KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY RANKED NO. 3 IN THE NATION BY FORBES AS ONE OF AMERICA’S BEST EMPLOYERS FOR WOMEN IN 2025
In a landmark recognition of its commitment to equity, inclusion, and workplace excellence, Kansas State University has been named No. 3 in the nation on Forbes’ 2025 list of America’s Best Employers for Women.
The prestigious ranking places K-State among the top institutions nationwide for fostering a supportive, empowering, and inclusive environment for women employees across all roles — from administration and faculty to research, athletics, and campus services.
> “This honor reflects who we are as a university,” said K-State President Dr. Richard Linton. “We are deeply committed to creating a workplace culture where women can thrive, lead, and feel valued every step of the way.”
Forbes, in collaboration with market research firm Statista, compiled the list based on survey data from tens of thousands of women working at companies and institutions across the U.S. Respondents rated their employers on criteria such as workplace culture, career development opportunities, parental leave policies, pay equity, and diversity at leadership levels.
Kansas State’s high ranking highlights its ongoing investment in gender equity initiatives, including mentorship programs for women in STEM, leadership pipelines, flexible work policies, and support for family-care needs.
> “It’s about more than policy — it’s about culture,” said Dr. Karen Pedersen, K-State Provost and Executive Vice President. “We’ve worked intentionally to listen to our women employees and respond in ways that make a lasting impact.”
The university’s recognition comes at a time when women’s representation and advancement in higher education workplaces remain a pressing national issue. K-State’s top-three ranking sets a new standard for what’s possible in building a truly inclusive academic environment.
Wildcat employees and alumni across the country have taken to social media to celebrate the news, with many praising the university for living up to its values. One tweet read: “Proud to be part of a university that doesn’t just talk about equity — it builds it.”
As K-State continues its mission to be a model land-grant institution for the 21st century, this honor solidifies its national reputation not only as a leader in academics and research, but as a trailblazer in workplace inclusion and empowerment.
