A. W. Dirks, Member

In June 1995, Governor Graves, appointed A.W. "Bill" Dirks to the Citizens' Utility Ratepayer Board. He served two terms under Governor Graves and was reappointed by Governor Sebelius in 2003 and 2008. Since his appointment to the Board, Mr. Dirks has served as Chairman or Vice-Chairman.

Mr. Dirks has been a volunteer with AARP since 1988, with emphasis on legislation and consumer issues. He has served as Kansas Legislative Chair, National Legislative Council (2002-2003) and as State Coordinator for AARP/VOTE. Currently he is the State Leader for Congressional Districts one and four.

Dirks is a volunteer member of the Board for Credit Union of America. He has served five years as Vice-Chairman and five years as Chairman of the Board.

Mr. Dirks is a veteran of the Navy in World War II. He has had a long career in Education. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from McPherson College, a Masters degree from Wichita State University, and a Doctoral degree in Administration and Research from the University of Kansas. Mr. Dirks has earned scholarships from McPherson College and its highest award, Citation of Merit. He was awarded a Research Grant and Fellowship to work with Fulbright Scholars at the University of Kansas. He is listed in Who's Who in American Education and Who's Who in Wichita. He has been a Fulbright Scholar to Italy and the Netherlands.

Bill Dirks and his wife have two daughters and two granddaughters. They enjoy volunteer work with their church and community and have traveled extensively.

Mr. Dirks is serving a four-year term, which expires June 30, 2011.