BTC Celebrates 20 years of excellence in education in Bolivar
Posted on October 31, 2025
A Weekend to Remember
Bolivar Technical College (BTC) marked its 20th anniversary with a weekend full of celebration, gratitude, and community pride. Students, alumni, and supporters gathered to honor two decades of education in Bolivar.
The festivities began with a Community Celebration on campus, complete with live music, games, inflatables, refreshments, and tours of BTC’s advanced simulation labs. Afterward, BTC Alumni and their families enjoyed a special luncheon sponsored by Citizens Memorial Hospital (CMH), where old friends reconnected with classmates, faculty, and mentors.
Honoring the Vision Behind BTC
The celebration continued with a Partner Gala at Bello Venue, shining a spotlight on BTC’s mission and the work of the BTC Education Foundation.
“BTC was founded to meet a need—to train nurses close to home who would care for the people of this community,” said Charlotte Gray, President of Bolivar Technical College. “We’re thankful for the continued community support that allows us to educate compassionate, skilled nurses who make a difference every day.”
Gray also recognized Donald J. Babb and his wife Carrie J. Babb, whose vision for improving rural healthcare helped establish BTC 20 years ago.
Distinguished Guests and Memorable Moments
Special guests included Miss Missouri Shae Smith, Governor Mike Parson, and First Lady Teresa Parson, all of whom shared congratulations on BTC’s milestone. The evening ended with a lively auction featuring a watercolor painting by local artist Minda Cox, won by Rep. Christopher Warrick. 
“Seeing so many people come together to celebrate BTC’s legacy and the future of healthcare education in Bolivar was deeply meaningful,” said Gray. “As we celebrate 20 years, we’re reminded that the same mission drives us today.”
Supporting the Next Generation of Nurses
Established in 2020, the BTC Education Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering students and strengthening local healthcare. The foundation provides scholarships and emergency assistance to help students overcome financial barriers.
“Supporting the BTC Foundation is a way to invest directly in the health of our community,” Gray said. “Every scholarship helps prepare another nurse who will care for families right here in our region.”