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 Spero Program at Wichita State University’s Barton School of Business is a career
readiness and entrepreneurship initiative designed to equip participants with the
skills, credentials, and professional networks needed for sustained success. Through
its TrustEd microcredential, Spero integrates academic learning, industry engagement,
and personalized support to prepare graduates for meaningful employment and entrepreneurial
ventures.
March 14, 2026 — The Barton School of Business at Wichita State University and its
community partners are marking the first anniversary of Spero Day, recognizing the
growing impact of a workforce and entrepreneurship initiative designed to expand economic
opportunity across the Wichita region.
Spero Day was first proclaimed in 2025 when Lily Wu recognized the launch of the program
during its inaugural graduation ceremony.
Housed at Wichita State University’s W. Frank Barton School of Business, Spero connects
participants with career opportunities, entrepreneurial training and employer partnerships
aimed at strengthening the region’s workforce.
Since its launch, the program has received more than 260 applications, partnered with
28 employers, and graduated 80 participants across its Career Readiness and Entrepreneurship
cohorts. Graduates have secured employment with leading regional employers, advanced
in their careers and begun developing new business ventures.
“Spero demonstrates what is possible when universities, employers and community partners
align around a shared mission,” said Larisa V. Genin, dean of the Barton School of
Business and executive director of Spero. “Our goal is to expand opportunity while
strengthening the workforce in our region. When individuals succeed, families thrive
and communities grow stronger.”
Participants complete a Wichita State University micro-credential while developing
professional skills, building networks with employers and, in some cases, launching
their own ventures.
The initiative has also attracted attention beyond Wichita as universities and policymakers
explore new approaches to workforce development and entrepreneurship education. Spero
has been featured in national and international discussions, including engagements
with leaders at Stanford University’s Century Summit and with institutions such as
Purdue University Global exploring similar models.
University leaders note that the first anniversary of Spero Day provides an opportunity
to recognize the graduates, employer partners and community organizations that have
helped build the program.
Organizations and individuals interested in engaging with Spero as employer partners,
collaborators or supporters can contact the program at spero@wichita.edu.
