Bear Tracks - The Official Podcast of Butler Community College

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs is joined by Gianna Scott, a 2008 graduate of Butler Community College and a small business owner. Gianna shares her journey from struggling with academics and dropping out of WSU to thriving as a small business owner in Butler County. She discusses the pivotal role Butler Community College played in reigniting her passion for learning and her tran...

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs talks with 2010 Butler graduate Rachelle Clift. Rachelle shares her educational journey from being initially hesitant about attending Butler Community College to falling in love with its campus and community. She discusses her involvement in various campus activities such as the dance team and marketing club, and how these experiences shaped her ca...

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs delves into Butler’s exceptional arts programs with special guest Valerie Haring, Dean of the Arts, Digital Media, and Communications Division. Valerie shares her extensive 34-year journey at Butler, from student to faculty member and eventually, to her current role as dean. She highlights the remarkable faculty's professional achievements, the tig...

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs sits down with Butler graduate and filmmaker Micah Streeter. Micah shares his journey from growing up in Kansas to pursuing his passion for filmmaking, inspired by early experiences and family connections to higher education. He discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing high school, community college, and his filmmaking endeavors. Micah ref...

In the season two premiere of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs welcomes the new president of Butler Community College, Dr. Tamara Daniel. Dr. Daniel shares her extensive background in higher education, her journey to Butler, and her vision for the future of the college. She discusses her strategies for improving student retention and completion rates, fostering internal relationships, and enhancing...

Bear Tracks is back! In Season 2, we’re once again taking you around the world and across campus to share the voices and stories that make Butler Community College such a remarkable place. From inspiring students and dedicated faculty to accomplished alumni and proud community members, each episode celebrates the people who shape Butler’s past, present, and future. We’re kicking off the new season...

In the final episode of season one of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs is joined by Ronald Rozzell , the archivist at Butler Community College and her co-chair on the Centennial committee. They discuss Butler's upcoming centennial celebration, set for 2026-2027, and Rozzell's role in cataloging the college's history. Ronald shares insights on some of the most interesting items in the archives, the d...

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs sits down with Matt Jacobs , a Butler alumnus and award-winning broadcaster. Matt shares his long-standing connection with Butler, from childhood memories of his father's graduation to his current role as an influential figure in the college's media and athletic departments. They discuss his journey through Butler, including his transformative expe...

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs welcomes former Butler Community College student and graduate Hannah Bargas. Hannah shares her journey starting as a high school senior torn between a four-year university and community college, ultimately choosing Butler for its affordability and robust campus life. She discusses her experiences in the sports journalism program, working closely wi...

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs interviews Dr. Barry Robinson, the new Vice President of Academics at Butler Community College, who joined the institution in August 2024. Dr. Robinson discusses his background in clinical neurovirology and his transition to higher education, the supportive family atmosphere at Butler, and his vision and goals for the academic programs at the colle...

Host Hayley Hobbs is joined by Averie Nelson, the Director of Development and Scholarships at the Butler Foundation, to discuss the exciting developments and initiatives happening at the college. The episode covers Averie’s role in managing scholarships and working with donors, the importance of scholarships for both students and faculty, and the unique difference between foundation and institutio...

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley interviews Addison Haiden, a 2021 graduate of Butler Community College, to discuss her unique journey as a student. Addison shares her initial decision-making process for choosing Butler, coming from Lindsborg, Kansas, in McPherson County. She talks about her desire for a personalized and small college atmosphere, which led her to Butler, where she felt...

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley welcomes Ron Ragan, a 1980 Butler alumnus and current professor at the KU School of Pharmacy. Ron shares his nostalgic memories as a student at Butler, discussing dormitory life, basketball travel experiences, and the personal growth he experienced during his time at the college. He reflects on how Butler served as an ideal transition from a small rural...

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs sits down with Dr. Heather Rinkenbaugh, Dean of Online High School and Community Learning at Butler Community College. Heather shares her remarkable journey that began as a student on a softball scholarship in 2004, transitioning through various roles including administrative assistant, director of residence life, and director of high school academ...

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs welcomes Ryan Howey , a former Butler student now serving as the Deputy Director of Laboratory Services for the Medical Bureau of the U.S. State Department in Abu Dhabi. Ryan shares his unconventional path to success, starting from dropping out of high school to finding his footing at Butler Community College, and ultimately achieving his dream job...

In this episode of Bear Tracks, Hayley sits down with head brewer Rick Goehring from Walnut River Brewing Company and discuss  the strong community ties between the brewery, the city of El Dorado, and local colleges including Butler. Rick shares insights into Walnut River's history, its partnership with the college, and their commitment to giving back through events and educational courses.  Highl...

In the inaugural episode of 'Bear Tracks,' Butler Community College's official podcast, host Hayley Hobbs introduces Kate Garnes, a former Butler student and current motivational speaker. Kate shares her inspiring journey from her humble beginnings in Missouri to attending Butler Community College and Wichita State University before landing her dream job at Disney. Reflecting on her time at Butler...

Welcome to Bear Tracks , where we embark on a captivating journey through the stories of alumni, supporters, current students, faculty, staff, and community members who make Butler Community College a special place to learn and grow. Why Subscribe? Exclusive Stories : Hear firsthand accounts from those who have experienced the unique spirit of Butler. Community Connections : Stay connected with th...