Mrs. Grant Matthew Wilkerson (Nancy Freeman Wilkerson) is serving as the 2023 BOTAR president, and she is the epitome of what a family tradition looks like. There have been myriad family members involved in the BOTAR organization, as well as the American Royal through the years, and this is the natural culmination of that familial dedication. Nancy was a BOTAR Page in 1982, and is a BOTAR, class of 1997. Nancy’s mother, the late Mrs. Eugene F. Freeman, Jr. (Peggy Massman Freeman) was a BOTAR in 1960. Nancy’s aunt, Mrs. Wade J. Freeman, Sr. (Maggie Kurt Freeman), was president in 1969; and her cousin, Mrs. Kevin Fryer (Carol Massman Fryer), was president in 2011. Nancy’s own children, Margaret and Cecelia, were Pages in 2018 and 2021, respectively. 

Nancy’s devotion to BOTAR and the American Royal started early in her life, as she accompanied her mother while volunteering for school tours at the Royal, and participating as an exhibitor in the hunter jumper division. Her father, Gene, left a lasting impression of proudly wearing his Governor’s pin on his lapel as he left for work each morning, joining a cadre of men in the Kansas City community who were supporting the American Royal. 

The enthusiasm Nancy shows for both organizations is palpable. She has held appointed positions, executive positions, and volunteered for more than 20 years. She is proud that her extended family has been supporting the agrarian values of the American Royal for more than 70 years. Furthering the mission of the BOTAR organization, Nancy strives to always “Ensure that the American Royal’s mission of promoting food and agricultural education… through youth education programs, youth scholarships, and high-quality events is furthered.” The work of the organization is accomplished via the many volunteers who donate hundreds of hours each year to sponsor events, scholarships, and ultimately, present The BOTAR Ball. 

The BOTAR Ball honors families of Our Town who have made significant cultural and civic contributions. The debutante ball is a grand presentation of the Belles of the American Royal, their escorts, and the Pages, who herald the occasion. Guests are treated to a beautiful ballroom set for an elegant dinner with the entrance of BOTARs being presented by their fathers. The presented ladies and their escorts then embark on a choreographed waltz, including the famous ostrich fans, to the delight of all involved, and always resulting in a standing ovation. This year’s ball will be held on October 28th at the Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown. 

As the BOTAR organization is set to celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2024, the American Royal has been contributing to Kansas City’s agricultural community for 150 years! Not only is Nancy in the throes of planning this year’s activities, she is also instrumental in the planning phase of the 75-year celebration. As a group of women who encourage civic involvement and developing leadership skills, the organization has a lot to be proud of. In addition to providing financial support to the Royal, BOTARs provide the time, the power, the leadership, and the resources to indeed ensure the future success of our local treasure. 

Featured in the August 15, 2023 issue of The Independent.
By Anne Potter Russ