Supporting Student Success
Host Hayley Hobbs is joined by Averie Nelson, the Director of Development and Scholarships at the Butler Foundation, to discuss the exciting developments and initiatives happening at the college. The episode covers Averie’s role in managing scholarships and working with donors, the importance of scholarships for both students and faculty, and the unique difference between foundation and institutional scholarships.
Averie shares her personal journey to Butler and highlights the significant growth of the Foundation's endowment and scholarship funds over the past two decades. The discussion also touches on the impact of emergency loans and the positive effects of transfer scholarships on students’ educational journeys. Finally, they reflect on the supportive, community-focused environment at Butler and how it continuously aims to make education more accessible and personal for all students.
Creators and Guests
Host
Hayley Hobbs
Hayley Hobbs, Director of Donor Relations - I am a 2009 graduate of Butler and have been working at Butler Community College Foundation since 2012 where I oversee database administration, event management, marketing and communications, and more. Recent accomplishments include writing a successful Bank of America Neighborhood Champions Grant and being recognized as a 2023 Wichita Business Journal Young Professional in Professional Service. One of my other duties as assigned jobs currently is leading the Centennial Committee as Butler Community College approaches its 100th birthday in 2027. For this and many other reasons, I am excited to be the host of Bear Tracks: The Official Butler Community College Podcast.
Guest
Averie Nelson
Averie Nelson is the Director of Development & Scholarships at the Butler Community College Foundation in El Dorado, Kansas. Averie hails from Ardmore, Oklahoma, and is a proud Okie transplant. She received her bachelor's degree in 1998 from the University of Central Oklahoma and her Master’s degree of Education as well. Averie joined the Butler Family in 2006 and has worked in the Foundation office since then in various roles. She has transformed the scholarship process and awards more than $750,000 annually to students. Averie also manages the Student Emergency Loan Program and transfer scholarships. Averie has been recognized by the students, faculty, and staff as the Unsung Hero award for her work to continually go above and beyond to support students. She is a member of the EL Dorado YMCA Advisory Board, El Dorado Kiwanis Club Member, and an active participant on the El Dorado Working on Wellness Committee. She is also an active supporter of Butler athletics.
