Michael VanBuskirk Named Citizen of the Year
The City of Lee’s Summit and Mayor Bill Baird are proud to name Michael VanBuskirk as the 2025 Citizen of the Year. VanBuskirk will be honored this September at the Truman Heartland Community Foundation’s Toast to Our Towns Gala for his more than three decades of service to the civic, educational and economic vitality of Lee’s Summit.
While his professional accomplishments as vice chairman of Newmark Zimmer include more than $2.25 billion in commercial real estate transactions and the development of more than 2 million square feet of commercial properties, it is VanBuskirk’s quiet generosity and steadfast commitment to community service that truly define his legacy.
An active civic leader, VanBuskirk often works behind the scenes, bringing people together, offering thoughtful guidance and stepping into leadership roles when it matters most. His service includes involvement in numerous city committees and advisory groups, such as the City Hall Task Force and the Economic Development Planning Committee. He has been a member of the Tax Increment Financing Commission for over a decade, where he served as chair. He also serves as chairperson of the Lee’s Summit Civic Roundtable.
Among his most significant contributions is his work with the Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council. At a pivotal time of transition, VanBuskirk assumed the role of board chair, restoring trust, revising bylaws and rebuilding vital partnerships with the City as well as other community partners. His leadership not only stabilized the organization but also repositioned it for long-term success and stronger community alignment.
VanBuskirk’s generosity shows in his support of local nonprofits, schools and healthcare organizations. A vocal advocate for the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District, he has provided counsel on school bond initiatives and long-range planning. He currently serves on the district’s Citizens Advisory Committee, co-chairs the Enrollment Process Action Team and the Building Our Future Committee.
His firm, Newmark Zimmer, is an active supporter of civic initiatives and nonprofits across the region, many of which he’s helped champion, including the Lewis White Real Estate Center at UMKC, Unity School of Christianity, John Knox Village Foundation and Guadalupe Centers, where he currently serves on the Board of Directors.
“Michael’s leadership and impact on our community reflect the highest ideals of the Citizen of the Year honor,” said Mayor Baird. “His tireless commitment to thoughtful development, civic service and regional progress has improved lives and shaped our City’s future. We are proud to recognize his contributions to Lee’s Summit.”
The prestigious Citizen of the Year Award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional service and leadership that enhance the quality of life in Lee’s Summit. The City has presented this award annually since 1996.