Special Thanks to the Butler Marketing Department for photography and writing assistance.
The Butler Community College Foundation Magazine is published twice a year and maintains the copyright of the materials contained within these pages. All rights reserved. Please send comments and updates to Butler Community College Foundation, 901 S. Haverhill Road, El Dorado, KS 67042, by email to foundation@butlercc.edu, by phone at 316-323-6355, or by fax to 316-323-6750.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Message from Tom Borrego and Jackie Vietti Livestock Judging Team Wins National Title
Dr. Tamara Daniel Named President of Butler Community College Commencement
2025 Hubbard Award of Excellence Winner
Transfer Scholarship Winners
End-of-Year Celebrations
Master Teacher: Miles Erpelding
Butler Bonanza
Builder Bash
Butler Celebrates 50th Anniversary with McConnell
Student Spotlight: Barrett Pirtle
BCTV Honored with Innovation Award
Butler Briefs
Butler Mourns the Loss of Beloved Professor Lindsey Fields
In Memoriam
The following friends of Butler have memorials established in their names.
Lindsey Fields • Phil Theis
Memorial and tribute gifts can be given through the Butler Foundation’s website at https://butlerccfoundation.org/ give or by calling the Foundation at 316-323-6734. Donors may contribute funds to honor a loved one or special individual. Memorial gifts are a meaningful and lasting way to acknowledge a life that has passed while tribute gifts remember a birthday, anniversary, or special event.
In January, Dr. Kimberly Krull concluded her 11-year tenure as president of Butler Community College. In the interim, Dr. Jackie Vietti, former 17-year Butler Community College president, graciously stepped in as the college’s interim president, guiding us through the spring semester, including the search for our next president.
Dr. Tamara Daniel was welcomed as the sixth president of Butler Community College on June 23. You can learn more about her in this edition. Words cannot fully express our sincere gratitude to Dr. Vietti for her leadership and ability to slip back into her role as president. Thank you, Dr. Vietti!
As summer begins, Butler Community College begins a new chapter. We are grateful to all who support our mission and make an education possible for those who choose to call Butler home. Go Grizzlies!
DID YOU KNOW YOU CAN SUPPORT THE BUTLER FOUNDATION WHILE DOING YOUR GROCERY SHOPPING?
The Butler Foundation is now a Dillons Food Stores Community Rewards program member!
1. Login to your Dillons Food Stores account.
2. Go to My Account and select Community Rewards.
3. Search for Butler Community College Foundation or with TM789 (our non-profit number).
4. Click enroll. It’s that easy!
Customers must have a registered Dillons Food Stores rewards card to link to the organization. If you need help, visit a customer service desk at your local Dillons!
Author Thomas Wolfe has been noted as saying that one can never go home again. With all due respect to Mr. Wolfe, I wholeheartedly disagree, especially if home is where the heart is. Thus, it has been a tremendous privilege for me to come home to Butler and serve as its interim president for the spring semester.
What I have rediscovered is innovation in action coupled with an unrivaled passion for the College’s mission of inspiring and preparing students for lifetime success while advancing the broader community’s vitality. Both facets are lived day in and day out by our incredibly talented faculty and staff. That said, it is certain they could not make the measurable differences they make without the amazing generosity of our steadfast supporters, whose belief in Butler is unwavering.
As I prepare to end my interim tenure at Butler, I am reminded of this fact: You never really leave Butler…and Butler never really leaves you. I am forever grateful that I will always be able to come home to Butler, as you, too, can. We will leave the light on and the door open for you to come back at any time.
With lasting gratitude,
LIVESTOCK JUDGING TEAM Wins National Title
BUTLER LIVESTOCK JUDGING TEAM WINS NATIONAL TEAM OF THE YEAR TITLE
Butler Community College’s nationally recognized Livestock Judging Team has been named the 2024–2025 National Team of the Year, following a strong performance as Reserve Champions at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo earlier this year. In addition, four team members earned prestigious AllAmerican honors.
This is the sixth time the Butler judging team has been named National Team of the Year, and the first time since 2020–2021.
To earn the top honor, teams must achieve the lowest cumulative rank across five major competitions. According to Taylor Frank, Butler’s head coach, it came down to the final contest. “Heading into Houston, we were ranked third. We needed a strong performance and a bit of luck, too,” he said. “But this team never wavered. They stayed focused, driven, and united—rooted in optimism, a relentless work ethic, and a team-first mindset.”
Derek Foust, associate dean of career and technical education and a former Butler agriculture instructor, emphasized the significance of the victory. “I know the students personally and they are extremely deserving,” said Foust. “Butler has a reputation of being highly competitive in livestock judging, and this [win] helps us recruit the most talented judgers across the country.”
Livestock judging competitions involve two main components: placings and reasons. In placing, students rank animals based on select characteristics. Their accuracy is scored against official judge rankings. The closer their placing aligns with how the official judges scored the animals, the better the score. In reasons, students must clearly and persuasively explain why they placed the animals as they did.
The four Butler students named as All-Americans are Bailee Amstutz, Richwood, Ohio; Riley Miller, Laramie, Wyoming; Cole Paulek, Stonington, Illinois; and Matt Weber, Lake Benton, Minnesota.
TRUST IN A S ure THING
There is something calming, reassuring and consistent about the beach. The waves, sand and sun will warm your body and calm your soul. However, you do not have to go to the beach to have the benefits of visiting one. Sometimes a sure thing can be found closer to home. Our charitable gift annuity is a sure thing that gives you comforting benefits:
• We send you fixed payments for life
• You receive a favorable payment rate
• You receive an income tax deduction and possible capital gains benefits
Photo: Members of the 2024–2025 National Champion Butler Livestock Judging Team. Front row (from left): Matt Weber, Cole Paulek, Bailee Amstutz, Brody Scroggins, Riley Miller, Mason Forkner. Back row: Assistant Coach Cal Schultz, Assistant Coach Caleb Edens, Brady Hurt, Jalyn Davis, Cally Miller, Maddie Dean, Carly Dreher, Tucker Stagemeyer, Head Coach Taylor Frank.
Dr. Tamara Daniel
NAMED PRESIDENT OF BUTLER COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Following a nationwide search, the Butler Community College Board of Trustees has named Dr. Tamara Daniel as the institution’s sixth president in its nearly 100-year history. She assumed her role on June 23.
Dr. Daniel brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in the community college sector. She most recently served as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at Arkansas State University-Mountain Home (ASUMH), a two-year college with 1,500 students. Her previous roles include vice president at Dyersburg State Community College in Tennessee and associate dean of academics and mathematics department chair at Southwest Tennessee Community College in Memphis.
She holds a doctorate and a master’s in mathematics, as well as a bachelor's degree in psychology, all from the University of Mississippi.
“I am deeply thankful to the Board of Trustees for their trust,” said Daniel. “I’m committed to honoring Butler’s proud legacy alongside our dedicated employees and becoming deeply embedded in the community. Together, we will continue to innovate, collaborate, and keep students at the center of everything we do.”
Board Chair Forrest Rhodes says the Trustees believe Daniel is the right leader for Butler at the right time. “Dr. Tamara Daniel is uniquely qualified to lead Butler through any challenges, while expanding opportunities for our students’ and communities’ success,” he said. “Additionally, Dr. Daniel is fully supportive of Butler’s strong sense of family and its timeless institutional values of quality, integrity, service, and caring.”
Interim President Dr. Jackie Vietti believes Daniel possesses the unique capabilities necessary to not only sustain but expand the college’s difference-making impact. “Dr. Daniel has the skill set to lead Butler to its next best level by fostering the enduring culture of the Butler family. During the interview process, it became clear that Daniel recognizes the many strengths and innovative work of our faculty and staff and will build upon those, while bringing exciting new ideas to the table.”
Dr. Daniel looks forward to building on Butler’s established foundation of quality education and student support. “I’m truly inspired by the incredible work that’s already being done, and I’m eager to amplify that momentum,” she said.
Daniel’s inauguration is scheduled for October 16, 2025.
Commencement
More than 600 Butler Community College degree candidates attended the May 16 commencement ceremony at the BG Products Veterans Sports Complex. During the ceremony, Kassie Davis was presented with the $15,000 Hubbard Award of Excellence transfer scholarship. Congratulations to all our graduates!
2025 HUBBARD AWARD of Excellence Winner
Kassie Davis
Kassie, a Douglass High School graduate, is a social work major and will transfer to Friends University to continue her studies. She is dedicated to utilizing her knowledge and education to enter social work, making a difference in the lives of children and families seeking stability.
While at Butler, Kassie worked full-time, attended college fulltime, and lived independently. She was also an active vocal music scholarship student and competed internationally with the A Cappella choir.
After getting her master’s degree in sociology, Kassie hopes to work for the Kansas Department for Children and Families or a school.
“I have a passion for working with adolescents in unsafe situations,” said Kassie. “No child should ever feel unsafe or uneasy in their own home. They deserve better, and I hope I can make that happen for them.”
HUBBARD AWARD FINALISTS
Ella Boozer
Transfer Institution: University of Kansas Hometown: Andover / Andover Central High School
Ella is a journalism and mass communication major who has been an active journalism student at Butler, participating in BCTV, the sports media team, and the Grizzly Magazine. Ella was the first woman in 16 years to win the Kansas Collegiate Media Journalist of the Year in 2024.
Allie Conard
Transfer Institution: Kansas State University
Hometown: Andover / Andover High School
Claire Lopez
Transfer Institution: Undecided
Hometown: Olathe, Kansas / Olathe Northwest High School
Claire is a mathematics major and will continue her studies in data analytics. She graduated from Butler as an Academic All-American and has accomplished every goal set for herself so far.
Cally Miller
Transfer Institution: Kansas State University
Hometown: El Dorado / Circle High School
Allie is a pre-engineering major and will pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. Allie says that Butler has broadened her mind and grown her as a person while creating lasting and impactful relationships with peers and faculty.
Cally is an agriculture and agribusiness major. As a member of the nationally ranked Livestock Judging team, Cally balanced study time with travel and competitions, achieving success throughout.
Tucker Stagemeyer
Transfer Institution: Kansas State University
Hometown: Page, Nebraska / Oneill High School
Tucker is a double major in agribusiness and general agriculture. Tucker is also a member of the Livestock Judging team and participated in the Kansas Collegiate Farm Bureau.
John Blickenstaff, Butler Foundation board president, presents Kassie with the Hubbard Award of Excellence
TRANSFER SCHOLARSHIP Winners
Butler Community College Trustee Scholarship –Ella Boozer
Transfer Institution: University of Kansas
Major: Multimedia Journalism with a minor in Photography
Hometown: Andover, Kansas / Andover Central High School
Winnie Broers Estate Scholarship –Allie Conard
Transfer Institution: Kansas State University
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Hometown: Andover, Kansas / Andover High School
Lindsey Carter Fields Excellence in Science Scholarship –Emmary Eagleson
Transfer Institution: University of Oklahoma
Major: Biology
Hometown: Augusta, Kansas / Bluestem High School
David & Shirley Longfellow BEST Scholarship –
Bridget Martin
Transfer Institution:
Emporia State University
Major: Elementary Education
Hometown: Augusta, Kansas / Douglass High School
Helen Teter Zebold Scholarship –Noah Broomes
Transfer Institution:
Wichita State University
Major: Exercise Science
Hometown: Wichita, Kansas / Home School
Fran Jabara Presidential Business Scholarship –Lily Vance
Transfer Institution:
Wichita State University
Major: Business
Hometown: Augusta, Kansas / Augusta High School
Jim & Susie Edwards “Make A Difference” Scholarship – Cole Paulek
Transfer Institution:
Kansas State University
Major: Animal Science
Hometown: Stonington, Illinois / Taylorville High School
Frank H. Cron Award & Butler County Historical Society/Kansas Oil Museum Scholarship –Gavin Willett
Transfer Institution: Undecided
Major: History
Hometown: Wichita, Kansas / Andover Central High School
END-OF-YEAR Celebrations
BUTLER’S EARLY COLLEGE ACADEMY RECOGNIZES GRADUATES
More than 100 high school students celebrated alongside family and friends at Butler Community College’s 2025 Early College Academy (ECA) ceremony, marking over a decade of high schoolers earning associate degrees, technical certificates, or Academy Scholar certificates through the program.
The ceremony recognized students who completed collegelevel programs in fields such as health science, cybersecurity, welding, and more. Each received an academic cord to wear during Butler’s commencement.
Student speakers Savannah Mann (Andover, liberal arts), Barrett Pirtle (Leon, welding), and Katie Evans (Wichita, health science) reflected on how the ECA—and the support of their instructors and peers—shaped their academic and personal growth.
According to Heather Rinkenbaugh, dean of online, high school, & community learning, the 2025 cohort had already received more than $500,000 in transfer scholarship offers as of the ceremony, with more expected before the fall semester begins.
HONORS & AWARDS
Butler hosted the annual Honors and Awards Recognition Ceremony a few hours before the Butler Commencement Ceremony. More than 130 students were honored.
The Order of the Gold is the highest academic recognition a student can receive at Butler. Order of the Gold graduates achieved a combined 4.0 grade point average. This year, forty-five students were honored with Order of the Gold medallions.
NURSES PINNING
Butler’s spring nurses pinning ceremony celebrated 67 students who entered the nursing ranks.
“You have acquired the skills you need to do the job, and that’s good,” said Interim President Dr. Jackie Vietti. “But you’ve also learned how to treat the mind and the heart. That’s exceptional.”
Among the 67 nurses, nine graduates earned their KU BSN and Butler AND degrees simultaneously.
This semester’s graduating class included the first cohort of students from the Winfield satellite campus, which opened in the fall of 2023 in collaboration with Cowley College. The campus partnership allows area students to attend a nearby nursing program while the schools work to combat the nursing shortage in that part of the state.
REDLER INSTITUTE OF CULINARY ARTS TOQUE CEREMONY
Redler Institute of Culinary Arts celebrated 12 graduates at their third annual Toque Ceremony. Students received their toques at the event.
“It was exciting to see these young chefs receive the traditional toque in front of their family and friends to show they completed their culinary pathway,” said Les Padzensky, director of the Redler Institute. “It was truly a delicious day at Redler.”
The Order of the Purple graduates achieved a combined grade point average of 3.75 or above. This year, ninety-two students were honored with Order of the Purple medallions.
Master Teacher MILES ERPELDING
Miles Erpelding, full-time professor and lead professor for criminal justice, has been named the 2025 Master Teacher Award by the Butler Community College Education Association (BCCEA). The award honors a faculty member who demonstrates exceptional teaching, student engagement, scholarship, and service to the college and the association.
“I’m extremely grateful and flattered to receive this honor,” said Erpelding. “I owe an immense debt of gratitude to my former Master Teachers and current colleagues for shaping and molding my teaching career. I will do my best to pay it forward by mentoring new and future instructors here at Butler.”
A lifelong El Dorado resident, Erpelding earned his associate degree in political science from Butler, followed by bachelor’s and master’s degrees in administration of justice from Wichita State University. He has taught at Butler for 30 years while also working as a probation officer with the 13th Judicial District Court.
During his tenure at Butler, Erpelding served on the Criminal Justice Advisory Committee and the Student Review and Appeals Committee. He has also served the community as an academy advisor for the Kansas Highway Patrol
Training Academy, a team member for Butler County C.E.R.T. (Community Emergency Response Team), a board member for the 13th Judicial District Juvenile Corrections Advisory Board, and a program mentor for Youth Leadership Butler.
“Criminal justice is an applied discipline,” said Erpelding. “We do not only teach students about criminal justice, we help prepare them to do justice out there in the ‘real world.’ What we teach matters, and how to engage and inspire change with students really matters.”
“Miles not only has tremendous experience and knowledge that he shares with his students, but he organizes and participates in meaningful learning outside the classroom, too,” said Kris Estes, professor of economics, who nominated Erpelding. “He takes students to the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Academy (KLETA) to show them firsthand about future criminal justice careers."
The Master Teacher reception, award, and honorarium are made possible by the Marjorie Gilroy Knowles Teaching Excellence Fund, administered by the Butler Community College Foundation.
PROFESSORS SUTTER, OLMSTEAD RECEIVE ROUECHE AWARD FOR TEACHING EXCELLENCE
Butler Community College professors
Jenifer Sutter of Andover and Rue Ann Olmstead of Milton have been named this year’s John & Suanne Roueche Excellence in Teaching Award.
The award goes to one full-time and one adjunct faculty member each year, based on student nominations and selected by Butler's Faculty Development Team.
Sutter, an assistant professor in Butler’s chemistry department, is this year’s full-time faculty recipient. “I am so very honored to receive this award. It means so much to me because I was nominated by my students, [and] I am a teacher because of them,” Sutter said, adding, “They make me want to come to work every day and do the best I can. They are my ‘why.’”
Olmstead, a science, engineering, and math professor, is this year’s adjunct faculty honoree. “I love teaching math to people who hate math. I try to take the fear out of math,” Olmstead said. “My favorite student evaluation from about 15 years ago was ‘I haven't felt this smart since 3rd grade,’” she recalled.
The Excellence in Teaching Awards are presented by the League for Innovation in the Community College, an international nonprofit organization dedicated to professional development and student success in community colleges. The Excellence Award recognizes community college faculty nationwide who make a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying exceptional teaching and leadership.
Sutter and Olmstead will receive a medallion, certificate, and $500 honorarium.
Jenifer Sutter
Rue Ann Olmstead
Butler Bonanza RAISES MORE THAN A QUARTER OF A MILLION DOLLARS
More than 325 guests gathered for the 28th annual Butler Benefit Auction on March 7, celebrating this year’s theme— Butler Bonanza. As the largest fundraiser for the Butler Community College Foundation, the event raised more than $235,000 to support student scholarships and academic opportunities.
Forrest and Tiffany Rhodes served as honorary chairs for the event. Butler alum Austin Clift (’10) emceed for the evening, and Jeremy Sundgren served as auctioneer.
The festivities began with a lively social hour, where guests mingled and sampled gourmet bites crafted by students from the Redler Institute of Culinary Arts. The silent auction featured more than 90 items generously donated by local businesses and friends of Butler, while the live auction energized the room with more than 20 high-interest packages, ultimately raising more than $88,000.
Current Butler students representing the livestock judging team, BCTV, the Culinary Arts program, Butler Athletics, and the Fine Arts department made significant contributions to the evening’s success.
More than $70,000 was raised during the Pure Philanthropy portion of the evening, in which bidders donated directly to scholarships for students instead of bidding on a specific auction item.
The evening was made possible by the generosity of many corporate sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor HF Sinclair; Elite Sponsors—Bank of America, Premier Food Service, Gravity::Works Architecture, PEC, Simpson Construction Services, and L.J. Lechtenberg Strategic Financial Partners; and Gold Sponsors—Commerce Bank, BG Products, Vintage Bank, Forvis Mazars, and Demo Distributors.
Those interested in attending, sponsoring, or donating to next year’s auction on March 6, 2026, should contact Jennifer Green-Miracle at 316-323-6338 or jgreenmiracl@butlercc.edu.
Forrest & Tiffany Rhodes, honorary chairs
Staci & Russ McCaig
Joe Surmeier with PEC
Kacey Gard, Dave Sherrer
Greg Joyce with the Magic Bid Paddle
Evie & Bill Shriver
Andrea & Dane Pletcher, McLaren & Garret Armstrong
BUILDER BASH
Butler Community College hosted its first-ever Builder BASH in April. More than 200 area middle school students enjoyed a day of hands-on activities as they explored careers in the construction industry.
As part of the event, students helped build 30 bed frames for Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a national nonprofit that builds basic wooden bed frames with the help of volunteers. Then they deliver and assemble the frame, mattress, and bedding for children who are sleeping on the floor.
Nies Homes, one of the event partners, posted the following on their Facebook page after the event.
“We loved working with middle schoolers—introducing them to different trades like framing, measuring, sawing, hammering, and even creating interior design mood boards! It was so inspiring to see their curiosity and creativity in action. We can’t wait to be back next year to keep encouraging the next generation of builders and makers!”
Other partners assisting with the event included Evergy, GTG Peterbilt, Junior Achievement—Wichita, Professional Women in Building, Wichita Area Builders Association, Ray’s Electric, Plumbing Solutions, Mill Creek, and ABI Construction.
Builder BASH provided a valuable opportunity for students to explore skilled trades, connect with industry professionals, and participate in meaningful community service.
BUTLER CELEBRATES 50 TH ANNIVERSARY WITH MCCONNELL
Butler Community College and McConnell Air Force Base celebrated their 50-year partnership with a special event on April 24 at the Dole Center on McConnell Air Force Base.
It all started on January 27, 1975, when Butler Community College taught its first course at McConnell Air Force Base. That one class kicked off what would become 50 years of partnership, growth, and opportunity, and it represents
one of the longest-running partnerships between a military installation and a community college in the nation.
“Butler Community College has served Airmen from all over the country here at McConnell Air Force Base,” Colonel Matthew Basler “Baz”, Commander of the 931 Operations Group, expressed. “They have helped these Airmen grow intellectually, becoming better versions of themselves. When those Airmen leave Kansas and serve elsewhere throughout the world, they will make a global impact with the education they received at Butler Community College.”
In military fashion, coins were presented to attendees that featured both McConnell AFB and Butler Community College on opposite sides to commemorate the anniversary.
The event featured a presentation of the colors by the McConnell AFB Honor Guard, comments from Butler and military leaders, a performance by the Butler Smorgaschords, and a reception catered by Butler’s Redler Institute of Culinary Arts and Great Western Dining.
STUDENT Spotlight
Early College, Early Career: Barrett Pirtle Lands
Six-Figure Job at 18
At just 18, Barrett Pirtle isn’t your average teenager. While many high school seniors are still weighing college decisions or summer jobs, the Leon, Kansas, native was forging a path to a six-figure job—all thanks to a welding hood and a relentless drive.
A student at Butler’s Early College Academy, Pirtle’s journey kicked off with a spark. Drawn to welding for its peace and artistic precision, he finds solace in the silence beneath the hood. “All I think about is keeping that electrode steady and constant,” he said.
Pirtle received the Jeremy Brown Memorial Scholarship for Welding through the Butler Foundation, helping him pursue his welding education.
Pirtle entered his first-ever competition at Heartland Welding Academy in Andover earlier this year. Intimidated but determined, he arrived with modest expectations and left as a champion, winning an $18,500 prize. “I had very little faith in myself,” he admitted. “But I ended up coming out with a firstplace win.”
Energized by that victory, Pirtle entered another competition hosted by the Kentucky Welding Institute. “I thought I had a decent chance to get top 10,” he recalled. Out of 125 competitors, Pirtle placed fourth, earning $2,000 in prizes and $4,500 in scholarships.
Longtime Butler welding instructor Matt Galbraith wasn’t surprised. “He’s one of the best students I’ve ever had, if not the best,” said Galbraith. According to him, Barrett’s skill stems from a powerful mix of natural talent and relentless ambition. “What impresses me the most is he is absolutely driven to be the best he can be at everything he chooses to pursue.”
Welding, however, was just the beginning. Pirtle had long dreamed of working in refinery operations like his father. With a résumé stacked with certifications and accomplishments, he applied to Clean Harbors Oil Refinery in Wichita. Out of 55 applicants, he got the job. Just days after graduating from Butler and high school, Pirtle launched a six-figure career. From welding beads to breaking barriers, Barrett Pirtle is living proof that passion, hard work, and confidence can ignite a bright future.
BCTV HONORED WITH INNOVATION AWARD
The Wichita Business Journal recognized Butler Creative Television (BCTV) at its 2025 Innovation Awards in March for the program’s creative approach and rapid growth.
Over the past year, BCTV, Butler’s student-run TV station, has doubled student participation and found innovative ways to provide access to cutting-edge technology. The Business Journal spotlighted BCTV’s long-term leasing strategy, which enables students to use industry-standard equipment otherwise beyond the program’s budget. The technology integrates with BCTV’s mobile production trailer, supporting
large-scale livestreams for clients such as the NBC World Series, Wichita State, and the Wichita Open.
Butler Creative TV has generated over $100,000 in revenue through creative content, live streaming, and sponsorships. BCTV students earn a books and tuition scholarship, college credit, and hands-on industry experience.
BUTLER Briefs
BUTLER FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES STAFF CHANGES
KYLA
GASTON
Kyla Gaston has been promoted to scholarship coordinator for the Butler Community College Foundation. Kyla has assumed the responsibility of managing scholarships for the college and the Foundation.
“When we hired Kyla, we knew she had the capability to assume more responsibilities, and we are thrilled that she has agreed to take on this new role,” said Tom Borrego, vice president for advancement and special assistant to the president.
Kyla was hired in November 2024 as the Foundation’s executive assistant and office manager. She will continue her role as office manager.
AVERIE NELSON
Averie Nelson has been assigned a new role with the Foundation focused on giving to the endowment and athletics.
“Averie has established wonderful relationships throughout BUCO Nation and with athletics,” said Borrego. “This new focus will allow her to strategize and develop a more robust giving program for our student athletes, coaches, and athletic administration.”
Averie was hired in 2006 by the Foundation to manage its gift process and was later promoted to assume the management of scholarships as well as major gift fundraising. She will continue in her role as a major gift officer for academic programs and scholarships.
BUTLER NAMES DR. AIDAN DUNLEAVY ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT OF INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH
Butler Community College has named Dr. Aidan Dunleavy of Andover as the new associate vice president of institutional research and effectiveness.
Dunleavy joins Butler from Wichita State University, where he was director of finance. He previously served as director
of institutional research, assessment, and accreditation at Friends University.
“This position provides so many opportunities to interact with faculty and staff across the college and to influence the systems and resources available to help our students, which is incredibly fulfilling to me.”
He holds bachelor’s degrees in economics and business administration from the University of Kansas, an MBA from Creighton University, and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy from the University of Kansas. He is also a Certified Management Accountant.
SOUTHWESTERN, BUTLER, COWLEY PARTNER WITH WILLIAM NEWTON HOSPITAL TO OPEN SIMULATION CENTER FOR NURSING STUDENTS
Southwestern College, Butler Community College, Cowley College, and William Newton Hospital hosted an open house in February for the new Nursing Simulation Center located in the Winfield Healthcare Center on the hospital campus.
“This program is a vital investment in the future of healthcare in south central Kansas, providing essential training and strengthening our workforce,” said Brian Barta, William Newton Hospital's chief executive officer.
Community members, faculty, staff, and trustees from the partner institutions attended the event, which featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours of the facility. Visitors viewed demonstrations of the high-fidelity patient mannequins and pharmaceutical dispensing unit that offer realistic training for nursing students.
“Butler knows firsthand that higher education is stronger when our colleges work together to achieve things we would be unable to accomplish alone,” said Dr. Jackie Vietti, Butler interim president. “The level of cooperation has been remarkable, and we could not have asked for better partners to undertake this difference-making initiative.”
Butler’s nursing students began using the center in February, and Southwestern’s first cohort of nurses will start in fall 2025.
STUDENTS TO COMPETE IN NATIONAL FBLA CONFERENCE
Butler Community College students competed at the 74th Annual Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference at the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, Kansas.
Competing against two- and four-year colleges in businessrelated events, four Butler students, Matt Shults, Eskridge;
Thara Lee Kenmarla Casimir, Haiti; Lideah Moreland, Augusta; and Leiloni Langinlur, Wichita, qualified to compete at the National Collegiate FBLA conference in Dallas this summer.
“Our students competed with dedication and professionalism, and I am beyond proud that they qualified to compete in Dallas,” said Janice Akao, accounting professor and FBLA advisor. “This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and passion for business and leadership.”
MASS COMMUNICATION STUDENTS RECEIVE AWARDS
The Kansas Association of Broadcasters (KAB) announced its annual Student Production Award winners, with Butler Community College students earning seven awards for radio and television work produced over the past year.
Five Butler students and one team were honored. Butler was the only two-year college recognized. Competing against undergraduate and graduate programs from across Kansas, Butler ranked fifth overall in total awards, behind only fouryear universities.
The five students recognized were Daniel Fee, Potwin; Kaden Warner and Sam White, Wichita; Andrew Wiele, Andover; and Alexander Colburn, Rose Hill. The team award was an honorable mention to Butler Creative Television (BCTV).
Over 28 years of competition, Butler has earned 313 KAB awards: 108 first place, 97 second place, and 108 honorable mentions.
KANSAS COLLEGIATE MEDIA AWARDS
Staff from Butler’s student newspaper, The Lantern, and magazine, The Grizzly, brought home multiple awards from the Kansas Collegiate Media (KCM) conference this spring.
The Lantern earned 18 individual awards and placed second overall. Editor-in-Chief Caileane Thurston of Newton led the way with seven individual honors. “I was a little bit surprised, but at the same time, I was very proud of myself,” Thurston said. “My passion for journalism and writing means a lot to me.”
The Grizzly earned three individual awards. Editor-in-Chief Ella Boozer of Andover received five awards for her work across both publications.
Additional award winners included Wensheng (Rosie) Cheng and Lehener Aresenio of
El Dorado; Megan Wilson and Baylor Henry of Wichita; and Kaylin Bergeron of Overland Park.
STUDENTS
HONORED AT PHI THETA KAPPA CEREMONY
Four members of Butler Community College’s Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) chapter were honored at the annual All-State Academic Team Ceremony in April in Topeka.
Recognized for academic excellence were Ella Boozer, Andover; Renee Krom, Wichita; Remington Nelson, Wichita; and Brent Tersol, Wichita. Each received a $300 stipend, a medal, and a certificate of achievement.
The students were joined by family, friends, and Butler administrators, including Dr. Jackie Vietti, interim president; Dr. Barry Robinson, vice president of academics; Dr. Jessica Ohman, associate vice president of student services; and Dr. Aiden Dunleavy, associate vice president of institutional research and effectiveness.
LABETTE COMMUNITY COLLEGE HONORS DR. JACKIE VIETTI Labette Community College and its Alumni Association have awarded the 2025 Cardinal Citation Award, the college’s highest recognition, to Dr. Jackie Vietti. This award celebrates a lifetime of exceptional service to the college and/or to their communities.
Vietti’s career began at Labette in 1979. After 16 years in roles ranging from associate dean to interim president, she became dean at Crowder College and, from 1995 to 2012, president of Butler Community College, where she just completed a term as interim president. She has also guided Emporia State University and Kansas City Kansas Community College as an interim leader and co-founded the Kansas Community College Leadership Institute.
Throughout her career, Vietti remained closely connected to Labette and its mission. “After nearly 46 years in higher education, there is nowhere I would rather have invested my time and energy,” said Vietti. “I will be forever grateful to Labette for allowing me to find my niche in life.”
Reflecting on her contributions, Vietti emphasized her commitment to student success and continuous improvement. “It is my belief that no matter how good things are, everyone affiliated with any college or university is called to make things better for students and one another. It is also my unwavering conviction that each individual in an organization has something of value to contribute to the work at hand.”
BUTLER MOURNS THE LOSS OF BELOVED PROFESSOR Lindsey Fields
Students, faculty, and staff of Butler Community College were devastated to learn that one of their beloved biology professors, Lindsey Fields, was aboard American Airlines Flight 5342, which collided with a helicopter in Washington, D.C., on January 29, 2025.
Fields was traveling to represent the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) and advocate for excellence in life science education. She had recently been named presidentelect of the NABT in recognition of her contributions to biology education, particularly at the community-college level.
Fields joined Butler’s faculty in 2014 and taught general biology, majors’ biology 1 and 2, and anatomy and physiology. In 2021, she became chair of the biology department.
“Lindsey had endless energy for her students that went beyond her subject matter—she had a passion for helping them learn how to learn,” said Beth Cunningham, professor of business systems technology & internships at Butler.
“I specifically had my daughter take her class for that experience. Lindsey taught her students how to take their test results and use them to evaluate their study methods and preparedness, giving the students lifelong learning tools that they would carry with them forever. She literally worked that into her class time! They'd pull out their exams, discuss how they studied, and evaluate whether it was as effective as it could have been. I loved that she prioritized learning methods for her students as much as she prioritized her subject matter.”
Outside the classroom, Fields enjoyed cooking, reading, hiking, and spending time with her family, including her 3-yearold daughter.
“Linds loved her family, her friends, and her puppies,” said Cunningham.
“She was so excited when she and Mike got married, and watching her pregnant was a peek at watching someone live out a dream. She loved her sweet little family.”
The Butler family observed a moment of silence for Fields on the Monday after the crash, gathering outside her office on the Andover campus. Her door was covered with messages from students and colleagues, and a memorial table was set up nearby with flowers, handwritten notes, and forget-me-not seeds. Faculty and staff also assembled purple and orange ribbons in her memory, which were also worn during Butler’s Commencement in May.
On May 19, the Lindsey Fields Biology Lab was formally dedicated. Room 5277 on the Andover campus, where Fields taught many of her classes, now bears her name. Former students, colleagues, friends, and family gathered as the dedication plaque was unveiled.
“When I was new to Butler, Lindsey's encouragement and collegiality made all the difference,” said Dr. Kelsey Harper, professor of Spanish and chair of foreign language department. “She showed me that at Butler it was possible to balance teaching, scholarship, and family, and shared her time, advice, and materials to help me get started. I really admired how Lindsey's teaching never took a backseat, even while she remained active in research, scholarship, and service. She modeled for all of us that it is possible to be both an excellent teacher and active in professional academic communities…I hope to carry her example into my own work and live life to the fullest, just like she did.”
To honor her legacy, Fields’ family established the Lindsey Carter Fields Memorial Science Scholarship to inspire and empower future generations of biologists.
The first Lindsey Carter Fields Memorial Science Scholarship was awarded at Butler’s Honors and Awards Ceremony in May. Mike Fields presented the award in honor of his late wife. This scholarship will be awarded annually to an Early College Academy student pursuing a biology or science-related degree.
To give to the memorial online, visit butlercc.edu/give and select “In Memory of Lindsey Fields” from the dropdown menu. To mail gifts, send them to the Butler Community College Foundation, 901 S. Haverhill Road, El Dorado, KS 67042.
Right: Lindsey’s office door covered with messages.
Below: Lindsey
at the Honors & Awards Ceremony in 2023.
Lindsey’s parents Dr. Todd and Feliza Carter, daughter Avery with husband Mike, and cousin Shantel Vargas at the Lindsey Fields Lab dedication.
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