Governor’s Arts Awards

2008 Governor’s Arts Awards

The Governor’s Arts Awards are honors given annually to distinguished Kansas artists, patrons and educators, and has been given annually since 1974 by the governor and the Kansas Arts Commission.  A panel consisting of members of the Kansas Arts Commission, a representative from the Governor’s office and arts professionals selected the winners from 37 nominees.

This year’s winners are:

• The City of Wichita, Department of Arts and Cultural Services (arts community)
• The Elaris Duo, Topeka (artist)
• Dick and Beverly Hess, McPherson (arts patrons)
• Jay and Barbara Nelson, Manhattan (arts advocates)
• John Tibbetts, Lenexa (arts in education)
• Van Go Mobile Arts, Lawrence (arts organization)

In addition, jazz and nightclub singer Marilyn Maye, a Kansas City native, will be honored with this year’s Distinguished Arts Award. Known as “the singer’s singer” and for a record of 76 appearances on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson," Maye’s career is a litany of honors, awards, and landmark achievements.

Winners will be recognized at a dinner and awards ceremony from 6:00 to 9:30 pm on June 26, at Washburn University's Memorial Union. Governor Kathleen Sebelius has been invited to attend the ceremony to present the awards.

Tickets may be purchased to the June 26 event for $50 until June 5. If you would like to receive an invitation to the 2008 Governor's Arts Awards, send your name, mailing address, e-mail address and phone number to . If you are already receiving our mailings, you will soon receive an invitation by mail.