Kansas Masonic Foundation Receives 2026 Director’s Award from KU Cancer Center

Kansas Masonic Foundation Honored for Lasting Contribution to the University of Kansas Cancer Center

Topeka, Kansas (November 11, 2026)—The University of Kansas Cancer Center has awarded its 2026 Director’s Award for Civic Leadership and Philanthropy to the Kansas Masonic Foundation and its Executive Director, Robert A. Shively. This annual award recognizes outstanding performance and lasting contribution to the organization.

The award was presented to Shively on November 5, 2026, by Roy A. Jensen, M.D., Vice Chancellor and Director of The University of Kansas Cancer Center. Representing the Kansas Masons at the dinner ceremony were Russ Brown, Executive Vice-President of the Kansas Masonic Foundation, David Hendricks, Grand Master of the Masons of Kansas and Jeff Sowder, Past Grand Master, Past President and Emeritus Board Member of the Kansas Masonic Foundation.

The Kansas Masonic Foundation and The University of Kansas Cancer Center share a partnership spanning more than 50 years, dedicated to advancing the quality and accessibility of cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and survivorship across the state. The newest initiative, HOPE on Wheels, brings mobile cancer screenings to rural and underserved communities. Since 1974, the Kansas Masons have contributed more than $40 million to The University of Kansas Cancer Center.

“This award recognizes all Kansas Masons for their contributions to life-saving cancer research,” said Shively. “Every Mason can take pride in this significant achievement and honor, representing decades of dedication.”

About the Kansas Masonic Foundation:
As the philanthropic arm of Kansas Masons, the Kansas Masonic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to benefiting Kansas communities and supporting fellow Masons and their families. Since its inception, the foundation has invested more than $50 million in Kansas communities and individuals through funding academic, scientific, and charitable endeavors. For additional information about the Kansas Masonic Foundation and to get involved, please click here.

About the Grand Lodge of Kansas:
The Grand Lodge of Kansas is the governing body of Freemasonry in Kansas, established on March 17, 1856, five years before Kansas statehood. Freemasonry is the oldest, largest, and most widely recognized fraternal organization in the world. Freemasons are men, aged 18 and over, of good character who strive to improve themselves and make the world a better place. Kansas Freemasonry encompasses nearly 11,000 Kansas Masons and 170 Lodges across the state. For more information, please visit kansasmason.org.