2020 Bender of Twigs Honoree

Steve Porter and I share a long-standing friendship and collegial relationship that stretches back decades. It’s an honor to reflect on his exceptional teaching and professional accomplishments.

Both of us transitioned into academia from the business sector. Steve, a natural and gifted salesman, was already making an impact when I first met him in 1982. At the time, he was teaching at Friends University, and I was at Newman University. Steve’s deep concern for student success led us to collaborate on a unique initiative—creating a shared course schedule that allowed students from both universities to complete their business degrees. This innovative partnership proved so successful that it expanded to other programs at both institutions. Steve continued to develop and champion this collaborative model at Friends University for several years.

Even as our careers diverged—mine to Oklahoma State University for doctoral studies and Steve continuing his path in higher education—we remained in close contact. I later learned that our discussions about the doctoral experience inspired Steve to pursue his Ph.D. at OSU as well. After earning his doctorate, Steve taught for several years at Oklahoma City University before I encouraged him to return to Wichita. In 1995, he joined the faculty at the Barton School of Business at Wichita State University.

As a faculty member, Dr. Porter exemplifies the power of blending real-world business experience with academic instruction. His passion for teaching marketing, and especially sales, has helped students achieve both personal and professional success. Students consistently describe Steve as “tough, fair, participatory, inspirational, and caring.” His classroom presence leaves a lasting impression, and his mentorship offers students enduring guidance.

Steve’s teaching excellence has been recognized through numerous awards, including the Moore Family Fellowship in Business, the Barton School Graduate Teaching Award (twice), and the Regents Teaching Award. His advocacy for sales education led to the creation of a minor in personal selling at the Barton School. His leadership as Chair of the Marketing Department since 2008 has been instrumental, especially as the University embraced applied learning—an approach the Marketing Department had long embodied under his guidance.

For nearly four decades, Dr. Porter has been a dedicated advocate for students. His impact is deeply felt not just through the time he’s spent at WSU, but in the way he’s spent it—investing in students, supporting colleagues, and advancing the marketing profession.

As a fitting conclusion, I share the words of his students: “His class was tough, but very informative.” “I can see how I will use the information a lot.” “I would certainly take this class again in a minute.”