Meet Emily Ward, a student at the University of Kansas pursuing dual bachelor's degrees in anthropology and political science, with a minor in Spanish.

With graduation set for May 2025, Emily's sights are firmly set on the next chapter of her academic journey—a doctorate in anthropology, specializing in biological anthropology, with a dream of becoming a forensic anthropologist. She hopes to work internationally, connecting communities to organizations and researchers that can fulfill their needs. 

Emily maintains a very active presence on the KU campus. In addition to working as an undergraduate researcher in the KU anthropology genomics lab, she also serves as a student ambassador and seminar assistant, sharing her experiences and expertise with the KU community.

Her passion for service is evident in her volunteer work with organizations such as the Riley County Historical Museum, Lawrence Humane Society, and cultural festivals. Emily's leadership roles as a University Scholar, president of the KU Honors Community Advocates, Dole Center of Politics Student Advisory Board member, and member of the Society of American Archaeology underscore her commitment to excellence.

An accomplished cellist with 12 years of experience, Emily's love for music finds expression in her membership in the KU Symphony orchestra. Her thirst for adventure and discovery led her to archaeological field schools in Ecuador and Spain. In the spring of 2024, she presented at the Society for American Archaeology’s annual meeting.

Let’s get to know Emily!

Why did you accept the invitation to join Phi Kappa Phi?
I accepted this invitation because Phi Kappa Phi offers wonderful opportunities for networking and scholarships. Phi Kappa Phi represents a commitment to knowledge and self-betterment through community and education.

Where did your passion for anthropology originate?
I grew up next door to an anthropology professor, and at the end of every summer, she brought my brother and I gifts from all the places she excavated. When I was 12, she invited us to the anthropology department open house, where I got to see the labs, listen to lectures, and even hold a real human skull. After that day, I told everyone I was going to be an anthropologist, and now I’m actually doing it.

When did you know you wanted to play the cello?
When I was 8, my parents decided it was time for my brother and I to pick up another instrument. After finding out cellos got to sit while the rest of the orchestra had to stand, I was sold.

What is your favorite piece to play and why?
My favorite piece to play is the Sarabande from Bach’s 3rd cello suite. It is an incredibly romantic and dramatic piece that is slow and calculated but full of emotion.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I joined the Honors Community Advocates as their treasurer in my freshman year and was eventually elected president. After seeing how the club struggled to match pre-COVID attendance, I worked to revamp its marketing strategies and asked students what kind of programs they wanted to see. By doing this, I tripled our attendance and reintegrated the club as a significant part of the Honors Program.

What is your favorite college memory?
My favorite college memory is when I took my dad to his first KU basketball game. He got to stand in the student section and learn all the cheers, and I had never seen him happier. Plus, we won!

Do you have any pets?
I have a dog named Lucky! My family adopted him when I was 7, and he is still my best friend to this day. He is silly and stinky, and I love him!

What’s the best vacation you’ve ever been on?
Every summer in North Carolina, my family stayed at a friend’s house in the Blue Ridge Mountains for a week. We ate PB&Js, hiked, and made up songs. It was always my favorite week of the year.

What is your favorite book?
My favorite book is To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf. I read it for my first college English class, and it made me completely rethink my role as a woman and the experience of the women around me.

How do you unwind and reduce stress?
I am obsessed with jigsaw puzzles, and I love to turn on my favorite podcast and put all the pieces together.

To learn more about Emily and connect, visit her profile within our online member community here.

Is there someone you would like to see in the spotlight? Send your nomination to engagement@phikappaphi.org, and include background information for the nomination.