Dr. James J. Rhatigan, former Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students at Wichita State University, was recognized as the 2010 Humanitarian of the Year. This is the 6th year for the event.

In 2005, Dr. Donna Sweet established the Humanitarian of the Year Award to recognize people who have made significant contributions in the Wichita community through their leadership, guidance, philanthropic, and selfless actions. Often, the recipient of prestigious awards herself, Dr. Sweet wanted to give recognition to others who were doing great things in Kansas.

The event also is a way to raise money for the Sweet Emergency Fund. The fund was created as a life-saving measure to help HIV+ patients access medicines and health care services. Two great causes are linked in this very special evening.