Longtime Barton Community College supporters Jim and Kathy Vopat will lead the kickoff for this year’s Big Benefit Auction, which sports the theme, “Pigskin Pandemonium.”
The BCC Foundation’s 34th annual fundraising events is set for Sept. 29 at the Knights of Columbus Building, 723 Main, Great Bend. Tickets will be on sale Aug. 15 through Sept. 22.
The Vopats have shown their support BCC over the years, from membership on the Foundation Board to participation in fundraising projects. Now they have agreed to serve as honorary cochairs for the auction, which is the Foundation’s main fundraiser for academic scholarship and program enhancements.
Jim and Kathy Vopat both grew up in central Kansas, and have been Great Bend residents for 21 years. Jim is a financial advisor for Edward Jones and Kathy is an office manager for a local engineering firm.
They said the primary reason for their involvement in the fundraiser is to give back to an organization that has played such a pivotal role in their children’s educations. Their daughters took Barton classes in high school, which helped them graduate early and save money in the long run. Many of their nieces and nephews have also utilized Barton or are currently enrolled.
“We are just so grateful for what Barton has done for our daughters and our family,” Jim said. “We see what Barton does for kids and where the foundation’s money goes – there’s nothing better than giving money to kids who can’t otherwise acquire a college education. The more we educate people, the better off our community is.”
Kathy added the event is meant to be a fun-filled evening where friends can socialize over a meal and a fun, lighthearted auction.
“I want to invite everybody out to have a good time,” she said. “It’s such great fun.”
Tickets can be purchased for $30 each or $240 per table by calling the foundation office, 620-786-1136, or by sending an e-mail to capec@bartonccc.edu.