The Barton Community College Foundation’s Annual Academic Enrichment Fund Campaign titled “Leave a Legacy” is under way. Lifelong area residents and supporters of the college, Craig and Jolene Biggs, are honorary co-chairs for the month-long fundraising drive.
Designed to raise funds for academic scholarships and enhancements, this unique campaign allows donors to specialize their gift by choosing what department or fund they would like their donation to go to.
Jolene said this is a great way for people to feel a connection to their gift.
“It really gives the donor a chance to help potential students in an area that the donor may have a special interest in,” she said.  “It allows them to have more of a feeling of ownership of the funds they are donating.”
Both Craig and Jolene attended Barton as well as their son and understand the value of this specific campaign.
“I came from a large family, and when I graduated high school it would have been nice for there to be this scholarship money, but there really wasn’t back then,” Jolene said.  “So, I really understand the importance for some families and that they really rely on this scholarship money.”
Director of Institutional Advancement Darnell Holopirek said the foundation chose Craig and Jolene because they have always been great stewards for the college.
“We (the Foundation) wanted to honor them for continued support,” she said.  “Our theme this year is ‘Leave a Legacy’ and their families have definitely done that through always showing a great regard for the college and we know that they truly see how the college benefits the surrounding communities.”
“It’s not important to give a huge amount,” Craig said.  “Every dollar counts. Even if it is a small amount, it’s great because it all adds up, and if we get enough of those people, we can make a significant impact.”
The Biggs’ agreed to head up the campaign because they believe the college is a great asset to the community.
“Barton positively impacts the whole community because it gives us the opportunity to train and educate people who will hopefully stay in the community and can help maintain and progress the community going forward,” she said.  
For more information on making a contribution, contact Holopirek at holopirekd@bartonccc.edu or 620-792-9367.