This annual event finds its roots in the magical kingdom of Quivira ruled currently by Queen Alyssa Michele Grewcock. The Most Honored Citizen of Quivira is Reverend John P. Schlegel, S.J., and Creighton University.  Queen Alyssa's reign will continue until October 10, 2009 when the 113th King and Queen will be announced as part of the Coronation Ball production. Chosen for their community service and leadership, these royals are following in the footsteps of a rich tradition that began in 1895.

Also recognized during this event are outstanding leaders from around the Heartland. Princesses, Countesses, Escorts, and Pages represent their families who are being honored for their contributions to the region. Press Releases listing the 2008 members of the Court can be found in the Knights Press Room.

The Court of Honor Recognition Award is also distributed at the Ball. Recipients from throughout the region are recognized for one of the following eight categories: agriculture, arts, business and industry, education, philanthropy, professions, public service, and sports.

The annual Coronation Ball raises money for the Ak-Sar-Ben Youth Scholarship Fund.  This year, Ak-Sar-Ben will partner with the Horatio Alger Scholarship Program to provide 50 scholarships to deserving students from Nebraska and Western Iowa. The Coronation Ball is broadcast by Cox Communications with the opportunity to view the Ball anytime on Cox OnDemand. 

Recently a new endowment program has been established that will allow individuals, Foundations, and corporations to make a tax deductible contribution and sponsor a scholarship. All levels of giving are available. For more details, click here.

The event is organized by 19 volunteer women who serve three year terms as members of the Women's Ball Committee. For a listing of the committee, click here.

Current Information

The Most Honored Citizen of Quivira, Reverend John P. Schlegel, S.J., became President of Creighton University in 2000. Since being inaugurated, the University has invested $250 million in campus expansion and improvements, adding 40 acres to campus, and increasing enrollment by 14%. This year marks the first time the University and its leader have been honored by the Ak-Sar-Ben Coronation Ball.  In addition to campus-wide expansion, Schlegel’s tenure at Creighton has focused on strategic planning, fund raising, health and wellness, and diversity. Creighton University with Schlegel at its helm is poised to continue its strong influence on the community, region and nation through its economic impact, its research and professional programs. 

Queen Alyssa Michele Grewcock attends Hillsdale College in Hillsdale Michigan and will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing in May of 2010. Currently at Hillsdale, she is a member of the Collegiate Softball Team and serves as a Hillsdale College Student Athlete Advisory Committee Member. Queen Alyssa grew up in Omaha and graduated from Marian High School in 2005.  Her volunteer resume is distinguished serving the Henry Doorly Zoo as an assistant to the zookeepers, training and walking dogs at the Nebraska Humane Society, working with children in the emergency shelter for the Heartland Family Service Student League and planning activities for seniors for the Heartland Family Service Junior Friends.Ms. Grewcock is the daughter of Doug and Michele Grewcock of Omaha.