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Derenda Mitchell

Derenda Mitchell

Derenda Mitchell serves as CEO and executive director of the Kansas Historical Foundation. In that capacity, she works to raise funds, build assets, and preserve Kansas history in support of the Kansas Historical Society.

Mitchell has served the State of Kansas as an assistant attorney general in the office of the Kansas Attorney General since 2004, most recently as a unit director. Prior to her time at the attorney general's office, Mitchell was legal counsel at the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the Kansas Insurance Department. She served as Governor Bill Graves’ legislative counsel.

In the private sector, Mitchell was a partner in a large Topeka law firm and served as associate counsel to the Kansas Livestock Association.

Mitchell graduated from the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Kansas, double majoring in political science and history. She graduated with honors in history. She obtained her law degree from Washburn School of Law.

Mitchell has written numerous articles for legal and trade publications. She is active in the community and has served on the leadership team of the State Chapter of P.E.O., vice-president of the Kaw Valley Girl Scout Council, president of the parent teacher association at Topeka High School, and as president of the Topeka Parks and Recreation Foundation. She is a graduate of Leadership Topeka.

Derenda Mitchell
785-272-8681, ext. 201
dmitchell@kshistory.org