ArtTober: Celebrating Butler's Arts Programs with Dean Valerie Haring

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs delves into Butler’s exceptional arts programs with special guest Valerie Haring, Dean of the Arts, Digital Media, and Communications Division. Valerie shares her extensive 34-year journey at Butler, from student to faculty member and eventually, to her current role as dean. She highlights the remarkable faculty's professional achievements, the tight-knit community within the arts division, and the legacy of the late Lynn Havel, former chair of the art department. Hearing also discusses ArtTober, a month-long celebration of arts at Butler, featuring performances, exhibitions, and collaborations with local high schools. The episode underscores the unique opportunities and supportive environment Butler Community College offers its students, encouraging prospective students to explore its programs.

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

Valerie Haring

Valerie Haring is a life-long resident of Kansas. She began her career at Butler Community College as an art student. After earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Art Education, she began teaching in an adjunct capacity at Butler. When Lynn Havel retired , Haring became Chair of the Art Department and Director of the Erman B. White Gallery. In 2021, Haring served as Interim Dean of the fine arts, a position that became full-time after one semester. She takes great joy in facilitating faculty success in the classroom, which, in turn, creates student success. When not attending fine arts events, she enters competitive writing competitions, enjoys working in the yard, and making visual art. She is married to the very talented figurative painter, John Oehm. They have two white standard poodles named Max and Reece.

What is Bear Tracks - The Official Podcast of Butler Community College?

Welcome to Bear Tracks, the official Butler Community College podcast. We are excited to use this platform as a journey to share stories from alumni, supporters, current students, faculty, staff, and community members about why Butler Community College is such a special place to learn and grow.

Butler is also turning 100 years old soon! The college is looking toward celebrating this milestone in 2026-2027. This is even MORE reason we want to hear from our alumni and friends about what makes Butler the incredible place it is. If you want to reach out to us, you can email the show at [e-mail].

Share your OWN story with us by writing in – and hey! Maybe we’ll share it on the show.

We're looking forward to bringing you stories and news from near and far about the home of the Grizzlies.