J. Michael Lamb
Bender of Twigs Inductee 2020
The long-term impact of the work of J. Michael “Mike” Lamb is truly immeasurable. His leadership in planned giving has already resulted in the receipt of tens of millions of dollars to Wichita State University and, by the very nature of estate planning, many more gifts will be received far into the future. For Mike, these gifts aren’t merely financial transactions—they represent hundreds of donors with whom he has developed long-term, rewarding relationships. These gifts also represent impact. They show the power of working with alumni and friends to connect their passions to areas of need at the University, from scholarship and faculty support to program enhancements to facility improvements.
Having worked with the WSU Alumni Association, Mike began with the WSU Foundation in 1997. For most of his tenure, Mike has served as a Vice President with the Foundation, supervising multiple areas, including planned giving and the Shocker Fund. Mike is highly regarded as a planned giving specialist and was recognized for his work in 2011 by receiving the Outstanding Fundraising Executive by the Greater Wichita Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. He remains active in numerous professional organizations.
Mike is highly regarded by the Foundation board, donors, peers and team members. In our most recent staff survey, words used to describe Mike included “inspiring,” “professional,” “positively amazing” and “exceptional.” The positive culture among his team members is a result of his strong leadership. He is always quick to give credit to his hard-working staff members and publicly recognize their efforts. Mike is goal-driven and focused, contributing to the success of the Foundation.
Of the Foundation’s core values of Integrity, Relationships, Teamwork and Service, Mike exemplifies them all, but none more than integrity. Unwavering in his belief in doing what is right, Mike leads by example.
On a personal level, Mike is simply an outstanding human being. He is a loving husband to Susan, a fantastic father to two amazing daughters and a superb grandfather to four adorable grandchildren. Mike is active in his church and home community.
It has been my privilege to work with and know Mike these past 25 years. He is a confidante and a good friend and I am deeply grateful for his service.
Congratulations, Mike, on being inducted into the Bender of Twigs. On behalf of the Foundation Board of Directors and staff, we all join in to say: “Yea, Mike!”
Elizabeth King, PhD
President & CEO
WSU Foundation