2026 KU Vets Day 5K

Join us on Saturday, November 15, for the annual KU Vets Day 5K, a community event honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans while celebrating the important role military-affiliated students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members play at the University of Kansas and beyond.

This year's race holds special significance as we commemorate the 40th anniversary of the University of Kansas Vietnam War Memorial, dedicated in 1986 as the first on-campus Vietnam memorial in the United States. The memorial stands as a lasting tribute to Jayhawks who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War and reflects KU's longstanding commitment to honoring veterans and preserving their legacy for future generations.

The race will begin and end at the Jayhawk Welcome Center, bringing together runners, walkers, veterans, military families, students, alumni, and community supporters for a morning of remembrance and camaraderie. 

Proceeds from the event support veteran-focused programs and initiatives that strengthen the military-affiliated community at KU. 

The KU Vets Day 5K is proudly presented by the KU Veterans Alumni Network and the KU Alumni Association and supports veteran programs provided by KU Veterans Alumni Network and KU Student Veterans of America.