At a time when community newspapers face mounting challenges, the work happening inside three small-town publications has earned recognition beyond the communities whose stories fill their pages each week.

Excelsior Springs Standard, Richmond News and Town & Country Leader General Manager Sharon Donat was recently named one of Ingram’s 50 Missourians You Should Know for 2026, an annual recognition highlighting leaders from industries and communities across the state.

Since 2011, Ingram’s has used the annual feature to recognize leaders from industries and communities across Missouri whose influence extends beyond their own organizations.

Now in its 16th year, the recognition is not necessarily reserved for the state’s most famous or highest-profile leaders. Ingram’s describes this year’s honorees as Missourians committed to investing their talent, energy and imagination in the state’s future.

Donat almost missed the recognition entirely.

“Ingram’s sent me several emails before I realize…