August 30, 2024
K-State announces new corporate engagement team
Submitted by Office of the Executive Vice President for External Engagement and Chief of Staff
Kansas State University is strengthening its culture of entrepreneurship, innovation and economic development with the launch of the new Office of Corporate Engagement.
The office will be led by Rachelle Banwart, executive director of corporate engagement, and Emily Garwood, associate director of corporate engagement. Together, they will drive efforts to attract large businesses to Kansas and build both current and future external corporate partnerships.
"We are excited for Rachelle and Emily to join the K-State community and the immense benefits this new office will bring to both our university and the greater community," said Marshall Stewart, executive vice president for external engagement and chief of staff. "This team will create opportunities for students, faculty and staff to engage in innovative research, internships and real-world problem solving, while creating deeper partnerships and ensuring that we remain at the forefront of economic and entrepreneurial advancements."
Banwart, a K-State alumna and seasoned sales and marketing professional, brings over a decade of business development experience across a variety of industries. She has consistently driven innovation, led cross-functional teams and managed key partnerships to deliver both top-line and bottom-line growth. Banwart's expertise in market development, strategic planning and promotional execution has expanded the reach of well-known brands.
Most recently, Banwart has led sales teams and broker networks through emerging market trends, guiding product development and customer innovation. Her expertise spans market analysis, trade management and consumer-focused initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to results through strategic foresight and collaboration.
Garwood is a highly experienced leader with a strong background in organizational leadership, risk management and business development. As managing director for K-State's Center for Risk Management Education and Research, she built strategic industry partnerships, aligning academic programs with market needs and offering students applied learning experiences. Under her leadership, student applications increased by 60%, industry-sponsored research projects flourished and student engagement strategies were strengthened.
Previously, Garwood served as a College of Agriculture development officer for the KSU Foundation, securing major gifts for academic programs, and managed pricing operations for a global agribusiness company as a pricing specialist. Her expertise includes data analysis, financial management and cross-functional collaboration.
Banwart will begin on Sept. 9, and Garwood on Sept. 30. The Office of Corporate Engagement will be temporarily located in Anderson Hall and will relocate to 1960 Kimball Ave. once construction is complete.