KCARC recognized employees, students, volunteers and community organizations during its 2026 Annual Awards Banquet.
The “Rock the Red Carpet” celebration featured a rock-and-roll theme, dinner, door prizes, live music and dancing. Seven awards were presented to people and organizations recognized for their accomplishments and contributions to KCARC and the community.
Brandy Detty was named Manufacturing Employee of the Year. Detty is a floor supervisor in the sewing department at KCARC’s Plant Two, where she oversees a team of about 60 employees.
“It’s an honor,” Detty said. “Really, my team should be the one being awarded. We’ve been very successful, and I’m very grateful. And I’ve got a great team.”
The department produces shirts for the federal government, along with fire-retardant clothing and other products for commercial customers.
The Vincennes Animal Shelter received the N. Philip Shelton Award. Groups from KCARC regularly visit the shelter, while shelter employees take animals to the Civitan Center each year.
Shelter Director, Leah Reagan said the facility works to serve people throughout the community.
“Because of the inclusive nature of the shelter, we want to have a warm, welcoming environment for everyone,” Reagan said. “Our shelter is the community shelter, and we just want everyone to feel welcome coming in.”
KCARC also thanked the sponsors, businesses and banquet committee members who helped organize the annual celebration.
The complete list of 2026 award recipients includes:
- Lois Little Award: Joanna Rupprecht
- Student of the Year: Luca Ridgley
- Transition Student of the Year: Christopher Green
- Thriving Life Award: Adam Rath
- Manufacturing Employee of the Year: Brandy Detty
- N. Philip Shelton Award: Vincennes Animal Shelter
- Volunteer of the Year: Laura Vieck
