ABOUT KU
KU is a top-tier teaching and research institution. From our first class of 55 students in 1866 to our current enrollment of over 30,000, KU thrives as an example of how insightful creators can empower the region and influence the world for the better.
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Our ambition
Each day at KU holds the potential for a new opportunity, invention, or cure. With research endeavors and academic achievements as boundless as the Kansas horizon, Jayhawks work to create a better future — in our state and the world.
Our campuses
KU has global reach with a Kansas focus. Our main campus overlooks the historic city of Lawrence. The Edwards Campus and KU Medical Center serve Kansas City communities. Satellite campuses in Wichita and Salina support Jayhawks pursuing medical professions.
KU ranks among the best public universities*
*Source: U.S. News & World Report
Our community
We call ourselves Jayhawks. These mythical birds embody the KU community’s guiding values: creativity, determination, and might. We think big. We dream big. And then we get to work — for Kansas and beyond.
KU has 50 graduate programs ranked in the top 50 among public universities*
*Source: U.S. News & World Report
Our traditions
If you recognize the Jayhawk or have heard the Rock Chalk Chant, you know that KU tradition is anything but traditional. Our customs are unquestionably quirky — and quintessentially KU.
With a name rooted in Kansas’ abolitionist history and a design evolved by students, our crimson and blue (and yellow) mascot is the ultimate expression of the KU identity.
You may not know what it means, but you can certainly feel it. Depending on the context, our historic college cheer can be thrilling, haunting, or conversation-starting. It’s every Jayhawk’s secret handshake.
Kansas is more than prairie land and wheat fields. But, when the conditions are just right, you might find whole stadiums of Jayhawks swaying their arms in the air like majestic waves of grain.
You think college is challenging? Well, try learning the polyrhythmic hand claps that punctuate KU’s fight song, “I’m a Jayhawk.” You won’t get it on your first try. You may get it on your tenth. We think these difficult maneuvers are worth mastering.
KU’s alma mater, “Crimson and the Blue,” epitomizes KU spirit and unites our community. To its familiar melody and eloquent lyrics, we rise and embrace our fellow Jayhawks.
About Lawrence
Lawrence, Kansas, is home to a bustling arts and culture scene and outdoor opportunities unlike anywhere else. See why Lawrence was ranked among the 25 Best College Towns and Cities in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure.Our Leadership
University Cabinet
- Douglas A. Girod – Chancellor
- Barbara Bichelmeyer – Chief Academic Officer, Provost, and Executive Vice Chancellor for Lawrence
- Jeff DeWitt – Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice Chancellor
- Travis Goff – Director of Athletics and Vice Chancellor
- Kim Grunewald – Chief Legal Officer, General Counsel and Vice Chancellor
- Karla Leeper – Chief Strategic Communications Officer and Vice Chancellor
- Dan Martin – President of KU Endowment Association
- Julie Murray – Chief of Staff to Chancellor Girod and Vice Chancellor for External Affairs
- Heath Peterson – President of KU Alumni Association
- Matthias Salathe – Chief Research Officer and Senior Vice Chancellor
- Steve Stites – Chief Health Sciences Officer and Executive Vice Chancellor for KU Medical Center
- David Vranicar – Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice Chancellor
- Chari Young – Chief Human Resources Officer and Senior Vice Chancellor