The Topeka Business Hall of Fame will annually recognize the most esteemed leaders of business and free enterprise in the Topeka area. To be considered as a Hall of Fame Laureate, an individual's record of business achievement must demonstrate:

1. Business Excellence
   Laureates are held up as the "shining stars" of the business world to the citizens of Topeka.

2. Entrepreneurial Spirit, Courageous Thinking and Action
   Laureates demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit and management skills through founding a business; or leading a business to economic prominence; or leading a business through crises, expansion or change to economic prominence.

3. Inspiring Leadership
   Laureates demonstrate an extraordinary ability to influence people and events. They have achieved a high level of respect within the business and public communities.

4. Community Impact
   Laureates apply leadership skills to public service or shared economic success with the community through philanthropy. Laureates utilize the free enterprise system to improve the quality of the lives of those in their community.

5. Role Model
   Laureates demonstrate exemplary conduct and reputation, provide an appropriate role model for youth and demonstrate a history of mentoring youth.

6. Enduring
   Laureate accomplishments are of an enduring nature. Laureates demonstrate the economic and social benefits that are derived from the rewards of innovation, quality, service and efficiency under free enterprise economics.

7. Local Influence
   The success of Laureates was achieved in the area of Topeka.

8. Field of Business
   Laureates field of work falls within the boundaries of what is typically understood as the "field of business", except when a business application within one of these service fields created the success for which the Laureate is celebrated.

Hall of Fame Laureates are individuals whose work has moved the Topeka community in a better, stronger direction. Both posthumous and living leaders can be honored.

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