Fifteen presidents have led Kansas State University since Joseph Denison took the helm in 1863. From ordained ministers, agricultural specialists and a Harvard graduate to a physicist, the brother of a U.S. president and an engineer, these leaders have come from all walks of life and left their mark on the institution.

Following is a snapshot of the leaders who have inspired pride, established traditions, fostered discovery and lead the university through trials and triumphs throughout its 150-year history.

Joseph Denison

1863-1873

John Anderson

1873-1879

George T. Fairchild

1879-1897

Thomas Will

1897-1899

Ernest Nichols

1899-1909

Henry Waters

1909-1917

William Jardine

1918-1925

Francis Farrell

1925-1943

Milton Eisenhower '24, '63

1943-1950

James McCain

1950-1975

Duane Acker

1975-1986

Jon Wefald

 1986-2009

Kirk Schulz

2009-2016

Richard B. Myers '65

2016-2022

Richard Linton

2022 - present