Washburn University Inaugurates its 15th President, Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek

      Topeka, Kan. – Washburn University is celebrating its rich history while also making history with the inauguration of its first female president, Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek. State leaders, local officials and members of the Washburn community gathered today for the investiture ceremony on the Washburn University campus.

    Festivities focused on celebrating Washburn’s roots, staying true to the mission of serving all students and growing in partnership with the local community to build a bold future. Mazachek has already launched several initiatives, including Together We Thrive, that offer new opportunities for Shawnee County students. Community engagement was among the priorities identified by the Washburn Board of Regents in its search for the university’s 15^th president.

    “Dr. Mazachek recognizes the important synergies between Washburn and our local community,” said Shelly Buhler, chair, Washburn University Board of Regents. “Positive momentum is energizing Washburn University and Washburn Tech as well as our community and state. She is a strong and collaborative leader who will build on these efforts to the benefit of all who call Kansas home.”

    Greg Greenwood, who led the search committee and serves as chair of the Washburn Alumni Association and Foundation Trustees, echoes Buhler’s sentiments. He describes her as the best, most qualified professional to boldly lead Washburn into the future.

    “Dr. Mazachek is an outstanding professional and a person of great integrity. She conducts herself in a genuine way and stays true to her values. In the same way, she works every day to ensure Washburn stays true to its mission of serving all students,” Greenwood said. “She lives Washburn’s motto of Non Nobis Solum – Not for Ourselves Alone.”

    Mazachek began her role as Washburn’s president Feb. 1, 2023, after serving as president of Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas. Prior to that, she spent more than 30 years at Washburn University in various leadership roles including professor, dean of the Washburn School of Business, president of the Washburn University Alumni Association and Foundation and, finally, vice president of academic affairs.

    Mazachek earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering management with an emphasis in mechanical engineering from Missouri University of Science and Technology. She received a master’s degree in business administration and a doctorate in accounting from the University of Kansas.

    She is a dedicated community volunteer and has served on numerous boards of directors including CoreFirst Bank and Trust, Heritage Bank and the Greater Topeka Partnership. Her husband, Keith Mazachek, Ph.D., is coordinator of the Engineering Transfer Program and a senior lecturer of physics and astronomy in the Washburn University College of Arts and Sciences. The Mazacheks have three adult children.

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