Minnesota Historical Society Press Editor Ann Regan Receives Distinguished 2025 Kay Sexton Award

SAINT PAUL, Minn (March 26, 2025) – Minnesota Historical Society Press’s longtime editor Ann Regan has been named the recipient of the 2025 Kay Sexton Award for her significant contributions to and leadership in Minnesota’s literary community by the Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library. This prestigious award is presented annually to an individual or organization in recognition of dedication and outstanding work in fostering books, reading, and literary activity in Minnesota. 

"Publishing is a team sport,” Regan said. “I’ve had wonderful colleagues at the Minnesota Historical Society Press. I’m thrilled to share this honor with them."

Originally from Montana, Regan retired from the Minnesota Historical Society Press as the editor-in-chief in the fall of 2024. Throughout her career, she acquired approximately 350 books and was directly involved with the editing of nearly 300 of those. 

“I am grateful the Minnesota publishing industry agrees with what we at the Minnesota Historical Society have known for more than 40 years about Ann Regan,” said MNHS Director and CEO Kent Whitworth. “Ann is much more than a gifted editor; she builds deep relationships with her authors and her colleagues. I am inspired that she has been recognized with this honor.”

Diverse Voices

Regan has been a stalwart for the diverse voices that make up Minnesota’s history and present, by standing firm behind anthologies that highlight historically underrepresented communities and working to improve the relationship between MNHS Press and Native writers. Author Anton Treuer said, “Her leadership in this effort transformed our understanding of Minnesota and Native American History.” 

The Kay Sexton Award panel praised the way Regan has worked with writers throughout her career, her willingness to take a chance on an idea and help the author or editor develop that idea into a book. The panel stated that Regan has exemplified “sheer dedication and devotion to literature . . . she is everything this award stands for.” 

Regan will be honored at the 37th annual Minnesota Book Awards Ceremony at the Ordway, Tuesday, April 22. The event will also be livestreamed. 

About the Minnesota Historical Society Press  
The Minnesota Historical Society Press is a leading publisher of the history and culture of Minnesota and the Upper Midwest. The Press advances research, supports education, serves the local community, and expands the reputation of the MNHS through the publication of books and e-products, the Minnesota History journal, and the free, digital encyclopedia, MNopedia. The Press publishes adult nonfiction titles, cookbooks, and children’s picture books that reflect the history and culture of Minnesota and the Upper Midwest in several general areas: Native American history and culture; political and military history; natural history and the environment; cultural and social history; arts, culture, & sports; memoir and literary nonfiction.