KMSU Community Stories

Sept. 27, 2023 Mankato Area Public Schools Superintendent Paul Peterson, and MAPS School Board Vice Chair Kristi Shuck talk school issues including the controversy over school resources officers, the upcoming referendum and changes in the district through the years.

Sept. 27, 2023 One of the biggest biking events in southern Minnesota is taking place on Saturday, October 8, 2023 Greater Mankato Bike and Walk Advocates Chris Corley and Jodi Erickson talk about the upcoming event as well as other opportunities to stay active in our community. More than 1200 bike enthusiasts are expected to turn out to enjoy the fall colors.

Sept. 27, 2023  The Mankato Area United Way needs YOU to help make a stronger community.  Barb Kaus talks about the October Combined Charities outreach to Minnesota State University and others to raise much-needed funds. She also talks about collaborations the United Way has with MNSU which are enhancing the quality of life for many in southern Minnesota.

Sept. 28, 2023 MNSU Professor Rachel Hanel talks about the 8th annual Deep Valley Book Festival coming up on Oct. 7th 2023 which celebrates Minnesota Authors and Books. Hanel helps coordinate this event which is free and open to the public.

September 6, 2023 The Mahkato 51st Annual Traditional Powwow takes place Sept. 15-15, 2023. Powwow chairperson Dan Zelski, and Volunteer Service-learning coordinator, Alice DeYonge talk about the event and how the public can take part.

Photographer Josh Madson stopped by the Shuffle Function Morning Show to talk about The Mankato Community Collage Project. Josh took over 25,000 photographs to capture the faces of the community, and the end results will be on display at the Coffee Hag through September.

Aug. 25, 2023 President Edward Inch talks about Destination 2030, the strategic plan of Minnesota State University, Mankato and more.

Aug. 23, 2023 Mental health struggles by students have increased significantly since the pandemic. Mankato Area Public Schools Superintendent Paul Peterson and MAPS Director of Student Support Services, Scott Hare, talk about efforts the district is taking to address mental health concerns for the upcoming year.

Aug. 18, 2023 Travis Gustavson, age 21, of Mankato lost his life to fentanyl poisoning. His mother ,Kim Gustavson, and Grandmother, Nancy Sack, are speaking out to let others know a senseless loss like this can happen to anyone. The two talk about the 2nd National Fentanyl Poisoning and Substance Abuse Awareness and Education Event in Mankato, Aug. 20, noon - 3 p.m. at Ray Erlandson Park.

August 2, 2023 Vets for Music is a non-profit organization whose mission is to bring joy to the five veterans homes across Minnesota through music. Pat McGlauglin is one of the musicians who helps coordinate the shows, including an upcoming one at the VA in North Mankato on Aug. 12, 2023.