In memoriam of Dr. Ott

We are saddened to announce the passing of Dr. Richard Ott, Emeritus Professor and former Head of the Department of Accounting, who passed away Saturday, June 8.

Dr. Ott retired in 2019 after a remarkable 33-year tenure at K-State. He began his journey with us in 1986 as an assistant professor, following the completion of his PhD at Texas Tech University. Over the years, Dr. Ott made a significant impact on thousands of students and alumni, serving as a teacher, friend, and mentor.

“Dr. Richard Ott was a beloved accounting professor and a respected colleague. His contributions as the head of the Department of Accounting were invaluable. His inherent kindness and dedication to teaching, mentorship, and the profession inspired both his colleagues and students. Dr. Ott’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the knowledge he imparted. He will be missed greatly.”

- Kevin Gwinner, Edgerley Family Dean of the College of Business

In addition to his teaching, Dr. Ott served as the department head for a decade. In this role, he was instrumental in shaping the future of the department and successfully led the accounting program through several AACSB accreditation reviews. His dedication to accounting education and his influence on our community will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

"This kind soul was my professor for both my undergrad and master’s at K-State, my department head who hired me for my first (and only) faculty job, and my colleague a few doors down the hall until he retired shortly before Covid. Dr. Richard Ott was a genuine soul and I hope to make even half the impact that he did."

-Amy Hageman, KPMG Ralph Crouch Professor, Department of Accounting

The obituary for Dr. Ott is available here.