Sen. Oletha Faust-Goudeau named Kansas Legislator of the Year

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - A state lawmaker from Wichita is recognized for her leadership in the Statehouse in Topeka. Tuesday night, June 1, the Kansas African American Museum and Kansas Interfaith Action named Senator Oletha Faust-Goudeau as Kansas’ Legislator of the Year for her work on racial and economic issues in the state.

“They give this award to people who do work to make life better for Kansas,” Faust-Goudeau explained “I hope I can live up to what this honor is presented for.”

Faust-Goudeau has been in the Kansas Senate since 2009. She is the first Black woman elected to the chamber.

“I had the honor of working side-by-side with Senator Faust-Goudeau during my time in the Legislature,” said State Treasurer Lynn Rogers. “She shows an unmatched dedication to her constituents and remains a central figure in the Wichita community. We worked together to strengthen our state’s economic footing, protect our schools, and combat discriminatory bills that undermined the rights of Kansans. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award.”