ALUMNI

ALUMNI OF THE YEAR: 2025
Greg Gordon

Greg Gordon, a proud Hutchinson Community College graduate, has been named the 2025 Alumnus of the Year in recognition of his outstanding contributions to his alma mater, community and profession.

Born in Independence, Kansas, Gordon moved to Hutchinson at the age of six. He attended Allen and Roosevelt Grade Schools, Liberty Junior High, and Hutchinson High School, where he learned the importance of education, hard work, and forming meaningful relationships. His parents played a significant role in shaping his values, encouraging both academic success and entrepreneurial spirit through neighborhood mowing and snow shoveling jobs.

After graduating from Hutchinson High School in 1970, he chose to continue his education at HCC, alongside many of his classmates. The opportunity to stay close to home while working 30-35 hours a week at Dillons allowed him to gain a strong academic foundation while managing his responsibilities. His studies in business administration and accounting prepared him for further education and a successful career in the business world. He fondly remembers the impact of professors such as Roy Broxterman in business, Willie Adkins in history, David Lane in advertising, and Dave Blackim in debate. The smaller class sizes and engaging discussions at HCC set the stage for his continued academic achievements at Wichita State University.

At WSU, he encountered larger class sizes and new challenges, but the advanced business and accounting courses further enhanced his professional skills. With a well-rounded education, he confidently pursued career opportunities, joining Consolidated Manufacturing in Hutchinson, where he entered a newly developed management training program. His passion for automobiles made this position an ideal fit, launching a career that spanned over four decades in the automotive remanufacturing industry. After 32 years at Consolidated, he transitioned to a California-based company to contribute to a new Chrysler remanufacturing program. His professional achievements include being named Remanufacturer of the Year and serving as President of the Production Remanufacturing Association in 1987 and 1988.

Beyond his career, his greatest pride lies in the accomplishments of his family. He and his wife, Kay, met at the age of 15 and shared a lifelong commitment to education and success, marrying in 1974. Both graduated from HCC in 1972 and WSU in 1974, with Kay earning a degree in elementary education. Their three children and spouses—Ryan & Joah Gordon, Amber & Tyler Goetz, and Ashley & David Farney—have followed in their footsteps, excelling academically at Kansas institutions. Amber, Tyler, Ashley and David all attended Hutchinson Community College. Greg and Kay have 5 grandchildren with one on the way.

Now retired, Greg remains active in the community while continuing to pursue his lifelong passion for automobiles. He serves on the Hutchinson Community College Endowment Board and Finance Committee, as well as the Downtown Hutch Rod Run. A past president of the Central Kansas Corvette Association, he also helps organize the Kansas State Fair Invitational Car Show. His previous board service includes roles with Hutchinson Hospital and First National Bank of Hutchinson. Outside of his community involvement, Greg and Kay enjoy spending time with their grandchildren, attending their sporting events and other activities. They also spend time in the Table Rock Lake and Branson area.

Reflecting on his journey, he emphasizes the importance of education and maintaining balance between career and personal life. His advice to students entering the automotive field is to seek as much education and technical training as possible, paired with a strong foundation in business, sales, and service.

“My journey from HCC to today has been very consistent,” he said. “Kay and I had our plans made during high school, and we were fortunate to accomplish our goals in both career and family. I am very proud and humbled to be selected as the 2025 Alumnus of the Year. It is an honor to serve on the Endowment Board, to meet the students benefiting from our family endowed scholarship for students seeking a degree in elementary education, and to support HCC athletic events.”

HCC Alumni & Friends congratulates Greg Gordon on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his ongoing support and generosity to the college and community.