Kansas Press Association
Welcome to the
2026 Awards of Excellence Celebration
Honoring Excellence in Kansas Journalism
Fifty-four publications · Seven hundred eighty-seven awards
A Celebration of the Year's Finest Work
Special Recognition
Presenting
Boyd Community Service Award
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Iola
Register
Special Recognition
Presenting
Victor Murdock Award
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Finn Hartnett
Marion County Record
Special Recognition
Presenting
A-Mark Award for Investigative Reporting
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
David Hudnall
The Kansas City Star
Stefania Lugli
The Journal
Finn Hartnett
Marion County Record
Presenting
Abilene Reflector-Chronicle
5 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division V
Awards
Abilene Reflector-Chronicle
1ST PLACE
Religion Story
Gail Parsons
2ND PLACE
Editorial Pages
2ND PLACE
Government/Political Story
Ed Boice
3RD PLACE
Agricultural Story
Gail Parsons
3RD PLACE
Column Writing
Kathy Hageman
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
active age
3 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
active age
1ST PLACE
Special Section - Advertising
3RD PLACE
Best Coverage of Diversity
Joe Stumpe
3RD PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Belle Plaine News/Oxford Register
3 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division I
Awards
Belle Plaine News/Oxford Register
2ND PLACE
Seniors Story
Kathy Gann
2ND PLACE
Youth Story
Kathy Gann
3RD PLACE
Column Writing
Cristina White
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Beloit Call
8 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division III
Awards
Beloit Call
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Sharon Sahlfeld
2ND PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Sharon Sahlfeld
2ND PLACE
Local Business Story
Sharon Sahlfeld
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Sharon Sahlfeld
3RD PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Sharon Sahlfeld
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Sharon Sahlfeld
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Sharon Sahlfeld
3RD PLACE
Outdoor Story
Sharon Sahlfeld
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Best Times
3 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Best Times
2ND PLACE
Best Newsletter
Ellen Koch
3RD PLACE
Community Service Project
Gerald Hay
3RD PLACE
Youth Story
Evelyn Dubey
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Bulletin
2 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division V
Awards
Bulletin
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Isabel Ayala
1ST PLACE
Sports Story
Maddie Carr
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Chase County Leader-News
1 Award
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Divisions I and II
Awards
Chase County Leader-News
3RD PLACE
Investigative Story
Jessie Wagoner
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Cimarron Jacksonian
4 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division I
Awards
Cimarron Jacksonian
1ST PLACE
Investigative Story
Fritz Springmeier
2ND PLACE
Agricultural Story
Fritz Springmeier
2ND PLACE
Feature Story
Fritz Springmeier
3RD PLACE
Agricultural Story
Fritz Springmeier
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Concordia Blade-Empire
9 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division III
Awards
Concordia Blade-Empire
1ST PLACE
General News
Olivia Bergmeier
1ST PLACE
Sports Pages
Tucker Ashburn, Erin Urban, Russell Gagnon and Olivia Bergmeier
1ST PLACE
Spot News
Concordia Blade-Empire Staff
2ND PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
Russell Gagnon, Olivia Bergmeier, Dixie Winter and Kathy Hart
3RD PLACE
Health Story
Olivia Bergmeier
3RD PLACE
Investigative Story
Russell Gagnon and Olivia Bergmeier
3RD PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Russell Gagnon
3RD PLACE
Sports Photo
Olivia Bergmeier
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Concordia Blade-Empire
3RD PLACE
Spot News
Olivia Bergmeier
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Council Grove Republican
17 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division III
Awards
Council Grove Republican
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Jan Sciacca
1ST PLACE
Best House Ad
Jan Sciacca and Anna Kristek
1ST PLACE
Best Professional Service Ad
Jan Sciacca and Anna Kristek
1ST PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
1ST PLACE
Headline Writing
Jan Sciacca
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Jan Sciacca
1ST PLACE
Most Adaptable Promotion
Christy Jimerson
1ST PLACE
Religion Story
Jan Sciacca
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Council Grove Republican
2ND PLACE
Best Entertainment Ad
Jan Sciacca, Anna Kristek
2ND PLACE
Best Entertainment Ad
Jan Sciacca and Anna Kristek
2ND PLACE
Religion Story
Jan Sciacca
3RD PLACE
Best Agricultural Ad
Jan Sciacca and Anna Kristek
3RD PLACE
Column Writing
Kay Roberts
3RD PLACE
Feature Story
Jan Sciacca
3RD PLACE
Military Story
Jan Sciacca
3RD PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Council Grove Republican
3RD PLACE
Series
Jan Sciacca
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Cowley Courier Traveler
2 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division V
Awards
Cowley Courier Traveler
1ST PLACE
Seniors Story
David Seaton
3RD PLACE
Religion Story
Judith Zaccaria
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Cowley CourierTraveler
30 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division V
Awards
Cowley CourierTraveler
1ST PLACE
Agricultural Story
John W. Shelman
1ST PLACE
Best Automotive Ad
Marsha Wesseler
1ST PLACE
Best Newspaper Redesign
1ST PLACE
Feature Photo
Judy Haggard
1ST PLACE
Feature Story
Rebecca McCutcheon
1ST PLACE
Government/Political Story
David Seaton
1ST PLACE
Health Story
David Seaton
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
John W. Shelman
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Cowley CourierTraveler
1ST PLACE
Outdoor Story
David Seaton
1ST PLACE
Photo Illustration
Lael Porter
1ST PLACE
Sports Pages
2ND PLACE
Best Magazine (regular or special event)
2ND PLACE
Column Writing
Adam Catlin
2ND PLACE
Editorial Writing
David Seaton
2ND PLACE
Education Story
David Seaton
2ND PLACE
Feature Package
David Seaton
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Cowley CourierTraveler
2ND PLACE
Headline Writing
Joey Sprinkle
2ND PLACE
Military Story
John W. Shelman
2ND PLACE
News Story
David Seaton
2ND PLACE
Special Section - Advertising
2ND PLACE
Youth Story
David Seaton
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Adam Catlin
3RD PLACE
Best Front Page
3RD PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Cowley CourierTraveler
3RD PLACE
Editorial Pages
3RD PLACE
Headline Writing
David Seaton
3RD PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
3RD PLACE
Outdoor Story
John W. Shelman
3RD PLACE
Special Section - Advertising
3RD PLACE
Youth Story
Mariia Mitina
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Derby Informer
16 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division IV
Awards
Derby Informer
1ST PLACE
Best Graphic Designer
Chloe Brown
1ST PLACE
Best Grocery Ad
Chloe Brown
1ST PLACE
Best Magazine (regular or special event)
1ST PLACE
Best Professional Service Ad
Chloe Brown
1ST PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Kelly Breckunitch and Chloe Brown
1ST PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
1ST PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
Staff
2ND PLACE
Best Online Photo Series/Gallery
Chloe Brown
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Derby Informer
2ND PLACE
Military Story
Cody Friesen
2ND PLACE
Sports Column Writing
Cody Friesen
2ND PLACE
Sports Pages
3RD PLACE
Best Ad Series or Campaign
Chloe Brown
3RD PLACE
Best Online Photo Series/Gallery
Kelly Breckunitch
3RD PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
3RD PLACE
Series
Kelly Breckunitch, Tara Parker
3RD PLACE
Video Journalism
Kelly Breckunitch
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Ellsworth County Independent/Reporter
48 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division III
Awards
Ellsworth County Independent/Reporter
1ST PLACE
Agricultural Story
Karen Bonar
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Catherine Doud
1ST PLACE
Best Front Page
1ST PLACE
Best Specialty Ad
Bill Beckmeyer
1ST PLACE
Best Use of Photos
1ST PLACE
Editorial Cartoon
Bill Beckmeyer
1ST PLACE
Feature Story
Catherine Doud
1ST PLACE
Government/Political Story
Karen Bonar
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Ellsworth County Independent/Reporter
1ST PLACE
Health Story
Karen Bonar
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Catherine Doud
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Catherine Doud
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Karen Bonar
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Karen Bonar
1ST PLACE
New Journalist Award
Catherine Doud
1ST PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
1ST PLACE
News Story
Catherine Doud
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Ellsworth County Independent/Reporter
1ST PLACE
Seniors Story
Karen Bonar
1ST PLACE
Special Section - Advertising
1ST PLACE
Sports Story
Catherine Doud
2ND PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Karen Bonar
2ND PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Karen Bonar and Catherine Doud
2ND PLACE
Column Writing
Karen Bonar
2ND PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
2ND PLACE
Editorial Cartoon
Bill Beckmeyer
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Ellsworth County Independent/Reporter
2ND PLACE
Editorial Pages
2ND PLACE
Education Story
Catherine Doud
2ND PLACE
General News
Karen Bonar
2ND PLACE
Headline Writing
Karen Bonar
2ND PLACE
Health Story
Catherine Doud
2ND PLACE
Local Business Story
Catherine Doud
2ND PLACE
Local Business Story
Karen Bonar
2ND PLACE
Photo Package
Karen Bonar
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Ellsworth County Independent/Reporter
2ND PLACE
Seniors Story
Karen Bonar
2ND PLACE
Sports Photo
Karen Bonar
2ND PLACE
Spot News
Karen Bonar
2ND PLACE
Youth Story
Karen Bonar
3RD PLACE
Agricultural Story
Karen Bonar
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Catherine Doud
3RD PLACE
Best Story Originating From a Public Notice
Karen Bonar
3RD PLACE
Editorial Cartoon
Bill Beckmeyer
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Ellsworth County Independent/Reporter
3RD PLACE
General News
Karen Bonar
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Alan Rusch
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Karen Bonar
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
Catherine Doud
3RD PLACE
Outdoor Story
Catherine Doud
3RD PLACE
Photo Package
Karen Bonar
3RD PLACE
Sports Pages
3RD PLACE
Youth Story
Catherine Doud
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Emporia Gazette
5 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VI
Awards
Emporia Gazette
1ST PLACE
Best Magazine (regular or special event)
1ST PLACE
Best Website
1ST PLACE
Editorial Writing
Ashley Walker
2ND PLACE
Best Story Originating From a Public Notice
Austin Hoagland
3RD PLACE
Column Writing
Jessie Wagoner
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Eudora Times
32 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division IV
Awards
Eudora Times
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Teri Finneman
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Annalynn Phanthadeth
1ST PLACE
Best Home/Garden Ad
Quinn Mozena
1ST PLACE
Best Online Photo Series/Gallery
Annalynn Phanthadeth
1ST PLACE
Best Online Promotion
Alyssa Peterson
1ST PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Annalynn Phanthadeth and Brooklyn Castillo
1ST PLACE
Best Use of Color
Quinn Mozena
1ST PLACE
Best Use of Social Media
Staff
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Eudora Times
1ST PLACE
Feature Photo
Annalynn Phanthadeth
1ST PLACE
Feature Story
Sara Maloney
1ST PLACE
General News
Sara Maloney
1ST PLACE
Military Story
Bella Waters
1ST PLACE
Most Adaptable Promotion
Staff
1ST PLACE
Religion Story
Sara Maloney
1ST PLACE
Sports Story
Cuyler Dunn
1ST PLACE
Video Journalism
Teri Finneman
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Eudora Times
2ND PLACE
Health Story
Sara Maloney
2ND PLACE
News Story
Sara Maloney
2ND PLACE
Series
Sara Maloney, Cuyler Dunn
2ND PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Cuyler Dunn
3RD PLACE
Agricultural Story
Sara Maloney
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Annalynn Phanthadeth
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Cuyler Dunn
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Annalynn Phanthadeth
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Eudora Times
3RD PLACE
Best Website
3RD PLACE
General News
Cuyler Dunn
3RD PLACE
Investigative Story
Cuyler Dunn
3RD PLACE
Photographer of the Year
Annalynn Phanthadeth
3RD PLACE
Seniors Story
Maya Smith
3RD PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
Staff
3RD PLACE
Sports Photo
Annalynn Phanthadeth
3RD PLACE
Youth Story
Maya Smith
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Eureka Herald
11 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division III
Awards
Eureka Herald
1ST PLACE
Best Agricultural Ad
Staff
1ST PLACE
Editorial Writing
Robin Wunderlich
2ND PLACE
Best Community Event Ad
Robin Wunderlich
2ND PLACE
Best Community Event Ad
Robin Wunderlich
3RD PLACE
Best Front Page
3RD PLACE
Best House Ad
Staff
3RD PLACE
Best Professional Service Ad
Robin Wunderlich and Lexie Biering
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Robin Wunderlich and Lexie Biering
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Eureka Herald
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
Robin Wunderlich
3RD PLACE
Most Adaptable Promotion
Robin Wunderlich and Lexie Biering
3RD PLACE
News Story
Robin Wunderlich & Lexie Biering
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Fairview Enterprise
2 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division I
Awards
Fairview Enterprise
1ST PLACE
Column Writing
David Lambertson
3RD PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Fort Leavenworth Lamp
18 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VI
Awards
Fort Leavenworth Lamp
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Prudence Siebert
1ST PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Prudence Siebert
1ST PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
1ST PLACE
Sports Photo
Brian Allen
1ST PLACE
Youth Story
Prudence Siebert
2ND PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Melanie Libby and Emilio Gutierrez
2ND PLACE
Feature Photo
Prudence Siebert
2ND PLACE
Feature Story
Prudence Siebert
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Fort Leavenworth Lamp
2ND PLACE
Military Story
Prudence Siebert
2ND PLACE
Religion Story
Prudence Siebert
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Melanie Libby
3RD PLACE
Feature Package
Prudence Siebert
3RD PLACE
Feature Photo
Prudence Siebert
3RD PLACE
Military Story
Prudence Siebert
3RD PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
3RD PLACE
Photo Package
Prudence Siebert
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Fort Leavenworth Lamp
3RD PLACE
Religion Story
Prudence Siebert
3RD PLACE
Series
Prudence Siebert, Emilio Gutierrez
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Great Bend Tribune
28 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VI
Awards
Great Bend Tribune
1ST PLACE
Best Furniture Ad
Richard Lartz and Chrissy Green
1ST PLACE
Headline Writing
Andrew Murphy
1ST PLACE
News Story
Mike Gilmore
1ST PLACE
Seniors Story
Susan Thacker
1ST PLACE
Sports Story
Jim Misunas
2ND PLACE
Agricultural Story
Susan Thacker
2ND PLACE
Best Hardware Ad
Chrissy Green
2ND PLACE
Best Magazine (regular or special event)
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Great Bend Tribune
2ND PLACE
Best Political Ad
Karma Byers, Chrissy Green
2ND PLACE
Best Professional Service Ad
Richard Lartz and Tammy Mason
2ND PLACE
Editorial Pages
2ND PLACE
General News
Keith Lippoldt
2ND PLACE
Government/Political Story
Andrew Murphy
2ND PLACE
Headline Writing
Jim Misunas
2ND PLACE
Outdoor Story
Andrew Murphy
2ND PLACE
Youth Story
Andrew Murphy
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Great Bend Tribune
3RD PLACE
Best Front Page
3RD PLACE
Best Home/Garden Ad
Karma Byers and Tammy Mason
3RD PLACE
Best Magazine (regular or special event)
3RD PLACE
Best Outdoor/Sports Ad
Richard Lartz, Doug Barrett
3RD PLACE
Best Use of Color
Karma Byers and Doug Barrett
3RD PLACE
Best Use of Photos
3RD PLACE
Editorial Writing
Keith Lippoldt
3RD PLACE
Health Story
Susan Thacker
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Great Bend Tribune
3RD PLACE
Investigative Story
Andrew Murphy
3RD PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
3RD PLACE
Sports Pages
3RD PLACE
Youth Story
Andrew Murphy
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Greeley County Republican
11 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division II
Awards
Greeley County Republican
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Christy Hopkins
1ST PLACE
Feature Photo
Christy Hopkins
1ST PLACE
Government/Political Story
Christy Hopkins
1ST PLACE
Sports Photo
Christy Hopkins
2ND PLACE
Agricultural Story
Christy Hopkins
2ND PLACE
Feature Photo
Christy Hopkins
2ND PLACE
Photo Package
Christy Hopkins, Sheryl Crotinger
3RD PLACE
Best Community Event Ad
Sheryl Crotinger
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Greeley County Republican
3RD PLACE
Feature Photo
Christy Hopkins
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
Christy Hopkins
3RD PLACE
Photo Package
Sheryl Crotinger, Christy Hopkins
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Harvey County Now
26 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VI
Awards
Harvey County Now
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Adam Strunk
1ST PLACE
Column Writing
Bill Bush
1ST PLACE
Feature Photo
Wendy Nugent
1ST PLACE
Feature Story
Wendy Nugent
1ST PLACE
Government/Political Story
Adam Strunk
1ST PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
1ST PLACE
Series
Sarah Beauchamp, Bill Bush, and Adam Strunk
1ST PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Bill Bush
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Harvey County Now
2ND PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Wendy Nugent
2ND PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Adam Strunk
2ND PLACE
Column Writing
Adam Strunk
2ND PLACE
Health Story
Adam Strunk
2ND PLACE
Investigative Story
Adam Strunk
2ND PLACE
News Story
Adam Strunk
2ND PLACE
Photo Package
Wendy Nugent
2ND PLACE
Seniors Story
Wendy Nugent
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Harvey County Now
2ND PLACE
Series
Adam Strunk
2ND PLACE
Sports Column Writing
Rusty Whitcher
2ND PLACE
Sports Story
Rusty Whitcher
3RD PLACE
Agricultural Story
Bill Bush
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Wendy Nugent
3RD PLACE
Editorial Pages
3RD PLACE
Editorial Writing
Adam Strunk
3RD PLACE
Education Story
Bill Bush
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Harvey County Now
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Bill Bush
3RD PLACE
Infographic
Adam Strunk
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Hays Post
8 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Hays Post
1ST PLACE
Solutions Journalism
Cristina Janney and Jordan Schaeffer
2ND PLACE
Best Digital Project
Cristina Janney, Jordan Schaeffer
2ND PLACE
Best Online Ad (Motion)
Jordan Schaeffer
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Cristina Janney
3RD PLACE
Best Online Ad (Motion)
Jordan Schaeffer
3RD PLACE
Best Online Promotion
Jordan Schaeffer
3RD PLACE
Headline Writing
Cristina Janney
3RD PLACE
Video Journalism
Jordan Schaeffer
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Holton Recorder
12 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division V
Awards
Holton Recorder
1ST PLACE
Editorial Pages
1ST PLACE
Feature Package
Ali Holcomb
1ST PLACE
Military Story
Brian Sanders
2ND PLACE
Best Front Page
2ND PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
2ND PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
2ND PLACE
Seniors Story
Brian Sanders
3RD PLACE
Feature Story
Brian Sanders
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Holton Recorder
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
Brian Sanders
3RD PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
3RD PLACE
Sports Pages
3RD PLACE
Sports Story
Ali Holcomb
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Hutchinson Tribune
5 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division III
Awards
Hutchinson Tribune
2ND PLACE
Government/Political Story
Brendan Ulmer
2ND PLACE
Government/Political Story
Brendan Ulmer
2ND PLACE
Local Business Story
Charissa Graves
2ND PLACE
Military Story
Charissa Graves
3RD PLACE
Education Story
Charissa Graves
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Iola Register
80 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division IV
Awards
Iola Register
1ST PLACE
Best Ad Series or Campaign
Kristi Kranker
1ST PLACE
Best Classified Display Ad
Kristi Kranker
1ST PLACE
Best Coverage of Diversity
Sarah Haney
1ST PLACE
Best Entertainment Ad
Kristi Kranker
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Richard Luken
1ST PLACE
Best Front Page
1ST PLACE
Best Hardware Ad
Kristi Kranker
1ST PLACE
Best House Ad
Kristi Kranker
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Iola Register
1ST PLACE
Best Nonprofit Ad
Kristi Kranker
1ST PLACE
Best Online Ad (Motion)
Kristi Kranker
1ST PLACE
Best Online Ad (Static)
Kristi Kranker
1ST PLACE
Best Outdoor/Sports Ad
Kristi Kranker
1ST PLACE
Best Political Ad
Kristi Kranker
1ST PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Richard Luken
1ST PLACE
Community Service Project
Tim Stauffer and Kristi Kranker
1ST PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Iola Register
1ST PLACE
Editorial Writing
Tim Stauffer
1ST PLACE
Education Story
Sarah Haney
1ST PLACE
Government/Political Story
Tim Stauffer
1ST PLACE
Health Story
Susan Lynn
1ST PLACE
Seniors Story
Susan Lynn
1ST PLACE
Spot News
Richard Luken
2ND PLACE
Agricultural Story
Sarah Haney
2ND PLACE
Best Ad Series or Campaign
Kristi Kranker
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Iola Register
2ND PLACE
Best Classified Display Ad
Kristi Kranker
2ND PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Sarah Haney
2ND PLACE
Best Fashion Ad
Kristi Kranker
2ND PLACE
Best Graphic Designer
Kristi Kranker
2ND PLACE
Best Grocery Ad
Kristi Kranker
2ND PLACE
Best Healthcare Ad
Kristi Kranker
2ND PLACE
Best Home/Garden Ad
Kristi Kranker
2ND PLACE
Best Nonprofit Ad
Kristi Kranker
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Iola Register
2ND PLACE
Best Online Ad (Static)
Kristi Kranker
2ND PLACE
Best Online Promotion
Kristi Kranker
2ND PLACE
Best Outdoor/Sports Ad
Kristi Kranker
2ND PLACE
Best Specialty Ad
Kristi Kranker
2ND PLACE
Best Use of Color
Kristi Kranker
2ND PLACE
Best Use of Photos
2ND PLACE
Education Story
Tim Stauffer
2ND PLACE
General News
Richard Luken
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Iola Register
2ND PLACE
Government/Political Story
Tim Stauffer
2ND PLACE
Outdoor Story
Richard Luken
2ND PLACE
Outdoor Story
Sarah Haney
2ND PLACE
Photo Package
Halie Luken and Maria Rodriguez
2ND PLACE
Religion Story
Susan Lynn
2ND PLACE
Seniors Story
Susan Lynn
2ND PLACE
Solutions Journalism
Sarah Haney
2ND PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
Staff
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Iola Register
2ND PLACE
Spot News
Richard Luken
2ND PLACE
Video Journalism
Tim Stauffer
2ND PLACE
Youth Story
Susan Lynn
3RD PLACE
Best Automotive Ad
Kristi Kranker
3RD PLACE
Best Classified Display Ad
Kristi Kranker
3RD PLACE
Best Education Ad
Kristi Kranker
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Sarah Haney
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Sarah Haney
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Iola Register
3RD PLACE
Best Fashion Ad
Kristi Kranker
3RD PLACE
Best Healthcare Ad
Kristi Kranker
3RD PLACE
Best Nonprofit Ad
Kristi Kranker
3RD PLACE
Best Online Ad (Static)
Kristi Kranker
3RD PLACE
Best Political Ad
Kristi Kranker
3RD PLACE
Best Professional Service Ad
Kristi Kranker
3RD PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Tim Stauffer
3RD PLACE
Column Writing
Susan Lynn
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Iola Register
3RD PLACE
Editorial Pages
3RD PLACE
Editorial Writing
Susan Lynn
3RD PLACE
Education Story
Susan Lynn
3RD PLACE
Feature Package
Richard Luken
3RD PLACE
Feature Photo
Richard Luken
3RD PLACE
Feature Story
Susan Lynn
3RD PLACE
Health Story
Sarah Haney
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
Susan Lynn
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Iola Register
3RD PLACE
Military Story
Richard Luken
3RD PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
3RD PLACE
Photo Package
Susan Lynn
3RD PLACE
Religion Story
Richard Luken
3RD PLACE
Solutions Journalism
Sarah Haney
3RD PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Richard Luken
3RD PLACE
Sports Pages
3RD PLACE
Sports Story
Jimmy Potts
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
JoCo Magazine
1 Award
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
JoCo Magazine
3RD PLACE
Best Magazine (regular or special event)
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Johnson County Post
7 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Johnson County Post
1ST PLACE
Best Newsletter
Kyle Palmer
1ST PLACE
General News
Margaret Mellott
2ND PLACE
Feature Photo
Kylie Graham
2ND PLACE
General News
Kylie Graham
3RD PLACE
Feature Photo
Leah Wankum
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Roxie Hammill
3RD PLACE
Spot News
Mike Frizzell
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Kansas City Beacon
2 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Kansas City Beacon
2ND PLACE
Local Business Story
Thomas White
3RD PLACE
Health Story
Blaise Mesa and Calen Moore
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Kansas City Business Journal
8 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Kansas City Business Journal
1ST PLACE
Best Use of Photos
1ST PLACE
Feature Package
Brian Kaberline, Vince Chiaramonte and Jim Barcus
2ND PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
2ND PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
2ND PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
3RD PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Thomas Friestad and Vince Chiaramonte
3RD PLACE
Feature Package
Leslie Collins and Vince Chiaramonte
3RD PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Kansas City Star
31 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Kansas City Star
1ST PLACE
Best Digital Project
Staff
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Laura Bauer
1ST PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Matthew Kelly and Emily Curiel
1ST PLACE
Editorial Writing
Yvette Walker
1ST PLACE
Feature Story
Laura Bauer
1ST PLACE
New Journalist Award
Sofi Zeman
1ST PLACE
New Journalist Award
Taylor O'Connor
1ST PLACE
Photo Package
Tammy Ljungblad
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Kansas City Star
1ST PLACE
Sports Column Writing
Vahe Gregorian
1ST PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Shreyas Laddha
1ST PLACE
Spot News
Dominick Williams
1ST PLACE
Youth Story
Taylor O'Connor
2ND PLACE
Agricultural Story
Rachel Schlueter
2ND PLACE
Education Story
Laura Bauer
2ND PLACE
Feature Story
David Hudnall
2ND PLACE
Feature Story
Dan Kelly
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Kansas City Star
2ND PLACE
Government/Political Story
Matthew Kelly
2ND PLACE
Investigative Story
David Hudnall
2ND PLACE
New Journalist Award
Eleanor Nash
2ND PLACE
Outdoor Story
J.M. Banks, Dominick Williams
2ND PLACE
Solutions Journalism
Sofi Zeman
2ND PLACE
Sports Column Writing
Sam McDowell
2ND PLACE
Sports Photo
Dominick Williams
2ND PLACE
Video Journalism
Dominick Williams and Alexa Stone
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Kansas City Star
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Emily Curiel
3RD PLACE
Best Newsletter
Sofi Zeman, Rachel Adamson, Alison Booth
3RD PLACE
Editorial Writing
Toriano Porter
3RD PLACE
Seniors Story
Joseph Hernandez
3RD PLACE
Solutions Journalism
Eleanor Nash
3RD PLACE
Sports Photo
Dominick Williams
3RD PLACE
Sports Story
Sam McDowell
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Kansas News Service
4 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Kansas News Service
2ND PLACE
New Journalist Award
Zane Irwin
2ND PLACE
Outdoor Story
Calen Moore
2ND PLACE
Youth Story
Zane Irwin
3RD PLACE
Agricultural Story
Calen Moore
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Kansas Reflector
17 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Kansas Reflector
1ST PLACE
Column Writing
Clay Wirestone
1ST PLACE
Editorial Pages
1ST PLACE
Health Story
Tim Carpenter
1ST PLACE
Journalist of the Year
Tim Carpenter
1ST PLACE
New Journalist Award
Morgan Chilson
1ST PLACE
Video Journalism
Grace Hills
2ND PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Erin Socha
2ND PLACE
Best Online Photo Series/Gallery
Sherman Smith
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Kansas Reflector
2ND PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Sherman Smith
2ND PLACE
Health Story
Morgan Chilson
2ND PLACE
Journalist of the Year
Sherman Smith
2ND PLACE
Photo Illustration
Sherman Smith
3RD PLACE
Best Podcast
Staff
3RD PLACE
Best Use of Social Media
Staff
3RD PLACE
Investigative Story
Tim Carpenter
3RD PLACE
Journalist of the Year
Anna Kaminski
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Kansas Reflector
3RD PLACE
Religion Story
Tim Carpenter
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Kansas Sentinel
4 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Kansas Sentinel
1ST PLACE
News Story
Patrick Richardson
2ND PLACE
Editorial Writing
Dave Trabert
2ND PLACE
Editorial Writing
Dave Trabert
3RD PLACE
News Story
David Hicks
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Lawrence Journal-World
11 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Lawrence Journal-World
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
CHAD LAWHORN
1ST PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
1ST PLACE
Sports Pages
2ND PLACE
Best Front Page
2ND PLACE
Feature Package
Chad Lawhorn
2ND PLACE
Sports Story
Henry Greenstein
2ND PLACE
Spot News
Kim Callahan
3RD PLACE
Education Story
Chad Lawhorn
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Lawrence Journal-World
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
CHAD LAWHORN
3RD PLACE
Military Story
Josie Heimsoth
3RD PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Chad Lawhorn
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Lawrence Times
13 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Lawrence Times
1ST PLACE
Education Story
Cuyler Dunn and Maya Hodison
1ST PLACE
New Journalist Award
Nathan Kramer
1ST PLACE
New Journalist Award
Wulfe Wulfemeyer
1ST PLACE
Solutions Journalism
Wulfe Wulfemeyer
2ND PLACE
Best Coverage of Diversity
Staff
2ND PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Nathan Kramer
2ND PLACE
Best Use of Social Media
Staff
2ND PLACE
Photographer of the Year
Molly Adams
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Lawrence Times
3RD PLACE
Best Digital Project
Lawrence Times news team
3RD PLACE
Best Online Photo Series/Gallery
Nathan Kramer
3RD PLACE
Headline Writing
Staff
3RD PLACE
Series
Lawrence Times news team
3RD PLACE
Solutions Journalism
Mackenzie Clark
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Leader & Times
23 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VI
Awards
Leader & Times
1ST PLACE
Agricultural Story
Robert Pierce
1ST PLACE
Education Story
Robert Pierce
1ST PLACE
Investigative Story
Staff
1ST PLACE
Military Story
Robert Pierce
1ST PLACE
Sports Column Writing
Earl Watt
1ST PLACE
Spot News
Elly Grimm
2ND PLACE
Best Front Page
2ND PLACE
Best Use of Photos
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Leader & Times
2ND PLACE
Best Website
2ND PLACE
Education Story
Elly Grimm
2ND PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
2ND PLACE
Sports Pages
2ND PLACE
Sports Photo
If More than 3 names type: Staff
2ND PLACE
Spot News
Elly Grimm
3RD PLACE
Best Hardware Ad
Earl Watt
3RD PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Elly Grimm
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Leader & Times
3RD PLACE
Headline Writing
Earl Watt
3RD PLACE
Most Adaptable Promotion
Staff
3RD PLACE
News Story
Robert Pierce
3RD PLACE
Seniors Story
Earl Watt
3RD PLACE
Sports Photo
Elly Grimm
3RD PLACE
Sports Story
Earl Watt
3RD PLACE
Spot News
Elly Grimm
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Linn County News
17 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division III
Awards
Linn County News
1ST PLACE
Best Community Event Ad
Angela Holt
1ST PLACE
Best Community Event Ad
Angela Holt
1ST PLACE
Best Outdoor/Sports Ad
Angela Holt
1ST PLACE
Military Story
Jackie Taylor
2ND PLACE
Agricultural Story
Tony Furse
2ND PLACE
Best Education Ad
Angela Holt
2ND PLACE
Best House Ad
Barbara Proffitt
2ND PLACE
Best Outdoor/Sports Ad
Angela Holt
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Linn County News
2ND PLACE
Best Professional Service Ad
Angela Holt
2ND PLACE
Feature Story
Jackie Taylor
2ND PLACE
Local Business Story
Jackie Taylor
2ND PLACE
Sports Story
Tony Furse
3RD PLACE
Best Outdoor/Sports Ad
Angela Holt
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Barbara Proffitt
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
Jackie Taylor
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
Jackie Taylor
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Linn County News
3RD PLACE
Sports Story
Jackie Taylor
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Manhattan Mercury
8 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Manhattan Mercury
1ST PLACE
Infographic
Megan Moser
1ST PLACE
Military Story
Gloria Freeland
1ST PLACE
Sports Story
Ned Seaton and Tim Everson
2ND PLACE
Best Magazine (regular or special event)
2ND PLACE
Military Story
Rose Gruenbacher, Zach DeLoach
2ND PLACE
Series
Ned Seaton, Megan Moser, Rose Gruenbacher
3RD PLACE
Best Front Page
3RD PLACE
Column Writing
Ned Seaton
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Marion County Record
34 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division IV
Awards
Marion County Record
1ST PLACE
Agricultural Story
Finn Hartnett
1ST PLACE
Best Education Ad
Debra Steele and Eric Meyer
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Nicholas Kimball
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Nicholas Kimball
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Finn Hartnett
1ST PLACE
Best Healthcare Ad
Debra Steele and Eric Meyer
1ST PLACE
Best Specialty Ad
Debra Steele, Eric Meyer
1ST PLACE
Best Story Originating From a Public Notice
Eric Meyer
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Marion County Record
1ST PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
FInn Hartnett and Nicholas Kimball
1ST PLACE
Editorial Pages
1ST PLACE
Headline Writing
Eric Meyer
1ST PLACE
Investigative Story
Finn Hartnett
1ST PLACE
News Story
Finn Hartnett, Phyllis Zorn
1ST PLACE
Outdoor Story
Finn Harnett
1ST PLACE
Photo Package
Eric Meyer
1ST PLACE
Series
Eric Meyer, Phyllis Zorn
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Marion County Record
1ST PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Finn Hartnett
1ST PLACE
Youth Story
Finn Hartnett
2ND PLACE
Best Automotive Ad
Debra Steele and Eric Meyer
2ND PLACE
Best Community Event Ad
Eric Meyer
2ND PLACE
Best Furniture Ad
Debra Steele and Eric Meyer
2ND PLACE
Best House Ad
Eric Meyer
2ND PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Finn Hartnett
2ND PLACE
Column Writing
Eric Meyer
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Marion County Record
2ND PLACE
Editorial Writing
Eric Meyer
2ND PLACE
Infographic
Eric Meyer
2ND PLACE
Local Business Story
FInn Hartnett
2ND PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
3RD PLACE
Best Agricultural Ad
Debra Steele and Eric Meyer
3RD PLACE
Best Community Event Ad
Debra Steele and Eric Meyer
3RD PLACE
Best Entertainment Ad
Debra Steele and Eric Meyer
3RD PLACE
Best Front Page
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Marion County Record
3RD PLACE
Best Use of Photos
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Eric Meyer
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Marquette Tribune
27 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division I
Awards
Marquette Tribune
1ST PLACE
Agricultural Story
Kyra Case
1ST PLACE
Feature Package
Marquette Tribune
1ST PLACE
Feature Story
Karen Bonar
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Karen Bonar
1ST PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
1ST PLACE
Photo Package
Marquette Tribune
1ST PLACE
Seniors Story
Catherine Doud
1ST PLACE
Sports Story
Karen Bonar
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Marquette Tribune
1ST PLACE
Youth Story
Karen Bonar
2ND PLACE
Best Front Page
2ND PLACE
Column Writing
Karen Bonar
2ND PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
2ND PLACE
Health Story
Catherine Doud
2ND PLACE
Local Business Story
Catherine Doud
2ND PLACE
News Story
Karen Bonar
2ND PLACE
Religion Story
Catherine Doud
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Marquette Tribune
2ND PLACE
Sports Story
Catherine Doud
3RD PLACE
Best Use of Photos
3RD PLACE
Headline Writing
Karen Bonar
3RD PLACE
Health Story
Catherine Doud
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
Karen Bonar
3RD PLACE
News Story
Karen Bonar
3RD PLACE
Religion Story
Karen Bonar
3RD PLACE
Seniors Story
Catherine Doud
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Marquette Tribune
3RD PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Karen Bonar
3RD PLACE
Sports Story
Catherine Doud
3RD PLACE
Youth Story
Catherine Doud
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Miami County Republic
33 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division V
Awards
Miami County Republic
1ST PLACE
Best Front Page
1ST PLACE
Best Use of Photos
1ST PLACE
Column Writing
Brian McCauley
1ST PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
1ST PLACE
Education Story
Brian McCauley
1ST PLACE
General News
Brian McCauley
1ST PLACE
Headline Writing
Brian McCauley
1ST PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Miami County Republic
1ST PLACE
News Story
Brian McCauley
1ST PLACE
Photo Package
Brian McCauley, Gene Morris
1ST PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
1ST PLACE
Youth Story
Brian McCauley
2ND PLACE
Agricultural Story
Brian McCauley
2ND PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Brian McCauley
2ND PLACE
Feature Photo
Gene Morris
2ND PLACE
Feature Story
Gene Morris
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Miami County Republic
2ND PLACE
Health Story
Brian McCauley
2ND PLACE
Local Business Story
Brian McCauley
2ND PLACE
Photo Package
Brian McCauley
2ND PLACE
Religion Story
Brian McCauley
2ND PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
2ND PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Gene Morris
2ND PLACE
Sports Pages
2ND PLACE
Sports Story
Gene Morris
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Miami County Republic
3RD PLACE
Education Story
Brian McCauley
3RD PLACE
Feature Photo
Brian McCauley
3RD PLACE
General News
Brian McCauley
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Brian McCauley
3RD PLACE
Military Story
Brian McCauley
3RD PLACE
News Story
Brian McCauley
3RD PLACE
Photo Package
Brian McCauley
3RD PLACE
Seniors Story
Brian McCauley
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Miami County Republic
3RD PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Gene Morris
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Pittsburg Headlamp
6 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division I
Awards
Pittsburg Headlamp
1ST PLACE
News Story
A.J. Kohler
1ST PLACE
Religion Story
Riley Wagner
1ST PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Nick Butler
2ND PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Riley Wagner
3RD PLACE
Feature Story
Leticia Juang
3RD PLACE
Solutions Journalism
A.J. Kohler
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Pittsburg Morning Sun
29 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division IV
Awards
Pittsburg Morning Sun
1ST PLACE
Best Agricultural Ad
Erica Kersey
1ST PLACE
Best Community Event Ad
Erica Kersey
1ST PLACE
Best Fashion Ad
Sara Hannigan
1ST PLACE
Column Writing
Dustin Strong
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Antjea Wolff
1ST PLACE
Sports Column Writing
Jim Henry
1ST PLACE
Sports Pages
1ST PLACE
Sports Photo
Brock Sisney
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Pittsburg Morning Sun
2ND PLACE
Best Agricultural Ad
Erica Kersey
2ND PLACE
Best Front Page
2ND PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Aaron Pyle
2ND PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Antjea Wolff
2ND PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
2ND PLACE
Feature Photo
Antjea Wolff
2ND PLACE
Feature Story
Antjea Wolff
2ND PLACE
Headline Writing
Antjea Wolff
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Pittsburg Morning Sun
2ND PLACE
Investigative Story
Aaron Pyle
2ND PLACE
Most Adaptable Promotion
Sara Hannigan
2ND PLACE
Outdoor Story
Antjea Wolff
2ND PLACE
Sports Photo
Brock Sisney
2ND PLACE
Sports Story
Jim Henry
3RD PLACE
Best Graphic Designer
Sara Hannigan
3RD PLACE
Best Grocery Ad
Sara Hannigan
3RD PLACE
Best House Ad
Sara Hannigan
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Pittsburg Morning Sun
3RD PLACE
Best Specialty Ad
Amber Ross
3RD PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Antjea Wolff
3RD PLACE
Headline Writing
Aaron Pyle
3RD PLACE
News Story
Ron Womble
3RD PLACE
Spot News
Antjea Wolff
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Santa Fe Way
3 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division II
Awards
Santa Fe Way
2ND PLACE
Column Writing
Leslie Manning
2ND PLACE
Seniors Story
Leslie Manning
2ND PLACE
Youth Story
Leslie Manning
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Spotlight
19 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division II
Awards
Spotlight
1ST PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Leslie Manning
1ST PLACE
Column Writing
Leslie Manning
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Leslie Manning
1ST PLACE
News Story
Leslie Manning
1ST PLACE
Outdoor Story
Leslie Manning
1ST PLACE
Youth Story
Leslie Manning
2ND PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Leslie Manning
2ND PLACE
Education Story
Leslie Manning
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Spotlight
2ND PLACE
Government/Political Story
Leslie Manning
2ND PLACE
Local Business Story
Leslie Manning
2ND PLACE
News Story
Leslie Manning
3RD PLACE
Agricultural Story
Leslie Manning
3RD PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Leslie Manning
3RD PLACE
Column Writing
Steven Carrier
3RD PLACE
Education Story
Leslie Manning
3RD PLACE
Feature Story
Leslie Manning
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Spotlight
3RD PLACE
News Story
Leslie Manning
3RD PLACE
Seniors Story
Leslie Manning
3RD PLACE
Youth Story
Leslie Manning
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Startland News
1 Award
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Startland News
1ST PLACE
Headline Writing
Tommy Felts
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
The Journal
8 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
The Journal
1ST PLACE
Agricultural Story
Stan Finger
1ST PLACE
Best Magazine (regular or special event)
1ST PLACE
Government/Political Story
Mark Wiebe and Dawn Bormann Novascone
1ST PLACE
Investigative Story
Stefania Lugli
1ST PLACE
Solutions Journalism
Stefania Lugli
1ST PLACE
Solutions Journalism
Stefania Lugli
2ND PLACE
Column Writing
Mark McCormick
3RD PLACE
Solutions Journalism
Michael Pearce
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
The Times, Pottawatomie County
11 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division III
Awards
The Times, Pottawatomie County
1ST PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Beth Day, Annie Wolfe and Kandy Williams
1ST PLACE
Education Story
Beth Day
1ST PLACE
Feature Photo
Loryn Clauson
1ST PLACE
Feature Photo
Beth Day
1ST PLACE
Sports Photo
Annie Wolfe
1ST PLACE
Youth Story
Beth Day
2ND PLACE
News Story
Annie Wolfe, Beth Day
3RD PLACE
Editorial Writing
Beth Day
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
The Times, Pottawatomie County
3RD PLACE
Feature Photo
Beth Day
3RD PLACE
Religion Story
Beth Day
3RD PLACE
Seniors Story
Beth Day
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Topeka Capital-Journal
12 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Topeka Capital-Journal
1ST PLACE
Best Front Page
1ST PLACE
Best Online Photo Series/Gallery
Evert Nelson and Jason Alatidd
1ST PLACE
Best Podcast
Jason Alatidd, Jack Harvel and John Hanna
1ST PLACE
Feature Photo
Evert Nelson
1ST PLACE
Headline Writing
Jason Alatidd
1ST PLACE
Outdoor Story
Tim Hrenchir
1ST PLACE
Series
Jason Alatidd
2ND PLACE
New Journalist Award
Stacey Saldanha-Olson
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Topeka Capital-Journal
2ND PLACE
News Story
Jason Alatidd, Jack Harvel
3RD PLACE
General News
Evert Nelson
3RD PLACE
Outdoor Story
Jason Alatidd and Evert Nelson
3RD PLACE
Outdoor Story
Jason Alatidd and Evert Nelson
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Ulysses News
26 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division III
Awards
Ulysses News
1ST PLACE
Column Writing
Tyler Hook
1ST PLACE
Investigative Story
Nancy Wallace-Kletecka
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Tyler Hook
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Nancy Wallace-Kletecka
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Nancy Wallace-Kletecka
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Nancy Wallace-Kletecka
1ST PLACE
New Journalist Award
Tyler Hook
1ST PLACE
Photo Package
Nancy Wallace-Kletecka
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Ulysses News
1ST PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
2ND PLACE
Best Agricultural Ad
Amanda Wallace-Murphy
2ND PLACE
Best Front Page
2ND PLACE
Best Specialty Ad
Amanda Wallace-Murphy
2ND PLACE
Community Service Project
Staff
2ND PLACE
Feature Package
Nancy Wallace-Kletecka
2ND PLACE
Government/Political Story
Tyler Hook
2ND PLACE
Investigative Story
Nancy Wallace-Kletecka and Shawn Yorks
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Ulysses News
2ND PLACE
Special Section - Advertising
3RD PLACE
Best Magazine (regular or special event)
3RD PLACE
Best Specialty Ad
Amanda Wallace-Murphy
3RD PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
3RD PLACE
Feature Package
Nancy Wallace-Kletecka
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Tyler Hook
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
Tyler Hook
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
Josephine Jellison
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Ulysses News
3RD PLACE
Special Section - Advertising
3RD PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Wellington Daily News
19 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division II
Awards
Wellington Daily News
1ST PLACE
Agricultural Story
Laura Lombardi and Ursula Goff
1ST PLACE
Best Front Page
1ST PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
1ST PLACE
Education Story
Laura Lombardi, Ursula Goff
1ST PLACE
Feature Story
Laura Lombardi
1ST PLACE
Health Story
Laura Lombardi
1ST PLACE
Seniors Story
Laura Lombardi
1ST PLACE
Series
Laura Lombardi, Ursula Goff
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Wellington Daily News
1ST PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Ace Finch
2ND PLACE
Best Story/Picture Combination
Laura Lombardi and Ursula Goff
2ND PLACE
Feature Story
Laura Lombardi
2ND PLACE
Investigative Story
Laura Lombardi
2ND PLACE
Most Adaptable Promotion
Meredith Thompson and Laura Lombardi
2ND PLACE
Series
Laura Lombardi
2ND PLACE
Sports Pages
2ND PLACE
Sports Photo
Ursula Goff
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Wellington Daily News
3RD PLACE
Best Environmental Story
Laura Lombardi
3RD PLACE
Government/Political Story
Laura Lombardi
3RD PLACE
Sports Photo
Ursula Goff
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Wichita Business Journal
13 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VI
Awards
Wichita Business Journal
1ST PLACE
Best Front Page
1ST PLACE
Feature Package
Jenna Farhat and Kristina Walser
1ST PLACE
Health Story
Jenna Farhat
1ST PLACE
Local Business Story
Audrey Jensen
1ST PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
2ND PLACE
Best Podcast
Kirk Seminoff
2ND PLACE
Feature Package
John White, Shelby Kellerman and Josh Witt
2ND PLACE
Local Business Story
Eduardo Castillo
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Wichita Business Journal
2ND PLACE
Special Section - Editorial
3RD PLACE
Design and Layout Excellence
3RD PLACE
Feature Story
Jenna Farhat
3RD PLACE
Local Business Story
Jenna Farhat
3RD PLACE
Photo Illustration
Kristina Walser
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Presenting
Wichita Eagle
11 Awards
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Division VII
Awards
Wichita Eagle
1ST PLACE
Best Environmental Portrait
Travis Heying
1ST PLACE
News and Writing Excellence
1ST PLACE
Photographer of the Year
Travis Heying
1ST PLACE
Religion Story
Carrie Rengers
1ST PLACE
Seniors Story
Allison Campbell
1ST PLACE
Sports Photo
Travis Heying
2ND PLACE
Religion Story
Michael Stavola
2ND PLACE
Seniors Story
Taylor Eldridge
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Awards
Wichita Eagle
2ND PLACE
Sports Feature Story
Taylor Eldridge
3RD PLACE
Feature Story
Denise Neil
3RD PLACE
Sports Column Writing
Dion Lefler
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
With Gratitude
Thank You
To every winner, every staff, every storyteller.
Kansas Press Association
The Final Honors
Sweepstakes
Overall Excellence
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Sweepstakes Winner
Editorial
Marquette Tribune
Division I
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Sweepstakes Winner
Editorial
Spotlight
Division II
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Sweepstakes Winner
Editorial
Ellsworth County Independent/Reporter
Division III
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Sweepstakes Winner
Editorial
Iola Register
Division IV
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Sweepstakes Winner
Editorial
Miami County Republic
Division V
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Sweepstakes Winner
Editorial
Harvey County Now
Division VI
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Sweepstakes Winner
Editorial
Kansas City Star
Division VII
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Sweepstakes Winner
Advertising
Council Grove Republican
Divisions I, II, III
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
Sweepstakes Winner
Advertising
Iola Register
Divisions IV, V, VI, VII
KPA Awards Banquet · 2026
In Closing
Congratulations to All Winners.
Kansas Press Association · 2026