Bruce Rupp 02′

I am a Hays native and graduated from TMP in 1983. Attended Sterling College on a baseball scholarship and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in behavioral sciences. I began teaching and am in my 35th year as a Kansas educator. I received my master’s degree from FHSU in 2002 in secondary ed administration. I am in my 30th year at Hays Middle School. I began as a teacher/coach, am now an assistant principal, and am in my 28th year as an athletic director. I have also been the USD 489 Drivers Education Coordinator for 28 years.


I have been married to my wife Terri for 30 years and have three awesome stepchildren and eight beautiful grandchildren.

I was named the KIAAA Middle School Athletic Director of the Year for 2022-23 and will be recognized at the KIAAA State Conference March 25th in Mulvane. I love serving on the Hays USD 489 school district and making a difference in the lives of our community’s youth.

Why did you choose to attend FHSU?
From Hays and think it’s a great university.

What are your favorite memories from your time as a student?
Colleagues and professors. I really enjoyed Dr. Ed Stehno and Dr. Michael SIattery.

What advice do you have for current or prospective FHSU students?
Take your education seriously because it is a big financial investment that can lead you to a great future.

Tell us about someone at FHSU who has left a lasting impression:
Dr. Michael Slattery and Dr. Ed Stehno because they were able to share so much personal information and experiences about what my career would be like and had so many stories and so much insight to help me prepare for my future.

In what ways are you proud to be a Tiger?
I’m proud to be a tiger because I am a Hays native, love my hometown, and think FHSU is a bargain compared to KU, KSU, and Wichita State. We have a beautiful campus with outstanding facilities and faculty.

Additional comments:
Proud to be a tiger, proud to call Hays my home, and proud of what I have accomplished at USD 489.

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