KU Alumnus Returns to Discuss Military Management


University of Kansas alumnus Rear Adm. Mark Heinrich will speak to business, engineering and military science students about supply chain management in a military environment.

About 100 students will attend the lecture, titled "The Big Business Behind Transforming the Military Supply Chain." Heinrich will discuss how the Navy, through the help of Fortune 500 companies, changed its supply chain tactics. The event begins at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 28, at Spahr Engineering Classroom in Eaton Hall. It is open to the public.

Heinrich commands the Defense Supply Center in Richmond, Va. The center helps supply the Department of Defense with 1.2 million repair parts and supply items. It has an operating inventory of more than $4 billion.

"Students from across the university can draw pertinent information from Rear Adm. Heinrich's presentation, as his background and his successful career represent the application of a broad spectrum of education and experience, from business, engineering and the Navy," said Toni Dixon, director of communications for KU's School of Business. "His professional success is a great example of where the varied educational experiences and programs at KU can lead."

Heinrich, who has served in the Navy for nearly 30 years, graduated from KU with master's degrees in business administration and petroleum management.

"We are very grateful to our alumni who return to campus, meet with students and faculty, and who share their expertise," said Dixon. "They bring a vital link of real-world, pertinent experience to the campus and provide excellent opportunities for students to see the potential their own education offers."

During his visit to KU, Heinrich will meet with petroleum engineering faculty and receive a campus tour from Navy ROTC students, among other activities, before giving his lecture.

Following graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1979, Heinrich was commissioned in the Navy Supply Corps and since has served on the USS Kinkaid, USS Gridley and USS Constellation. Heinrich's personal decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal with four gold stars and the Navy Achievement Medal with two gold stars.