
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.
Explore the timeline of Humanities Kansas from 1972 to today. View Timeline
We've impacted 124 communities.





























































































































In 2021, our work reached 1 in 6 Kansans across 124 communities.
- $284,964 awarded in Culture Preservation, Humanities for All, and Action grants, plus support for Community Resources
- 361 supported events and grants
- 241 partnerships with local organizations
- 1 to 1 match 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
Tom Bell, Topeka
Kent Blansett, Lawrence
Conny Bogaard, Garden City
Renee Duxler, Salina
Lori A. Goetsch , Manhattan (Chair)
Kim Goodnight, Maize
Nickolaus Hernandez, Dodge City
Jane Holwerda, Dodge City
Denise L. McNabb, Waverly
Jose Enrique Navarro, Wichita
Eric Norris, Lawrence
Kim Perez, Hays
Sheilah Philip, Overland Park
Lisa Sisley, Manhattan
Jason Wesco, Pittsburg
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.