TOPEKA – Nearly 2,000 family members, friends and co-workers joined Governor Sam Brownback today on the south lawn of the Kansas Statehouse as he honored state employees with 40 and 50 years of service during an employee appreciation brown bag luncheon and ice cream social.

“On behalf of Dr. Colyer, Cabinet Secretaries and agency directors – thank you for your dedication to our state and its citizens,” Gov. Brownback told the state employees. “You help keep our communities safe. You help educate our college students. You help those who need a hand up. You help run our state government. The work you do on behalf of your fellow Kansans may sometimes be behind the scenes – but it is always appreciated.”

Three employees were recognized for their 50 years of service to the state: Donna M. Darner – Osawatomie State Hospital/SRS, Gerald Mai – Department of Transportation and William McKnelly, MD – University of Kansas Medical Center.

The Governor also thanked all state employees for their service and dedication to their jobs

Topeka blues/jazz group The Catz Band featuring Ric Barron provided musical entertainment prior to the ceremony. Kansas cabinet secretaries and statewide agency directors greeted employees and their guests and handed out ice cream and cookies.