Appreciating Community Contributors
Since 2002, the Kenmore Heritage Society (KHS) has presented the annual McMaster Heritage Awards to honor individuals who have volunteered their time and creativity in a variety of Kenmore activities that support our citizens, improve our environment, and enhance our community’s ability to connect and thrive. The Kenmore Heritage Society hosted the 2026 McMaster Awards ceremony on May 6.
2026 McMaster Heritage Award recipients Mohan and Bharati Khandekar are long time members of the Kenmore Senior Center, and have been essential in keeping the Food Pantry active, even during Covid times. They have represented Kenmore’s needs at other organizations, such as Kenmore Community Club, Northshore Senior Center, and Indian American Community Services. Mohan is a volunteer visitor guide at SeaTac Airport. Bharati volunteers in Sound Generation’s Community Dining Program. They both work to connect Kenmore’s immigrant families, or others who are struggling, to available services. Mohan and Bharati Khandekar are models for community members who are deeply engaged, and make significant contributions to the betterment of Kenmore residents.
In 2021, KHS added a McMaster Emerging Leader Award to recognize a young adult resident for volunteerism where they study, live, and work. 2026 honoree Zoe Wilson has assumed leadership roles at school and beyond. Over and above guiding vision and leading activities, she fosters a welcoming, collaborative environment for those involved. Whether as President of her school’s Art Club, or volunteering with a 10-and-under softball team, Zoe mentors both skills and confidence in students all around her.
In 2024, with input from the Kenmore Business Alliance (KBA), KHS introduced a Making a Difference for Businesses Service Award to honor a person or business that demonstrates a philosophy of service, and is making significant contributions to the Kenmore business community through time, talents, and actions. It will not surprise most long-term residents to learn that the 2026 awardee is David Cudgel, president and COO of Kenmore Air. David, an active member of KBA, is known for always thinking about the big picture. He also leads or pitches in throughout the year on significant Kenmore events, such as Oktoberfest, and partners with other businesses to attract visitors to Kenmore.
Congratulations – and more importantly – Thank You! – to all the 2026 recipients of the McMaster Awards!
