Kansas Citians of the Year: A business power couple who built a legacy of civic service

A core requirement to earn the KC Chamber’s highest honor: simply making Kansas City a better place, said Joe Reardon, announcing local business icons Peggy and Terry Dunn — a former mayor and the longtime top executive at JE Dunn Construction — as the 2024 Kansas Citians of the Year.

“Together, Peggy and Terry exemplify what it means to lead with purpose,” said Reardon, president and CEO of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. “Their shared commitment to philanthropy, civic service, and championing initiatives that unify and uplift our community is unparalleled.”

The news came as a surprise announcement Tuesday during the Chamber’s annual dinner, which also featured a fireside chat with Kansas City Royals star Bobby Witt, Jr.

Being honored with the prestigious Kansas Citians of the Year award reflects the Dunns’ decades of exceptional leadership, community engagement, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of our region, Reardon added.

“They make the entire Kansas City area proud,” he said.

Peggy Dunn, a civic leader and longtime mayor of Leawood, Kansas, has been an influential figure in regional initiatives that strengthen the social fabric and infrastructure of the Kansas City area.

“Known for her dedication to intergovernmental collaboration and public-private partnerships, Peggy has played an integral role in fostering community relationships that support economic growth, inclusivity, and improved public services,” the Chamber said in a press release.

During her tenure as mayor, she championed several projects that improved city facilities, supported local businesses, and preserved green spaces, helping make Leawood a model of smart, community-centered development.

Terry Dunn; photo courtesy of JE Dunn Construction

Terry Dunn, the former CEO of JE Dunn Construction, has been a guiding force in Kansas City’s business and philanthropic landscape. Under his leadership, JE Dunn Construction grew to be one of the nation’s leading construction firms, while maintaining a strong focus on corporate social responsibility.

“Terry has made a lasting mark on the region through his support of initiatives in education, healthcare, and workforce development, with a focus on creating equitable opportunities for all residents,” the Chamber said. “He has served on numerous boards and committees dedicated to civic engagement, including two stents as Chair of the KC Chamber, where he has consistently championed efforts to reduce barriers to success for underserved communities.” 

Both Dunns have dedicated their time and resources to a wide array of causes, from educational initiatives and health services to affordable housing and the arts.

“Together, they have become synonymous with community stewardship, setting a high standard for civic responsibility and philanthropy,” the Chamber said. “Their combined contributions continue to make Kansas City a better place to live, work, and thrive.”

The Kansas Citian of the Year Award is given annually to individuals whose civic and business leadership has brought about significant and lasting impact on the community.

Past Kansas Citians of the Year include Charlie Shields, Bill Berkley, John Sherman, David Warm, Alvin Brooks, Mayors Kay Barnes and Carol Marinovich, Don Hall, Jr., Ewing Kauffman, Lamar Hunt, Anita Gorman, Buck O’Neil, Lucile Bluford, Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, and Jim and Virginia Stowers, among others.