Alumni Feature

Leann Caret

Showing Up

Through the executive-in-residence program, one-on-one mentorship, and a new class on leadership, Leanne Caret is sharing the insights she learned as she grew into a CEO with a 30-year career at Boeing.

So many of Leanne Caret’s memories of her years at Boeing are visceral. Hearing Chinook helicopters, capable of lifting 25,000 pounds, roar away from the facility she ran in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania. Standing on the flightline, watching Air Force One take off. Being hit by the rumble of a B-52 bomber as it ran touch-and-go landing drills. Feeling her favorite purple abaya – the full-length robe worn by many women in some Muslim-majority countries – flow perfectly around her in Saudi Arabia.

Her time at the company’s facilities in Wichita were “like a dream come true,” she said. “You’re driving down the street with the sunroof open, listening to AC/DC. You’re seeing aircraft that you’re working on taking off, and you smell the harvest. It was fabulous.”

Alumni in Action

Charlie Morrison '90 Named 2025 Alumni Fellow

Each year, Kansas State University honors exceptional alumni who have made a lasting impact in their industries and communities. For 2025, the College of Business is proud to recognize Charlie Morrison as its Alumni Fellow, celebrating his distinguished career and dedication to leadership.

Morrison has built an impressive career, demonstrating the values of integrity, innovation, and excellence that define the university. His leadership and contributions to the business world have set him apart, making him a role model for current and future Wildcats.

As part of this honor, Morrison will return to campus on April 23-24 to share his experiences with students and faculty. During his visit, he will engage in discussions, offer professional insights, and provide guidance to aspiring business leaders. His presence will offer students a unique opportunity to learn firsthand from a seasoned professional who once walked the same halls.

Morrison’s selection as the 2025 Alumni Fellow is a testament to his career achievements and his continued commitment to making a difference.

College of Business Alumni Give Back During Women in Finance Day

women in finance day

The K-State College of Business held its first annual Women in Finance Day on February 4, at the Business Building. Around 70 high school students and faculty participated in the day’s events.

K-State Day of Giving Showcases the Power of Wildcat Pride

During Kansas State University's first-ever Day of Giving, Wildcats from around the globe came together to celebrate academic excellence, student achievement, and groundbreaking research. Over 1,600 donors contributed a total of $3.4 million, supporting students, faculty research, and initiatives across the university.

This 24-hour event was both a fundraising challenge and a celebration of what makes K-State unique. It brought the Wildcat community together in a powerful show of support, demonstrating that when Wildcats unite, they can make a meaningful impact on Kansas and beyond.

This year, we focused on four pivotal areas to elevate the K-State College of Business experience:

Applied Learning Experiences: Providing hands-on, real-world opportunities for students.
Building Innovation: Strengthening our state-of-the-art facilities to set the standard for business education.
Business Scholarships: Expanding access to business education and attracting top talent.
Academic Excellence: Enhancing faculty and staff resources, research, and innovative programming.

Thanks to amazing alumni like you, the College of Business was able to raise $1,159,705 to support these four focus areas.

From Kansas to Guatemala: MIS Students Make a Global Impact

rankings from US news and world report

In Memoriam

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Rodney Vogt, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Up until just a few weeks ago, Rodney was still in the classroom, demonstrating the dedication and passion that defined his time with us. He was a beloved member of the College of Business Administration and the School of Accountancy.

Rodney joined our college in August 2001, and throughout his tenure, he was not only an exceptional educator but also a deeply caring and compassionate individual. He had a profound impact on his students and colleagues alike, always bringing warmth and kindness to those around him. His friendship and legacy will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.