July 28, 2026
Story and photo by Joe Vinduska
As the U.S. Army commemorates its 250th anniversary of service to the nation, the Barton Alumni and Friends Association is proud to recognize Barton at Fort Riley alumnus Sanjay White, whose journey reflects the dedication, resilience, and commitment to service that have defined generations of American soldiers.
By the end of the year, White will be wrapping up six years of honorable service to his country in the Army, and Barton is helping him pave the way for the next chapter of his life.
After graduating with his associate degree from Barton this spring, he will be ready for civilian life and a chance to get his bachelor’s degree in nursing.
“I would say nursing chose me,” he said. “It’s my calling. Throughout my life, I’ve always been interested in understanding health problems and figuring out what causes illness in both myself and others. I started to realize I was good at diagnosing health problems. I’ve also always been someone who naturally gravitates toward caring for people when they’re sick.”
White said he’s excited to contribute to a profession that is in constant demand and vital to humanity.
“I believe nurses are the backbone of the healthcare industry," he said. "They are the ones who do the jobs that no one else is willing to do for the betterment of the patients,” he said. “They provide care, comfort, education, and advocacy during some of the hardest moments in a person’s life. Without nurses, the healthcare system could not function effectively.”
Like many military students, White balanced the demands of active-duty service while his military leaders encouraged him to continue to pursue higher education, and Barton proved to be the right fit.
“I chose Barton after I was assigned to take a Unit Armorer Course from them,” he said. “After that, I did some research I realized that Barton was one of the best community colleges in Kansas.”
White continued to use Barton’s program to earn his associate degree and found that Barton’s Gold “Military Friendly” designation lived up to the standard.
“My instructors and the support staff have always been helpful, understanding, and willing to help whenever I had questions or needed guidance,” he said. “They made it easier to balance my military responsibilities with my education.”
While he had support from many sources along the way, White stressed that the support he received from his family was the most essential to his success.
“My amazing wife and daughter were cheering me on every step of the way,” he said. “None of this would have been possible without them.”
With a clear path in sight, White is excited for what’s to come. He’s planning to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist while continuing to serve in the Army Reserve.
“Ambition is priceless,” he said. “With ambition, there is nothing you cannot achieve.”
For 250 years, soldiers have answered the call to serve. White's story is a reminder that service often continues long after active duty ends, whether through military reserve service, healthcare, education, or community leadership. Barton is proud to support servicemembers as they prepare for successful careers beyond the military, and alumni like White demonstrate the lasting impact of that mission.
Through the Barton Alumni and Friends Association, graduates can stay connected with the College, network with other graduates, mentor current students, and celebrate the achievements of the Barton family. To learn more or become a member of the Barton Alumni and Friends Association, visit alumni.bartonccc.edu.
To learn more about Barton Community College at Fort Riley, visit fr.bartonccc.edu.