Evelin Valadez of Stafford and Hayley Wise of Silver Lake were named Barton Community College’s 2024 Outstanding Graduates. Vice President of Student Services Angie Maddy recognized them as part of Barton’s commencement on Friday. 

Valadez completed her associate in science degree.  She is the daughter of Elidia and Andres Valadez of Stafford. During her Barton career, Evelin participated in the TRIO/Student Support Services Program, Hispanic American Leadership Organization (HALO), and was a Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) National Honor Society member.  She also provided volunteer service to the Cougar Supply Den (food pantry) during her Barton experience.    

She plans to continue her education at Wichita State University to complete the dental hygienist program.  Eventually, she hopes to attend the University of Missouri Kansas City’s School of Dentistry. 

Wise completed her associate in science degree. She is the daughter of Liane and Josh Wise of Silver Lake. During her Barton career, Hayley participated on the Barton cheer team and was a Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) National Honor Society member.  Additionally, Hayley served as a peer tutor in the Student Support Services tutoring lab.  

She will transfer to Fort Hays State University to work toward her bachelor’s degree in elementary education.  She plans to participate in the Kansas Teacher Apprenticeship Program and will be employed full-time at an elementary school. Her goal is to become a first-grade teacher.