Wichita State University will soon begin a national search for the next dean of the Barton School of Business following the university’s announcement today (Sept. 10) that Dean Larisa Genin will step down from her position as dean, departing WSU at the end of the fall semester.
“I could not be prouder of what we have built together,” Genin says. “We dreamed big, challenged what was possible, launched new programs and initiatives, strengthened community and industry connections, and transformed the Barton School, creating tremendous momentum and a strong foundation for its future.”
Among her many accomplishments during her tenure as dean, Genin led a period of significant growth and transformation for the Barton School, including increased enrollment, expanded philanthropic support, the opening of Wayne and Kay Woolsey Hall, and the launch of innovative academic and workforce development initiatives.
She also strengthened the school's national visibility, deepened engagement with the business community and grew student success opportunities.
Genin’s leadership helped build a strong foundation for the Barton School's continued momentum and future success.
“I remain deeply passionate about the Barton School, our people and our extraordinary potential,” Genin says. “Until my departure, I will remain committed to supporting our faculty, staff and students, advancing our priorities, maintaining momentum and helping ensure a smooth transition.”
President Rick Muma says Genin has been a transformative leader for the Barton School.
“Dean Genin has helped drive growth, strengthen community partnerships and expand opportunities for our students — including leading the charge on the creation of Woolsey Hall, which houses the Barton School,” Muma says. “We are grateful for her many contributions to Wichita State and look forward to building on the strong momentum she helped create as we begin the search for the school's next dean.”
To ensure a smooth and orderly transition, Dr. Shirley Lefever will be appointed interim dean at the end of the semester; however, she will join the university to support the leadership transition in a limited capacity in mid-October. A respected leader with deep ties to Wichita State, Lefever previously served as provost and executive vice president and as dean of the College of Education. Her experience, institutional knowledge and collaborative leadership style will provide continuity and stability during the transition period.
The Provost's Office will lead the search for the Barton School's next dean, including selecting a search firm and convening a search committee. Consistent with university practice, the search process will include input from Barton School students, faculty, staff, advisory board members, and business community partners.
"The Barton School is exceptionally well positioned for continued growth and impact, thanks to its talented faculty and staff, engaged students, dedicated alumni and strong partnerships throughout the business community," says Dr. Monica Lounsbery, senior executive vice president and provost. "Dean Genin has helped build that momentum through her leadership, vision and commitment to student success. We are grateful for her service to Wichita State and the Barton School of Business and thank her for the many contributions she has made during her time here."
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 25,000 students between its main campus and the WSU Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech), including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student-centered and innovation-driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students. The National Science Foundation ranked WSU No. 1 in the nation for aerospace engineering R&D, No. 2 for industry- and defense-funded engineering R&D and No. 9 overall for engineering R&D.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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