Distinguished Alumni Marilee McBoyle-Wiesner

Dr. Marilee McBoyle-Wiesner (BA 74-Chemistry)

Dr. Marilee McBoyle-Wiesner didn’t just break barriers — she laid the path for future generations of women in medicine. A 1974 graduate of Emporia State University, she became the first female board-certified general surgeon in Kansas and helped shape the future of surgical education.

A Childhood Surgery Sparked a Lifelong Dream

Growing up on a rural farm in Dickinson County, Kansas, McBoyle-Wiesner’s life changed at age 7 when she had her tonsils removed. The surgeon — a woman, rare for the time — left a lasting impression.

“This was in 1959, and she also had daughters at home,” she said. “She made a great impression on me.”

Finding Her Path at Emporia State

That encounter left a lasting impact and planted the seed of her dream. McBoyle-Wiesner chose Emporia State, then Kansas State Teachers College, as the place to begin her path toward medicine.

“I just thank the Lord because ESU was the right school for me,” she said. “It was big enough that I could do everything and then some, but I wasn’t sitting in chemistry classes of 300 or 400. I would have been overwhelmed at some of the bigger schools.”

During her time on campus, she thrived as a student and leader — joining the marching band, vocal ensemble and pre-med club. She credits ESU’s faculty with giving her the support she needed to succeed, both during and after her time on campus.

“It was a celebration when I got into medical school,” she said. “Professors who had mentored me, written recommendation letters and cheered me on were just as excited as I was.”

Breaking Barriers in Surgery

In 1977, she became the first woman accepted into the surgery residency program at the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita. She went on to become the first female board-certified general surgeon in the state. Her career included roles as a medical director, clinical professor, breast care specialist, wound care researcher and surgical educator.

She received many honors, including full membership in the American College of Surgeons’ Academy of Master Surgeon Educators. KU School of Medicine-Wichita named its surgical skills lab in her honor, recognizing her lasting legacy.

Giving Back and Inspiring the Next Generation

Today, McBoyle-Wiesner is retired and enjoying time with her family in Wichita, helping with her husband’s business, Fresh Roast Coffee. Her connection to Emporia State remains strong. She has served on the ESU Alumni Association Board of Directors and was a founding donor of the Marilee McBoyle Pre-Medical Scholarship, which supports aspiring doctors following in her footsteps.