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Jayhawks in leadership positions are everywhere you look, including through the Jayhawk Career Network. KU Alumni, in partnership with SumnerOne, is highlighting Jayhawk leaders who are models for others in their industries with our “Copy the Leader” program.
What do you do in your work?
I am the events director for the Lenexa Chamber of Commerce in Lenexa, Kansas. In my role, I coordinate and execute a variety of educational and networking events for our members to help them connect with one another and grow their professional relationships.
The Greater Kansas City Alumni Network works to build and improve ties among KC-area alumni and supporters of KU; provides support of higher education; promotes University departments and strengthens the brand awareness of KU; and assists in efforts to recruit talented students to attend KU.
What are the qualities of a good leader?
I feel communication is the top quality of a leader because one needs to know how to communicate with their team and express the vision they have for the organization moving forward. Leaders also need to inspire their team and those around them, which sometimes requires the leader to take a risk, but one needs to fully believe in that risk 100%. Compromise is also important because as a leader, you’re not going to know everything. One needs to have an understanding of things, but that’s why you hire and bring on members in your organizations who have strengths in a variety of sectors to help your organization thrive to the best of its ability.
How do leaders engage with their communities?
Leaders can engage with their communities in a variety of ways. The easiest way to start is by attending community events where one can learn more about their community as a whole and ways to get involved. Involvement could include local school districts, business organizations, non-profits, city events, among many other things. The best piece of advice I have for leaders is to find something you’re passionate about, attend events, and find ways that you can help. Everyone has their strengths, and you never know how you can make an impact!
How can other alumni in the Kansas City area get involved?
Fellow Kansas City Jayhawks can learn more about Project Home on its website. The Kansas City metro has hundreds of other organizations out there looking for support. Find one that speaks to you and look for a way to support them, whether financially, with your time, or by spreading the word about their mission.
