The W. Frank Barton School of Business at Wichita State University has taken a bold step to amplify the student voice by merging its Undergraduate and Graduate Student Advisory Boards into a single, unified body. Representing more than 2,500 business students, the newly established Barton School Dean’s Student Advisory Board will serve as a catalyst for strategic guidance, enhanced programming, and an enriched student experience — all contributing to the Barton School’s advancement and its positioning among the top business schools in the nation.
Leading the board is Maley Hansen, a Wichita native and accomplished junior double-majoring in Economics and Data-Driven Marketing & Intelligence, with minors in Business Analytics and Political Science. A recipient of the prestigious Harry Gore Memorial Scholarship, Hansen has distinguished herself through academic excellence, campus leadership, and a dedication to student success.
“I am deeply honored to serve as president of this transformative new board,” Hansen said. “By bringing together both undergraduate and graduate perspectives, we can unify our voices, champion meaningful change, and ensure that every student feels empowered to shape their Barton School experience.”
Hansen currently serves as president of Wichita State’s Collegiate DECA chapter, has contributed to the Cummings Student Managed Investment Fund, and has served on the Delta Gamma Foundation team. These experiences position her to guide a diverse council that will collaborate directly with Barton School leadership on programming, curriculum, student engagement, and the school’s strategic direction.
Dr. Larisa Genin, dean of the Barton School, underscored the importance of this milestone: “The creation of a unified Student Advisory Board represents a significant advancement in how we engage our students. Their perspectives are not just welcomed—they are essential to advancing the Barton School and positioning it to be one of the top business schools in the nation. Under Maley’s leadership, I am confident this board will drive innovation, collaboration, and excellence.”
Applications Now Open
Students from all academic programs and levels are invited to apply for open positions on the board.
Interested students should email Maley Hansen at mehansen1@shockers.wichita.edu with:
- Full name and WSU email address
- Current class level and anticipated graduation date
- Major/program of study
- A brief statement (3–5 sentences) explaining why they wish to serve
For more information about the Barton School of Business, visit wichita.edu/barton.