Wichita State staff interviewed in the piece described not recognizing Masterson at a front-desk location tied to the maker space, where students and community members can plan and build. The article also relays that Masterson told the Kansas City Star he helps obtain equipment for the space, supports members, and works to ensure investors are in place, while saying his duties are largely administrative off-site. He added that he does get on site “a couple days a week,” with some weeks involving two to three in-person days and others not.
Masterson’s campaign emphasized that the university role is work he is proud of and said he does not take a salary while working at the Statehouse. A spokesman also asserted he returns to his position after session and continues to work in person nearly every week and remotely when he is not on campus. The article argues that Wichita State students and the broader Wichita community should see a clear accounting of hours and tangible results, especially given the six-figure compensation described for the role.