A Life of Service: Rick and Nancy Vonburg's Enduring Legacy at EWC
In a heartwarming tribute, Rick and Nancy Vonburg were honored with the prestigious Albert C. Conger Distinguished Service Award at Eastern Wyoming College's annual Scholarship Donor Dinner on October 8th. This recognition celebrated their nearly five decades of unwavering dedication to the college and the community.
The Vonburgs' journey is a testament to the power of education and community service. Both Rick and Nancy grew up in small Wyoming ranch communities, instilled with values of hard work, responsibility, and a deep sense of community. These values guided their careers in education, shaping their lives and the lives of countless students.
From Ranch Roots to the Classroom
Rick, with a bachelor's and master's degree in agricultural economics, and a year in the doctoral program at the University of Wyoming, began his teaching career at Wayne State College in Nebraska. He joined EWC in 1973, where he taught agriculture, economics, and statistics for 43 years, eventually chairing the Department of Agriculture, Business, Welding, and Cosmetology. Nancy, with an associate degree from Northwest College and a bachelor's and master's in English Education from UW, taught English and business etiquette at EWC before stepping away to raise their five children.
The couple's shared commitment to their community blossomed from their early years together. They became active in the Jaycees and Jaycettes, serving as state presidents, which deepened their leadership skills and bond. Rick also served on the EWC faculty association and as state president of the Wyoming Community College Faculty Association. Beyond campus, he spent 28 years on the Torrington City Council and as president of the Wyoming Association of Municipalities.
Together, the Vonburgs held numerous roles in their church and continue to serve on EWC advisory committees, the Foundation Board, and the Board of Trustees, even in retirement. Their service has left an indelible mark on the college and the community.
Building a Legacy, One Child at a Time
The Vonburgs' dedication to service extended beyond the classroom. Their children, inspired by their parents' commitment, also began their academic journeys at EWC. Their oldest daughter, Tronica, earned a degree in education, becoming a charter member of Phi Theta Kappa and an English tutor. She now works at Texas Tech's Child Development Center in Lubbock.
Their son, Trevin, graduated from EWC with degrees in welding and sociology. He and his wife traveled the country in an RV, taking welding jobs. Trevin passed away in a motorcycle accident in 2006, and the family honors his memory through a memorial scholarship at EWC.
Their daughter, Tristica, earned an associate degree in elementary education at EWC and now teaches first grade in Cheyenne. Their son, Trenton, received his associate degree in elementary education from EWC and works with the Wyoming Education Department in Cheyenne. Their youngest daughter, Trenille, took classes at EWC while in high school and now works as a realtor in Cheyenne.
A Life of Simple Joys
Despite their remarkable accomplishments, Rick and Nancy remain grounded, sharing a love for board games, especially bridge, which they play in the Goshen County Bridge Marathon. They also enjoy gardening, growing produce for their family and neighbors. Rick's love for motorcycles connects him to his Wyoming roots.
A Legacy That Endures
The Vonburgs' long-term commitment to EWC is unparalleled, as noted by Foundation President Todd Peterson. Their decades of service were not about recognition but about serving students, strengthening the community, and supporting one another. Their legacy will continue to grow as generations of students benefit from their work and the scholarship created in their son's memory.
