Honoring John Kovaleski with the Silver T-Square Award for Outstanding Dedication and Service

John Kovaleski to Receive the Silver T-Square Award from the National Cartoonists Society

The National Cartoonists Society is proud to announce that John Kovaleski will be honored with the Silver T-Square Award at the 79th Annual Reuben Awards, held this year in Boston on August 15th.  The Silver T-Square recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service to the NCS and a deep dedication to the profession of cartooning.

A longtime and valued member of the Society, John has generously contributed his time and talents in countless ways — always with a collaborative spirit, steady reliability, and genuine enthusiasm. In addition to stepping up whenever needed, he has served in a myriad of roles, including as a board member, the founding Director of the Jay Kennedy Memorial Scholarship, a chapter chair, and the voice behind our annual Reuben Awards show, bringing his distinctive wit and charm to the production. His behind-the-scenes contributions have played a meaningful role in strengthening the NCS community and elevating the experience of the organization for both members and award attendees alike.

Before becoming a full-time cartoonist, John’s career path wound through an ad agency, a consulting firm, a newspaper, and even a large, faceless corporation — experiences that no doubt helped shape the humor and insight found in his work.

John is best known as the creator of “Daddy Daze,” a comic strip inspired by his real-life adventures as a new father. Originally launched online during his time as an MFA student and college instructor, the strip showcases his unique ability to find the funny in everyday parenting. He’s also the mind behind the cult favorite “Bo Nanas,” a surreal and clever strip about a talking monkey navigating the real world — collected in the books Monkey Meets World and ApPEELing.

Beyond the comics page, John has contributed to MAD Magazine, illustrated credit sequences for films, and created animated greeting cards for Amazon.com. His creative talents extend into unexpected realms — from playing the ukulele to performing escape-artist tricks.

Known for his quirky humor, generosity, and dedication to the cartooning community, John Kovaleski embodies the spirit of the Silver T-Square Award. We thank him for his service and congratulate him on this well-earned honor.

Join us online at 7pm Eastern on Monday, May 19th for a celebration and live Q/A with John during a special NCS Open House event—see details HERE.