TheKansas Business Hall of Fame (KBHF) recognizes business leaders who have contributed to the economic growth of the state ofKansas. It was established in 1988 by theEmporia State University School of Business, where it remains housed on the second floor of Cremer Hall.[1]
The KBHF was established by theSchool of Business atEmporia State University in 1988 to recognize Kansas business leaders and create awareness of the state's history of business leadership.[2][3]
Each year, the KBHF inducts one historical business figure and one contemporary leader.[8]
The Historic Heritage Award is given to significant figures who have contributed to Kansas business, and the Contemporary Honors Award is awarded to those who display outstanding leadership in the contemporary business of Kansas, or a native Kansan who has earned national recognition. The KBHF also has the ability to give special awards to Kansans for unusual service to businesses.[9]
The first two historical honorees of the KBHF in 1989
Nominees for the Historic Heritage Award are solicited from the general Kansas business community, and recipients must have added to the growth of Kansas, been deceased for at least ten years, and be approved by a majority of KBHF board members.[9]
The following people have been inducted as historical figures.[10]
Alan Mulally, an aerospace engineer and the KBHF's 2011 contemporary inductee
Nominations for the Contemporary Honors Award come from the general business community. Recipients must be contemporary business leaders of Kansas and approved by a majority of KBHF board members. Nominees do not need to live in Kansas, but must display outstanding leadership and business excellence in Kansas.[9]
These people have been inducted as contemporary business figures:[20]
Others necessary to "further the work of the Kansas Business Hall of Fame"
Members of the board are expected to contribute monetary donations to the KBHF annually, with contributions each year due by November1. The board meets a minimum of two times per year, and the KBHF bylaws encourage in-person or virtual attendance at least once per year. Members are elected for a four-year term and are eligible for re-election.[9]
The KBHF holds an annual essay-writing contest open to high school students in grades 9–12, including home-schooled students. The contest requires each contestant to research one KBHF inductee who inspires them and write an essay of 500–1000 words. Four winners each receive a $500 prize, which is donated by theKansas Chamber of Commerce.[30][31]
