November 13, 2024
K-State Transfer Partner Award presented to Barton Community College leader
Elaine Simmons, vice president of instruction at Barton Community College, was presented with a Transfer Partner Award from Kansas State University. Simmons has been a cornerstone in the field of transfer student support and advocacy for over two decades. Her pioneering work in transfer pathway development created an enduring model for collaboration between community colleges and universities, providing students with a seamless transition to four-year degrees.
Simmons spearheaded the development of the first-ever articulation agreement between Barton’s Dietary Manager program and K-State’s Dietetics program. This milestone agreement laid the foundation for numerous additional transfer pathways at Barton and set an example for other community colleges across Kansas. Since 2008, more than 1,000 of Barton’s students have transferred to K-State to pursue online degrees in Dietetics or Nutrition Health. Over 600 of these students graduated, a glowing testament to Simmons’ vision for accessible, high-quality education through transfer partnerships.
“Elaine Simmons has been a true champion and advocate for transfer students. I have always appreciated her vision, wisdom and ability to dream up innovative ideas. She dives into intricate details to get the job done,” said Jennifer Pfortmiller, K-State Transfer Navigator. “Her impact is far-reaching, not only affecting the transfer students from Barton to K-State, but also impacting the model for K-State working with other community colleges in the state.”
The K-State Transfer Partner Award was created to recognize community college professionals who go above and beyond to support transfer students and advocate for K-State. As part of the award, Elaine will receive funding to attend the K-State Transfer Summit in October 2025. Additionally, Barton Community College will receive a $1,000 Educator’s Choice Award, to be awarded as a scholarship to an incoming transfer student to K-State in Fall 2025.