Rich Jankovich

It may seem hard to believe right now, but the major you choose in college doesn’t define your life. It's the opportunities you pursue and experiences you gain while at K-State that do. Alum Rich Jankovich knows this well.

While at K-State, Jankovich took advantage of the many opportunities college life had to offer. He participated in research projects relating to adaptive physical learning, was a member of K-State Singers, competed nationally in forensics, was cast in an opera and had principal roles in musical theater, having never done any of these things before. It’s always tough to try something new, but who knows? That new experience could be what helps you most as you go through life.

“I have to say that singing in an opera, performing in the K-State Singers and musical theatre, and competing in forensics are probably some of the most poignant activities that have assisted me in my professional life,” Jankovich said. “I have not been afraid to take on challenges out of fear, step out to represent myself, the community or organizations that I have been associated with as well as serving my community and work at all levels of our elected bodies of governments and corporations.”

Jankovich graduated in 1979 with a physical education major, which is no longer offered in the College of Arts and Sciences, and a business minor. He later earned an MBA as well.

After a long career in banking, including as market president for Sunflower Bank, Jankovich now serves as the special accounts manager at Purple Wave, an online auction company, establishing business and analyzing opportunities for innovative, new revenue sources. He has also been a distinguished trooper of the First Infantry Division and Fort Riley and a college athletics coach, with an NCAA Division II championship win in 1984.

Jankovich has also served his community in multiple roles, including as a Manhattan city commissioner, a Via Christi (Mercy) Regional Foundation Board member, and chair of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Military Relations Committee and the College of Arts and Sciences Alumni Advisory Council.

“I still remember the advice I received from my favorite professor,” Jankovich said. “‘Don't worry about where your path leads, represent K-State well and continue to be a proud Wildcat.’”