KU News Release

KU chancellor issues statement on death of John J. Conard Sr.

LAWRENCE — University of Kansas Chancellor Robert Hemenway issued the following statement today in response to the death Friday, Oct. 12, of John J. Conard Sr., a former speaker of the Kansas House of Representatives. Conard, 86, also was former director of KU’s University Relations and an assistant to three KU chancellors: E. Laurence Chalmers, Raymond Nichols and Archie R. Dykes. He was executive director of the Kansas Board of Regents from 1976 until his retirement in 1982.

“Dr. Conard had a long and distinguished relationship with the University of Kansas, dating back to his undergraduate days as a Summerfield Scholar. His dedication to public service and higher education in the state of Kansas will not be forgotten. On behalf of the university community, I offer deepest condolences to his wife, Virginia, as well as their sons and other loved ones.”

David Adkins, vice chancellor for external affairs at the KU Medical Center, eulogized Conard at funeral services today at Plymouth Congregational Church in Lawrence. Graveside services with military honors will be at 10:30 a.m. Oct. 16 in Fairview Cemetery in Greensburg.

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The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. University Relations is the central public relations office for KU's Lawrence campus.