As the Kansas Legislature is back in session for 2025-26 and we enter a new federal administration, please remember that Wichita State employees, when acting as representatives of the university, should consult with the executive director of government relations, Zach Gearhart — 316-978-3001 or zachary.gearhart@wichita.edu — before engaging with elected local, state or federal officials.
All WSU activities involving federal, state and/or local government officials/staff must also be developed in consultation with Gearhart to ensure WSU’s official position is being properly and appropriately presented.
These guidelines only apply when acting as an official representative of the university and do not apply to employees when acting in their personal capacity, but employees should not use university resources when doing so. For more information on political activities policy, consult Policy 3.17 / Political and Lobbying Activities by Employees.
