Emporia State University

« Back to Recent News

French, Stibal Join Emporia State University Foundation Board

by Gwendolynne Larson

Emporia, KS (03/07/2019) — A vice president of 2S, Inc., is a new member of the Emporia State University Foundation. Joyce M. French of Emporia, a former student, joins four other new trustees on the 52-member Foundation board.

"Having been in business in Emporia through the years, I've always been thankful for the presence of Emporia State University and what it means for Emporia," French said. "A town with a college has so many advantages over any other town. The students add excitement, and a youthful perspective. I look forward to do what I can to promote the long-term growth and future of Emporia State University."

Former Emporian John Stibal, now of Falmouth, Maine, also joins the board. He is a senior vice president with UNUM Group and earned a bachelor of science in business degree in business administration in 1982.

"As the son of a former Emporia State professor, I grew up in the shadow of the campus," said Stibal, a native of Emporia, Kansas. "The university was a big part of my childhood and a key contributor to helping me launch my career. The opportunity to serve as a Foundation trustee is both an honor and a privilege. I hope I can contribute to the continued growth of the university."

The three other new trustees are:

  • Larry D. Irick of Lawrence, retired vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary for Westar, Inc., earned both a bachelor of science in business degree in business administration and a bachelor of science degree in mathematics in 1979.
  • Troy D. Johnston of Spring, Texas, audit partner for KPMG in Houston, earned a bachelor of science in business degree in accounting in 1988.
  • Denise L. Kruse of Overland Park, chief executive officer of AdamsGabbert, earned a bachelor of science in business degree in business administration in 1982.

The trustees come from varied backgrounds representing the three undergraduate colleges and 16 degree programs across campus. They use their talents and professional expertise to generate, acquire and steward the resources the university needs to fulfill its mission.

Trustees serve as role models for potential donors by generously contributing of their own time and resources. They are actively involved in university events and programs and serve to raise philanthropic resources to advance the mission of Emporia State University.

Media Attachments

Joyce French

John Stibal

Copyright © 2026 Merit Pages, Inc. • All Rights Reserved. • Terms of Service • Privacy Policy • Opt Out