K-State Research and Extension

By Jennifer Stultz

Tri-County Tribune Editor

jstultz@cherryroad.com

Carolyn Dunn and Stafford County were among several entrepreneurial organizations recognized by K-State’s Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development as 2024 Huck Boyd Leaders of the Year.

Dunn took on the role of Stafford County Economic Development director in 2011. When the only grocery store in the county seat closed, local citizens mobilized to find an alternative. Dunn led the $3.8 million project to construct a new building for the grocery store, which operates today.

She also pursued alternatives for housing, which led to the construction of 10 new affordable, energy-efficient homes. Dunn now serves as president of the Stafford County Port Authority, which is building an $11 million rail transloading facility that is projected to have a $40 million benefit for the county.

Dunn was recognized as the 2024 Business Development award for her work in Stafford County

Other Huck Boyd Institute 2024 award winners included Duane Toews, (Community Service) KSDS Assistance Dogs, Washington; Joe Minnick, Debbie and Terry Thompson, Hoffman Grist Mill/Ross Boelling, (Tourism) Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, Abilene/Enterprise; Isaac and Karina Shue, (Entrepreneurship) Gallery Mostaza, Harper; Jason Smith, (Technology) Rainbow Communications/Smart Rural Communities, Everest; Alex Parker, Circle P Processing, (Agribusiness) Waterville; and Ray Flickner, Flickner Innovation Farm, (Ag Innovation) Moundridge.

“These represent some of our state’s best examples of innovation, service and business development,” said Julie Hower, president and CEO of Farmers & Drovers Bank in Council Grove, and chair of the Huck Boyd Institute Board of Directors.