The Barton School of Business is the home of real and applied learning. A place where
students apply knowledge gained from faculty and business leaders while developing
professional and life skills. The Barton School is among the top 1% of business schools
worldwide due to its double AACSB accreditation in business and accounting. Housed
in the award-winning Woolsey Hall, the school features artwork, sculptures, gardens,
and The Promise Bridge—a 300-foot-long pedestrian bridge over the water in front of
the building.
The City of Wichita formally recognized the 100th anniversary of the W. Frank Barton
School of Business at Wichita State University with an official proclamation presented
on Tuesday, February 10, honoring a century of leadership, economic impact and commitment
to business education.
The proclamation celebrates the Barton School’s 100-year legacy of preparing business
leaders who have strengthened communities across Kansas and beyond. Presented during
a City of Wichita meeting, the recognition underscores the deep and enduring partnership
between the Barton School and the region it has long served.
“For 100 years, the Barton School has been closely connected to the business community
of Wichita,” said Dr. Larisa Genin, Dean of the Barton School of Business. “This proclamation
from the City is a meaningful recognition of the impact our students, alumni, faculty
and partners have made."
Founded in 1926, the Barton School has evolved alongside Wichita’s business landscape,
supporting entrepreneurship, advancing innovation and preparing graduates to lead
in industries critical to economic growth. Generations of alumni have gone on to serve
as executives, entrepreneurs, civic leaders and changemakers, contributing directly
to the economic vitality of the city, state and nation.
“The City’s proclamation is a powerful reminder that the Barton School’s story is
deeply intertwined with Wichita’s story,” said Rachel Douglass, Chair of the Barton
School of Business Centennial. “For a century, our alumni have built businesses, strengthened
industries and led this community forward. As we celebrate this milestone, we are
equally focused on the future to ensure that the next generation of business leaders
continues to drive innovation and economic growth for Wichita and beyond.”
The February 10 proclamation marks one of several key milestones during the Barton
School’s centennial year. Throughout 2026, the school will host a series of events
and initiatives celebrating the milestone year.
As the Barton School enters its second century, the City of Wichita’s recognition
serves as both a tribute to its history and an affirmation of its continued role in
shaping the future of business leadership in the region.
