Why Stories?

About

Collecting and archiving stories of resilience and justice is a powerful way to empower communities by giving them a platform to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. By allowing individuals from underserved and marginalized groups to tell their own stories, we help amplify their voices and preserve their histories, which are often overlooked or silenced. These narratives serve as collective knowledge, offering valuable insights into the lived realities of people facing health disparities, food insecurity, gender violence, and racial and economic inequalities. They not only validate the experiences of those who have been historically marginalized but also highlight the ongoing efforts being made within communities to tackle these pressing social issues. By fostering community-based, engaged learning, we create a space where the work of these communities can be recognized, shared, and learned from, equipping students and future leaders with the knowledge and skills they need to sustain careers in social justice and advocacy.

In contributing to the land-grant mission of Kansas State University, the Engaged Stories Lab aligns itself with the university’s commitment to service and engagement as a central pillar of its mission. As the only university with a presence in all 105 Kansas counties, K-State’s Research and Extension system serves as the hub for community outreach, allowing for real and lasting partnerships. The work of the Engaged Stories Lab maximizes this impact by not only pushing information out but by deeply embedding itself within these communities, engaging in collaborative storytelling that drives economic development, strengthens community bonds, and addresses evolving needs. Through this integrated approach, we aim to elevate and amplify the university’s engagement efforts, contributing to the prosperity of the state while embodying K-State’s dedication to community-focused research and service. The Engaged STories Lab, along with other engagement initiatives, provides a platform to ensure that every student, faculty member, and staff member contributes to meaningful change, setting a precedent for what it means to be a land-grant institution in the modern world. Read more about our Next-Gen K-State Strategic Plan 2030 here.