Cowley College Names Mason Burr January 2026 Student of the Month

Cowley College has selected Mason Burr, a Criminal Justice major from Arkansas City, Kansas, as the January 2026 Student of the Month, recognizing his academic achievement, dedication to public service, and commitment to community engagement.

Burr, 18, maintains a 3.59 GPA and is currently employed as a part-time security officer in Cowley College’s Public Safety Office, where he helps ensure a safe and welcoming campus environment. He is a graduate of Arkansas City High School and will celebrate his 19th birthday on January 27.

Burr chose Cowley College specifically for its Criminal Justice program, citing the program’s strong community impact as a major influence in his decision. “I realized how much of an impact the program makes in the community, and I wanted to join and help that impact reach more people,” Burr said.

Community service plays a central role in Burr’s college experience. Through Student Patrol, he provides security at community events, checks doors for local businesses, and assists local law enforcement. He is also beginning the process of becoming a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters, where he plans to serve as a positive role model for a young person. In addition, Burr participates in Adopt-A-School, visiting elementary schools to engage with students through activities such as eating lunch with them, playing at recess, and participating in High-Five Fridays. He also volunteers with Unstoppable God Ministries, serving as a counselor and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they learn about the Gospel.

Burr is an active member of Turning Point USA, Cowley Chapter, further demonstrating his involvement in campus life.

Family legacy is another meaningful aspect of Burr’s journey at Cowley College. His parents, Eric and Rebecca Burr, both attended Cowley College in 1994, earning their associate degrees. His father also earned a degree in Criminal Justice and went on to serve as a police officer in Arkansas City for 29 years. Burr has two older sisters, Ally Burr (28) and Kelsie Burr (24).

After graduating from Cowley College, Burr plans to spend one additional year working at a summer camp before applying to become a police officer, with the goal of serving locally in Arkansas City or Winfield.

“In all honesty, I am so blessed and grateful for this opportunity,” Burr said. “I really enjoy serving my community through Cowley and the criminal justice program.”

When asked what advice he would give to others, Burr shared, “Go above and beyond the minimum standard, and don’t be scared to go out of your way. Those two things combined can benefit a person greatly and can create more leaders that we need in our generation.”

Cowley College congratulates Mason Burr on being named the January 2026 Student of the Month and commends him for his leadership, service, and dedication to making a positive difference in his community.

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