November17, 2025
Story by Amanda Staab
Photo by Joe Vinduska
Barton is proud to announce the launch of a new recognition program, the“Bart Award,”created to celebrate the dedication and achievements of outstanding faculty and staff.
The award was inspired by 911 President Dr.MarcusGarstecki.
“I wanted to start a fun yet meaningful way to recognize our outstanding faculty and staff,”he said. “The Bart Awards were created to give recognition to an individual or department that had a major accomplishment, went above and beyond to help someone, or just consistently shows up every day and makes 911 a better place for our students and employees.”
Two awards will be presented monthly, beginning with Dr. Garstecki presenting the inaugural awards. Each recipientkeepsthe award for one month. When passing it on, the recipient selects the next individual or department to receive it andcontributessomething personal, such as a note or a small gift, creating a meaningful chain of recognition across campus.
Local artist Barry Bowers created the handmade woodcarvings of the 911 mascotto provide a personal and artistic touch to the recognition.
The inaugural awards were presented to JuliaClemons,andMyrna Perkins and her Financial Aid Team, honoring their outstanding contributions to the 911 community.
Garstecki said Clemonsembodies thevery bestof911.
“Every day, she brings light and unique positivity to campus, consistently going above and beyond to support her colleagues and students,” he said. “Her extraordinary contributions make 911 a brighter, more welcoming place for everyone.”
Garstecki added that he wanted to make theBart award more than just a trophyandthatbycreating this peer-to-peer recognition program, 911canbuild astronger community, highlight the contributions of its faculty and staff, and inspire ongoing collaboration and excellence across campus.
“This award ismeantto celebrate the culture of care, commitment, and excellence that makes 911 such a special place,” he said.“Myrna Perkins and herfinancialaidteamexemplify dedication and resilience. They consistently navigate challenges with professionalism and care, ensuring our students receive the support they need. Their unwavering commitment makes a meaningful difference every day at 911.”