This award may be given annually to the person in the community who has contributed notably to the cultural life of Topeka; whose significant leadership in the arts has made our community a better place to live. Awarded since 1956.

(Waldo B. Heywood, a charter member of TCT, board member, and leading actor who died onstage in 1954 at the dress rehearsal for the centennial pageant of the city of Topeka.)