[img_assist|nid=691|title=Chancellor Morton|desc=|link=node|align=center|width=320|height=253]
(L-R): Monique Stevenson, Chancellor Morton, Marie Farrell
Fourteen awards were presented at this year's Annual Beautification Awards Dinner on
May 17 at the Uptown Theatre. With the global theme and a new location, the evening
provided a great night of acknowledgement and accolades.
Since arriving on the UMKC campus, Chancellor Leo Morton has made a major impact on the community. During his time there, the University has seen major growth, investment and improvement. Physical redevelopments include the library expansion, new student union building, three new major residence halls, the new athletic stadium, and a planned parking structure on Oak. He has overseen the University's new Strategic Plan and been a key partner in working with federal, local and community representatives on the proposed Sustainability Center on Troost. And the list goes on. Southtown was proud to recognize Chancellor Leo Morton as the recipient of this year's "Public Achievement Award."
Owner/operator of Governor Stumpy's Grillhouse, Kevin Ryan, was awarded the annual "Southtowner of the Year" award. Ryan provides endless time, energy and efforts throughout the community. Kevin not only gives, but he shows us - that good businesses are made great when they serve not just customers, but the community, too.
Small business awards were presented to Liberty Tax Service and Mike's Tavern. The medium business recipient was Brookside Barkery and Bath. Research Medical Center, Swope Health Services, and Swope Community Builders received the institutional awards. The non-profit of the year was Habitat KC ReStore now open for business in Waldo. The new construction projects awarded were the Troost MAX, KC Zoo Polar Bear Passage, UMKC Miller Nichols Library expansion, and the UMKC Student Union. The 63rd St. sidewalk, curb, and driveway project on 63rd St. from Rockhill to Oak won the public improvement award. Marlborough Community Coalition was acknowledged for all their efforts from planting tulips around the Marlborough Troost Bridge, helping attract the Swope South Clinic, and much more. Special thanks to LaDene Morton for producing the outstanding PowerPoint presentation.