WICHITA, Kan.–Meritrust Credit Union has donated $570,000 to support the mission and ongoing initiatives of the Office of Career & Professional Development (OCPD) at the W. Frank Barton School of Business at Wichita State University.
According to the university, the contribution marks an increase from MCU’s previous 2022 gift, bringing Meritrust’s total investment in OCPD to $1.1 million.
“The Office of Career & Professional Development at the Barton School is an essential resource that helps students explore career paths, engage confidently with industry professionals, and develop key skills such as networking, resume building, communication etiquette, and financial literacy,” Meritrust President and CEO James Nastars said in a statement. “We are excited to continue supporting this vital mission and assist WSU students in laying the foundation for successful futures.”
Nastars is a member of the Barton School Dean’s Advisory Board
WSU said the OCPD is dedicated to connecting academic programs with meaningful professional opportunities by preparing undergraduate and graduate students at the Barton School to secure high-quality internships and careers in their chosen fields.
About the Program
The office’s programming includes a variety of initiatives, such as Professional Edge, Executive-in-Residence, Entrepreneur-in-Residence, the Distinguished Speakers Series, job fairs, resume development, interview workshops, company visits, internships, employment services, mentoring opportunities, and more.
In 2024, OCPD ensured that over 1000 students attended keynote events led by top industry executives and a business career fair with more than 400 participants.
