May 10, 2024
Story by Joe Vinduska
Photo by Maggie Harris
Five Barton instructors earned the Distinguished Instructor Award (DIA) for the 2023-2024 academic year for their outstanding efforts in the classroom and were recognized at Barton’s commencement ceremony Friday evening in the Barton Gymnasium.
The recipients were:
Danika Bielek - Dancing Instructor - Barton County Campus
Nolan Esfeld - Math Instructor - Barton County Campus
Jessica Fullen - Business and Communications Instructor - Fort Leavenworth Campus
Ericka Peoples-Howard - Criminal Justice Instructor - Fort Leavenworth Campus
Christopher Vanderlinde - Military Programs Instructor - Fort Riley Campus
The DIA recognizes excellence in teaching. The College’s Faculty Council accepts nominations from employees and students. A screening committee reviews the nominations and makes the selections. Criteria for the award include contributions to teaching and learning, alignment with the College’s mission, and community service. A plaque reflecting the names of the award recipients is displayed in the Barton Library.