(Topeka, Kansas) - On May 29 Kansas Governor Sam Brownback signed into law HB 2154, which includes authorization for all veterans eligible for federal education benefits, along with all current members of the armed forces, to be eligible for in-state tuition rates at all 32 public postsecondary colleges and universities in Kansas, effective July 1, 2015, regardless of time spent in the state.

This April, Pratt Community College welcomes World Champion Steer Roper Rocky Patterson as the new head coach of the men’s and women’s rodeo program. Patterson stepped in as interim head coach earlier in the semester, and accepted the permanent position after forming good relationships with the current students and seeing potential in the incoming team.

“Rodeo is all I’ve ever known,” said Patterson. “I’m here to help the students every way I can in what is traditionally a very expensive and demanding sport.”

With the help of some major pieces of equipment, Pratt Community College remains a leader in renewable energy among Kansas institutions of higher education. PCC supplements their energy usage with wind turbines, one of the fastest growing segments of energy production.

During the month of December, the Delmar Riney Art Gallery at Pratt Community College will display the works of Featured Artist Brian Elkins.

“Photography has been a hobby of mine since graduating from college in 2009,” said Elkins. “I began taking photos just as a way to document my travels for friends and family on social media, however, as I continued with photography, it quickly became a passion of mine. Through the course of the last few years, as I’ve evolved as a photographer, and as my cameras have improved, I’ve been able to teach myself new tricks along the way.”

On Oct. 9, Pratt Community College will host a seminar entitled "Diabetes
& You." This free diabetes health fair is sponsored by the Pratt County extension office and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas.

Participants will attend presentations to learn how to improve heart health, make smart food choices, and maintain normal blood sugar, and will be offered healthy snacks and opportunities to win prizes. Kathy Smith, ARNP and Certified Diabetes Educator, will be on hand to answer questions.