Leadership of Emporia’s House of Morrow had an exciting trip up to the state capitol recently, as the local non-profit received a major recognition from the state level.
At the annual Governor’s Arts Awards held in Topeka Monday night, House of Morrow received the Emerging Arts Organization of the Year, acknowledging the various programs and causes the agency has implemented or supported since its founding just a few short years ago. House of Morrow founder Deon Morrow called it a validating moment for the entire team.
In addition to expressing his pride in the hard work of his team, Morrow says he is very excited for what the award symbolizes for the agency moving forward.
The Governor’s Arts Awards are a ceremony held each year recognizing the work and contributions of Kansas artists, organizations, businesses and communities across the state in all mediums, including traditional artwork, dance, music, literature and more.
The award comes with House of Morrow in the stretch of what has been a busy few months between late 2025 and early 2026. Back in December, House of Morrow hosted its first Drag Is Art Show at the Emporia Granada Theatre, which drew a strong turnout for a first-year event.
The non-profit also just recently announced the expansion of its Diverse Voices Program, now in its third year, to include students at Walnut and Logan Avenue Elementary Schools. On top of all of this, House of Morrow is gearing up for its latest offering to the community, a special art show at the Lyon County History Center titled Onyx, recognizing Black History Month.
Morrow says the show will showcase the work of eight artists from Nebraska of various backgrounds who will be showcasing a range of media. The art show will run from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
There is no cost to attend the show. Morrow says bringing these artists to Emporia is another core focus of the agency in the years to come.
Morrow will join KVOE’s Newsmaker segment at 7:20 am Friday alongside Emporia First Friday Director Kat Dorcas.
