Home | Wayne Simien

Servant
Shepherd
Steward

About Me.

I am grateful to be on such an amazing journey with so many incredible people. My faith in Jesus Christ, my relationships, the game of basketball, and my love of learning have all been key ingredients in the measure of my impact and influence. I am passionate about helping the next generation see further and go further.

There are a variety of snippets across a number of platforms that give a glance into who I am. It is my intent for this website to offer a more holistic perspective into my story.

Life Timeline

1983-2001

I was born and raised in Leavenworth, KS to Wayne Sr. & Margaret Simien both long-time factory workers at Hallmark Cards. This blue collar environment was an important foundation for hard work, respect, teamwork and discipline. I quickly excelled at basketball and was a part of a 6A State Championship team and became a McDonald's High School All-American.

2001-2009

As a student-athlete at the University of Kansas I graduated with a degree in sociology in 2005. Along the way, I was coached by Hall of Fame coaches Roy Williams and Bill Self, played in two Final Fours, won three Big 12 Championships and was named Big 12 Player of the Year as well as First Team Consensus All-American. The most transformative part of my college experience was becoming a Christian in 2003. Shortly after, I would become a first round NBA draft pick of the Miami Heat and NBA World Champion under another Hall of Fame coach, Pat Riley. I finished my short professional basketball career playing in Spain.

2009-2021

For the next 13 years I served as a Christian campus minister at the University of Kansas and campuses across the Midwest. A passion grew for mentorship, preaching and speaking at colleges, conferences, churches, businesses, athletic programs as well as leading mission trips. During this time I was also honored by having my jersey retired in Allen Fieldhouse and show gratitude to many who helped me along the way.

2021-Present

Currently, I live in Lawrence, KS where I work as an Associate Athletics Director of Engagement at KU. There I serve on the executive staff, aid in team and staff leadership development, fundraise and help former letter-winners through K-Club. My wife and I have been married for 17 years and we have 5 children. I continue to actively preach the Gospel and serve as an elder at Morning Star Church. Some of my favorite hobbies include coaching my kids, fishing, hunting and golf.

"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loves me and gave Himself for me."