By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Barton's 55th Commencement
May 9, 2025
BCC 55th commencement
The 55th Annual Commencement took place May 9 on the Barton County Campus. Students being recognized were those who have completed their GED, certificates and/or associate degrees. Visit https://bartonccc.edu/gradpics for more information. - photo by Photos courtesy of Barton Community College

The 55th Annual Commencement took place May 9 on the Barton County Campus. Students being recognized were those who have completed their GED, certificates and/or associate degrees. Visit https://bartonccc.edu/gradpics for more information. 

2025 outstand bcc grad
Barton 2025 Outstanding Graduates Paige Mink and Tierra Yohon pose for a photo before the Barton commencement ceremony Friday night in the Barton Gymnasium.

Barton Community College recognizes Outstanding Graduates 


Tierra Yohon of Stockton and Paige Mink of Dodge City were named Barton Community College’s 2025 Outstanding Graduates, and Vice President of Student Services Angie Maddy recognized them as part of Barton’s commencement on Friday. 

Yohon completed her associate in science degree with an emphasis in business. She is the daughter of Tera and Jarrett Yohon of Stockton. During her Barton career, Tierra was a member of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) National Honor Society, serving this year as the chapter president, and a member of Future Business Leaders of America. Additionally, Tierra served as a Barton Student Ambassador. She plans to continue her education at Fort Hays State University, seeking her bachelor’s degree and later her master’s degree in business marketing.

Mink earned her associate in science degree with an emphasis in park management and conservation. She is the daughter of Tamara and Scott Mink of Dodge City. During her Barton career, Paige was a member of the Barton Tabletop Gaming Club, the STEM Club, Barton Christian Challenge, Collegiate Farm Bureau, and PTK. Earlier this spring, Paige was named one of Barton’s delegates to the All-Kansas State PTK All-Academic Team and was also selected as a Coca-Cola Silver Scholar. Additionally, Paige competed as part of Barton’s Swim Team. 

Paige plans to continue her education at Kansas State University, seeking her bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife, conservation, and environmental biology. She hopes to build her career in the conservation and environmental arenas, whether in a lab or field position. 


2025 bcc distinguished instructor
Barton Community College 2025 Distinguished Instructors (left to right) Heidi McKennon, Justin Brown, Stephenie Bradford-Clark, and Ann Ingala pose for a photo before the Barton commencement ceremony Friday night in the Barton Gymnasium. (Not pictured, Amber Bebout.)

Exceptional Barton faculty recognized with Distinguished Instructor Awards


Five Barton instructors earned the Distinguished Instructor Award (DIA) for the 2024-2025 academic year for their outstanding efforts in the classroom and were recognized at Barton’s commencement ceremony Friday evening in the Barton Gymnasium. 

The recipients were:

Amber Bebout - Math Instructor - Fort Riley/Fort Leavenworth Campus; Stephenie Bradford-Clark - Chemistry Instructor - Fort Riley/Fort Leavenworth Campus; Justin Brown - English Instructor - Barton County Campus; Ann Ingala - Psychology and Sociology Instructor - Fort Riley/Fort Leavenworth Campus; Heidi McKennon - Nursing - Barton County/Pratt Campus

The DIA recognizes excellence in teaching. The College’s Faculty Council accepts nominations from employees and students. A screening committee reviews the nominations and makes the selections. Criteria for the award include contributions to teaching and learning, alignment with the College’s mission, and community service. A plaque reflecting the names of the award recipients is displayed in the Barton Library.