Every year, Wichita Festivals Inc. chooses a community member to be an official ambassador of Riverfest. This year they have named Ron McEwen as the 52nd Admiral of the Wichita Riverfest.
“Becoming Admiral is the highest honor that we can bestow on a prime member of our community. We are excited to continue our journey of the Admiral in festival leadership,” said BreAnna Monk, President & CEO of Wichita Festivals.
McEwen started his personal Riverfest journey long ago. Riverfest served as a date night with his now wife Lisa. McEwen’s daughter Dani was a Prairie Schooner Mate in 2016. Outside of Riverfest McEwen is a frequent flyer with Kansas Honor Flights, serving as a sponsor to veterans who don’t have anyone to go with. Lastly, McEwen is also a current board member of Wichita Festivals Inc. and an active member of the Sponsorship Committee.
The ceremonial passing of the sword, an iconic element of the Admiral’s uniform, is traditionally handed down from the outgoing Admiral to the incoming one. In 2025, Admiral 51 Alan Howarter unexpectedly passed away shortly after Riverfest. In a meaningful tribute, Howarter’s daughters upheld the tradition by presenting the sword to McEwen in honor of their father.
The 2026 Prairie Schooner Mates, hand-picked exceptional high school juniors, were announced alongside the Admiral.