At Barton’s commencement Friday, the Barton Community College Foundation presented the 2025 Distinguished Service Award to Dr. Perry and Krista Smith, outstanding members of our community whose unwavering dedication has significantly enriched the missions of Barton Community College and the Foundation. The Distinguished Service Award was created in 1981 to recognize individuals who have shown genuine regard for and performed outstanding service to Barton Community College. 

The Smiths’ connection to Barton began in 1980, when they became season ticket holders during the College’s inaugural basketball season after moving to Great Bend. By the following year, Perry had stepped into the role of team physician and Sports Medicine supervisor, marking the beginning of four decades of dedicated involvement. They quickly recognized Barton’s powerful role in shaping not just students’ futures, but the entire community. 

Over the years, Perry and Krista have been a constant presence at athletic events, theatre and fine arts performances, and Shafer Art Gallery receptions. Perry administered thousands of physicals to Barton athletes, supported Barton’s nursing staff during his tenure as College physician, and served on the Nursing Advisory Board. Krista, a physical therapist, taught Rehab Aide classes and served on the Foundation’s Board of Directors from 1992–1998 and served as the board chair. She also co-chaired the Big Benefit Auction and played a key role on the presidential search committee that hired Dr. Veldon Law, while Perry most recently served on the committee that selected Dr. Marcus Garstecki. 

Their continued involvement is rooted in their belief in Barton’s impact.  

“Watching students achieve success, especially student-athletes gaining confidence in their college journey, is incredibly rewarding,” he said. “We’ve welcomed many students into our home, and they’ve taught our family so much about the world beyond Great Bend, Ks. That’s been one of the most meaningful aspects of our connection to Barton.” 

Krista echoed that sentiment, noting how their daughter’s experience as a Barton basketball player and graduate opened their eyes to the many opportunities available. 

“We came to appreciate not only the services available to students, but also how much the College contributes to the community,” she said. “The economic impact is significant and deeply important to us.” 

In addition to their longtime support of Barton, the Smiths are actively involved in the broader community. They volunteer with the Barton County Food Bank and Meals on Wheels, and both serve on the Barton County Health Department Advisory Board. They are lifetime members of the Barton County Historical Society, Brit Spaugh Zoological Society, and Great Bend Community Theatre. They were also original donors to the Golden Belt Community Foundation. 

Perry currently serves on the board of the Family Crisis Center, while Krista serves on the board of Prairie Godmothers, is a Medicare Part D counselor through Volunteers in Action, is the chair of the Great Bend Public Library Board of Trustees, and serves on both local and state committees for P.E.O. 

Their service, leadership, and generosity have earned them the distinct honor of receiving this award. Their enduring legacy resonates across our campuses, enriching the lives of countless individuals and shaping the future of Barton Community College. The Foundation is honored to recognize Perry and Krista Smith with the 2025 Distinguished Service Award.