Image courtesy WSU

Wichita State University is proud to announce a transformative $1 million gift from an anonymous 1958 graduate of the University of Wichita to support need-based scholarships in the W. Frank Barton School of Business.

This gift will directly benefit students who face financial challenges — particularly first-generation students — who make up nearly half of Wichita State’s enrollment. On average, first-generation students receive less financial support from their families and are more likely to rely on private loans to fund their education. Currently, 46% of Wichita State’s undergraduate student population are first-generation college students, highlighting the importance of private financial support.

Private support is critical to realizing Wichita State’s priority to make education accessible and affordable for all Kansans and helps bridge the gap between available public funding and the financial need of students, which averages about $5,600 per undergraduate student.

Daily, students share stories of how scholarship support has facilitated their educational ambitions. These life-changing gifts ease the financial pressures of higher education, freeing students to focus on their studies and get engaged on campus. For many students, that support is the difference between finishing their degree and dropping out. 

Scholarships based on financial need are awarded using a formula that compares a student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC) to the cost of attendance at Wichita State. If the EFC is less than the total cost, the student qualifies for need-based aid.