New York Times bestselling author and National Book Award finalist Sarah Smarsh will preside as the master of ceremonies for Gov.-elect Laura Kelly’s inauguration.
Kelly’s inaugural committee announced on Friday that Smarsh – author of the hit book “Heartland” – will serve as master of ceremonies for the Jan. 14 inaugural.
“As a Kansas resident and writer concerned with the public good, I’m honored to be of service on inauguration day,” Smarsh said in a statement released by the inaugural committee.
“The upbringing that I’ve written about – on a proud, struggling family farm among people who felt disconnected from government – makes it all the more heartening to participate in this historic event,” she said.
“The governor-elect’s strong spirit and inclusive values bode well for our state’s next chapter.”
The swearing-in ceremony for Kelly, Lt. Gov.-elect Lynn Rogers, and other statewide elected officials will take place at 11 a.m. at the Kansas Capitol. The event is free to the public.
Smarsh will lead the ceremony, Sister Therese Bangert will deliver the invocation, and Poet Laureate of Kansas Kevin J. Rabas will recite a poem. Chief Justice Lawton Nuss will administer the oaths of office.
Smarsh is the author of the New York Times bestseller and National Book Award Finalist
“Heartland: A Memoir of Working Hard and Being Broke in the Richest Country on Earth.”
