Robert K. Edmiston Economic Endowed Fellowship

Like his parents, E.K. and Kathlien, Robert Edmiston attended Wichita State University prior to entering the oil business. He was the university’s first third generation graduate, obtaining a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1966 and a Master of Economics degree in 1968. In 1975, Mr. Edmiston joined Edmiston Oil Company, Inc., a business founded by his father in 1945. A dynamic representative of the oil community, he was a member of the Independent Petroleum Association of America, the Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association and the Wichita Association of Petroleum Landmen. Setting aside time for his local community, he provided advice and direction for the YMCA, Friends of the Wichita Art Museum and the board of directors for the Wichita Symphony. He also was chairman of the Wichita Traffic Commission for two terms in
the early 1980s.

Mr. Edmiston had a passion for history, especially Civil War history. After he left Wichita in 1985, he finally settled on a dream career in Virginia. He was hired as a part time researcher for the American Association for Civil War Sites, a non-profit organization. A couple of years later, he was appointed to the CEO position which he held for several years.

When Mr. Edmiston passed away in 2004, the Edmiston family honored his memory by establishing this fellowship.