Cowley College Health & Human Services Day Draws 250 Attendees from 25 High Schools

Cowley College’s Health & Human Services Day, held Wednesday, October 15, 2025, brought together approximately 250 students and sponsors from 25 area high schools for an action-packed day of career exploration, live demonstrations, and hands-on learning experiences at the college’s main campus in Arkansas City.

The event showcased a wide range of high-demand health and public safety careers, allowing attendees to interact directly with professionals, faculty, and local agencies through engaging displays and activities.

One of the day’s major highlights was the EagleMed helicopter fly-in, which gave students a close-up look at the aircraft and its life-saving equipment. The Ark City Fire/EMS Department impressed the crowd with hands-on Jaws-of-Life demonstrations and aerial truck rides, while the Ark City Police Department hosted a DUI goggles and bike course that emphasized safety and awareness.

Outside, Cowley College Fire Science and Cosmetology programs joined forces with Wellington Fire/EMS to showcase specialized equipment and skills used in their professions.

Inside the gymnasium, approximately 20 vendors and partner organizations connected with students through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. Participants included the Kansas Highway Patrol, Wichita Police Department, Winfield Police Department, Gentiva Hospice, Butler County EMS, Sedgwick County EMS, Butler Community College Nursing, Cowley Early Childhood Education, Advanced Physical Therapy, William Newton Hospital, SCK Health, Cumbernauld Village, and Kaw Nation Education Services.

In addition to the career activities, attendees enjoyed food trucks and yard games, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere that encouraged exploration and connection.

As part of the day’s festivities, Joanna Bonnell was randomly selected to receive an HHS Tuition Scholarship, helping her take the next step toward pursuing a career in health and human services.

“Health & Human Services Day is about giving students real-world experiences and showing them the impact they can make in their communities,” said Chris Cannon, Director of EMS Education at Cowley College. “It’s exciting to see so many future professionals inspired by what they learned and experienced throughout the day.”

Cowley College extends appreciation to all the schools, agencies, and community partners who made the event a success.

Hunter Ferguson | Integrated Communications Specialist
Cowley College
125 S. 2nd Street
Arkansas City, KS 67005
hunter.ferguson@cowley.edu