College News

Barton Foundation and American Plains Co-op partner to support new ag complex

Representatives from American Plains Co-op join the Barton Community College team during the construction of the new Ag and Transportation Complex to mark the beginning of a new partnership with a three-year leadership pledge to the Barton Foundation.
Representatives from American Plains Co-op join the Barton Community College team during the construction of the new Ag and Transportation Complex to mark the beginning of a new partnership with a three-year leadership pledge to the Barton Foundation. (Front row, from left) Barton Executive Director of Agriculture and Industry Education Mary Foley, Former Barton President Dr. Carl Heilman, CEO of American Plains Co-op Bryan Moser, American Plains Co-op Communications and Brand Programs Coordinator Cammie Vaupel, Barton Executive Director of Institutional Advancement Lindsey Bogner, Dean of Workforce Training and Community Education Dr. Kathy Kottas, (Back row, from left) Vice President of Instruction Elaine Simmons, Vice President of Administration Mark Dean, CNH Trainer Mark Bogner, and Agriculture Instructor and Coordinator Dr. Vic Martin.

July 15, 2024
Story and photo by Maggie Harris

The opening of the new Ag and Transportation Complex at Barton Community College is approaching this August, and to assist with ongoing projects at the complex, the Barton Foundation has received a significant leadership pledge from American Plains Co-op.

Over three years, this substantial commitment will provide funding to advance the project's goals and develop added learning opportunities for Barton’s agriculture students. In addition to the original pledge, one of American Plains’ partners has agreed to match the pledge, allowing them to double their impact.

Executive Director of Institutional Advancement and Director of the Barton Foundation Lindsey Bogner said this pledge highlights the shared vision and dedication to fostering growth and sustainability within the agricultural community.

“American Plains Co-op has a long-standing history of supporting Barton, and we are honored to work with them,” she said. “Their leadership pledge underscores their dedication to the future of agriculture and the importance of investing in educational opportunities available in our region.”

American Plains Co-op Communications and Brand Programs Coordinator Cammie Vaupel said they value supporting local community initiatives such as the new ag complex.

“Contributing to the development of the new agricultural complex at Barton Community College will enhance our community and agriculture alike by addressing the growing workforce demands through advanced training opportunities,” she said. “This investment in innovation and technology underscores our commitment to advancing agricultural practices and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.”

Community members are welcome to attend a dedication, ribbon cutting, and open house beginning at 4 p.m. July 17 at the Agriculture and Transportation Complex. For more information or to learn how to support the Barton Foundation, contact the Foundation at (620) 786-1136 or visit bartonccfoundation.org.