Barton School of Business’ Spero Program at Wichita State University has reached another significant milestone with the graduation of its second class. A total of 80 alumni, including 43 students graduating in the second class, have successfully completed the world’s first TrustEd microcredential program of its kind, establishing Spero as a national model for innovative workforce development.

Launched to bridge the gap between education and employment, Spero integrates academic instruction, professional development, employer engagement, and personalized coaching to prepare participants for success in both careers and entrepreneurship.

“This milestone reflects the dedication of our students and the strength of the systems supporting them,” said Pattie Bradley, director of operations for the Spero Program. “From day one, our goal has been to walk alongside participants, remove barriers, and help them realize their potential. Seeing the 43 graduates cross the stage is a powerful reminder of why this work matters.”

Employer Engagement Leading to Real Opportunity

The graduating cohort included participants from both the Career Readiness and Entrepreneurship tracks, reflecting Spero’s dual focus on preparing individuals for immediate workforce entry and long-term business ownership. Graduates completed a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing industry-relevant skills, professionalism, and sustained engagement with employer and community partners.

“This program embodies Wichita State’s mission to serve our community through access, innovation, and impact,” said Larisa Genin, dean of the W. Frank Barton School of Business and Executive Director of Spero. “Spero graduates leave with credentials, confidence, and networks that position them for success. We are incredibly proud of what this cohort has achieved.”

One of those employer partnerships came through Rensenhouse, which joined Spero in its second year and became actively engaged in mentoring, interviewing, and hiring.

“Joining Spero in Year 2 allowed us to engage directly with participants and truly understand the caliber of talent in the program,” said Dakota Jarman, Manager at Rensenhouse. “Through that engagement, we hired a Spero graduate who demonstrated strong professionalism and commitment. It’s been rewarding to see the impact of that opportunity—not just for our organization, but for his family as well.”

Student Voices: ‘Leaving as the Hope’

During the graduation ceremony, graduate AJ Bohannon, who launched his venture, Shoe Castle, during the program, delivered remarks that captured the spirit of Spero.

“Spero is Latin for ‘hope,’” Bohannon shared in his address. “Many of us enrolled in this program looking for hope. But today, we’re leaving as the hope – hope for our families and our communities.”

Bohannon’s business, Shoe Castle, continues to grow through the mentorship, structure, and support he received in Spero’s Entrepreneurship Track.

Powered by Community Partnerships

Spero’s success is driven by collaboration among the Barton School of Business at Wichita State, employers, nonprofit organizations, and civic leaders.

“Spero is proof that meaningful change happens when education and community work together,” said Gene Camarena, Spero Board Member. “These graduates are strengthening families, workplaces, and neighborhoods across our region.”

Community partners have witnessed that impact firsthand.

“We see the difference Spero makes every day,” said Jo Lynn Bright, Community Impact Director at HopeNet. “Graduates leave prepared and inspired to continue their journey towards stability, purpose, and the ability to positively influence those around them. This program is creating an impactful change.”

Looking Ahead

With two successful graduating classes and expanding employer engagement, the Spero program continues to refine and scale its model to serve more students and families.

“Our focus is long-term impact,” said Alexander Ziegler, Director of Student Experience and Employer Relations, Spero. “We are building pathways to careers, entrepreneurship, and generational opportunity. This class represents what is possible when talent meets opportunity.”

Spero Year 3

Planning is already underway for the next cohort of the Spero program, with Spero Year 3 expected to be announced soon. Individuals interested in participating are encouraged to sign up to be among the first notified when applications open.

Those who would like to receive updates about the next application cycle can leave their contact information at https://www.wichita.edu/academics/business/spero/career-readiness.php.

Community members and organizations interested in engaging with Spero—whether as employer partners, community collaborators, or program supporters—are encouraged to contact Alex Ziegler, Director of Student Experience and Employer Relations, Spero, at spero@wichita.edu to learn more about partnership and engagement opportunities.

Those interested in supporting Spero philanthropically are encouraged to contact Corey Saleh, Senior Director of Development, WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement, at corey.saleh@wichita.edu.

Additional details about Spero Year 3 will be announced in the coming weeks.