MOSES LAKE — After fourteen years of dedicated service to the Big Bend Community College Foundation,
Executive Director LeAnne Parton announced her retirement effective at the end of
August 2026.
Reflecting on her time with the Foundation, Parton expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve the college, its students, and the community.
"Serving as Executive Director of the BBCC Foundation has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life. I have had the privilege of working alongside incredible faculty, staff, board members, volunteers, community partners, and generous donors who all share a common belief—that education has the power to change lives. Every scholarship awarded represents a student whose future has been forever impacted, and I am incredibly grateful to have played a small part in that journey."
During Parton's tenure, the Foundation experienced significant growth in both its impact and financial strength. In the 2012-13 academic year, the Foundation awarded scholarships to 123 students totaling $132,619. By the 2025-26 academic year, that number had grown to 350 students totaling more than $619,000, providing life-changing educational opportunities to hundreds of students each year.
The Foundation's financial stewardship also resulted in remarkable growth, with net assets increasing from approximately $3 million in 2012 to more than $11 million by the end of 2025. These resources will continue supporting Big Bend students for generations to come.
Parton is quick to credit others for these accomplishments.
"This was never a one-person show. Everything we accomplished was the result of an extraordinary team effort. I have been blessed with an exceptional Foundation staff whose dedication, passion, and commitment made every success possible. They worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our students and donors received the very best experience."
She also expressed appreciation for the college's leadership throughout her career.
"I have been fortunate to serve alongside presidents who believed wholeheartedly in the Foundation's mission and invested their time, energy, and leadership into strengthening the partnership between the college and the Foundation. Their support has been instrumental in everything we've accomplished."
Parton also thanked the Foundation's Board of Directors, whose vision and stewardship have helped guide the organization through years of growth and opportunity.
Above all, she expressed gratitude to the Foundation's donors.
"Our donors are truly the heart of this organization. Their generosity has opened doors for thousands of students, and I have witnessed firsthand the incredible difference they make in changing lives. It has been an honor to build relationships with so many individuals and families who believe so deeply in the value of education."
Looking back, Parton says relationships are what she will cherish most.
"I love this work. I love the mission, the people, and the opportunity to help students pursue their dreams. While I am excited for retirement and spending more time with family, especially my new grandson—I leave knowing the Foundation is stronger than ever and is in wonderful hands. I am deeply thankful to every person who has been part of this journey. I truly have been blessed."
Wendi Stark has been appointed as the Foundation's next Executive Director. Stark has served as Assistant Director for nearly two years and will continue the Foundation's commitment to serving students and supporting Big Bend Community College through philanthropy.
The BBCC Foundation remains committed to connecting generous donors with opportunities that transform students' lives through scholarships, programs, and educational excellence.