Goodland, KS – [February 27, 2026] – Fort Hays Tech | Northwest celebrated a major milestone today with the official ribbon cutting of the Tiny Tigers Child Care Facility and the dedication of the Schears Family Center for Innovation & Design. Community members, students, faculty, staff, donors, legislators, and regional partners gathered to mark the occasion and tour the newly completed facilities.
The Tiny Tigers Child Care Facility was developed to expand access to high-quality early childhood education in northwest Kansas while serving as a hands-on learning laboratory for students in the college’s Child Care Specialist program.
“This facility represents more than just a building — it represents opportunity,” said Tara Neitzel-Simmonds, Child Care Specialist Instructor at Fort Hays Tech | Northwest. “Our students gain real-world experience in a professional setting while children in our community receive nurturing, developmentally appropriate care. It strengthens families today while preparing the workforce of tomorrow.”
The project was made possible through generous support from Dane G. Hansen Foundation, represented at the event by Gennifer Golden House, and the Patterson Family Foundation, as well as continued investment in technical education by the Kansas State Legislature. Funding from the state’s Student Success initiatives and Base Operating Grant program helped strengthen the college’s ability to expand workforce training and support critical infrastructure needs.
Federal and State representation were also present, with Reid Petty, Southwest Kansas District Director for U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, and Kansas Senator Rick Billinger, joining the celebration in support of regional workforce development and community partnerships.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Kansas State Legislature,” said Dr. Corey Isbell, President of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest. “The Student Success funding and Base Operating Grant allow institutions like ours to respond to workforce demands and serve rural Kansas in meaningful ways. Combined with Dane G. Hansen Foundation & Patterson Family Foundation partnerships, this support makes projects like today’s celebration possible.”
College leadership also recognized the partnership that brought the facilities from concept to completion. The project was designed in collaboration with GMCN Architects, with lead architect Deziree Miller guiding the vision and design process, and constructed by Miller’s Construction, Matt Miller, Owner.
“We extend sincere appreciation to GMCN Architects and Deziree Miller for their thoughtful design work, and to Miller’s Construction for delivering a high-quality facility that will serve students and families for years to come,” Isbell added. “This project reflects what strong partnerships can accomplish.”
The celebration also included the formal dedication of the Schears Family Center for Innovation & Design, named in recognition of the Schears family’s longstanding commitment to Fort Hays Tech | Northwest. Ben Schears served as President of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest from July 2016 to July 2025. For many years, the Schears Family demonstrated vision, leadership, and unwavering support for the institution and its students. Their family’s connection to the college reflects a genuine belief in the value of technical education and the opportunities it creates for individuals and communities.
The naming of the center honors not only their dedication, but a legacy of service and partnership that has helped strengthen the institution and expand opportunity for generations of students. Their continued encouragement and belief in the college’s mission have played an important role in shaping its growth and future direction.
“Education transforms lives and communities,” said Ben Schears. “Our family believes in investing in opportunities that empower students to innovate, create, and pursue meaningful careers. We are honored to see this center serve as a hub for innovation and workforce development.”
Dr. Tisa Mason, President of Fort Hays State University, addressed attendees and spoke about the continued strength of the affiliation between the institutions.
“The affiliation between Fort Hays State University and Fort Hays Tech | Northwest continues to expand access, opportunity, and regional impact,” Mason said. “These new facilities are powerful examples of what can happen when higher education, philanthropy, state leadership, and community partners work together to meet local needs.”
Following remarks and ribbon cuttings led by the Goodland Ambassadors, guests toured both facilities and visited with faculty, staff, and students about the programs housed within the new spaces.
The addition of Tiny Tigers and the Schears Family Center for Innovation & Design reinforces Fort Hays Tech | Northwest’s commitment to hands-on, career-focused education while strengthening services that support families, workforce readiness, and economic growth across northwest Kansas.
For more information about programs and partnerships, visit fhnw.edu.
