The forum, a program of the Center for Entrepreneurship in the W. Frank Barton School of Business at Wichita State University, brings owners, families and managers together to address critical issues in family businesses, including succession, strategic planning, estate planning, family dynamics and governance.

Ring’s appointment was announced by Cindy Claycomb, interim dean of the business school, and Lou Heldman, acting director of the Center for Entrepreneurship.

“Kirk’s dynamic teaching and research in the areas of family business, entrepreneurship and strategy will advance the Kansas Family Business Forum’s goal of providing unique learning and networking experiences to those in family businesses,” said Claycomb.

Ring earned his doctoral degree in strategy, with an emphasis in family business from Mississippi State University. He has worked within family businesses ranging from a small, multi-generation lumber company, to a publicly traded but family-controlled gaming corporation.

Paul Allen, chief executive of Allen, Gibbs & Houlik LC and a longtime KFBF supporter, said: “The Kansas Family Business Forum is a powerful collection of resources for family businesses, and Kirk will bring new expertise and energy as director of the program in coming years.”

Ring, who has been honored as the Barton School’s Undergraduate Instructor of the Year, said: “The Kansas Family Business Forum provides an excellent opportunity for families and their businesses to learn more about the common issues that occur in this very important part of the Kansas economy. I am excited and humbled that I have been asked to lead the KFBF after Ron Christy’s passing.”

KFBF is a membership organization with about 40 family businesses as members and support from sponsors Allen, Gibbs & Houlik LC; Martin, Pringle, Oliver, Wallace & Bauer LLP; Intrust Bank NA; and the Wichita Business Journal.