Welcome!
The Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition is proud to announce its 2026 Gala Awards! These awards recognize individuals and coalitions who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing breastfeeding support, protection, and promotion across Kansas.
We invite nominations for the following categories:
- Rising Star on the Range – Honors a rising star who has shown exceptional promise and initiative in their work to support breastfeeding families. This award is for an individual who has been in the field for 5 years or less.
- Trail Boss – Celebrates a seasoned leader whose long-standing commitment to breastfeeding support has left a lasting legacy. This individual has demonstrated unwavering dedication, leadership, and influence in shaping breastfeeding outcomes in Kansas. This award is for an individual who has been in the field for at least 10 years.
- Roundup of Excellence – Recognizes a coalition that has demonstrated effective collaboration, innovation, and leadership at the local or regional level to support breastfeeding families in their communities.
Award recipients will be celebrated during our 2026 Gala at 7:00 pm on October 15 at the Drury Plaza Hotel in Wichita. The awards will be presented in front of an audience of community partners, public health professionals, lactation supporters, and advocates from across the state. An evening of dance and celebration will follow. A Gala ticket is included with each 2-day paid Conference registration. To purchase Gala tickets separately, click here.
Nominations are open to individuals and coalitions working in any sector or setting, including health care, public health, community-based organizations, early childhood, faith-based groups, and more. We encourage nominations that reflect the diversity of Kansas communities and especially welcome nominations that elevate the voices and leadership of individuals and coalitions serving historically marginalized populations.
Nominations are open to individuals and coalitions working in any sector or setting, including health care, public health, community-based organizations, early childhood, faith-based groups, and more. We encourage nominations that reflect the diversity of Kansas communities and especially welcome nominations that elevate the voices and leadership of individuals and coalitions serving historically marginalized populations.
Self-nominations are welcome and encouraged. If you are nominating someone else, please ensure they are aware of the nomination.
Thank you for helping us celebrate and uplift the outstanding people and groups working to make Kansas a place where all families can thrive.