06/30/16 sry
HAYS, Kan. -- The word grew fast on Tuesday as the Kansas City business publication Ingram's published a list titled "50 Kansans You Should Know" that included Fort Hays State University's Kris Munsch.

The list consists of men and women all across the Sunflower State ranging from small-town businessmen to leaders of billion-dollar corporations.

"I was very surprised to make the list," said Munsch, assistant professor of applied technology. "I received a call from Ingram's several months ago and was told I was one of about 100 being interviewed. I had forgotten all about it. A buddy of mine actually sent me the link to the list congratulating me, so I was shocked."

Munsch earned his B.S. in technology studies in '03, M.S. in education administration in '09 and Ed.S. in advanced professional studies in '14 all from FHSU.

Before making the decision to come to FHSU in 2012 to teach, Munsch worked as a field manager for Cecil O'Brate, also one of the 50 Kansans you should know.

"Telling Cecil I was leaving him was tough, as I admired who he was as a person," said Munsch. "Simple and hardworking means a lot to me, but I'm grateful now for making the decision I did to leave and teach. As I told my mom yesterday, making this list is another sign that I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be in the universe today. That's a peaceful thought."

Death has impacted Munsch's career. In 2005, his 16-year-old son, Blake, died from an automobile accident, which taught Munsch a new way to live. In 2012, Dr. Fred Ruda, chair of the Technology Studies Department, also died in an automobile accident. Munsch helped the department fill a temporary one-year instructor position.

"If I were to thank anyone, it would be my son who has died," said Munsch. "Blake's death has taught me to live from the soul. That's how I teach, and I'm grateful that he works through me when I'm with my students."

"Anytime something like this happens -- for me it's very humbling. I just do what I do, and without a doubt love what I do," he said. "I'm a simple, hardworking man who was raised by parents who taught me that nothing is free, and no matter what I do, leave things better than I found them."


The full list of Ingram's "50 Kansans You Should Know" is available at http://ingrams.com/article/50-kansans-you-should-know-3.