as a leader in ways I never imagined. Serving as an Ambassador is my way of giving back to the school that has given me so much, and I hope that in sharing my love for K-State with future Wildcats, they will find the same opportunities to learn and thrive.

3. What is your favorite K-State memory? 

One of my favorite memories was this summer when I was serving as a recruitment guide during sorority recruitment! I loved getting to know the incredible women in other chapters and mentoring freshmen as they began their K-State experience. The highlight came at the end of the week when I ran home to my Alpha Xi Delta sisters on Anderson Lawn, jumping, hugging and celebrating. In that moment, I felt overwhelming gratitude for the lifelong friendships I’ve made.

4. If you could invite one K-State alum back to campus for a day, who would it be and what would you show them? 

If I could spend a day with any K-State alumnus, I would invite back U.S. Representative Tracey Mann '00. We’d start with a tour of the Leadership Studies building and the Wildcat Chamber, where I’ve grown as a student leader. Finally, over coffee at Radina’s, I’d ask how K-State shaped his journey to Congress and learn how I can carry those same lessons into my own path in law.

Christian Peña

Junior in Agricultural Education

Sublette, Kansas

Favorite Quotes:

“The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” — H. Jackson Brown Jr. 

“Strength doesn't come from what you can do. It comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn't.” — Rikki Rogers 

Interests:

My career interests are in agriculture innovation and entrepreneurship. Outside of class I enjoy being outdoors and spending time with friends and family. 

Something interesting about me is that I have had three open heart surgeries due to a heart condition called Tetralogy of Fallot. This means that I have holes between my atriums and ventricles and narrowing of my pulmonary valve.  

1. Why is K-State important to you?

K-State is important to me because it has allowed me to see the world from a whole different perspective. It has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities and opportunities that exist in our everyday lives. Being a part of KSU fills me with pride to be a part of the extraordinary work that happens here every single day.

2. Why did you decide to run for Ambassador? 

I decided to run for Ambassador to advocate to past, present and future K-Staters about all our university has to offer. I want to give back to the K-State and Manhattan community as they have helped shape me into who I am today. At the end of the day, it’s about providing opportunities and continuing to make each other better.  

3. What is your favorite K-State memory? 

My favorite K-State memory comes from my first agriculture game day at the Bill. I got the opportunity to sit in the President’s Suite and interact with various individuals who have been successful in their fields and strive to make those and the things around them better. It was a moment to sit, learn and reflect on what success and growth looks like.  

4. If you could invite one K-State alum back to campus for a day, who would it be and what would you show them? 

If I could invite one K-State alum back, it would be Hadley Panzer '24. Like me, he comes from a small town and has achieved great success while staying grounded. I would show him around by visiting Call Hall Dairy Bar, touring the Agronomy Farm, exploring Leadership Studies, and finishing the day cheering on the 'Cats at a football game. 

Jory Ratzlaff

Sophomore in Agricultural Technology Management

Galva, Kansas

Favorite Quotes:

“We choose to go to the Moon in this decade and do the other things not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” — John F. Kennedy

“The best legacy you could leave is not some building that is named after you or a piece of jewelry, but rather a world that has been impacted and touched by your presence, your joy and your positive actions.” — Jon Gordon

Interests:

I enjoy travelling and learning about new cultures, playing an assortment of sports ranging from golf to basketball to pickleball, grabbing any sweet treat from around Manhattan, and most importantly sharing quality time with the people that I’m close to.

I always like sharing with people that I’m a Mexican American dual citizen as well as a first-generation K-Stater. I’m proud of my background and even more proud to have experienced many “firsts” here at K-State!

1. Why is K-State important to you? 

Kansas State University holds a very special place in my heart. From peers, faculty, administration and alumni, I’ve truly learned what it means to “bleed purple.” This community and the fellowship I’ve experienced here is what makes K-State stand out. The people are truly invested. This is a place of opportunity and growth, and there is support every step of the way.

2. Why did you decide to run for Ambassador?

It is an incredibly valuable opportunity to be a spokesperson for the university and share the many experiences I’ve had at K-State. This position is truly about giving back to the university that has invested in my personal and professional growth, and I wish to share that experience with others and, hopefully, encourage them to have the same opportunities here at Kansas State University.

3. What is your favorite K-State memory? 

My favorite K-State memory is one right at the beginning of my collegiate experience. The memory that stands out the most is when I moved into the dorms. Almost immediately, I knew there was no other place I’d rather be. My floor did everything together, from eating dinner, to playing sports, to watching anything K-State. It all started from that very first moment, meeting everyone for the first time and sharing quality time together.

4. If you could invite one K-State alum back to campus for a day, who would it be and what would you show them? 

I’d bring an individual close to my family. When I was too young to know what the university was, he was the first to ignite my interest in learning and teach me about K-State and what to enjoy around Manhattan. I’d bring him back to campus and repay the favor, sharing with him all the innovative building projects going on around campus and what I’ve gotten to participate in since enrolling here.

Lela Spitler

Junior in Human Development and Family Science, Integrated Health Science

Riley, Kansas

Favorite Quote:

“You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” — Jane Goodall 

Interests:

• Being outside and active

• Traveling

• Meeting new people

• Sports 

Something interesting about me is for the last two years I have gotten to work for the K-State football team, learning so much about the world of athletics, traveling the country and now traveling the world! 

1. Why is K-State important to you?

K-State is important to me because of the opportunity it provides to everyone. As the first land-grant university, K-State’s mission has always been providing a world-class education to people of all backgrounds. This is especially important to me as someone who has immensely benefited from the opportunities presented at K-State!

2. Why did you decide to run for Ambassador?

I decided to run for K-State Ambassador because I believe as a local kid who has always been invested in K-State, I can show other Kansans and K-Staters the importance in staying here and investing in K-State and the Manhattan community!

3. What is your favorite K-State memory? 

My favorite K-State memory was beating KU in basketball at home freshman year. My friends and I got there early to be the first people in line; it was my favorite student section experience as a college student. The atmosphere of this game reminded me of what I loved about K-State growing up! 

4. If you could invite one K-State alum back to campus for a day, who would it be and what would you show them? 

If I could invite one K-State alum back to campus for a day, it would be LeAnn Wilcox '80. As the first woman’s basketball player to receive a full-ride scholarship at K-State, she is a trailblazer for woman’s athletics and helped lay the foundation for female athletes today. I would show her the athletics facilities to see how far resources for women’s sports have come. I would want her to get to hear the stories of athletes to see the impact that she has had on college athletics.

Abby Taylor

Junior in Marketing

Overland Park, Kansas

Favorite Quotes: 

“Control what you can control.” — my competitive dance teacher, Dana Maguire

“Do what you do, and do it the best that you can.” — Bill Snyder

Interests:

• K-State sports
• Traveling
• Hot yoga and going for walks around Manhattan
• Teaching tap dance

I run my own small business where I design and sell game day buttons! I have made plenty of K-State buttons, but I also have been able to make some for local organizations. My favorite part is designing them and seeing my buttons in action on Caturday!

1. Why is K-State important to you?

K-State is important to me because I am able to continue the legacy of my family members who are Wildcats, while also writing my own. It is not just a university; rather a family that encompasses excellence and pride in everything we do. At K-State, I’ve grown as a leader and realized how thankful I am to call myself a Wildcat. I have learned to love K-State much more than I ever believed I could.

2. Why did you decide to run for Ambassador?

I want to reach past, present and future Wildcats through the role of Student Ambassador. Sharing the magic of what makes K-State special is very important to me, and I feel compelled to continue the legacy of previous Student Ambassadors. I also want to help connect with our student body on a deeper level and illustrate how the Alumni Association is an impactful component of our university’s excellence.

3. What is your favorite K-State memory? 

Traveling to Dublin, Ireland, this August is a core memory. Being able to see our K-State pride on display alongside thousands of fellow Wildcats was more than amazing. I will never forget the sea of waving flags as our Wildcats ran in with the Fight Song playing. Although we did not have the desired outcome, I will remember this trip and the great moments I shared with K-Staters for years to come. Sláinte!

4. If you could invite one K-State alum back to campus for a day, who would it be and what would you show them? 

I would invite Eric Stonestreet '95, as I have always enjoyed knowing that he shares my pride for K-State, while being an incredible actor. We would start at Full Circle, my favorite brunch spot, south of campus in Aggieville. Next, I would go to the Bill, where we could talk K-State football and how far our team has come from “Futility U.” I would end on Anderson Lawn, to remind him of the never-disappearing K-State magic.