Butler Community College Holds 99th Commencement

Butler Community College held its 99th Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 15, 2026, celebrating more than 800 graduates as members of the Class of 2026. Forty-six students also earned GED diplomas or high school equivalency credentials through Butler. Graduates also earned well over $500,000 in transfer scholarships and educational funding opportunities.

In her first commencement message as President of Butler Community College, Dr. Tamara Daniel encouraged graduates to embrace growth and move confidently into the future. 

“You do not have to have everything figured out,” Daniel said. “What matters is that you keep moving forward, stay open to growth, and continue becoming who you are meant to be.” 

Several students were also recognized with major scholarships and awards during commencement ceremonies. 

Evelyn Castillo of Wichita received the Hubbard Award of Excellence, a $15,000 transfer scholarship established in 1985 and considered the highest honor a graduating Butler student can receive. While at Butler, Castillo has been instrumental in restarting the Biology Club and serves as the club president. She plans to continue her education at Wichita State University, studying biology and medicine. 

Hubbard Award finalists included Mariah Barkus of Douglass, Mary Habjan of Linwood, Jacyndah Jennings of Mulvane, Olivia Rossi of Yampa, Colorado, and Harlee Watson of Flemingsburg, Kentucky. 

Mariah Barkus of Douglass received the Butler Community College Board of Trustees Award, a $1,000 scholarship given to a student who is a resident of Butler County. Barkus is part of Butler’s vocal music program and the A Cappella group. She plans to continue her education at Wichita State University to complete a degree in sports management.

NOTE:
The full list of graduates will be available at a later date. 

To watch the ceremony in full, click here. 

A photo album from the event is available at: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCUrHi