Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL) held Cheers to Community, our annual awards ceremony and reception at Aloft Wichita on April 23. Each year, we celebrate friends and partners who have gone above and beyond to create stronger, happier families in our Kansas communities. Our Hall of Fame Awards recognize individuals who contribute to the achievement of our mission, to protect and promote the well-being of children.
Distinguished Service to Kansas Children
KCSL awarded Cornelia Stevens with our most prestigious honor, the Distinguished Service to Kansas Children Award. This honor is presented to a person or an organization that has done exemplary work for Kansas children with a lasting impact.
For more than 25 years, Cornelia has worked to strengthen early childhood systems through collaborative leadership, strategic vision and an unwavering belief in the importance of early learning. As executive director of TOP Early Learning Centers, she has championed quality, equity and access for children and families across Kansas.
Cornelia’s influence extends far beyond her organization. A respected voice in early childhood policy, she has served in numerous statewide leadership roles, including co-chair of the Governor’s Early Childhood Transition Task Force. Through that work, she helped guide complex conversations that led to the creation of the Kansas Office of Early Childhood, a transformational step toward streamlining services, improving coordination and strengthening outcomes statewide.
Even as the transition continues, Cornelia remains actively engaged, lending her experience and insight to ensure the success of Kansas’ evolving early childhood system. Her leadership has shaped policy, strengthened partnerships and improved access to high-quality care and education for thousands of children during the most critical years of development.
Cornelia Stevens’ legacy is defined not by a single accomplishment, but by decades of influence that will continue to benefit Kansas children and families for generations to come.
A Testimony to Parent Achievement and Leadership
The Parent Achievement Award recognizes a KCSL parent who has demonstrated leadership and become an exemplary role model to help other families thrive. This year, KCSL awarded the Parent Achievement Award to Sheldon and Kassandra Allen. Their journey exemplifies perseverance, growth and the importance of sustained support.
The 2026 Hall of Fame Awards Also Include:
- Board Leadership – presented to Zach Schultz
- Induction of Honorary Trustee Emeritus – presented to Rick Bloomer
- Glenna VanMetre Outstanding Volunteer – presented to Sally Huber
- Hilda Dyer Staff Achievement – presented to Vicky Roper
- Corporate Friend of Children – presented to Emprise Bank
Prevention in Partnership
KCSL is grateful for the parents, professionals and community members that help us enhance our efforts to protect and promote the well-being of children. We congratulate and thank the award recipients, board members, staff and partners who continue to help us build stronger families in Kansas.
