A Legacy of Leadership and Philanthropy | W. Frank Barton
By LISA LOEWEN
Wichita’s business climate would not be what it is today without the leadership and generosity shown by Frank Barton. His life’s work and philanthropic contributions left an indelible mark on the landscape of Wichita, and more specifically, the W. Frank Barton School of Business at Wichita State University.
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
Barton started his career in 1937 as most people of his generation did: at the bottom. He worked as a salesman at the Montgomery Ward store in Shawnee, Oklahoma, quickly earning a promotion into management.
Accepting a job offer as regional manager at Western Auto’s Wichita division twelve years later, was the beginning of a lifelong commitment to business and community that would forever leave its mark on Wichita.
Three years after moving to Wichita, Barton could no longer ignore the entrepreneurial spirit burning within his heart. So, in 1952, he started Barton Distributors, which handled appliances, electronic equipment and consumer durable goods.
Over the next several years, Barton Distributors grew rapidly, serving more than 300 dealers across much of Kansas and earning Barton recognition for being one of the leading distributors in the nation for companies such as Gibson, Motorola and Coleman Heating and Air Conditioning.
A VISIONARY ENTREPRENEUR
In 1973, that entrepreneurial fire in Barton’s core began burning once again. He suggested to Tom Devlin to create a partnership and start Rent-A-Center, a concept that allowed customers to purchase furniture, appliances and electronic equipment through a rent-to-own purchase contract.
Over the next 15 years, Rent-A-Center became a prosperous nationwide chain of stores, drawing the attention of global investors. Barton and Devlin sold Rent-A-Center to a British company, Thorn EMI, for $594 million in 1987.
A GIFT THAT CHANGED A SCHOOL
The sale of Barton’s business marked a pivotal moment in the history of Wichita State University. Frank Barton, along with his wife, Patsy, who was a WSU graduate, donated $12 million to endow WSU’s College of Business Administration.
In recognition of this transformative gift, WSU’s Business School was later dedicated in Frank Barton’s name, linking his legacy with the institution. The W. Frank Barton School of Business, as it stands today, is a living testament to the impact of his extraordinary generosity.
A LEADER AND ADVOCATE
Frank Barton’s commitment to Wichita State University extended beyond financial support.
His dedication to the university was evident in his service on the WSU Board of Trustees. This position allowed him to actively participate in shaping the future of the institution. His tireless efforts and visionary thinking made him a driving force behind the university’s continued progress.
Furthermore, Frank Barton was honored with the Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa degree, a recognition of his outstanding contributions to the fields of business and education.
His dedication was further affirmed by his appointment as the chair of the WSU Foundation Board, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the university’s mission.
A FOND FAREWELL
The legacy of Frank Barton is one of dedication, innovation, and philanthropy. He was not just a successful businessman but also a visionary leader who understood the importance of investing in the future.
Frank Barton’s unwavering commitment to education and community has had a lasting impact, leaving a permanent mark on Wichita State University.
Although Frank Barton passed away in September 2000, his influence endures, carried forward by his family.
As the W. Frank Barton School of Business inducts Frank Barton into its inaugural “Beyond” Hall of Fame, it pays tribute to a man whose legacy transcends his lifetime. It’s a testament to the power of visionary leadership and a reminder that the impact of one person can shape the future for generations to come.
