NOTO Arts & Entertainment District Honored as Urban Arts Community of the Year at 2025 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards In total, 17 distinguished individuals and organizations were acknowledged for their exceptional contributions to the arts and culture of Kansas.
The NOTO Arts & Entertainment District is thrilled to announce its recognition as the Urban Arts Community of the Year at the esteemed 2025 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards ceremony, held at the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center. This prestigious event celebrated the remarkable achievements of individuals, organizations, and communities that have significantly contributed to the advancement of the arts throughout Kansas.
The evening also paid tribute to Grammy and Oscar Award-winning musician Melissa Etheridge, who was honored with the highly coveted Governor’s Award for her extraordinary impact on the arts and her unwavering support for local initiatives. A proud Leavenworth native, Etheridge has spent decades inspiring audiences while advocating for Kansas through her dedicated service and community involvement.
In total, 17 distinguished individuals and organizations were acknowledged for their exceptional contributions to the arts and culture of Kansas. Each award was selected by a carefully chosen committee, culminating in the Governor’s Award, which is determined personally by Governor Kelly.
The recipients of this year’s awards include:
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 Awards:
Constance “Connie” Bonfy, Wichita
Dr. Cecil Riney, Wichita
NedRa Bonds, Kansas City
The Governor’s Award: Melissa Etheridge, Leavenworth
“We are incredibly honored to be recognized as the Urban Arts Community of the Year at the 2025 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards,” expressed Pedro Concepcion, CEO of the NOTO Arts & Entertainment District. “This achievement is a testament not just to our organization, but to the myriad of artists, small businesses, volunteers, and community supporters who believe in the transformative power of creativity. I am immensely proud to be part of a movement that fosters a vibrant and welcoming environment in NOTO. This award truly reflects the passion, dedication, and spirit of everyone involved in making our district a hub of innovation and inspiration.”
