Meet the New Visionary Leader of FHSU's Robbins College: Melissa Hunsicker-Walburn Takes the Helm

Photo by Fort Hays State University

FHSU University Communications
Melissa Hunsicker Walburn has been appointed as the next dean of the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship at Fort Hays State University. Previously serving as interim dean twice, she brings over a decade of experience in higher education administration and teaching.

Hunsicker-Walburn's professional background includes roles in litigation counsel and technical staff in competitive sectors such as telecommunications and public utilities. She has also directed Kansas' 529 college-savings plan and serves as a board director for High Plains Farm Credit.

According to Jill Arensdorf, FHSU Provost, "Melissa’s agile and authenticity-centered leadership has driven the Robbins College to significant growth, including in the MBA program and record student scholarship awards."

Her leadership saw the renewal of the National Security Administration Center for Academic Excellence accreditation for the Information Enterprise Institute and the establishment of the Cybersecurity Institute and Technology Incubator, which provides essential information security consulting for small to mid-sized businesses in Kansas.

Hunsicker-Walburn has also expanded experiential student learning opportunities, such as the Tiger Media Network and the New Media Institute, which focuses on the intersection of culture, communication, and technology.

Reflecting on her journey, she stated, "As a first-generation college graduate, I understand the transformative power of education. I am committed to delivering programs that equip learners with the skills needed for today's dynamic workforce."

Hunsicker-Walburn's appointment symbolizes a commitment to providing high-quality, accessible business education for all students at FHSU.