LTD COMMUNITY AWARDS
Pauline J. Barker School Award
Ms. Pauline J. Barker was a Living The Dream INC original founder, who saw the dream of the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr as a vehicle for the empowerment and improvement of individuals and their communities. She believed the dream could best be realized through the educational process. This award is presented in Ms. Barker’s honor to a school that most exemplifies the power of Dr. King’s message.
2026 Award Winner:
Robinson Middle School
Clementine “Prim” Martin Community Service Award
Presented in the name of Clementine “Prim” Martin an individual who, like Ms. Barker, has exemplified great service to our community by effortlessly and tirelessly volunteering in the community, not for show but for the good of mankind.
2026 Award Winner:
Jennifer Antonetti
Vivian Scales Education Award
As one of the original plaintiffs in the Brown v Board of Education case and member of the Living The Dream Committee, Vivian has been quoted as saying, “I just wanted to do what was right.” This award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated excellent, faithful, and diligent service through education.
2026 Award Winner:
Elementary - Adam Groves
Secondary - Christine Steinkuehler
Robert and Hazel Gomez ALMA Award
Presented to an individual or organization which has tirelessly volunteered for the benefit of Topeka’s Hispanic Community
2026 Award Winner:
Jim Ramos
Reverend Wayne Franklin Religion Award
Presented to an individual or organization within the religious community that has demonstrated efforts to improve the quality of lives of their fellow men.
2026 Award Winner:
Pastor Gregory D Durant Sr
Nick Chiles Communication and Journalism Award
Named in honor of the late Editor and Publisher of the Topeka Palin Dealer and presented to a journalist (print media or television) who kept the Topeka Community informed of current issues and provided positive reporting on various trends both locally and nationally that directly impact the Topeka Community
2026 Award Winner:
Tevyn Harmon
Youth Award
Presented to a young person who is using their skills and talents to make a positive difference in their community.
2026 Award Winner:
Stella Berry
Elijah Turner
Elizabeth Ross Community Action Award
Presented to an individual whose actions have made a positive difference in their community. This award is presented in Mrs. Ross’ honor to an individual who most exemplifies the value and power within Dr King’s message.
2026 Award Winner:
Individual - Amy Hyten, Director of Lois Curtis Center
Organization - The DK Impact
Lonnie J Williams Executive Leadership Award
2026 Award Winner:
Stacey Knoell, Executive Director KS African American Affairs
Larry D. Johnson Sr Humanitarian Award
Presented to an individual devoted to the promotion of
Human Welfare and the advancement of Social Reforms, as well as a person who is characterized by kindness and concern for others.
2026 Award Winner:
Phil Owens
Robert and Jacqueline Bugg Lifetime Achievement Award
Presented as appropriate to persons who have given most of their lives to the cause of helping others.
2026 Award Winner:
Melissa Brunner
Former Mayor Mike Padilla