08/15/2025
We couldn’t be prouder of our chef — not just for the incredible work he does in the kitchen, but for the amazing person he is outside of it.
On a professional level, his creativity, skill, and dedication brings so much flavor (literally and figuratively) to everything we do. On a personal level, his kindness, leadership, and family values inspire our entire team every single day.
Here’s to celebrating all the wins — in the kitchen and in life. We’re lucky to have you, Chef! 👏❤️
Heart of a Tiger
By President Tisa Mason
Even before classes officially begin, our campus is already alive with energy. Among the students returning to our residence halls is Dominic “Dom” Hernandez, a high school senior from Hays who is enrolled in our Kansas Academy of Math and Science (KAMS) — FHSU’s premier early college program. While KAMS is known for its unmatched academic rigor, students like Dom also take full advantage of the opportunities our university offers outside the classroom. KAMS students serve in student government, lead in campus organizations, engage in community service, and even participate in cutting-edge research.
Erin and Manuel, Dom's parents, moved to Hays so Manuel could join the team at Gella’s Restaurant. They thought it would simply be a good place to raise their family. They didn’t know then that FHSU would become central to their story.
Manuel is now head chef with Union Catering, delivering between 2,000 and 3,000 meals daily and providing customized catering solutions for a wide range of campus events. Erin earned her master’s degree in clinical psychology here at FHSU and launched a rewarding career advocating for youth in the Ellis County juvenile justice system. Both parents have embraced our campus and community.
Read more about the Hernandez family's impact on FHSU and the Hays community: https://hubs.ly/Q03D1qpk0