By AMANDA STAAB
BCC
This story is the first in a two-part series highlighting Barton Community College alumni who have become leaders in education in recognition of Women in Education Month.
For Barton Community College alumna Karisa Cowan, a career in education has always felt like a calling.
“From a young age, I always knew I wanted to be an educator,” she said. “As a little girl, I dreamed of becoming a teacher, and I truly believed there was no greater calling.”
Cowan was born and raised in Hoisington and graduated from Hoisington High School before attending Barton Community College and later Fort Hays State University. After graduating from Fort Hays State, she began her teaching career at Hoisington Middle School, where she taught reading, robotics, science, and STEM courses. During her five years in the classroom, she earned the Kansas Horizon Award for exemplary teaching and the Kansas Ag Excellence in Teaching Award.
After earning her master’s degree, graduating summa cum laude, Cowan transitioned into school leadership and has served as principal of Lincoln Elementary School in Hoisington for the past six years.
She credits her time at Barton with helping her build the confidence and leadership skills that shaped her path in education.
“Barton gave me the confidence I needed to believe in myself and grow as a leader,” she said. “Serving as a student ambassador and playing on the tennis team pushed me to develop my public speaking skills and learn how to connect with people. It was an unforgettable experience that taught me the value of community. Barton is more than a college; it’s a place filled with amazing people who support and inspire one another.”
While teaching at Hoisington Middle School, Cowan continually looked for ways to expand opportunities for her students. She launched the school’s robotics program and even self-funded and built a greenhouse to provide hands-on science learning experiences.
“What began as a simple idea quickly turned into something transformational,” she said. “The greenhouse created meaningful, hands-on learning experiences and even allowed us to provide fresh produce to our cafeteria. It also strengthened connections between the school and the community.”
Cowan said moments like these remind her how powerful even small ideas can become when educators pursue them.
“Whenever an opportunity surfaced that could benefit our students, I made it a priority to pursue it wholeheartedly,” she said. “When we nurture even the smallest ideas, they can blossom into life-changing opportunities.”
Her leadership philosophy today centers on problem solving, empathy, and helping students learn from challenges.
“Too often the role of a principal is seen only as a disciplinarian,” she said. “While accountability matters, I see leadership primarily as listening, guiding, and helping students grow. Every challenge presents a chance to teach not just academically, but socially and emotionally.”
Cowan believes women bring powerful strengths to education, particularly creativity and empathy.
“Creativity helps open doors for students, while empathy allows us to listen and build strong partnerships with families and staff,” she said. “When people feel heard and supported, it creates a school environment where students can thrive.”
Throughout her career, she has also drawn inspiration from the women who shaped her life and career, including her mother, grandmothers, mentors, and teachers.
“They showed me resilience, compassion, and integrity,” she said. “Education is as much about relationships as it is about instruction.”
Outside the classroom, Cowan remains deeply involved in the Hoisington community. She teaches CCD classes at St. John the Evangelist Church, serves as president of the board of directors for Clara Barton Hospital, and previously served as co-chair of the United Way of Central Kansas with her husband, Patrick.
Despite the demands of leadership, Cowan emphasizes the importance of balance.
“Education is a calling, but it should never come at the expense of the people who matter most,” she said. “My family always comes first, and I’m incredibly grateful for a husband who supports me through the busy seasons.”
Cowan said the future of education will continue to rely on collaboration and the strength of educators supporting one another.
“Some of the most influential people in my life are the educators I work with,” she said. “They show up every single day ready to give their very best, regardless of the challenges they may be facing. Even when decisions are difficult or unpopular, they remain steadfast in doing what is best for every student. I have never encountered a more dedicated, hardworking group of teachers and staff. Their integrity, perseverance, and heart for students inspire me daily and remind me why I am so proud to be part of this profession.”
During Women in Education Month, Cowan said recognizing the contributions of women in the field is important.
“Women have played a transformative role in shaping schools and opportunities for students, even when their contributions were sometimes overlooked,” she said. “Celebrating Women in Education reminds us how important representation and leadership are in building stronger schools and communities.”
For students considering a career in education, she offers simple advice.
“Make sure your heart is truly in this work,” she said. “There will be challenging days, but when you look for the joy in a student’s breakthrough, a colleague’s encouragement, or a small daily victory, you’ll always find your way back to why you started.”