The Shocker community gathered April 22 to remember Dr. Jim Rhatigan, Wichita State’s former dean of students, at a tree dedication ceremony just outside of the Rhatigan Student Center, named in Rhatigan’s honor.
At the ceremony, President Rick Muma spoke to Rhatigan’s lasting legacy to the campus and culture of WSU, and Rhatigan’s wife and daughter, Beverly and Becky, were present, and Rhatigan’s son-in-law, Joe Linot, shared a few words.
“This is a beautiful occasion and we really really appreciate the dedication that Jim has given to the fabric of Wichita State University,” Linot said. “It will always be a part of our lives as long as we live and we thank you so much for having us here today for this dedication.”
Rhatigan came to Wichita State in 1965 as the university’s first, and one of the nation’s youngest at 30 years old, dean of students. He became vice president for student affairs in 1970, holding that position until 1996 and going on to serve as senior vice president until his retirement in 2002.
