Honorees Announced for Chamber’s Honors Night 2024

The Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the exceptional individuals, businesses and organizations who will be recognized at the 61^st Annual Honors Night on April 18.

Honors Night serves as a tribute to the remarkable contributions and achievements of those who have significantly impacted Wichita and beyond.

"It’s important to recognize the great work underway in the Wichita community,” said Matt All, President & CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS), who is the presenting sponsor for Honors Night. “The Wichita Chamber’s recognition of outstanding professionals and achievements showcases the meaningful work and the growing momentum that is making the Wichita community, and Kansas, collectively stronger. With so many incredible businesses and individuals, it is a privilege for BCBSKS to serve alongside these organizations.”

The distinguished honorees include:

Uncommon Citizen: Paul Allen, AGH CPAs and Advisors

Established in 1974, this award recognizes individuals who have served their community year after year in an extraordinary capacity - making outstanding contributions to the civic and cultural institutions in Wichita.

Paul Allen has served as Chief Executive of AGH since 1987. He was the Managing Partner of a national accounting firm’s Wichita office until AGH’s founding members created an independently owned firm. Paul serves on the executive committee of the Greater Wichita Partnership.  He previously served as Chair and Board Member for the Wichita State Foundation, United Way of the Plains, Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce, Greater Wichita Economic Development Coalition and Visit Wichita. Additionally, he served as an Advisory Board Member for the Salvation Army and a Board Member of the Wichita Foundation.

Exceptional Young Leader: Cecilia Thibault, INTRUST Bank

Established in 2017, this award provides premier recognition of extraordinary young talent who have a history of demonstrated leadership within their job and philanthropic involvement.

Cecilia Thibault has been at INTRUST Bank for the past 12 years, holding positions in client service and financial literacy and currently serves as Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Strategist. Cecilia has held numerous board positions at local nonprofits, including Girl Scouts of the Heartland, Wichita Festivals and Empower. She is a founding member of Young Latino Professionals of Wichita and has received numerous recognition awards including the Wichita Business Journal’s DEI Award and the American Bankers 40 Under 40 in Wealth Management Award.

Spirit of Wichita: United Way of the Plains

Established in 2002, this award is given to an organization or not-for-profit organization that received the Over the Years award at least 20 years ago, in recognition of its continued strength of employment, leadership, innovation and community involvement.

For more than 100 years, United Way of the Plains has been a local, volunteer-driven organization that connects people and resources from across the community. United Way focuses on health, education, financial stability and basic needs that are the building blocks for a good quality of life and a strong community. United Way was an Over the Years honoree in 1997.

Over the Years: Building Controls and Services, Inc & Credit Union of America

The Over the Years award is given to companies and organizations that have exhibited a long-standing performance as good business citizens and are major contributors to our area’s economic well-being.

In 1985, a small crew of entrepreneurs specializing in temperature control, engineering, service and marketing, formed Building Controls and Services, Inc. BCS provides commercial, office, healthcare, educational and other types of building owners with high-quality building solutions in order to create comfort for employees, customers and clients alike and ensure a safe, effective and efficient work environment.

In 1935, a group of educators at Wichita’s East High contributed a few dollars each to secure a loan for a fellow teacher in need. The event inspired the creation of Wichita City Teachers’ Credit Union, which later became Credit Union of America. CUA now has 14 locations across Kansas and serves over 95,000 members.

Keeper of the Plains: WSU Woolsey Hall, Barton School of Business

The Keeper of the Plains award recognizes an outstanding architectural achievement completed by a firm, organization or individual, which has contributed to the beauty of our community.

Completed in 2022, Woolsey Hall is the $60 million, 125,000-square-foot home of the Barton School of Business on Wichita State University’s Innovation Campus.  

“This is a remarkable group of honorees. Their dedication, innovation and commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to us all,” Jackie Gearhart, Senior Vice President of Treasury Management at UMB Bank and Chair of Honors Night Committee. “Together, we celebrate your achievements and the positive impact you've made on the Wichita community."

Honors Night is presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas on Thursday, April 18 at Textron Aviation Activity Center. Tickets are available here. Corporate tables and sponsorships are also available. Contact Chelsea Dyer, Director of Engagement, for more information.