February 22, 2016
Story by Joe Vinduska
Courtesy photo submitted
The Barton Community College Foundation will kick off its Annual Academic Enrichment Fund Campaign titled “Education Changes Everything” on March 1. Judy and Earl Fox will serve as honorary co-chairs for the month-long fundraising drive.
Designed to raise funds for academic scholarships and enhancements, this unique campaign allows donors to specialize their gift by choosing what department or fund they would like their donation to benefit.
“When Barton opened its doors for classes in 1969, it would have been difficult to imagine what the future would hold, especially all the advances in technology that students today are dealing with,” Judy said. “It is often, thanks to our donors, that we are able to initiate such programs as the natural gas, CDL Certification and most recently the new welding lab.”
Judy said she understands the benefit of Barton first hand, as she earned her elementary education degree through an outreach program offered by the college. Judy has also served on the Foundation Board including one year as the chair for the group, which has been an eye-opener to how much the Foundation contributes to the success of the college and its students as well as keeping the tax burden low.
“Both of us became ardent supporters of the Foundation and include them in our philanthropic giving whenever possible,” Judy said. “We are also huge cheerleaders and are always trying to share what we have learned with others.”
Judy said donations make a profound difference.
“With your gift to the AEF Campaign, you will have the opportunity to change the life of a student who might not be able to attend college without the assistance of a foundation scholarship,” she said. “Join us in making sure that all students, whether traditional or non-traditional, will have the joy of knowing that education does indeed change everything. We would appreciate your support in helping keep Barton Community College one of the top community colleges in the state.”
Barton Foundation Director Nancy Wiebe said the co-chairs for this campaign are crucial to its success and that donations of any amount help.
“Anyone who has met Judy and Earl know they care deeply about others and about Barton,” she said. “We are so grateful that they eagerly accepted our invitation to lead this vital annual campaign for the foundation. Every donation makes an impact!”
For more information or to make a donation visit foundation.bartonccc.edu, call (620) 786-1136 or email capec@bartonccc.edu.