Downtown Topeka Announces Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade Grand Marshals

Downtown Topeka Inc., alongside the Greater Topeka Partnership, is pleased to announce a grand marshal and junior grand marshal have been chosen to lead the city’s 27th annual Miracle on Kansas Avenue parade!

Retired Washburn University president Jerry Farley has been named the parade’s 2022 grand marshal, and Lorenzo Perez, an eighth grader at Jardine Middle School, will serve as the parade’s junior grand marshal.

“Though it was tough to choose among this year’s outstanding nominees, Dr. Farley and Lorenzo rose to the top as exceptional examples of locals making a difference in our community,” said Stephanie Norwood, director of events for the Greater Topeka Partnership. “We are so excited to have them lead our 2022 Miracle on Kansas Avenue parade. Let the festivities begin!” 

Farley was nominated for grand marshal following his retirement this year from Washburn University, where he served as president for 25 years. During his tenure as the longest-serving president in Washburn’s 157 years, Farley advocated for a vibrant student life, a strong residential feel on campus, solid financial footing, and a healthy endowment, among other initiatives. Farley retired in September, enjoying a send-off by the Washburn University Marching Blues band as he took his final stroll through campus.

“Everyone loves a parade, particularly the Miracle on Kansas Avenue,” Farley said. “We want everyone to join us — children, families, those participating in the parade, marching bands and perhaps a jovial person dressed in red. Festive decorations, businesses open for shopping and an enormous crowd create excitement. Susan and I are delighted to add to the noise and wonderful atmosphere.”

Lorenzo Perez, an eighth grader at Jardine Middle School, will serve as the parade’s junior grand marshal.

Perez, meanwhile, has been active in his own school, participating in band, improv and fitness clubs, and playing on the basketball team. Outside of school, he achieved Star rank through his Boy Scouts of America troop and attends El Shaddai Ministries Community Church. Perez said he loves spending time with friends, family and his two dogs, Time and Cairo. Having attended the Miracle on Kansas Avenue parade since before he could walk, Perez is excited to be involved on a new level this year and is grateful for all the people and businesses who make the annual event possible!

As grand marshal and junior grand marshal, Farley and Perez will lead this year’s Miracle on Kansas Avenue parade and may participate in some pre-event promotions. The 27th annual Miracle on Kansas Avenue will roll at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, starting at 5th Street and Kansas Avenue. For more information, click here or visit the event Facebook page.