The spring of 2005, the Barton Admissions Office began awarding annual "Student Ambassadors of the Year". In memory of Brant J. "B.J." Ballhorst, the award recognizes two outstanding Student Ambassadors chosen by their peers and Barton's admissions staff each year.
B.J. was a 2002 Barton graduate and former Student Ambassador. Despite health concerns throughout his time at Barton, he was the model ambassador. He balanced a challenging course schedule and golf team commitment while remaining dedicated to his role as Student Ambassador. B.J. was a respected peer and cherished friend of many on campus, but especially to the Admissions Office staff. His determination and dedication touched the lives of everyone he met.
Graduating from Barton with a degree in pre-pharmacy, he was accepted into and attended the School of Pharmacy at the University of Kansas. He was a student at KU until his death on Aug. 5, 2004. He always had a good attitude about his illness and joked that it was good education for his major.
Barton will continue to honor B.J.'s achievements, character, personality and work ethic by awarding future Ambassadors of the Year in his memory.
2010-11 Brant J. Ballhorst Student Ambassadors of the Year
- Kaitlin Ptacek - Dorrance, KS
- Jared Marcuson - Oberlin, KS
- Pictured with John and Gayle Ballhorst
Brant J. Ballhorst
Barton will continue to honor Ballhorst's achievements, character, personality and work ethic by awarding future Ambassadors of the Year in his memory.
2010-2011 Rock Award Recipient
- Corey LaMoureaux
- Westminster, CO