FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 8, 2025

Jim Kessler to chair Emporia State presidential search committee

(Topeka, Kan.) –Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) Chair Blake Benson announced today that Jim Kessler will serve as chair of the Emporia State University (ESU) presidential search committee.

“Jim is an alumnus of Emporia State who has worked tirelessly over the years to give back to the university and advance the Emporia community,” said Chair Benson. “His experience as a business leader and a public servant makes him an ideal choice to lead the search committee.”

“I’m excited to lead the search committee in its work to identify a strong field of candidates to serve as the next president of Emporia State,” said Kessler. “Emporia State University creates remarkable opportunities for Kansas students and families and helps drive prosperity in our region. I look forward to helping the Board find a leader who will continue the great work being done by the institution.”

Kessler graduated from Emporia State in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science in business administration. He began working for Modern Air Conditioning, Inc. and eventually became a co-owner. He retired as president and owner of the company in January 2017.

Kessler served two four-year terms on the Emporia City Commission including several terms as mayor. He is a past chair of the Emporia Area Chamber and Visit Emporia, as well as chair for the Regional Development Association and Emporia Enterprises. He has also served on the ESU Foundation Board of Directors. Kessler has given back to the Emporia community through his work with many other organizations.

The Board plans to vote on the membership of the search committee soon.

For more information, please contact Matt Keith at (785) 430-4237 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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About the Kansas Board of Regents
The nine-member Kansas Board of Regents is the governing board of the state’s six universities and the statewide coordinating board for the state’s 32 public higher education institutions (six state universities, one municipal university, nineteen community colleges, and six technical colleges). In addition, the Board administers the state’s student financial aid, adult education, high school equivalency, and career and technical education programs. Private proprietary schools and out-of-state institutions are authorized by the Kansas Board of Regents to operate in Kansas.