Three new members have joined the Wichita State University Foundation staff. Darin Kater fills the newly created position of director of development for planned giving. Lindsey Brummett is the director of special events, a revised position that was previously filled by recently retired Donna Jestmore. Jinny Wagner is the accounting clerk, also replacing a retired employee, Sharon Ehrsam.

Kater received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in science from Friends University, and also took courses from WSU. He brings 18 years of nonprofit higher education experience to the WSU Foundation, including his position as the associate vice president of university relations at Friends University. He also held the position of director of development for the Wichita Children’s Home.

“I had a strong desire to return to development work in higher education,” said Kater. “It is a great privilege to be given the opportunity to become part of the WSU family, which has a strong reputation for developing great leaders across many disciplines. For me, it’s all about developing trusted long-term relationships with donors. A decision to establish a planned gift is a very personal and specific step to do something good for the future strength of WSU.”

Brummett received a bachelor’s degree in strategic communication from Wichita State University. She was a student assistant in the President’s Office and served as president of the Student Activities Council.

“As a Gore Scholar, I experienced the impact of donor generosity,” said Brummett. “It is an honor to give back to a university that gave me opportunity and a future. I wanted to be a part of the team that helped create a future for more students.” 

Wagner received a Bachelor of Business Administration from Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kan. She previously worked as an application coordinator in admissions at A.T. (Andrew Taylor) Still University of Health Sciences in Kirksville, Mo. With a goal of moving closer to family, Wagner’s husband obtained a position at WSU, and she soon followed.

“I knew I wanted to continue working at a university, so WSU was where I began my search,” said Wagner. “I love working for a team that directly influences the lives of students and faculty.”