Per tradition, Thrive Allen County is celebrating its 18th anniversary Friday evening by making others their guests of honor.
About 350 have signed up to attend the event at Allen Community College’s gymnasium.
The night centers on the works of others throughout the county and includes five categories: health and wellness, economic development, education, recreation and a relatively new category of change-maker, which focuses on area youth.
Nominated Change Makers:
• Andersyn Carr, a junior at Marmaton Valley High School, is passionately dedicated to her school and her hometown of Moran. “Andie” inspires others through her maturity, leadership and enthusiasm for positive change whether it be on the volleyball or basketball court or her involvement with school plays.
• Kenleigh Westoff, 2025 Iola High School graduate, volunteered nearly 80 hours to her nationally recognized FCCLA project, “Birthday Celebration Kits,” which provided 200 cake kits to local food pantries. Today, Kenleigh is pursuing a teaching degree at Pittsburg State University.
• Sophia Heim, a senior at Marmaton Valley High School, is a scholar, athlete and thespian. Through her work in 4-H, FFA, and mental health advocacy, she inspires others with her determination, creativity, and servant heart.
Recreation
• The Allen County Country Club exemplifies the power of community collaboration by transforming its golf course through volunteer-led revitalization that combined innovation, sustainability, and hometown pride. The makeover included new ponds and irrigation systems — entirely through member labor — creating a greener and more efficient course.
• Since 1958, the Biblesta committee has brought the Humboldt community together each year through music, parades, and family activities. Their dedication and volunteer spirit continue to foster fellowship, joy, and lasting memories for people of all ages.
• Iola Community Theatre is celebrating 60 years of storytelling and creativity and is a cornerstone of the arts. The theater unites actors of all ages, keeping the spirit of community theater alive.
Education
• Allen Community College’s Entrepreneurship event inspires the next generation of business leaders by giving students the opportunity to pitch their innovative ideas before a panel of judges. Through hands-on experience, participants develop essential communication, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills — gaining valuable feedback that can help turn their visions into future ventures.
• Doug Kerr, a special education teacher at Iola High School, has developed innovative hands-on programs in culinary arts, industrial arts, and media production to help students build real-world skills. He also founded the IHS Underhogs BBQ Club, giving students a chance to learn how to prepare barbecue and compete nationally.
• Halie Luken is Marmaton Valley High School’s biggest champion and does her best to highlight students and their successes. She teaches 7-12th grade speech, Spanish, drama, yearbook, cheerleading and forensics. She also volunteers by taking photos at sporting events and keeps everyone up-to-date with a live feed and calendar.
Economic Development
