Barton Community College has announced its 2020-21 Brant J. Ballhorst Student Ambassadors of the Year. Named in memory of Brant J. Ballhorst, the award recognizes two outstanding Student Ambassadors each year. The winners this year were Kaitlynn Dyke of Cimarron and BrayLynn Anshutz of Macksville.
This year marked the 17th anniversary of the award. The Admissions office also named Alex Hammeke of Ellinwood as the recipient of this year’s “The Rock” award, which is presented to students who go above and beyond the call of duty in assisting the Admissions office. The award recipients were chosen by their peers and Barton’s Admissions staff.
Ambassador of the Year: Kaitlynn Dyke
Dyke is a sophomore and has been involved in student ambassadors, athletic training, Community Service Organization (CSO)/SPARK and acted as the Barton Mascots Bart and Miss Kitty. She was also one of Barton’s Outstanding Graduates for 2021. She plans to attend Kansas State University and work toward her master’s degree in athletic training. She is the daughter of Donald and Keri Dyke.
Ambassador of the Year: BrayLynn Anshutz
Anshutz is a sophomore and has been involved in the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society, CSO/SPARK, cheerleading and student ambassadors. She plans to transfer to Kansas State University and major in physical education and health. She is the daughter of Brian and Rhonda Anshutz.
The Rock Award: Alex Hammeke
Hammeke is a sophomore involved in student ambassadors, sports information and PTK. He plans to attend the University of Nebraska at Kearney to pursue his bachelor’s degree in sports communication. He is the son of Mathew and Amy Hammeke.
About Brant J. Ballhorst and the award
From Smith Center, Ballhorst 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 a Student Ambassador. Ballhorst was a respected peer and cherished friend of many on campus, especially the Admissions Office. His determination and dedication touched the lives of everyone he met.
He graduated from Barton with a degree in pre-pharmacy 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. He was the son of John and Gayle Ballhorst of Smith Center.
Barton will continue to honor Ballhorst’s achievements, character, personality and work ethic by awarding future Ambassadors of the Year in his memory. A permanent plaque dedicated in his honor is displayed in the corridor of the Kirkman Activity Center on Barton’s campus.
