Governor Kelly Recognizes Melissa Etheridge, Others at Governor’s Arts Awards

Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) today announced the recipients of the 2025 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards during a ceremony held at the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center. The event was focused on celebrating remarkable individuals, organizations and communities for their exceptional contributions and leadership in advancing the arts across Kansas.

Grammy and Oscar Award-winning musician Melissa Etheridge was named this year’s recipient of the prestigious Governor’s Award.

“There are many talented Kansans involved in creative work across our state, and we know that art enhances their lives and the lives of those around them,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The people we recognized at the Governor’s Arts Awards tonight are using their talents and passions to strengthen communities all throughout Kansas and to enrich the culture of our great state.”

At the awards ceremony hosted by Wichita television personality Sierra Scott, 17 individuals and organizations were recognized for their work and efforts in elevating Kansas through arts and culture. Nominations for each award are thoroughly reviewed and chosen by a selection committee. The recipient for The Governor’s Award is chosen by Governor Kelly herself.

“Governor Kelly and I have had the privilege of learning about and witnessing the dedication of artists, organizations, advocates, communities and creative businesses located across every region of our state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The Kansas arts and culture community plays a significant role in our growing economy by enriching the quality of place we call home. This impressive group of awardees is most deserving of the spotlight, and the state looks forward to see these inspiring leaders continue to enhance the cultural landscape of Kansas.”

The 2025 Governor’s Award recipient has been inspiring fans around the world for decades. Beyond Etheridge’s chart-topping records and stirring live performances, the Leavenworth native is known as a tireless advocate of Kansas who champions local causes through hands-on service.

“Across the nation and world, people are connecting with Etheridge’s music and can see how she truly embodies the Kansas values of hard work, self-reliance and kindness,” Kansas Arts Commission Director Curtis Young said. “She takes all the things that make Kansas great and shares them with the world — and she regularly brings it back home to benefit communities through her generosity and spirit.”

This year’s award categories and recipients are:

• Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Media Arts: Kiki Bush, Gypsum
• Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Music: Bob McWilliams, Lawrence
• Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Visual Arts: Shin-hee Chin, McPherson
• Arts Advocacy: Brenda Meder, Hays
• Arts Patron of the Year: Paul Dorrell, Roeland Park
• Excellence in Arts Education: Tyler Dallis, Pratt
• Excellence in the Arts in Business: The Artificers, Fort Scott
• Emerging Arts Leader of the Year: Lacey Connell, Overland Park
• Emerging Arts Organization of the Year: LV Arts, Leavenworth
• Rural Arts Community of the Year: Clay Center
• Urban Arts Community of the Year: NOTO Arts & Entertainment District, Topeka
• Arts Leader of the Year: Katy Guthrie, Garden City
• Arts Organization of the Year: Theatre in the Park, Overland Park
• Arts Legacy Award: Constance “Connie” Bonfy, Wichita
• Arts Legacy Award: Dr. Cecil Riney, Wichita
• Arts Legacy Award: NedRa Bonds, Kansas City
• The Governor’s Award: Melissa Etheridge, Leavenworth

To learn more about the Kansas Arts Commission, their programs or art resources, visit here.