KCC members Mohan and Bharati Khandekar honored with McMasters Award

Bharati and Mohan Khandekar received the Kenmore Heritage Society's McMasters award from Heritage Society President Marella Alejandrino at a May 6, 2026 ceremony held at the Kenmore Aqua Club.

Longtime Kenmore Community Club members Mohan and Bharati Khandekar were honored May 6, as the 2026 McMasters award winners for their extensive community service work.

Bharati served on the KCC Board for six years, while being active with several other Kenmore non-profits. As members of the Kenmore Senior Center they were instrumental in keeping the Kenmore Community Food Pantry stocked and staffed, often driving 100s of pounds of food from grocery stores and wholesalers.

In addition they spent decades acting as informal Kenmore ambassadors to other Kenmore organizations, including the Northshore Senior Center, and the Indian American Community Services. Mohan has also volunteered weekly as a visitor guide at SeaTac International Airport, and the couple are weekly volunteers for Sound Generation's Community Dining Program.

In her youth, Bharati was on a championship softball team in her native India. Having immigrated to Kenmore 37 years ago, they have served as conduits in Kenmore to other immigrants connecting them with Kenmore services for families struggling to settle in a new country.

Zoe Wilson was honored as an Emerging Leader for her work with the Inglemoor High School's Art club, as well as acting as mentor and coach for a 10 and under girls softball team.

David Gudgel was honored with the Making a Difference in Business award. David is president and chief operating officer of Kenmore Air. He and his company have been integrally involved in founding the Kemore Business Alliance and he continues to serve on its Executive Committee.