Story by Joe Vinduska
Photos by Brandon Steinert
Elvia Alejandra Salazar Beck of El Paso, Texas and Kaitlynn Dyke of Cimarron were named Barton Community College’s 2021 Outstanding Graduates. Dean of Student Services Angie Maddy recognized them as part of Barton’s commencement on Friday.
Beck grew up in Baumholder, Germany and resided in Great Bend while attending Barton’s nursing program. She is the daughter of Yadira and Leonardo Salazar of El Paso, Texas and is married to Christopher Beck. While attending Barton, she has served as President of the Barton Nursing Club, Co-Community Service Chair for Barton’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), and a member of Barton’s non-traditional student honor society, Alpha Sigma Lambda. She began her educational journey with Barton at the Fort Riley campus, where she also served as a volunteer tutor for English as a Second Language (ESL) students. While attending college, she worked as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) and eventually as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at the University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus and at QS Nurses. She plans to work as a registered nurse in a residency program while continuing her education in pursuit of her Bachelor of Science in nursing. Her eventual career goal is to serve as an operating room nurse.
Dyke is the daughter of Keri and Donald Dyke of Cimarron. While attending Barton, she has participated in Barton’s chapter of the PTK National Honor Society as well as Community Student organization/SPARK. She has served as a student ambassador with the Admissions Department, a student athletic trainer, and has brought joy near and far via her alter ego, Bart the mascot, for numerous college activities and campus special events. Kaitlynn will transfer to Kansas State University this fall, where she will work toward her bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training. Her longer-term educational goals include earning a master’s degree in Athletic Training.