Barton In the News

Before Margaret joins us at the Barton School of Business on October 27, we wanted to introduce you to the person behind the keynote. Her career has taken her from the business world to leadership roles at some of the world’s best-known academic institutions, and into classrooms and organizations around the globe.

The Barton School of Business at Wichita State University has named Shawn and Shawna Lancelot co-chairs of its 2028 “Beyond” Hall of Fame celebration. The Lancelots will help lead preparations for the Barton School’s third Hall of Fame gala, which recognizes individuals whose leadership, achievements and contributions have made a lasting impact on the Barton School, Wichita State University and the broader community.

The Barton School of Business at Wichita State University will welcome leadership expert, educator, executive and author Margaret Andrews as its next distinguished speaker as part of the School’s Centennial celebration. An interactive keynote will take place Tuesday, October 27, at 9:30 a.m. in the Fidelity Bank Ballroom in Woolsey Hall. Doors will open at 9 a.m. 

A Wichita attorney’s lifelong commitment to education, service and community will live on through a new generation of Wichita State University students. Harvey Najim, a 1964 Wichita State graduate and nationally recognized business leader and philanthropist, has established two scholarships in memory of his brother, Harry Louis Najim. At the heart of the gift is the Harry Najim Business Scholarship, which will provide significant support to a Kansas student pursuing a degree through Wichita State’s Barton School of Business.

The Barton School of Business at Wichita State University is introducing a new way for students to engage with accomplished business leaders.

As part of its Centennial celebration, the Barton School will launch a live conversation series with an unscripted discussion designed to give students a front-row seat to the stories, decisions and lessons behind successful careers. The event will feature Entrepreneur-in-Residence Bill Poston and will be recorded live in partnership with Built for More, the podcast hosted by Barton School alumnus and entrepreneur Jacob O’Connor.

The Barton School of Business at Wichita State University has named Bill Poston, entrepreneur, business advisor, investor, educator and philanthropist, as Entrepreneur-in-Residence as part of its Centennial celebration. His appointment reflects the Barton School’s commitment to connecting students with accomplished business leaders whose careers demonstrate entrepreneurship, principled leadership and innovation.

The Barton School of Business at Wichita State University will continue its 100th anniversary celebration with a full day of activities, experiences and community connections Wednesday, Aug. 26. Students, alumni, faculty, staff, advisory board members, donors, supporters, partners and members of the WSU and Wichita community are invited to celebrate a century of business education and innovation.

Wichita State University’s Spero program will welcome its newest participants and reconnect members of its growing community during the 2026 Spero Kickoff on Friday, Aug. 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Woolsey Hall.

Two-week program connected students with international business leaders, cultural experiences and a project supporting economic empowerment for unhoused individuals

When Spero was created at Wichita State University’s Barton School of Business, the vision was clear: build a program that gives people access to practical skills, meaningful relationships and real pathways to employment, entrepreneurship and long-term economic mobility.