May 12, 2026
Story and photo by Joe Vinduska
Barton Community College student Kierra Eck has been selected as a Kansas Farm Bureau Collegiate Fellow for the 2026-27 academic year.
Eck will graduate from Barton in May and plans to transfer to Kansas State University in the fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness with minors in animal science and youth development.
“I chose Barton because I wanted an affordable option for my first two years, as well as a school close to home,” she said.
After completing her bachelor’s degree, Eck hopes to pursue a career as a 4-H Youth Development Extension Agent.
Barton’s chapter of the Kansas Farm Bureau Collegiate Fellows program is sponsored by Barton County Farm Bureau. The program equips college students with the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to become effective advocates for agriculture through leadership and professional development experiences. Participants engage in the program throughout the academic year, dedicating time each month to build industry knowledge and leadership skills.
Eck was one of eight students selected statewide, representing five colleges and universities across Kansas, and one of only three students from community colleges.
Kansas Farm Bureau President Joe Newland said programs like the Collegiate Fellows are critical to ensuring agriculture has a strong future.
“By investing in these students today, we are helping cultivate the leaders who will advocate for and advance our industry tomorrow,” he said.
Barton Instructor of Agriculture Maggie Tracy said Eck represents the type of student who makes teaching worthwhile.
“A student like Kierra is exactly why teaching is so rewarding,” she said. “She is a top-tier student whose dedication and grit have helped her achieve academic excellence. She has not just been learning about the agriculture industry; she is preparing to lead it.”
Eck said Barton’s agriculture program helped prepare her for the opportunity through both classroom instruction and hands-on learning experiences.
“I believe the Barton Agriculture program has given me a better understanding of ways to improve our world and continue building within this industry,” she said. “I have also gained more insight into the small details and proper terminology that are important in the field.”
She said one of her favorite parts of the program was experiential learning opportunities.
“What I like most about the Barton Agriculture program is the hands-on experience,” she said. “Being able to visit different farms has given me a better understanding of grazing systems, fields, and other agricultural practices. I was also able to learn how to identify different types of clay in the soil.”
Through the Kansas Farm Bureau Fellowship Program, Eck said she hopes to continue growing professionally while building connections across the agriculture industry.
“Throughout the Farm Bureau Collegiate program, I have gained a much better understanding of how Farm Bureau operates and its policies,” she said. “I have also had the opportunity to participate in different types of community service and be involved in the community by helping with Kids Ag Day and the Trail of Lights.”
For more information on Barton’s Agriculture programs, visit ag.bartonccc.edu.