Welcome to the official news page of the Topeka Partnership! Here, you’ll discover the latest updates from the Topeka Chamber, Leadership Greater Topeka, Momentum, and our various initiatives. If you are searching for Visit Topeka or GO Topeka news announcements please use the shortlinks here for you to jump straight to the news of your choice. Stay informed about the vibrant activities happening within the Topeka Partnership. Should you have any inquiries or require further details, don’t hesitate to contact India Yarborough, our VP of Marketing and Communications.

Evergy Plaza to Host Kansas Courage Celebration Honoring Veterans and Military Families 

Evergy Plaza will launch the inaugural Kansas Courage Celebration, presented by the Greater Topeka Chamber’s Military Relations Council and Visit Topeka, on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 12 p.m.  Designed to complement the Topeka Veterans Day Parade earlier that morning, the Kansas Courage Celebration will offer an afternoon of entertainment, appreciation, and community connection for veterans, military families, and the public. The event will feature:  Free meals provided by VFW Post 1650, with donations optional  Inflatable attractions for families, courtesy of The Carnival Guy  A display of military vehicles  Live music by Better than Roadkill, a band with extensive experience performing in veteran clubs; their harmonica player and vocalist is

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News

Greater Topeka Partnership Announces Rhiannon Friedman as New President of GO Topeka

Topeka, KS — The Greater Topeka Partnership is proud to announce that following an extensive search, Rhiannon Friedman has been selected as the new President of GO Topeka. Friedman will officially begin her new role on October 27.   Friedman brings a deep understanding of Topeka’s economic and community development landscape to the position. She most recently served as the Planning and Development Director for the City of Topeka since 2023. From 2019 to 2022, Friedman held key leadership roles within the Greater Topeka Partnership, including positions at Downtown Topeka, Inc. and GO Topeka, where she helped lead major initiatives that strengthened the city’s business recruitment and retention strategies.  

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News

Topeka’s Momentum Takes Center Stage at 2025 State of the Community Event

On Thursday, November 6, hundreds of community members will gather at the Townsite Avenue Ballroom for the annual State of the Community event. This morning of inspiration, connection, and celebration shines a spotlight on the progress unfolding across Topeka and Shawnee County. The event brings together local leaders and changemakers to share updates and spark meaningful conversations about the future. Doors open at 7:45 A.M. for breakfast and networking, followed by a dynamic program beginning at 8:15 A.M. featuring remarks from Mayor Mike Padilla, Shawnee County Commission Chair Aaron Mays, and other civic leaders. “This event is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together,” said

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News

Partnership News Podcast

Stay informed and inspired with the Topeka Partnership Podcast — your source for the latest news, resources, events, and community progress in Topeka and Shawnee County. Covering economic development, downtown revitalization, tourism, and business growth, this podcast keeps you connected to the momentum shaping our capital city. Follow the Topeka Partnership Podcast on your regular podcast platform. The Topeka Partnership News Podcast is sponsored by Giant Communications. PLAY THE LATEST EPISODE HERE This podcast is powered by AI.

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Chamber

Greater Topeka Chamber DC Fly-In 2025

https://vimeo.com/1119859078?share=copy From September 7–9, the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce led a dynamic delegation of local business and community leaders to Washington, D.C., for a high-impact policy advocacy trip aimed at advancing Topeka’s long-term strategic priorities. The visit marked a significant step in strengthening relationships with federal policymakers and positioning Topeka for future growth through targeted legislative and funding support. The delegation met with members of the Kansas Congressional delegation and key federal agencies to discuss a range of initiatives critical to the region’s economic vitality and community development. These conversations centered on several core areas: Riverfront Development: Topeka is uniquely positioned to transform one of its greatest natural assets

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News

Greater Topeka Chamber Political Action Committee Announces Endorsements for 2025 Topeka General Elections

The Greater Topeka Chamber Political Action Committee (PAC) today announced its endorsements for the upcoming Topeka city general elections, supporting candidates who demonstrate strong leadership, a commitment to economic growth, and a vision for a thriving Topeka. The Chamber PAC is proud to endorse the following candidates: Spencer Duncan – Mayor of TopekaKaren Hiller – City Council, District 1Daisy Karimi – City Council, District 3Earl McIntosh – City Council, District 7Michelle Hoferer – City Council, District 9 “These candidates reflect the leadership qualities and dedication to community progress that Topeka needs right now,” said Natalie Haag, Chair of the Greater Topeka Chamber Political Action Committee. “Each has shown a clear

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News

LEADERSHIP GREATER TOPEKA IS ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR THE CLASS OF 2026

Topeka, KS — The esteemed Greater Topeka Partnership program Leadership Greater Topeka (LGT) is excited to announce that nominations for the class of 2026 will be accepted beginning Friday, August 1. Individuals living and working in Topeka/Shawnee County are invited to nominate local candidates they believe demonstrate exceptional leadership ability. Those driven to make a difference in their community may also nominate themselves. Nominations should be submitted online HERE or by visiting TopekaPartnership.com and finding “Leadership Greater Topeka” under the “Partnership Programs” tab. “Each year, participants in the Leadership Greater Topeka program are empowered with insight, connections, and confidence to grow in their own leadership development – both in their careers and

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Molly Headshot
News

Greater Topeka Partnership Names Molly Howey as New CEO

TOPEKA, Kan. — After an extensive national search conducted by executive search firm Winner Partners, the Greater Topeka Partnership is proud to announce that Molly Howey has been selected as the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer. Howey, a seasoned economic development leader and longtime executive with the Partnership, will officially assume the role on August 4, 2025. “Molly’s leadership, passion, and vision for the future of Topeka and Shawnee County make her the ideal person to guide the Partnership into its next chapter,” said Dr. Shekhar Challa, Chair of the Greater Topeka Partnership board and CEO of Kansas Medical Clinic. “She has spent more than a decade delivering transformational economic

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News

Downtown Topeka Inc. Names Andrew Holt as New President

Downtown Topeka Inc. is proud to announce the selection of Andrew Holt as its next President. Holt brings more than a decade of experience in downtown development, strategic leadership, and community engagement to the position, most recently serving as Executive Director of Downtown Lawrence Inc. since 2023. Prior to his work in Lawrence, Holt led the Downtown Association of Yakima, Washington for six years, and served as Director of the Dayton Chamber of Commerce in Dayton, Washington. He will officially step into the role on July 9, 2025. “We are thrilled to welcome Andrew Holt to the helm of Downtown Topeka Inc.,” said Sean Dixon, Interim President of Downtown Topeka

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Chamber

GREATER TOPEKA PARTNERSHIP RECOGNIZED IN TOP THREE FOR PRESTIGIOUS CHAMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Topeka, KS (June 5, 2025) — The Greater Topeka Partnership has been named a finalist for the 2025 Chamber of the Year award, presented by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). ACCE is an association based in Alexandria, Va., with over 1,600 chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations as members, representing more than 9,000 professionals in the industry. The award, sponsored by GrowthZone, is the most prestigious and competitive award in the chamber industry, recognizing excellence in operations, member service, and community leadership. Those honored with the Chamber of the Year designation have demonstrated organizational strength and impacted key community priorities, such as education, transportation, economic prosperity, and quality of life.

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News

GREATER TOPEKA PARTNERSHIP ENGAGES WINNER PARTNERS TO LEAD NATIONAL CEO SEARCH

The Greater Topeka Partnership is proud to announce that it has selected Winner Partners, a nationally recognized executive search and recruitment firm, to lead the search for its next Chief Executive Officer. Headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, Winner Partners is a certified executive search firm with offices across the country specializing in serving nonprofits, public-private partnerships, and privately owned organizations. Winner Partners brings together elite search consultants and industry-leading subject-matter experts to deliver thoughtful and impactful leadership placements. The CEO search will be guided by a search committee led by Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek, President of Washburn University and a longtime champion of regional economic development. Dr. Mazachek will work closely

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News

MATT PIVARNIK TO DEPART GREATER TOPEKA PARTNERSHIP, ACCEPTS CEO ROLE WITH MYRTLE BEACH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

After nearly a decade of transformational leadership in Topeka, Matt Pivarnik, CEO of the Greater Topeka Partnership (GTP), has announced that he will be leaving the organization to assume the role of President and CEO of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (MBACC) in Myrtle Beach, SC. The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce encompasses Partnership Grand Strand and Visit Myrtle Beach. Pivarnik’s final day with the GTP will be May 18, 2025. Pivarnik arrived in Topeka in 2016 as the CEO of the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce. Under his leadership, Topeka witnessed a historic era of collaboration, economic revitalization, and community growth. He played a pivotal role

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News

Announcing: Annual Awards to be Presented at the 41st Leadership Greater Topeka Graduation & Gala on May 16

The Greater Topeka Partnership will honor individuals and organizations at the upcoming Leadership Greater Topeka Graduation & Gala event, being held on May 16 at Prairie Band Casino and Resort. The awards are designed to honor and celebrate Leadership Greater Topeka Alumni and supporting organizations in Topeka and Shawnee County who demonstrate their capacity to lead for the greater good, both personally and professionally.   The 2025 Awardees are:   Rising Star Award: In recognition of those whose promise and ambition illuminate the path ahead, shaping the future of Topeka with vision and purpose. Michael Odupitan, CEO, Omni Circle Caitlyn Halsey, Capernaum Coordinator, Young Life   The Activator Award: Reserved

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Greater Topeka Chamber Military Relations Council 2025 Initiatives

Individuals who are actively serving or have served are welcome in the room, including businesses that support the defense ecosystem, veteran-owned businesses, and social organizations that contribute to greater appreciation and awareness of the military. Past efforts have focused on mutual awareness, support, and appreciation between the military and civilian business communities in the greater Shawnee County community. “We are thrilled to contribute to the national defense ecosystem,” stated Juliet Abdel, Chamber President. “Through a targeted focus on connecting key entities, we feel strongly that action will be taken that advances prosperity in Shawnee County.” Looking ahead, the 190th Air Refueling Wing located at Forbes Field is one of six

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News

VISIT TOPEKA ANNOUNCES TOPEKA JINGLE DAYS HOLIDAY ACTIVATION IN COLLABORATION WITH FESTIVE LOCAL PARTNERS

This winter, the magic of the holiday season will come alive in Topeka with the launch of Topeka Jingle Days! Presented by Visit Topeka and AIM Strategies, the exciting new initiative is designed to encourage both locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in our vibrant array of winter holiday traditions for the chance to win a prize package valued up to $600. Topeka Jingle Days unites 11 local winter traditions and attractions under one exciting holiday activation. The activation invites locals and visitors to spend time at events like Miracle on Kansas Avenue, Zoo Lights, TARC’s Winter Wonderland, SLI Festival of Trees, and more. Pick up a Jingle Days

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News

DTI GEARS UP FOR HOLIDAY WINDOW DECORATING CONTEST, ANNOUNCES NEW DETAILS ABOUT THIS YEAR’S ‘MIRACLE ON KANSAS AVENUE’ PARADE

Downtown Topeka Inc. is preparing for a festive holiday season! Its 2024 holiday window-decorating contest is back, with voting kicking off Dec. 1. Meanwhile, Topeka’s Miracle on Kansas Avenue parade is set to return downtown on Saturday, Dec. 7 for a spectacular evening of holiday cheer and memorable moments, including special performances and the official arrival of Santa. The parade-day fun will kick off early this year, with inflatables and carolers along the avenue in the afternoon for families to enjoy. Downtown businesses, from restaurants to retailers, are encouraged to take part in downtown’s holiday window-decorating contest, which is now in its fifth year. They may do so by creating

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News

GREATER TOPEKA PARTNERSHIP COLLABORATES WITH WASHBURN UNIVERSITY’S CAREER ENGAGEMENT OFFICE TO LAUNCH ‘HIRE LOCAL’ CAMPAIGN DESIGNED TO RETAIN TOPEKA GRADUATES

The Greater Topeka Partnership and Washburn University, in consultation with Forge Young Talent, are excited to announce a strategic collaboration designed to encourage Shawnee County employers to “Hire Local.” The new Hire Local campaign invites area employers to create accounts on Handshake, a platform that connects college students and graduates with company recruiters. The initiative urges local employers to strongly consider Washburn graduates when hiring for key positions. “This is a big step toward better engaging employers in the area and keeping talented young people here in the community after they graduate,” said James Barraclough, director of Washburn’s Career Engagement Office. “We are excited for this collaborative effort with the

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News

TOPEKA AREA SPORTS COMMISSION NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR TASC CARES, ANNOUNCES Q4 TIMELINE FOR DISTRIBUTION OF GRANTS

The Topeka Area Sports Commission (TASC) is pleased to announce that its TASC Cares program is now accepting applications for Q4 2024, with distribution of grants expected in December. TASC Cares represents the sports commission’s mission to build an inclusive, community-centered sports environment. The program provides funds to purchase equipment and cover registration fees for kids in the Topeka area who face economic barriers to participation. TASC Cares fosters sports participation among youth ages 8 to 18, focusing on those in underserved communities. “TASC believes every child who wants to participate in youth athletics should have the opportunity to do so,” said TASC Director Mike Bell. “That’s why we seek

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