Richard Myers named the 2022 Flinchbaugh Family Wildcat Pride Award recipient
Kansas State University saw success under the leadership of its 14th president, Richard Myers ’65.
Myers came to K-State in April of 2016 after a career in military service with the
U.S. Air Force, serving as a general and 15th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
He served as K-State’s president until retiring in February 2022. During his presidency,
Myers led the university through many successful initiatives including the completion
of the Morris Family Multicultural Student Center; the renovation and restoration
of Hale Library after a May 2018 fire; the openings of Regnier Hall and Engineering
Hall; a Big 12 title and an Elite Eight Run in men’s basketball; two Big 12 titles
in women’s outdoor track and field; the creation of a new budget model and strategic
enrollment initiative to help modernize K-State; among many other successes. Myers
also demonstrated steady leadership as campus navigated the coronavirus pandemic. 
Myers and his wife, Mary Jo Rupp Myers ’64, served as co-chairs of the Innovation and Inspiration Campaign that raised $1.6 billion - the campaign surpassed its original goal by $600 million.
In recognition of his service, the K-State Alumni Association honored him with the 2022 Flinchbaugh Family Wildcat Pride Award at the Association’s board of directors meeting on March 4. The award honors a current or emeritus K-State faculty or staff member for his or her advocacy of alumni relations, with a special emphasis on support and participation in alumni programs that engage members of the Wildcat family.
“Gen. Richard Myers has been a great friend and partner to the K-State Alumni Association, aiding our mission to lead and inspire lifelong involvement,” said Amy Button Renz ’76, ’86, president and CEO of the K-State Alumni Association. “He has always been an enthusiastic supporter of our efforts, attending alumni socials, gatherings, pep rallies and other special events. He helped us honor alumni, faculty and friends through our awards programs and always encourages the greater campus community to stay engaged with our programming efforts. Thank you, Gen. Myers, for your dedication to your alma mater. This is truly a fitting award to present as the late Professor Barry Flinchbaugh and President Myers had a very close friendship. Gen. Myers, the Alumni Association is honored to recognize you with the Flinchbaugh Family Wildcat Pride Award.”