Darrell Conrade Named 2024 Outstanding Citizen of the Year

Darrell Conrade Named 2024 Outstanding Citizen of the Year

The Newton Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Darrell Conrade, Vice President of Conrade Insurance Group, as the 2024 Outstanding Citizen of the Year. The award was presented at the Chamber’s Annual Banquet on September 12, 2024, in recognition of Darrell’s exemplary service and commitment to the Newton community.

The Outstanding Citizen Award is an annual award that honors an individual who exemplifies hometown pride by devoting their time and energy to the betterment of Newton. Nominees must be residents of the community for at least ten years and actively engaged in civic, professional, or charitable efforts. Recipients are selected by a committee of past award winners.

Born in Emporia, Kansas, Darrell was the first in his family to graduate from college, earning a Sociology degree from Emporia State University. In 1982, Darrell and his family moved to Newton, where he has since served the community for over four decades.

After joining Wells Bacon Insurance Agency in 1982, Darrell played a key role in growing the business, which later became Wells, Conrade & Sims. On January 1, 2006, he founded Conrade Insurance Group, a thriving business that remains an integral part of the local economy.

Darrell’s success is rooted not just in his professional achievements, but in his passion for serving others and giving back. Over the years, he has served on the boards of several local organizations, including, Asbury Park, Northview Foundation, Newton Medical Center, Newton Area Chamber of Commerce, Heart to Heart, CASA, Habitat for Humanity, Kiwanis, and Health Ministries Clinic.

He has also served on the United Fire Group agents advisory Board, West Bend Mutual Agents Advisory Board, and Kansas Association of Independent Agents Technical Affairs Committee. Darrell has held several leadership roles, such as serving on the USD 373 Board of Education and as Chairperson for multiple organizations.

Dan Heinze Jr., the 2023 Outstanding Citizen of the Year, presented Darrell with the 2024 award, praising him for his dedication. “Through the years this nominee has more than improved our community through their thriving business and willingness to serve others with generosity, talent and care for the community,” Heinze remarked.

The Newton Area Chamber of Commerce extends its heartfelt thanks to Darrell for his years of hard work, leadership, and selfless service to our community. Congratulations, Darrell Conrade, on being named the 2024 Outstanding Citizen of the Year!

For more information about the Outstanding Citizen Award and a list of past recipients, visit newtonchamberks.org/outstanding-citizen.

Photos by Lamar Roth: rothimages.com..