Awards of Merit
Submit a Nomination.
Scroll down past nominiation form for Merit Award History.
Scroll down past nominiation form for Merit Award History.
Awards are presented to members for achievement in writing (A), service to the club (S), and special award for particular accomplishment (SP).
Nomination Deadline: Annually on July 1
Awards are presented at the Annual Meeting of the General Membership each year. View the monthly program page for the current schedule.
Nomination Deadline: Annually on July 1
Awards are presented at the Annual Meeting of the General Membership each year. View the monthly program page for the current schedule.
History of Members Recognized
2023
(S) Nichole Snyder of District 5 - D5 computer and Zoom tech, served in newly-created position as Technology Manager. Read nomination.
(S) Ann Christine Fell, D5, Writers in Community Liaison for District 5. She especially champions authors' involvement with libraries. Ann organized a small group for writers in the Winfield area. Read nomination.
(S) Lindsey Bartlett, D2, prose contest manager 2 years, introduced and co-sponsored the Rural Voices category, serves as Co-Chair of District 2 in 2023. Assistant Editor, Writing from the Center Zine. Read nomination.
(A) Betty Berney has been a member of the Kansas Author’s Club since 1983. Among her many honors are winning first prize in the 5th Anniversary National Country Music Songwriter Contest in 1981; the Golden Poet Award presented at the 3rd Annual Poetry Convention at the Las Vegas Hilton in 1987, and the Female Country songwriter of the year by the Lumpkin Music Corporation in 1988. Her 375 plus extensive writings include poetry and songs. Read nomination.
(S) Nichole Snyder of District 5 - D5 computer and Zoom tech, served in newly-created position as Technology Manager. Read nomination.
(S) Ann Christine Fell, D5, Writers in Community Liaison for District 5. She especially champions authors' involvement with libraries. Ann organized a small group for writers in the Winfield area. Read nomination.
(S) Lindsey Bartlett, D2, prose contest manager 2 years, introduced and co-sponsored the Rural Voices category, serves as Co-Chair of District 2 in 2023. Assistant Editor, Writing from the Center Zine. Read nomination.
(A) Betty Berney has been a member of the Kansas Author’s Club since 1983. Among her many honors are winning first prize in the 5th Anniversary National Country Music Songwriter Contest in 1981; the Golden Poet Award presented at the 3rd Annual Poetry Convention at the Las Vegas Hilton in 1987, and the Female Country songwriter of the year by the Lumpkin Music Corporation in 1988. Her 375 plus extensive writings include poetry and songs. Read nomination.
2022
(S) Curtis Becker, D2, dedicated and enthusiastic leadership in the Kansas Authors Club and in District 2, State Newsletter Editor (2021-present), D2 Vice President (2021), and D2 Website Manager (2020-present), one of the four-member team that made our 2020 Virtual Convention, volunteers each year as a judge for youth writing contests, Chair of the 2022 Convention. Read nomination.
(S) Connie Rae White, D5, president of District 5, secretary for D5, 2019 convention organizer, sat on the committee that produced our first virtual convention in 2020. D5 virtual meetings, restructuring committee. Read nomination.
(S) Gretchen Eick, D5, D5 vice president and program manager, member of Committee to Restructure Kansas Authors Club, website enhancement suggestions. Read nomination.
(A) Maureen Carroll, D2, author, co-chair of District 2, owner of Anamcara Press, publisher of The Write Bridge zine. Read nomination.
(S) Curtis Becker, D2, dedicated and enthusiastic leadership in the Kansas Authors Club and in District 2, State Newsletter Editor (2021-present), D2 Vice President (2021), and D2 Website Manager (2020-present), one of the four-member team that made our 2020 Virtual Convention, volunteers each year as a judge for youth writing contests, Chair of the 2022 Convention. Read nomination.
(S) Connie Rae White, D5, president of District 5, secretary for D5, 2019 convention organizer, sat on the committee that produced our first virtual convention in 2020. D5 virtual meetings, restructuring committee. Read nomination.
(S) Gretchen Eick, D5, D5 vice president and program manager, member of Committee to Restructure Kansas Authors Club, website enhancement suggestions. Read nomination.
(A) Maureen Carroll, D2, author, co-chair of District 2, owner of Anamcara Press, publisher of The Write Bridge zine. Read nomination.
2021
Special Thanks:
Sandee Taylor, D5, webmaster
Joyce Long, D3, long-time D3 leader
(S) District 1 Convention Planning Committee: Anne Spry
(S) Anne Shiever, D4, past D4 present, years of service on the state board including publicity, assistant recording secretary, awards chair
(A) Hazel Hart, D2, works with others as editor, 13 published titles of her own, including the 5-volume series of Kansas historical fiction, The Pierce Family Saga.
Special Thanks:
Sandee Taylor, D5, webmaster
Joyce Long, D3, long-time D3 leader
(S) District 1 Convention Planning Committee: Anne Spry
(S) Anne Shiever, D4, past D4 present, years of service on the state board including publicity, assistant recording secretary, awards chair
(A) Hazel Hart, D2, works with others as editor, 13 published titles of her own, including the 5-volume series of Kansas historical fiction, The Pierce Family Saga.
2020
(S) Diane Wahto, D5, served as D5 president 2017-2019, 2019 Convention Co-chair, 2015-2020 State Awards Chair.
(S) Maryann Barry, D2, served as assistant recording secretary and recording secretary for state since 2007 and 2019 State Vice President.
(S) Jim Potter, D6, District 6 president and top member recruiter for the state. Leader in transitioning to online meetings.
(S) Duane Johnson, D1, 2017-2018 D1 President, 2019 State Vice President, 2020 State President. Coordinated KAC's first ever virtual convention, entirely online, October 2020.
(SP) Tracy Million Simmons, D2, use of submittable account to streamline convention registration, created virtual bookroom for 2020 convention
(S) Diane Wahto, D5, served as D5 president 2017-2019, 2019 Convention Co-chair, 2015-2020 State Awards Chair.
(S) Maryann Barry, D2, served as assistant recording secretary and recording secretary for state since 2007 and 2019 State Vice President.
(S) Jim Potter, D6, District 6 president and top member recruiter for the state. Leader in transitioning to online meetings.
(S) Duane Johnson, D1, 2017-2018 D1 President, 2019 State Vice President, 2020 State President. Coordinated KAC's first ever virtual convention, entirely online, October 2020.
(SP) Tracy Million Simmons, D2, use of submittable account to streamline convention registration, created virtual bookroom for 2020 convention
2019
(S) Sandee Taylor and Ann Fell, D5, 2019 convention brochures, bookmarks, and hotel liaisons.
(A) Ronda Miller, D2, accomplished journalist, award-winning poet and writer, dedicated KAC leader.
(S) Nancy Julien Kopp, D4, has served as D4 president, secretary, treasurer, & convention chair, presented convention workshops, and maintains a blog for writers.
(S) Joyce Long, D3, has served as D3 president, convention chair, and help start writers group. Writes about her puppet and life’s challenges.
(S) Michael D. Graves, D2, 2016 & 2019 prose contest manager, assisted in 2018, active D2 member and author.
(S) Sandee Taylor and Ann Fell, D5, 2019 convention brochures, bookmarks, and hotel liaisons.
(A) Ronda Miller, D2, accomplished journalist, award-winning poet and writer, dedicated KAC leader.
(S) Nancy Julien Kopp, D4, has served as D4 president, secretary, treasurer, & convention chair, presented convention workshops, and maintains a blog for writers.
(S) Joyce Long, D3, has served as D3 president, convention chair, and help start writers group. Writes about her puppet and life’s challenges.
(S) Michael D. Graves, D2, 2016 & 2019 prose contest manager, assisted in 2018, active D2 member and author.
2018
(S) Wendy Devilbiss, D2, Poetry Contest Manager 2016-2017, help initiate using Submittable.
(S) Reaona Hemmingway, D1, D1 Secretary 2007-2008, D1 Treasurer 2008-Present, State Newsletter Editor 2014-Present, Yearbook Editor 2018-Present.
(A) Kevin Rabas, D2, Kansas Poet Laureate 2017-2019, 7 books of poetry published, writes for Jazz Ambassador Magazine, and accomplished playwright.
(S) Wendy Devilbiss, D2, Poetry Contest Manager 2016-2017, help initiate using Submittable.
(S) Reaona Hemmingway, D1, D1 Secretary 2007-2008, D1 Treasurer 2008-Present, State Newsletter Editor 2014-Present, Yearbook Editor 2018-Present.
(A) Kevin Rabas, D2, Kansas Poet Laureate 2017-2019, 7 books of poetry published, writes for Jazz Ambassador Magazine, and accomplished playwright.
2017
(S) Cindi Kerr, D5, District 5 website manager
(SP) Carol Yoho, D1, 15 years as KAC state website manager.
(A) Patricia Bonine, D1, District 1 president from 2010-2015.
(S) Cindi Kerr, D5, District 5 website manager
(SP) Carol Yoho, D1, 15 years as KAC state website manager.
(A) Patricia Bonine, D1, District 1 president from 2010-2015.
1974-2016
1974
SP Dr. Karl Menninger, D1: Author in Psychiatry
A Marguerite Kingman, D2: Poet
1975
A Glad Robinson Youse, D3; Poet & Hymn Writer
S Tillie Karns Newman, D3; State President, District President, Fiction, Poetry, History
SP Stuart Aubrey; Journalism
SP Rolla Clymer; Journalism
1976
A Charles Rayburn, D7; Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry
SP Dr. Emory Lindquist, D5; Author and WSU President
1977
A Nova Ashley, D5; Poetry, Fiction
S Lola Harper Crum, D7; State Archivist, District President, Poet
SP Kenneth S. Davis; Photojournalism
1978
A Sally Ewing, D2; Juvenile Fiction, Poetry
S Iva Ellis, D1; State Parliamentarian, Dist. Pres., Non-Fiction, Poetry
1979
S Dr. L. Curtise Wood, D5; State Financial Secretary, Non-Fiction (economics)
S Lloyd L. Miller, D3; State Treasurer, Poet
1980
S Margorie Pettiner Howard, D3; District President, Features, Fiction, Juvenile Fiction
A William Koch, D4; Folklore, State President, District President
A/S Ossie Tranbarger, D3; Haiku, Poetry, District President
1981
A Esther Vogt, D4; Novelist, Short Fiction
S Elizabeth Jones, D4; Poet
1982
A Guanetta Gordon, D2; Poet
S Gertrude Shanafelt, D2; District President, Non-Fiction
1983
A Kathryn Croan Cooper, D2; Poet
A John Stephenson, D6; Poet
S Lily D. Angle, D5; State President, District President, Poet
1984
A Margaret Shauers, D7; Fiction
S Vie Carroll Wild, D6; District President, Poet
SP Zula Bennington Greene; Journalism
1985
A Miriam Franklin, D1; Drama
S Margaret Marshall, D1; Secretary of Honorary Advisory Board, Non-Fiction
1986
A Monette Cummings, D2; Award Winning Novelist
S Elizabeth House, D2; State Vice President, Poet
S Betty Jane Simpson, D5; State Contest Chairman, Poet
1987
A Ossie Tranbarger, D3; Poet
S Ruth Lyon, D3; State President, District President, Non-Fiction, Established the Lyon Kansas History Award
1988
A Pat Barclay, D4; Memoirs
S Barbara Booth, D4; Parl., Poet, Short Story Writer, District President
1990
A Pat Anthony, D2; Poet, Fiction, Non-Fiction, State Publicity Chair
S Isabel Doerr Campbell, D7; Poet, State President, A Life Member for More than 60 Years
S Fred Haney, D5; Poet, State Financial Secretary, Computerized the State Financial Records
1991
A Olive White Garvey, D5; Novels
A Pauline Carl Prince, D2; Poet, Non-Fiction
S Pat Anthony, D2; for Preparing the Officers Procedural Manual
S Raymond Nelson, D5; Poet, State President, District President, Contest Manager
S Margaret Nelson, D5; Non-Fiction, District President, Contest Manager
1992
S Mary Lambert, D7; Grant Writer
SP Gene DeGruson, D3; Author, Editor, Biographer, Researcher, Translator
A Elizabeth House; Poet, District and State President
A Sister Emanuela O’Malley; Poet, Non-Fiction Book, District and State President
1993
A Raymond Nelson, D5; currently has 2 books of Poetry in the stores and another in progress
A Gennetta Springer, D3; Winner of Lyon Kansas History Book Award, 1993
SP Lina and Elsie Shippy, D4; Poetry and Prose, Award for Loyalty to the Club & to each other
S Lily D. Angle, D5; Yearbook Editor, Poet.
1994
S William Lambert, D7; Poet, District President, State President
S Fern Wood, D3; Fiction and Non-Fiction, District President, State Vice President
SP Lois Donahue, D1; Fiction and Poetry, District President, Workshop Leader
SP Kathryn Cooper, D2; Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Published 22 Books
A Edith Gustafson, D2; Winner of Kansas History Book Award, her first book at age 91
1995
S Ralph Dagenais, D5; State Financial Secretary, District Corresponding Sec., Contest Chairperson
S Anne Mart, D6; Poetry, Songs, Fiction, District President, Contest Manager
A Mildred Sykes, D5; History, Nostalgia, Book Reviews, Poetry, Still Publishing at Age 93
A Esther Vogt, D4; Many books published for children and adults, religious fiction, non-fiction. Coffin Book Award 1992.
SP Virginia Reichart, D1; State and District President, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, National recognition for writing and producing large-scale historical pageants.
1996
S Robert N. Lawson, D1; State President & Treasurer, long time District President, Poet, Playwright
A Eugene Bovee, D2; Several Fields of Writing, Active and creative in D2 and State Contests
1997
A Gail Martin, D5; State Archivist, History, Nostalgia
S Laurel Schunk, D5; Novels, Short Stories, Non-Fiction Articles, District President, State Publicity
1998
A Anita Heistand, D3; District Pres., Widely published in US and United Kingdom, Non-Fiction
A Sandra Detrixhe, D4; 6 Historical Novels, one has been translated into 3 foreign languages
S Cynthia Ross, D5; Writers in the Schools, State Membership Chair, District President
SP William Allen White Award, presented to Rose Nix Leo.
1999
A Frankie Roland, D3; District President, Fiction, Non-Fiction
S Jean Jackson, D2; Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry
SP Mildred E. “Mickey” Kastler, D3; Rosemary Award, posthumous, for book, South of Boothill.
2000
S Margie Marang, D3; Poet, District President, Unofficial Kindness Chairman to District Members
A Ursula Turner, D3; Poet, Coffeyville Journalist, District President.
S Julia Dagenais, D5; Poet, Non-Fiction, History, State Pres., V.P., Secretary, Contest Chair.
A Enola Feldman, D7; Poet, several Novels. Posthumous.
2001
S Marie Marshall, D2; History, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Song Lyrics, Both District and State Offices.
S Ivan Pfalser, D3; History, Non-Fiction. Active in Local District.
A Irma Wassall, D5; published poetry and in magazines and anthologies. Governors Award for Writing, 2001.
S Marge Harington, D6; History, Fiction, Journalism, Local District
2002
S Ann Fowler, D4; Poetry, Fiction, State Pres 2000-2001, Dist. Pres.
S Patricia Ferguson, D2; Poetry, State President, Sponsor of Ferguson History Book Award
S Lorena Joyce Herrmann, D7; New Member Chair, Poetry, Fiction, N.F.
A Naomi Patterson, D1: Poetry, Journalist
2003
A Lily D. Angle, D5; Poet, N.F., State & Dist. President, Editor of KAC Yearbook 1982-2004.
S Roxie Olmstead, D5; State Financial Secretary, District Treasurer. Humor & Historical Research.
S Marvin Wambsganss, D6; State Treasurer, Poetry, Fiction & N.F.
2004
SP Alice Flower, D4; Editor of KAC Centennial Book, Poetry, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Drama
SP Fred Haney, D5; Yearbook Photographer for 22 years, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Song
S Carol Yoho, D1; Website Manager, Non-Fiction, Technical, Academic
S Barbara Curry, D2; Contest Manager, Active Member, Fiction, N.F.
A Edith Bradford Gustafson, D2; Still Writing at age 101, Non-Fiction
2004
A Grant Williams, D3; 3 Poetry Books, Children’s Poetry Books, Non-Fiction
S Gail Martin, D5; Lifetime Service Award, Archivist for 9 years, Fiction, N.F., Journalism, History, Poetry
A Robert Lawson, D1; Lifetime Achievement Award, General Editor of Woodley Press, retired Washburn University Prof., Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Song Lyrics, History
2005
A Roxie Olmstead, D5; Published over 100 articles by age 80. Fiction, N.F., History, Poetry, Religion, Technical.
S Ursula Turner, D3; District and State Leader, Poetry, Fiction, Non-Fiction
SP First District Members who hosted the 2004 Centennial Convention in Topeka.
2006
A Richard Paul Tanos, D3; 12 Novels, Active Member
A Helen Long, D4; Active Member Contest Manager, History, Drama
S Christie Breault, D5; Youth Contest Manager & Writers in Schools Chair, Children, Fiction, N.F., Poetry
S Karen Sells Brown, D1; State V.P. & Newsletter Editor, 2004 Centennial Convention, District Pres., Editor, Poet
SP Mary-Lane Kamberg, D2; 7 books, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Youth Contest Manager & Writers in Schools Chair, KC Writers Group, Summer Young Writers Camp
SP Joann Williams, D2; District President, Fiction, Non-Fiction
2007
A Dorothy Masters, D4; Several books. District Pres. 2006 convention. Sponsors writing contests.
A Nancy Glenn, D5; Secretary, V.P. & D5 President. Poetry. Supports Kansas writers at Wichita bookstore.
A Ann Everett, D5; 2006-07 State Offices incl. Fin. Sec., V.P., Pres., Yearbook Editor. Published Alzheimers book.
S Peg Nichols, D2; Active Member. Chaired district writing contest.
S Judy Brewster, D2; Dist. News. Ed.
SP Cynthia Ross, D5; Dedicated KAC member. State awards chair. 2007 convention planning.
SP Frankie Roland, D3; Dist. President & State Writers in Schools Chair graciously accepted State Prose Contest after the unexpected passsing of Julia Dagenais.
2008
A Ralph Allen, D5; 3 books, 40 short stories, 50 poems, and numerous articles published
A LeNore Stumpf, D4; Columnist and author of 4 published books.
S Tracy Million Simmons, D2; Yearbook Editor, created state board E-loop, state newsletter assistance
S William J. Karnowski, D4; Created & manages youth poetry contest, past D4 president
S Tom Mach, D2; past state board secretary, district pres., presenter.
SP Margie Marang, D3; 25 year member, poet and active member. Regular Night Writers participant.
2009
S Maryann Barry, D2; Active member. State Asst. Rec. Sec & Sec. Musician and Song Writer.
S Evie Green, D1; Active Member. District V.P. & Program Coordinator. Past Youth Contest Man. & Advocate for Youth Service Programs.
SP Carol Yoho, D1; Electronic Face of KAC. Mapping Kansas Literature Website. Visible, outspoken and enthusiastic rep. of KAC
2010
SP Ann Everett, D5, Joann Williams, D2, and Vicki Julian, D2, for their work getting KAC designated a charitable organization, 501(c)3, with the IRS.
S Don Pady, D1; Active Member. State Archivist , initiated membership awards & recognition program.
S Prem Bajaj, D5; Active Member. State V.P., State Treasurer, State Financial Secretary.
A Dr. Glen W. Fisher, D5; co-author of 5 academic books, many articles & technical reports. 46 year career as college professor. Book-length memoir. Poet.
2011
S Diane Palka, D2; coordinated 2010 convention, District 2 Treasurer and active member.
S Joann Williams, D2; served as state president from 2007-2010, former District 2 President, was a part of the organizing
committee for the 2010 convention and continues to serve on the state board as a past president.
S Elizabeth Black, D2; service as District 2 president and for her role leading the 2010 convention.
2012
S Cathy Callen, D2; service as State Treasurer.
S Doris Schroeder, D6; loyal and enthusiastic supporter of the organization since 1997, past State Secretary, past co-chair of a State Convention, past State Vice President and past State President. She was instrumental in the Centennial Celebration of KAC.
S Susan Howell, D5; active on state board, district 5 president.
S Susie Nightingale, D2; active member, district secretary and president, served as head of the Nominating Committee, has
increased attendance, instrumental in organizing an annual Writer’s Retreat, State New Member Chair.
2013
S Kristine Polansky, D4; Youth Contest Manager & Writers in the Community
A Donald Pady, D1; 75 publications including books, articles & scholarly papers, KAC archivist, author
A Max Yoho, D1; 2 Coffin Award winners, 2 Kansas Center for the Book Favorites List, 6 books
2014
(S) Dr. Alan Dsouza; 2 years Awards Chair, 2 years Prose Contest Manager
(S) Vicki Julian; 3 years Financial Secretary
(A) Ronda Miller, D2; dozens of poems and articles published
(A) Tom Mach; 3 historical novels, poetry, short stories, ebooks
(A) Ursula Turner; 7 books (2 non-fiction), Coffeyville Journal Column
2015
(S) Mildred “Millie” Horlacher; D7 president and long-time active member
(S) William J. Karnowski; state president, D4 president, Karnowski Youth Poetry Award
(A) Dr. Prem Bajaj; D5 member, former state president, multiple offices state and district
2016
(S) Tracy Million Simmons; D2 Yearbook Editor, Submittable account and contest manager help
(S) Gloria Zachgo; D5 member, New Member Chair
(A) Roy J. Beckemeyer; D5, work in poetry and professional and scientific writing
SP Dr. Karl Menninger, D1: Author in Psychiatry
A Marguerite Kingman, D2: Poet
1975
A Glad Robinson Youse, D3; Poet & Hymn Writer
S Tillie Karns Newman, D3; State President, District President, Fiction, Poetry, History
SP Stuart Aubrey; Journalism
SP Rolla Clymer; Journalism
1976
A Charles Rayburn, D7; Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry
SP Dr. Emory Lindquist, D5; Author and WSU President
1977
A Nova Ashley, D5; Poetry, Fiction
S Lola Harper Crum, D7; State Archivist, District President, Poet
SP Kenneth S. Davis; Photojournalism
1978
A Sally Ewing, D2; Juvenile Fiction, Poetry
S Iva Ellis, D1; State Parliamentarian, Dist. Pres., Non-Fiction, Poetry
1979
S Dr. L. Curtise Wood, D5; State Financial Secretary, Non-Fiction (economics)
S Lloyd L. Miller, D3; State Treasurer, Poet
1980
S Margorie Pettiner Howard, D3; District President, Features, Fiction, Juvenile Fiction
A William Koch, D4; Folklore, State President, District President
A/S Ossie Tranbarger, D3; Haiku, Poetry, District President
1981
A Esther Vogt, D4; Novelist, Short Fiction
S Elizabeth Jones, D4; Poet
1982
A Guanetta Gordon, D2; Poet
S Gertrude Shanafelt, D2; District President, Non-Fiction
1983
A Kathryn Croan Cooper, D2; Poet
A John Stephenson, D6; Poet
S Lily D. Angle, D5; State President, District President, Poet
1984
A Margaret Shauers, D7; Fiction
S Vie Carroll Wild, D6; District President, Poet
SP Zula Bennington Greene; Journalism
1985
A Miriam Franklin, D1; Drama
S Margaret Marshall, D1; Secretary of Honorary Advisory Board, Non-Fiction
1986
A Monette Cummings, D2; Award Winning Novelist
S Elizabeth House, D2; State Vice President, Poet
S Betty Jane Simpson, D5; State Contest Chairman, Poet
1987
A Ossie Tranbarger, D3; Poet
S Ruth Lyon, D3; State President, District President, Non-Fiction, Established the Lyon Kansas History Award
1988
A Pat Barclay, D4; Memoirs
S Barbara Booth, D4; Parl., Poet, Short Story Writer, District President
1990
A Pat Anthony, D2; Poet, Fiction, Non-Fiction, State Publicity Chair
S Isabel Doerr Campbell, D7; Poet, State President, A Life Member for More than 60 Years
S Fred Haney, D5; Poet, State Financial Secretary, Computerized the State Financial Records
1991
A Olive White Garvey, D5; Novels
A Pauline Carl Prince, D2; Poet, Non-Fiction
S Pat Anthony, D2; for Preparing the Officers Procedural Manual
S Raymond Nelson, D5; Poet, State President, District President, Contest Manager
S Margaret Nelson, D5; Non-Fiction, District President, Contest Manager
1992
S Mary Lambert, D7; Grant Writer
SP Gene DeGruson, D3; Author, Editor, Biographer, Researcher, Translator
A Elizabeth House; Poet, District and State President
A Sister Emanuela O’Malley; Poet, Non-Fiction Book, District and State President
1993
A Raymond Nelson, D5; currently has 2 books of Poetry in the stores and another in progress
A Gennetta Springer, D3; Winner of Lyon Kansas History Book Award, 1993
SP Lina and Elsie Shippy, D4; Poetry and Prose, Award for Loyalty to the Club & to each other
S Lily D. Angle, D5; Yearbook Editor, Poet.
1994
S William Lambert, D7; Poet, District President, State President
S Fern Wood, D3; Fiction and Non-Fiction, District President, State Vice President
SP Lois Donahue, D1; Fiction and Poetry, District President, Workshop Leader
SP Kathryn Cooper, D2; Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Published 22 Books
A Edith Gustafson, D2; Winner of Kansas History Book Award, her first book at age 91
1995
S Ralph Dagenais, D5; State Financial Secretary, District Corresponding Sec., Contest Chairperson
S Anne Mart, D6; Poetry, Songs, Fiction, District President, Contest Manager
A Mildred Sykes, D5; History, Nostalgia, Book Reviews, Poetry, Still Publishing at Age 93
A Esther Vogt, D4; Many books published for children and adults, religious fiction, non-fiction. Coffin Book Award 1992.
SP Virginia Reichart, D1; State and District President, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, National recognition for writing and producing large-scale historical pageants.
1996
S Robert N. Lawson, D1; State President & Treasurer, long time District President, Poet, Playwright
A Eugene Bovee, D2; Several Fields of Writing, Active and creative in D2 and State Contests
1997
A Gail Martin, D5; State Archivist, History, Nostalgia
S Laurel Schunk, D5; Novels, Short Stories, Non-Fiction Articles, District President, State Publicity
1998
A Anita Heistand, D3; District Pres., Widely published in US and United Kingdom, Non-Fiction
A Sandra Detrixhe, D4; 6 Historical Novels, one has been translated into 3 foreign languages
S Cynthia Ross, D5; Writers in the Schools, State Membership Chair, District President
SP William Allen White Award, presented to Rose Nix Leo.
1999
A Frankie Roland, D3; District President, Fiction, Non-Fiction
S Jean Jackson, D2; Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry
SP Mildred E. “Mickey” Kastler, D3; Rosemary Award, posthumous, for book, South of Boothill.
2000
S Margie Marang, D3; Poet, District President, Unofficial Kindness Chairman to District Members
A Ursula Turner, D3; Poet, Coffeyville Journalist, District President.
S Julia Dagenais, D5; Poet, Non-Fiction, History, State Pres., V.P., Secretary, Contest Chair.
A Enola Feldman, D7; Poet, several Novels. Posthumous.
2001
S Marie Marshall, D2; History, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Song Lyrics, Both District and State Offices.
S Ivan Pfalser, D3; History, Non-Fiction. Active in Local District.
A Irma Wassall, D5; published poetry and in magazines and anthologies. Governors Award for Writing, 2001.
S Marge Harington, D6; History, Fiction, Journalism, Local District
2002
S Ann Fowler, D4; Poetry, Fiction, State Pres 2000-2001, Dist. Pres.
S Patricia Ferguson, D2; Poetry, State President, Sponsor of Ferguson History Book Award
S Lorena Joyce Herrmann, D7; New Member Chair, Poetry, Fiction, N.F.
A Naomi Patterson, D1: Poetry, Journalist
2003
A Lily D. Angle, D5; Poet, N.F., State & Dist. President, Editor of KAC Yearbook 1982-2004.
S Roxie Olmstead, D5; State Financial Secretary, District Treasurer. Humor & Historical Research.
S Marvin Wambsganss, D6; State Treasurer, Poetry, Fiction & N.F.
2004
SP Alice Flower, D4; Editor of KAC Centennial Book, Poetry, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Drama
SP Fred Haney, D5; Yearbook Photographer for 22 years, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Song
S Carol Yoho, D1; Website Manager, Non-Fiction, Technical, Academic
S Barbara Curry, D2; Contest Manager, Active Member, Fiction, N.F.
A Edith Bradford Gustafson, D2; Still Writing at age 101, Non-Fiction
2004
A Grant Williams, D3; 3 Poetry Books, Children’s Poetry Books, Non-Fiction
S Gail Martin, D5; Lifetime Service Award, Archivist for 9 years, Fiction, N.F., Journalism, History, Poetry
A Robert Lawson, D1; Lifetime Achievement Award, General Editor of Woodley Press, retired Washburn University Prof., Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Song Lyrics, History
2005
A Roxie Olmstead, D5; Published over 100 articles by age 80. Fiction, N.F., History, Poetry, Religion, Technical.
S Ursula Turner, D3; District and State Leader, Poetry, Fiction, Non-Fiction
SP First District Members who hosted the 2004 Centennial Convention in Topeka.
2006
A Richard Paul Tanos, D3; 12 Novels, Active Member
A Helen Long, D4; Active Member Contest Manager, History, Drama
S Christie Breault, D5; Youth Contest Manager & Writers in Schools Chair, Children, Fiction, N.F., Poetry
S Karen Sells Brown, D1; State V.P. & Newsletter Editor, 2004 Centennial Convention, District Pres., Editor, Poet
SP Mary-Lane Kamberg, D2; 7 books, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Youth Contest Manager & Writers in Schools Chair, KC Writers Group, Summer Young Writers Camp
SP Joann Williams, D2; District President, Fiction, Non-Fiction
2007
A Dorothy Masters, D4; Several books. District Pres. 2006 convention. Sponsors writing contests.
A Nancy Glenn, D5; Secretary, V.P. & D5 President. Poetry. Supports Kansas writers at Wichita bookstore.
A Ann Everett, D5; 2006-07 State Offices incl. Fin. Sec., V.P., Pres., Yearbook Editor. Published Alzheimers book.
S Peg Nichols, D2; Active Member. Chaired district writing contest.
S Judy Brewster, D2; Dist. News. Ed.
SP Cynthia Ross, D5; Dedicated KAC member. State awards chair. 2007 convention planning.
SP Frankie Roland, D3; Dist. President & State Writers in Schools Chair graciously accepted State Prose Contest after the unexpected passsing of Julia Dagenais.
2008
A Ralph Allen, D5; 3 books, 40 short stories, 50 poems, and numerous articles published
A LeNore Stumpf, D4; Columnist and author of 4 published books.
S Tracy Million Simmons, D2; Yearbook Editor, created state board E-loop, state newsletter assistance
S William J. Karnowski, D4; Created & manages youth poetry contest, past D4 president
S Tom Mach, D2; past state board secretary, district pres., presenter.
SP Margie Marang, D3; 25 year member, poet and active member. Regular Night Writers participant.
2009
S Maryann Barry, D2; Active member. State Asst. Rec. Sec & Sec. Musician and Song Writer.
S Evie Green, D1; Active Member. District V.P. & Program Coordinator. Past Youth Contest Man. & Advocate for Youth Service Programs.
SP Carol Yoho, D1; Electronic Face of KAC. Mapping Kansas Literature Website. Visible, outspoken and enthusiastic rep. of KAC
2010
SP Ann Everett, D5, Joann Williams, D2, and Vicki Julian, D2, for their work getting KAC designated a charitable organization, 501(c)3, with the IRS.
S Don Pady, D1; Active Member. State Archivist , initiated membership awards & recognition program.
S Prem Bajaj, D5; Active Member. State V.P., State Treasurer, State Financial Secretary.
A Dr. Glen W. Fisher, D5; co-author of 5 academic books, many articles & technical reports. 46 year career as college professor. Book-length memoir. Poet.
2011
S Diane Palka, D2; coordinated 2010 convention, District 2 Treasurer and active member.
S Joann Williams, D2; served as state president from 2007-2010, former District 2 President, was a part of the organizing
committee for the 2010 convention and continues to serve on the state board as a past president.
S Elizabeth Black, D2; service as District 2 president and for her role leading the 2010 convention.
2012
S Cathy Callen, D2; service as State Treasurer.
S Doris Schroeder, D6; loyal and enthusiastic supporter of the organization since 1997, past State Secretary, past co-chair of a State Convention, past State Vice President and past State President. She was instrumental in the Centennial Celebration of KAC.
S Susan Howell, D5; active on state board, district 5 president.
S Susie Nightingale, D2; active member, district secretary and president, served as head of the Nominating Committee, has
increased attendance, instrumental in organizing an annual Writer’s Retreat, State New Member Chair.
2013
S Kristine Polansky, D4; Youth Contest Manager & Writers in the Community
A Donald Pady, D1; 75 publications including books, articles & scholarly papers, KAC archivist, author
A Max Yoho, D1; 2 Coffin Award winners, 2 Kansas Center for the Book Favorites List, 6 books
2014
(S) Dr. Alan Dsouza; 2 years Awards Chair, 2 years Prose Contest Manager
(S) Vicki Julian; 3 years Financial Secretary
(A) Ronda Miller, D2; dozens of poems and articles published
(A) Tom Mach; 3 historical novels, poetry, short stories, ebooks
(A) Ursula Turner; 7 books (2 non-fiction), Coffeyville Journal Column
2015
(S) Mildred “Millie” Horlacher; D7 president and long-time active member
(S) William J. Karnowski; state president, D4 president, Karnowski Youth Poetry Award
(A) Dr. Prem Bajaj; D5 member, former state president, multiple offices state and district
2016
(S) Tracy Million Simmons; D2 Yearbook Editor, Submittable account and contest manager help
(S) Gloria Zachgo; D5 member, New Member Chair
(A) Roy J. Beckemeyer; D5, work in poetry and professional and scientific writing