January 29, 2026
Story by the Barton Foundation Office
Courtesy photos submitted
The Barton Community College Foundation has announced the creation of the Lily Akings Legacy Scholarship, a fund established to honor the long-time Barton County Health Department Director and her remarkable commitment to public health in Barton County. The scholarship recognizes Akings' years of service as a nurse, leader, and advocate for the well-being of the region she cared for so deeply.
The scholarship will support graduates of Great Bend High School or Russell High School who are enrolled in Barton’s Nursing Program, helping future healthcare professionals follow in the footsteps of a woman who dedicated her career to protecting the health and well-being of her community. The fund is annually awarded and has been designed for ongoing support from those who wish to honor Akings' memory through philanthropy.
Janel Rose, long-time friend and former coworker of Akings, said she and other friends created the scholarship to honor her legacy while giving community members a lasting way to support future nurses.
“Lily believed deeply in caring for others and in preparing the next generation to do the same,” said Rose. “Creating this scholarship is a meaningful way to honor her life’s work while giving our community a way to come together, remember Lily, and support students who are choosing a path she held close to her heart.”
Karen Winkelman, current Director of the Barton County Health Department, shared a heartfelt remembrance that speaks to the spirit behind the scholarship.
“Lily was a devoted leader, a nurse, and an unwavering advocate for public health in Barton County,” Winkelman said. “She exemplified integrity, compassion, and tireless commitment. Throughout her tenure, she worked relentlessly to ensure the health and well-being of every resident in our community. Her legacy lives on in the healthier, stronger community she helped build.”
Winkelman added that continuing Lily’s work is a fitting memorial. “We honor her memory by serving others with compassion, lifting up those in need, and striving each day to make Barton County a better place. I feel privileged to have worked for her.”
The Foundation hopes the scholarship will inspire others to pursue nursing, a field that Akings believed deeply in, and reinforce the community’s commitment to developing skilled, caring healthcare professionals.
“We are honored to help preserve Lily’s legacy through a scholarship that reflects her lifelong service,” said Lindsey Bogner, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement. “This fund invites community members to join in celebrating her impact and investing in the next generation of nurses who will care for our region.”
Community members are invited to contribute to the Lily Akings Legacy Scholarship through gifts of any size. Donations may be made online at bartonccfoundation.org or by contacting the Foundation office at (620) 786-1136.