Director of Collections & Curatorial Affairs, American Jazz Museum

After graduating from Topeka High in 1985, Dr. Dina Bennett received her B.A. in Communication Studies from Washburn University, completed her master’s in College Student Personnel from Kansas State University and a Ph. D in Ethnomusicology with a minor in African American & African Diaspora Studies from Indiana University. Bennett has over 30 years of experience in the music field. In 2021, Dr. Bennett became the Director of Collections & Curatorial Affairs of the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City. She is also an accomplished pianist.

Retired, Laboratory Fellow, Los Alamos National Laboratory

A member of the Topeka High class of 1952, James Gordon attended the University of Chicago before his enlistment in the Navy from 1954-1957. Following his time serving his country, Mr. Gordon earned his B.S. and a Ph. D in Physics at the University of Kansas. For 20 years, he worked at Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico, serving as a staff member, group leader, and laboratory fellow. Over his career, Mr. Gordon received several accolades, including the prestigious E.O. Lawrence Memorial Award presented by the Department of Energy. In his retirement, Mr. Gordon and his family moved back to Kansas, settling in Baldwin City. Mr. Gordon passed away in March of 2016.

Retired, Founder & Owner, Kings Management Company

Graduate of Topeka High in 1959, Ralph King was the founder and owner of King’s Management Company. An award-winning organization that operated ten McDonald’s restaurant locations in the Kanas City Metro for over 30 years. His work with McDonald’s went beyond owning franchises, Mr. King was a brand ambassador, as well as served as Co-op President. Mr. King is also a passionate and active board member with the Ronald McDonald House Charities, including serving as the Director of Ronald McDonald Children’s Charity. Before he embarked on his entrepreneurial career, Mr. King completed his degree in Political Science at Washburn University, while also working at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Since his retirement in 2019, Mr. King continues to be involved within his community and serves as a board member of his church.