He was presented this award by President Mark Watkins at the 22nd Annual Donor Appreciation Luncheon that was held in Parsons, Kansas.
Particularly impressive about this award is that it recognized his achievements, service and many contributions to the music industry. It is named in memory of the Van Meters for their generous estate gift that funded the renovation of Thiebaud Theatre at Labette Community College (LCC).
The country crooner described it as an “honor and a privilege” to be presented with this award. He added that it was great to come back and accept this award with his friend, high school principal [Ken Swender] and his FFA teacher, Dan Peterson and his wife, Kathy. “I also want to thank all the donors who make it possible for students to be able to receive grant money to attend college at LCC. Thank you all again for this amazing award. God Bless,” Wesley said.
Wesley is a Mound Valley native and he attended Labette County High School prior to moving on to Labette Community College. His biggest musical influences in country music include Marty Robbins, George Jones and Ray Price.
In 2011, Mound Valley declared May 29th as “James Wesley Day,” where Wesley was presented with the key to the city. He is the first person to ever receive a key from the city of Mound Valley, Kansas.
To learn more about James Wesley and his music, check out his official website and his Facebook page.
