We are pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Dinkel, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Koch, Inc., as the new Chair-Elect of the Barton School Dean’s “Fabulous 50” Advisory Board, effective July 1, 2024. Richard is a distinguished alum of the Barton School of Business at Wichita State University. He will succeed Margaret Dechant and will begin his three-year term as Board Chair on July 1, 2025, serving through June 30, 2028.

“I am deeply honored to step into the role of Chair-Elect for the Dean’s Advisory Board and to build upon Margaret’s outstanding leadership,” Dinkel said. “This position offers a unique platform to elevate the Barton School to national prominence. It is not merely a role; it is a transformative opportunity to redefine our future, drive groundbreaking innovation, and set new standards of excellence. Together, we will chart an ambitious course, positioning the Barton School among the top business schools in the nation and empowering our students to reach unprecedented heights of excellence.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Richard as he takes the helm of the board, continuing our tradition of excellence,” said Dr. Larisa Genin, Dean of the Barton School of Business. “The Dean’s Advisory Board is pivotal in steering innovation and shaping the future of the school. I also want to express my deep gratitude to Margaret for her exceptional leadership and dedication. As she concludes her three-year term as board chair next June, I look forward to collaborating closely with her as a valued continuing board member.”

The Dean’s Advisory Board is instrumental in advancing the Barton School’s mission to establish itself as a leading business school nationally. Through their strategic insights and recommendations, board members drive the school’s growth and uphold its commitment to excellence. Their contributions have already yielded significant results, including launch of new degree programs, expanded career opportunities for students, the creation of the Executive-in-Residence and Entrepreneur-in-Residence programs, substantial scholarships, and critical fundraising support that has enabled the completion of the acclaimed Woolsey Hall and Promise Bridge.

“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Dean Genin and the board in leading this exceptional business school,” said Margaret Dechant, current Dean’s Advisory Board Chair and CEO and Partner of 6 Meridian. “Richard is an outstanding choice to assume the role of Chair, and I look forward to collaborating with him as we strive to elevate the Barton School to the forefront of the nation’s premier business schools.”