The Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) has announced that nominations are now open for the 2025 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards, celebrating individuals, organizations, and communities for their exceptional contributions to advancing the arts in Kansas. These prestigious awards, last presented in 2011, aim to recognize leadership and innovation in the arts that enrich the state culturally and economically. Nominations will be accepted until Friday, December 13, 2024.
Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland emphasized the importance of the arts to the state, noting their role in fostering creativity and contributing significantly to Kansas's economy. “These awards will shine a spotlight on leaders in the arts whose work is shaping the cultural and economic landscape of our state,” Toland stated.
The awards ceremony will take place in Topeka on February 20, 2025, celebrating excellence across various categories, including:
Arts Advocate of the Year
Arts Community of the Year
Arts Leader of the Year
Arts Organization of the Year
Arts Patron of the Year
Emerging Arts Leader of the Year
Emerging Arts Organization of the Year
Excellence in Arts Education
Excellence in the Arts in Business
Excellence in Public Service in the Arts
Kansas Arts Legacy Award
Excellence in Artistic Achievement
Curtis Young, KAC Director, highlighted the program’s mission to honor the state’s dynamic arts and culture sector. “The Governor’s Arts Awards acknowledge our vibrant arts and culture community for their contributions to a thriving Kansas,” he said.
To nominate an individual, organization, or community, or to learn more about the process, visit the Kansas Arts Commission’s website. For additional information, contact Ben Stanton at email or by phone at (785) 213-5959. These awards are an opportunity to celebrate the creative visionaries who inspire, educate, and contribute to the cultural richness of Kansas.
