By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
A week and a half before the Big Benefit Auction took place, the Barton Community College Foundation already had 30 more reservations for the 45th annual event. As the fundraiser came to a close this past Saturday at the Great Bend Events Center, the final numbers were better than recent past events.
Barton President Dr. Marcus Garstecki said ticket sales were up 19% from the year before.
"The event was fantastic," said Garstecki. "It was my first one, and it was great to see the support from our faculty, staff and board members. Also, the number of community members that were there was amazing."
Barton Foundation Executive Director Lindsey Bogner said the auction Saturday grossed more than $91,000. Live auction sales were up 62%.
The Big Benefit Auction is most successful fundraiser for the Barton Foundation which supports academic scholarships and enhancements to programs and facilities.