The Ellinwood Chamber of Commerce has proudly announced James "Jim" Elsen as the recipient of the 2025 Distinguished Citizen Award, recognizing his lifelong commitment to public service and his unwavering dedication to the Ellinwood community.
A native of Great Bend, Kansas, Elsen graduated from Great Bend High School before making Ellinwood his home in 1985. In 1989, he began a remarkable 36-and-a-half-year career with the Ellinwood Post Office as a mail carrier. Through rain, snow, and Kansas heat, Elsen ensured the timely and accurate delivery of mail to residents, earning the respect and appreciation of the community he served so faithfully. In 2020, his exceptional service was recognized nationally when he received the United States Postal Service's "Million Mile Award," honoring 30 years of service.
Beyond his postal career, Elsen has been a steadfast pillar of public safety. In 1989, he joined the Ellinwood Fire Department at the invitation of a fellow postal worker. Over the next 35 years, he became a trusted and dependable member of the team. Elsen's calm under pressure and willingness to act proved life-saving on more than one occasion. He was twice credited with helping to rescue injured firefighters during critical incidents-heroic actions that earned him the department's "Above and Beyond" award.
Elsen's dedication didn't stop there. Since 2013, he has also served as an Emergency Medical Technician with Ellinwood EMS, where he continues to volunteer his time today. "We always know we can count on Jim to show up," said EMS Director Brittney Bailey. "Whether it's the middle of the day or the middle of the night, if Jim is in town, he answers the call."
In addition to his formal roles in public service, Elsen has been involved in various community organizations, including the Ellinwood Jaycees and the Knights of Columbus. He has also shared his
time and talents mentoring young athletes as a basketball coach at St. Joseph's School and a cross-country coach at Ellinwood High School.
Elsen and his wife, Kerri, are the proud parents of five children: Jessica, Erica, Becky, Emily, and Blake.
With a legacy defined by service, humility, and heart, James Elsen exemplifies what it means to be a Distinguished Citizen.