During a Christmas party in 1998, employees of a small Wichita company, Business Systems Inc., pooled their money to initiate a scholarship in appreciation for Alan and Roberta Whetzel, company president and secretary treasurer. Every Christmas following, longtime and loyal employees continue to contribute to the scholarship. In 2004, Mr. and Mrs. Whetzel retired and sold the company. They maintained a commitment to fund their scholarship, providing much needed support for W. Frank Barton School of Business students.
In addition to their scholarship, the Whetzels made many other contributions to Wichita State University. They provided support for WSU athletics, made a major commitment to the Roundhouse Renaissance Campaign, allotted funding for a men’s basketball team players room, and contributed to the Champions Club. The Whetzels were President’s Club Life members, Alumni Association life members, University Club members, and former Shocker Athletic Support Organization members.
After retirement, Mr. Whetzel bred horses, with a number being world champion award-winners. Mrs. Whetzel enjoyed traveling and spending time with family.
