A new cohort of Wichita State students has been chosen to be part of the Widener Global Leaders Program (WGLP) at WSU.

The program — in its second year — is a yearlong, interdisciplinary program focused on developing leaders with a global, innovative mindset led by the W. Frank Barton School of Business and in close collaboration with the Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and College of Fine Arts at Wichita State. 

WGLP was made possible by a gift from Peri Widener and designed to create a transformational experience and foster an inclusive community for students majoring in business, communication or fine arts.

Students in the program will have opportunities to develop business skills, communication skills, artistic awareness, a commitment to social responsibility, cultural intelligence, and a global mindset.

The new cohort was selected based on their diverse skillsets, interests and commitment to service. They will receive multidisciplinary learning experiences, networking opportunities and mentoring from top-level professionals.

The integration of the three disciplines of business, communication and fine arts reflects the skillset of Widener, who utilized her background to thrive in the international business world.

“It was an honor to see this program thrive in its first year,” said Widener, retired vice president and general manager, Boeing Global Services. “For me, seeing the engagement and growth of the students solidified the value of what we’re trying to accomplish.”

Along with continued guidance and mentorship from the WGLP Industry Advisory Board, students will participate in a series of educationally enriching sessions ranging in topics from “Discovering Talents & Strengths” and “Visionary Leadership” to “Developing a Global Mindset” and “Creativity & Innovation.”

The program also includes some time off campus with numerous field trips (one for each discipline) and other immersive experiences.

“These nine students are going to get an immensely valuable opportunity to collaborate, grow and tap into their fullest potential,” said Marie-Hélène Bernard, member of the WGLP Industry Advisory Board and president and CEO of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. “I can’t wait to get started.”

There have also been some changes to the administration from the previous year. Dr. Lisa Parcell, communication faculty lead at the Elliott School of Communication, and Professor Andréa E. Banke, music faculty lead for College of Fine Arts will continue in their faculty roles. Kate Kung-McIntyre, who served as the business faculty lead, will be handing the reins over to Dotty Harpool, senior educator for the Barton School of Business. Dr. Larisa Genin, dean of the Barton School of Business, will serve as director of the program in place of Dr. Raina Rutti.

“I want to thank Kate and Raina for the excellent work, steadfast commitment and clear vision they put into the program,” said Genin. “They set a standard of excellence that we hope to continue.”