
We believe that stories carry our culture and ideas change the world
Since our founding as an independent nonprofit in 1972, Humanities Kansas has pioneered programming, grants and partnerships that share stories to spark conversations — drawing people together and generating new ideas. These stories and ideas inspire each of us in Kansas to play a part in strengthening our communities and our democracy.
Our stories tell us who we were.
Our conversations inform who we are.
Our actions define who we'll become.
We've impacted 107 communities.





























































































































In 2019, our work reached 1 in 5 Kansans across 107 communities.
- $292,802 awarded in Culture Preservation and Humanities for All grants, plus Community Resources
- 685 supported events and grants
- 193 partnerships with local organizations
- $808,692 leveraged in community support
We believe that democracy demands wisdom and vision in its citizens — and that the humanities provide a way to gain both. Our programming, grants and resources are designed to share stories that inspire, spark conversations that inform, and generate insights that strengthen civic engagement.
Download Annual ReportOur Board of Directors
Brad Allen, Lawrence
Kent Blansett, Lawrence
Conny Bogaard, Garden City
Lori A. Goetsch, Manhattan
Kim Goodnight, Maize
Kerry Green, Kansas City
Natalie G. Haag, Topeka
Mike Heldstab, Wichita
Nickolaus Hernandez, Dodge City
Jane Holwerda, Dodge City
James T. Lane, Overland Park
Roetta Mann, Quinter
Denise L. McNabb, Waverly
Eric Norris, Lawrence
Kim Perez, Hays
Sheilah Philip, Overland Park
Lisa Sisley, Manhattan
Jason Wesco, Pittsburg (Chair)
Board Member Responsibilities
Careers
There are no current job opportunities available at this time. Please check back soon!
What are the Humanities?
The humanities help us understand what it means to be human — to seek connections with people and place. As we draw on our diverse histories, literature, ethics and cultures, we see more clearly who we are as people and define ideas that will shape a future worthy of generations to come.
The humanities start with stories — stories that connect us, that tell us who we are and where we’ve come from. They help us draw on insights from history, literature and culture to live richer lives.
The humanities generate ideas — ideas that change lives, that make each of us better citizens, and that strengthen the choices we make every day at home, at work and in our communities.
The humanities inspire action — action that changes lives and strengthens communities and our democracy.