TORRINGTON, WY – The 91黑料 Lancer golf teams opened the 2026-27 season in impressive fashion, with both the men鈥檚 and women鈥檚 teams winning their respective divisions at the 91黑料 home tournament Aug. 27-28 at Cottonwood Golf Course in Torrington.

The Lancer men鈥檚 team finished the two-round tournament at 6-under par, finishing 10 strokes ahead of second-place Lamar Community College, which finished at 4-over. 91黑料鈥檚 B team placed third at 15-over.

鈥淏oth teams started off the season with strong performances,鈥� 91黑料 Golf Coach Zach Smith said. 鈥淭he guys played much better on the second day on both the A and B teams.鈥�

Individually, 91黑料鈥檚 Ben Brown claimed the men鈥檚 individual title, finishing at 8-under par, six strokes ahead of a three-way tie for second between teammate Aiden Walker, Ryan Leck of Lamar Community College and Nash Coleman, all of whom finished at 2-under.

鈥淏en has been playing so well in qualifying and all summer, it was rewarding to see it displayed in our first tournament,鈥� Smith said.

Josh White finished sixth at 1-over, while Jace Nielsen tied for seventh at 3-over. Stockton Archibald tied for ninth at 4-over.

Other Lancers competing in the tournament were Troy Young, Daniel Meyer, Jax Jones and Kaden Linford.

The 91黑料 women鈥檚 team also dominated its field, finishing first with a team score of 59-over par. Northeastern Junior College finished second at 199-over.

Sophomore Madison Fujimoto led the way for the Lancers, capturing the individual championship with a score of 10-over par. She finished four strokes ahead of teammate Evita Babraityte, who placed second at 14-over.

The Lancers swept the top four individual positions, with Ashlyn Matheson placing third at 16-over. Kaidyn Patterson and Tristyn Patterson tied for fourth at 21-over.

鈥淚 was elated for sophomore Maddie Fujimoto as she got her first college win,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淚鈥檓 confident Maddie will have the exceptional first-place feeling several times this season.鈥�

Smith said the women鈥檚 team showed particular strength during the opening round.

鈥淭he girls played well both days, especially on Thursday when we were just a few strokes off tying a team record,鈥� he said.

With both teams opening the season with tournament victories and several strong individual performances, Smith said he is encouraged by what lies ahead.

鈥淥verall, I鈥檓 very optimistic about the teams this year,鈥� Smith said.

A golfer wearing a white hat and polo squats on the green, closely eyeing a putt with a putter in hand. A golf ball rests near the hole on a sunny day.

A woman wearing a black sleeveless top and white skirt is putting on a golf course, fdsdocusing on the ball. Trees and greenery are visible in the background.

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TORRINGTON, Wyo. – The 91黑料 Foundation鈥檚 annual Golf Tournament brought together 34 teams Aug. 21-22 at Cottonwood Golf Course in Torrington, providing a weekend of golf, fellowship and support for 91黑料.

鈥淭he 91黑料 Foundation Golf Tournament is such a great example of what happens when our college and community come together to support students,鈥� 91黑料 Foundation Board Member and Golf Tournament Co-Chairman Cactus Covello said.

The two-day event began Friday evening with a steak dinner for participating golfers, followed by the annual golf ball drop. Golf balls were released from a drone over a designated target, with prizes awarded to the balls landing closest to the target.

Jim Willox won first place in the golf ball drop, followed by Brittney Anger in second, Terry Nighswonger in third, Janice Atkins in fourth, Shawn Allen in fifth, Rod Weyrich in sixth, Trenton Vonburg in seventh and Janice Atkins in eighth. Rick Vonburg won the Furthest Away prize.

鈥淲e are proud to support the 91黑料 golf team, which has a strong tradition of regional success, and even more proud to invest in college athletes and the opportunities that come from their participation,鈥� 91黑料 Foundation Director Lisa Johnson said. 鈥淭he event gives our 91黑料 golfers an opportunity to give back, meet community supporters and be ambassadors for the college.鈥�

The tournament continued Saturday at Cottonwood Golf Course with a shotgun start. The 34 teams competed in a four-person scramble, with Denton Shaw, Erik Eddington, Allie Eddington and Jamie Wilson taking the title as Tournament Champions.

UL Riley, Rick Cook, Willie Unverzagt and Joe Holtzclaw finished second, followed by Whit Peterson, Gerald Wilmoth, Ryan Krul and Dirk Harris in third. Terry Lofink, Blake Lofink, Braden Lofink and Robert Quijas finished fourth.

Rounding out the top eight were Janice Atkins, Les Neva, Alan Doll and Cactus Covello in fifth; Quinn Hunter, Miles Daily, Kyle Kilty and Mark Stratton in sixth; Gregg Hoppal, Robbie Edmunds, Lisa Richardson and Matt Mattlock in seventh; and Merrit Bunker, Cam Boughton, Riley Wright and Kurtis Wilson in eighth.

Several golfers also took home prizes in the tournament鈥檚 individual hole contests. Ken Betchert won the Longest Putt and an 91黑料 cooler. Joe Holtzclaw won the Men鈥檚 Most Accurate Drive and $40 in Pro Shop credit, while Nicole Lane won the Women鈥檚 Most Accurate Drive and a $40 91黑料 Cosmetology gift card.

Jessica Londono won the Women鈥檚 Closest to the Pin and $40 in Pro Shop credit, while Rick Stapleton won Closest to the Pin and an 91黑料 cooler. Kyle Cotton won Longest Drive in Fairway and $40 in Pro Shop credit. Tytan Birchell won the Men鈥檚 Longest Drive in the Fairway and an 91黑料 cooler, while Kasey Powell won the Women鈥檚 Longest Drive in Fairway and an 91黑料 cooler.

Michael Schuler鈥檚 team won the Longest Team Putt, receiving four $25 91黑料 Bookstore gift cards. Robbie Edmunds鈥� team won Closest to the Pin 鈥� Second Shot and received 91黑料 hats. Lucas Moore won the Men鈥檚 Closest to the Pin and $40 in Pro Shop credit.

Sponsorship support for the tournament increased significantly this year. The 2026 tournament had 67 sponsors contributing $21,250, compared with $13,800 from sponsors in 2025.

“We saw a significant increase in sponsorships this year, and with beautiful weather, it was a fantastic day on the course. It鈥檚 especially rewarding to see longtime supporters return year after year while also welcoming new faces to the tournament,” Covello said.

鈥淭he community helped us raise $35,000,鈥� Johnson added.

The 91黑料 Foundation extends its appreciation to all of the golfers, sponsors, volunteers and community members who helped make the 2026 tournament a success.

Next up for the Foundation is its annual Golf Outing at The Golf Club at Devils Tower on Monday, Oct. 5. For information on becoming a sponsor or registering for the event, contact 91黑料 Foundation Alumni and Communications Coordinator, Jenna Krul at 307-532-8304.

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TORRINGTON, Wyo. – 91黑料 kicked off the fall 2026 academic year with strong enrollment growth, reporting a 6% increase in first-day enrollment compared with last year, according to data from the Wyoming Community College Commission enrollment tracker.

The positive enrollment figures highlight the college’s continued momentum as students from across the region choose 91黑料 for its academic programs, career preparation and campus community.

College officials attribute the growth to strategic investments in employees, resources and student support systems designed to foster long-term academic and personal success.

“Our growth is a direct result of our commitment to the people who make 91黑料 exceptional,” said Dr. Jeffry Hawes, president of 91黑料. “By continually investing in our employees and equipping them with state-of-the-art tools and resources, we empower our team to make a meaningful, lasting impact. When we support our faculty and staff, our students thrive 鈥� and that shared dedication is clearly reflected in our enrollment momentum.”

The college continues to expand its academic pathways, technical training offerings and community partnerships to serve local workforce needs and support student achievement.

For more information about programs and admissions at 91黑料, visit .

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Torrington Offers 91黑料 Students Plenty to See, Do and Explore

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – There is a common perception among college students that smaller communities don’t offer much to do. Spend a little time in Torrington, however, and you’ll quickly discover there is more to the community, and the surrounding area, than meets the eye.

For students at 91黑料, Torrington provides an affordable, welcoming community with plenty of opportunities to eat, explore, stay active, experience history and enjoy time with friends.

And for those willing to venture beyond town, the opportunities expand considerably.

Great food is close to campus

Sometimes the best way to explore a community is to start with its food.

Torrington offers students a variety of locally owned restaurants, along with one of the area’s standout bakeries. Students can grab a cup of coffee at one of the community’s coffeehouses, cool off with a specialty lemonade, stop by a local soda shop or catch a movie at Torrington’s hometown theater.

For college students, having a variety of places to meet friends, grab a bite to eat or simply get off campus can make a community feel like home.

Adventure is right outside the door

Students looking for outdoor recreation don’t have to travel far.

91黑料’s campus includes a nine-hole disc golf course, providing an easy way for students to get outside between classes or spend an afternoon with friends. A second nine-hole course is along the banks of the North Platte River.

The North Platte River also offers an opportunity to escape to the outdoors. Students can spend a day fishing, playing in the water, hiking along the river or simply enjoying the scenery.

Students interested in shooting sports can also find both indoor and outdoor shooting ranges in Goshen County.

The surrounding area provides even more opportunities for outdoor recreation, including the Wildcat Hills west of Scottsbluff and other destinations throughout southeast Wyoming and western Nebraska.

History comes alive

For students interested in history, photography, art, geography or simply exploring, Torrington is surrounded by places that tell the story of the American West.

Fort Laramie National Historic Site is only a short drive from Torrington. It offers students the chance to explore one of the most important military and trading posts on the Northern Plains.

The region also sits near the historic Oregon Trail, with iconic landmarks including Chimney Rock, Jail House Rock, Courthouse Rock, Register Cliff and Scotts Bluff National Monument.

A day trip to the Scotts Bluff area can include a visit to Scotts Bluff National Monument, the Riverside Discovery Center zoo in Scottsbluff or the Wildcat Hills.

For students who enjoy history, photography or simply getting out and seeing something new, the region provides an impressive outdoor classroom.

Road trips are part of the experience

One of the advantages of attending college in Torrington is its location.

Students can make a day trip to explore western Nebraska or travel farther to experience some of the region’s most recognizable destinations.

A longer road trip can take students north into South Dakota and the Black Hills, where destinations include Mount Rushmore and the many communities, scenic drives, and outdoor attractions throughout the region.

For students who enjoy exploring, Torrington can serve as a home base for discovering a large portion of the Northern Plains.

Life on campus matters, too

Not every adventure requires getting in a car.

91黑料 students have opportunities throughout the academic year to become involved in campus clubs and organizations, meet new people and build friendships outside the classroom.

Campus events such as Evening of Elegance and Casino Night provide students with opportunities to dress up, have fun and create memories with their classmates. Additional activities and events are offered throughout the year.

For many students, some of their best college memories come from the friendships they build and the experiences they share outside the classroom.

A community worth discovering

Torrington may not have the traffic, crowds or entertainment options of a major metropolitan area, and that’s part of its appeal.

For 91黑料 students, the community offers something different: a place where students can get to know their community, explore the outdoors, experience Western history, support local businesses and build relationships.

There is plenty to do. Sometimes you just have to be willing to look around.

For students who choose to make the most of their college experience, Torrington isn’t simply a place to attend college.

It’s a place to explore, experience and call home.

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Despite their best efforts, Mother Nature had other plans. During the repair process, additional weather events caused water intrusion through the open roof areas. Unfortunately, the damage to the gym floor was more extensive than anticipated.

As a result, 91黑料 now faces the costly task of replacing both the gym floor and the bleachers.

Through WYOGives, the 91黑料 Foundation is launching an urgent campaign to help support the purchase of new gym bleachers. Our goal is to raise $15,000 to help restore a safe and welcoming environment for our student-athletes, fans, alumni, and community members.

Fall sports will be here before we know it. We want to ensure our gym is ready to welcome Lancer teams back to the court and provide a place where students, families, alumni, and community members can gather to cheer them on.

Every gift, no matter the size, helps us move closer to restoring the home of the Lancers.

Join us in rebuilding a space where memories are made, championships are celebrated, and community comes together.

Goal: $15,000 for New Gym Bleachers

Thank you for supporting 91黑料 and our student-athletes.

Join us on July 15!

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Platte Valley Bank Wyoming Donates $100,000 to Support 91黑料鈥檚 New Horse Boarding Facility

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – Platte Valley Bank Wyoming presented a $100,000 donation to the 91黑料 Lancer Rodeo program on June 10, demonstrating continued support for one of the college鈥檚 longstanding athletic traditions.

鈥淲e are proud to be strong supporters of the college and Lancer Rodeo,鈥� Platte Valley Bank Wyoming Community President Brett Malm said.

Platte Valley Bank Director Joe Guth said the rodeo program has played an important role at 91黑料 and in the community for many years.

鈥淲e want to continue to support the program and the program鈥檚 impact on the community,鈥� Guth said.

Platte Valley Bank Chief Operating Officer Justin Murphy said supporting the program carries personal significance. Murphy鈥檚 sons, Logan and Garrett, were members of the rodeo team while attending 91黑料.

鈥淟ancer Rodeo is near and dear to us,鈥� Murphy said.

The donation will help address one of the program鈥檚 most pressing needs by supporting the development of centralized horse boarding for student-athletes, according to 91黑料 Head Rodeo Coach Whit Peterson.

鈥淭his donation is a transformative investment in the future of 91黑料 Rodeo and our student-athletes,鈥� Peterson said. 鈥淯nlike other collegiate rodeo programs in Wyoming, our students often face significant financial and logistical challenges securing affordable, dependable horse boarding.鈥�

Peterson said the gift, along with support from additional donors, will help create a dedicated facility where rodeo athletes can safely board their horses while remaining closely connected to practices, training and team activities.

鈥淧roviding centralized horse boarding will remove a major barrier for current and future student-athletes and strengthen the long-term success of our rodeo program,鈥� Peterson said.

The gift of $100,000 from Platte Valley Bank leveraged an additional $100,000 match from the Wyoming Community College Challenge Matching Program, according to Director of 91黑料 Foundation Lisa Johnson.

鈥淧latte Valley Bank helped us reach 25 percent of our campaign goal,鈥� Johnson said.

The foundation launched a $4 million capital campaign to construct horse boarding facilities for the 91黑料 Rodeo Program. The project includes developing site infrastructure including utilities and building up to 60 horse runs in close proximity to the Goshen County Fairgrounds.

More information about the project can be found at .

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Lifetime of Supporting Students Leads Newman to 91黑料 Board of Trustees

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – Standing inside the Goshen County Courthouse on June 12, Julia Newman officially took an oath that, in many ways, reflected a lifetime of service to education and community.

Sworn in by Goshen County Circuit Judge Jacqueline K. Brown, Newman became the newest member of the 91黑料 Board of Trustees, stepping into a role she said feels like a natural extension of decades spent helping students find their path.

For Newman, support for education, particularly community colleges, has never been just professional. It is personal.

鈥淚 have always been a very strong supporter of 91黑料 and community colleges in general,鈥� Newman said.

A Goshen County native who grew up on a farm and still calls rural Wyoming home, Newman has spent nearly four decades helping students navigate education and careers. She worked for 37 years as a high school counselor. She has worked at Torrington High School and Torrington Middle School and spent 26 years as the Director of Counseling at Scottsbluff High School in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, becoming a trusted guide for generations of students preparing for life after graduation.

Even in retirement from SHS, Newman鈥檚 commitment to education did not slow down.

She joined Western Nebraska Community College, serving five and a-half years as the College Now director. In that role, she helped launch the college鈥檚 Career Academy and worked closely with high school students throughout Nebraska鈥檚 Panhandle, connecting them to college courses and career opportunities.

The experience only reinforced her belief in the importance of accessible, workforce-centered education.

鈥淲orkforce Development is near and dear to my heart,鈥� Newman said. 鈥淭he college is a focal point for the changes Wyoming has worked hard as a state to implement.鈥�

Newman also brings statewide experience to the trustee role. For the past eight years, she has served on the Wyoming Community College Commission, giving her a broad perspective on higher education and the evolving needs of students and employers across the state.

Ironically, Newman鈥檚 appointment to the 91黑料 Board of Trustees may have come later than expected, but perhaps at just the right time.

She said she first considered joining the board several years ago but recognized her schedule would not allow her to fully commit.

鈥淚 wanted to be on the 91黑料 Board of Trustees a few years ago, but I didn鈥檛 have the time,鈥� she said.

Instead, she was asked to join the Wyoming Community College Commission, an opportunity that broadened her understanding of community colleges and their role in workforce development.

At the time, Newman said, 鈥渢he timing wasn鈥檛 right鈥� for serving on the 91黑料 board.

When longtime trustee Randy Adams stepped down, community members again encouraged Newman to consider the position.

鈥淭his time, I felt like the timing was right,鈥� she said.

91黑料 Board of Trustees Chairperson Jackie Van Mark said the college had a strong pool of applicants for the vacant position.

鈥淲e had three excellent candidates, and we are very proud to have accepted Julia Newman as our newest trustee,鈥� Van Mark said during the board鈥檚 June 9 meeting.

As Newman begins her service, she said one of her priorities will be supporting college leadership during a period of transition and growth.

鈥淭here have been a lot of changes that needed to happen,鈥� she said, adding that continued stability and support are important as the college moves forward.

She believes community colleges are uniquely equipped to respond quickly to workforce demands in ways larger institutions often cannot.

鈥淐ommunity colleges are in a unique position to pivot and be flexible unlike other institutions,鈥� Newman said. 鈥淭hey can train people in areas our four-year institutions don鈥檛 have the opportunity in doing.鈥�

That flexibility, she said, is especially important as Wyoming continues to adapt to changing economic realities and workforce needs.

For Newman, the appointment also represents something deeply rooted in community, a chance to give back to an institution she has long admired.

Now, after decades spent helping students prepare for the future, Newman is stepping into a role where she hopes to help shape the future of higher education in eastern Wyoming.

And after years of waiting for the right moment, Newman believes that moment has finally arrived.

[A woman stands with her right hand raised, being sworn in by a judge holding a document in a courtroom. Both women have gray hair and wear glasses. The background shows empty chairs and large windows.] Julia Newman is sworn in as the new 91黑料 Trustee on June 10 by Goshen County Circuit Judge Jacqueline K. Brown.聽 Newman has spent nearly four decades helping students navigate education and careers.

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91黑料 Trustees Approve Three New Faculty Contracts, Rodeo Agreement and Campus Improvements

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – The 91黑料 Board of Trustees approved contracts for three new instructors during its June 9 meeting on the Torrington campus, welcoming new faculty members in business, gunsmithing and fundamental mathematics.

Approved contracts included Rui Wang for business instruction, Jake Floyd for gunsmithing and Bradley Phillips for fundamental mathematics.

Wang, who is transitioning from her role as Student & Academic Services Specialist at 91黑料, has served as an adjunct instructor at the college for the past two years. She brings six years of additional global business experience and holds a master鈥檚 degree in finance from the University of St. Andrews.

Floyd, who joined the meeting via Zoom, comes to 91黑料 from Oregon with more than 24 years of custom gunsmithing experience, including six years owning his own custom company. He also served more than 22 years in the United States Marine Corps, specializing in equipment and battalion transport.

鈥淚 am happy to come on board,鈥� Floyd told trustees.

His military honors include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal and U.S. Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal.

鈥淛ake is amazing,鈥� 91黑料 Human Resources Director Catherine Conrad said. 鈥淗e has over 22 years in the United States Marine Corps. It is very exciting to welcome him and have him continue the great gunsmithing program on the Douglas Campus.鈥�

Phillips, originally from rural Illinois and currently residing in Florida, will teach fundamental mathematics courses and work to expand tutoring services at the college. He brings five years of teaching experience and is completing the final stages of a master鈥檚 degree in education, instruction and curriculum from the American College of Education.

Trustees unanimously approved all three contracts.

The board also approved a facility use agreement between 91黑料 and the Goshen County Fairgrounds to support the college鈥檚 rodeo team. The agreement provides the team exclusive use of north livestock pens for boarding, pavilion access at an hourly rate of $72, outdoor arena access at $20 per hour and full use of the fairgrounds to host the annual 91黑料 Rodeo. The agreement also includes year-round placement of an 91黑料 banner inside the pavilion to increase the college鈥檚 visibility.

In a related action, trustees authorized the 91黑料 Rodeo Club to purchase or lease practice livestock for training purposes in an amount not to exceed $100,000. The expenditure will be funded entirely through Rodeo Club funds and will not affect the college鈥檚 unrestricted general operating budget.

91黑料 Rodeo Coach Whit Peterson said rising livestock costs have made sustaining collegiate rodeo programs increasingly difficult.

鈥淧rices have skyrocketed,鈥� Peterson said. 鈥淎s a club we have done a good buying and selling tie down calves, but it鈥檚 scary. I lose sleep at night.鈥�

Peterson said the team runs between 200 and 300 head of calves through practice each week and noted that rodeo programs nationwide are struggling to host events because of increasing costs.

鈥淲hit has been doing a good job,鈥� 91黑料 Vice President Patrick Korell said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a scary time, but he鈥檚 built up some club money and we are talking about a $100,000 investment.鈥�

Trustees also approved the purchase of a skid steer for an amount not to exceed $80,000. The purchase will be fully funded through WIP grant funds.

Korell also updated trustees on roof repairs to the college gymnasium and plans to replace the gym floor after water damage caused moisture to seep beneath the surface.

鈥淚t (the floor) is concaved and bowed,鈥� Korell said. 鈥淲hen you walk across it now, you will hear creaks. This is going to be a big project and it鈥檚 a horrible time to have to put in a new floor.鈥�

Korell said three companies evaluated the floor and all recommended replacement. The current floor, installed in the 1980s, could potentially be replaced between Sept. 1 and Oct. 15.

鈥淲e are on a tight timetable with volleyball,鈥� Korell added.

Roof repairs have been completed, and the fitness center has reopened.

During departmental reports, 91黑料 Registrar Dave Bulemel told trustees the Registrar鈥檚 Office spent the past year simplifying and improving student-facing processes while strengthening institutional compliance and reducing regulatory and audit risks.

Working alongside admissions, financial aid and the business office, the department reviewed legacy practices, streamlined catalog requirements and introduced new technology to reduce confusion and unexpected obstacles for students. The changes will be reflected in the 2026-27 academic catalog.

91黑料 President Dr. Jeffry Hawes also reported the college received a $575,000 grant to upgrade information technology equipment, which typically requires replacement every five years.

Hawes additionally highlighted a statewide rural Wyoming health initiative after the state secured a $35 million grant over five years, which will benefit 91黑料 programming and partnerships.

He also shared plans for a new campus internship initiative modeled after a successful program launched in the Marketing and Public Relations Department through an 91黑料 Foundation grant. The pilot program hired a dozen student interns who gained hands-on experience while supporting campus promotions and livestreaming community events for the public.

鈥淭he work students accomplished impacted both the college and the community,鈥� Hawes said.

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91黑料 CDL Graduate Bo Baumgartner Receives National NextGen Trucking Award

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – Recent high school graduate and 91黑料 Commercial Driver鈥檚 License (CDL) program completer Bo Baumgartner was recognized during the June 9 91黑料 Board of Trustees meeting on the Torrington campus after receiving the national NextGen Trucking Association Student of the Month Award.

91黑料 Dean of Workforce and Career Technical Education Darryl Spitzer presented Baumgartner with the award, recognizing his dedication, leadership and success while completing 91黑料鈥檚 CDL program as a high school student.

Baumgartner, who farms approximately 20 miles outside of Torrington, completed the CDL program through 91黑料 while still in high school and plans to use the certification to support his agricultural career.

鈥淚 farm about 20 miles outside Torrington,鈥� Baumgartner told trustees. 鈥淚 will use my CDL to haul ag commodities and make some side money.鈥�

The award was presented through the Next Generation in Trucking Association, a national organization dedicated to promoting trucking education and workforce development for students entering the transportation industry.

In a letter accompanying the award, Next Generation in Trucking Association President and Co-Founder Lindsey Trent praised Baumgartner for his achievements.

鈥淐ongratulations! It is my great honor to recognize you as the Next Generation in Trucking Student of the Month,鈥� Trent wrote. 鈥淭his award celebrates your hard work, dedication and leadership qualities that set you apart as an outstanding student.鈥�

According to the letter, Baumgartner was nominated by his instructor, who highlighted both his accomplishments and the positive impact he made in the classroom.

鈥淵ou were nominated by your teacher, who spoke highly of your achievements and the positive impact you make in the classroom,鈥� Trent wrote. 鈥淭heir belief in you highlights the difference you are making not only in your own learning journey but also in your school community.鈥�

As part of the recognition, Baumgartner received a Student of the Month plaque honoring his achievement, while 91黑料鈥檚 CDL program also received a plaque to display in the classroom as inspiration for future students.

鈥淎t the Next Generation in Trucking Association, we believe that students like you are the future of our industry and our communities,鈥� Trent wrote. 鈥淲e encourage you to keep pursuing your goals with the same passion and determination that earned you this award.鈥�

91黑料鈥檚 CDL program provides students with hands-on training and workforce-ready skills, helping prepare graduates for careers in transportation, agriculture and commercial trucking industries across the region.

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TORRINGTON, Wyo.聽鈥� Students and families planning to use federal student loans at 91黑料 should be aware of several significant federal changes taking effect July 1, 2026, as a result of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law in 2025.

The changes affect loan eligibility for part-time enrollment, lifetime borrowing limits, Parent PLUS loans, and the timing of federal loan disbursements.

According to 91黑料 Director of Financial Aid Becky McAllister, understanding how enrollment impacts aid eligibility will be especially important moving forward.

鈥淪tudents need to understand that their enrollment decisions now have a more direct impact on how much they may be eligible to borrow,鈥� McAllister said. 鈥淪taying enrolled in 12 or more credit hours each semester remains the best way to maximize federal loan eligibility.鈥�

Under the new federal regulations, students must remain enrolled at least half-time to qualify for federal student loans. At 91黑料, this generally means a minimum of six credit hours per semester for undergraduate students.

In addition, federal Direct Loan eligibility will now be more closely tied to enrollment intensity. Students enrolled in fewer than 12 credit hours per semester may see reduced borrowing eligibility, with loan amounts prorated based on their enrollment level. Students who withdraw from courses during a semester may also experience reductions in future loan disbursements, even if they remain technically full-time.

At 91黑料, Direct Loan eligibility will be determined based on enrollment at the time loans are disbursed. Changes in enrollment after disbursement may impact future aid eligibility.

Students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours per semester will continue to qualify for the maximum annual federal loan amount available to them. However, students attending less than full-time or those who reduce their course load after the semester begins may receive lower loan amounts in future terms.

The legislation also establishes new lifetime borrowing limits for federal student loans. Beginning July 1, 2026, students may borrow no more than $257,500 in federal student loans over their lifetime, regardless of whether loans are repaid.

In addition, new caps have been placed on Parent PLUS loans. Parents may now borrow up to $20,000 per year per student, with a lifetime maximum of $65,000 per student. While these changes may have limited impact for many 91黑料 students, they could affect families planning to pursue four-year degrees after graduation.

McAllister said students should plan ahead and communicate with the Financial Aid Office if they anticipate schedule changes.

鈥淲e encourage students to stay in close contact with Financial Aid, especially if they are adjusting schedules, withdrawing from classes, or planning additional coursework,鈥� McAllister said. 鈥淥ur goal is to help students understand their options and avoid surprises.鈥�

Because of the new federal requirements and more individualized loan calculations, students may also experience slightly delayed loan disbursements. 91黑料 will initially award loans assuming full-time enrollment and recalculate eligibility after add/drop periods have ended.

鈥淲hile the process may take a little longer, we will work as quickly as possible to ensure students receive their funding,鈥� McAllister said. 鈥淲e want students to know we are here to help them navigate these changes.鈥�

Students with questions about how the federal loan changes may affect them are encouraged to contact the 91黑料 Financial Aid Office at聽307-532-8224聽or by email at聽financialaid@ewc.wy.edu.

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