
2026 Honorees
Benny and Edith Lee
Benny and Edith Lee are committed to giving back to Kansas City by promoting international awareness and cultural appreciation. To fulfill this promise, they regularly open their home for dinner receptions to welcome international soldiers, artists, diplomats, academics, and visiting musicians from around the globe. Beyond hosting, Benny has held leadership roles with the International Relations Council, served on the Kansas City Global Commission, and helped found the local Asian American Chamber of Commerce. His civic contributions also include earning the Sister Cities Association President’s award and facilitating study-abroad programs for UMKC business students. Meanwhile, the Lees played a pivotal role in creating Park University’s International Center for Music, often hosting performances for its globally acclaimed graduates. Additionally, they actively support the Kansas City Honorary Consular Corps and helped develop the International Sculpture Garden at the Overland Park Arboretum.
