Our Mentors

Originally, a native of the United Kingdom, I came to the USA in June of 1989 – and have resided within Kansas City Metropolitan area for the past 35 years. Since 12/1995 I have been employed at Commerce Bank. The most recent 10 years (2015 to present) have been as a Vice President and Senior Collateral Manager in the Commercial Loan Servicing area for the Bank. Some of my responsibilities include establishing and monitoring key risk controls, employee performance and productivity standards for commercial loan servicing dept., and all aspects of commercial collateral monitoring. In addition, I assist in building and maintaining interior commercial relationships & exterior partnerships. My team ensures compliance and adherence to key regulatory requirements and internal Bank standards in addition to timelines and production expectations. I oversee a team of 17-20 exempt and non-exempt employees – ensuring employee engagement, development and retention. Prior to this role, (from 2007 – 2015) my role at the Bank was as an SBA Advisor for Commerce Bank, my responsibilities included but were not limited to training Commercial Officers throughout the Midwest, SBA sales and marketing, the facilitation of Government lending & all aspects of franchise financing through all available channels of distribution. My duties involved administering and overseeing Commerce Bank’s Small Business Administration portfolio, handling any aspect or functional requirement throughout the Bank from originating a small business opportunity to ultimately liquidating the same. My other roles at Commerce have predominantly comprised of Management and oversight. Additionally, I currently spend some of my time working with Employee Resource Groups within the Bank, helping to shape the Banks culture to be a more inclusive environment for the employees to adopt a shared language & feel like they have a sense of belonging. In my personal time, I enjoy spending quality time with family & my wonderful husband David. Collectively, we have been blessed with a blended family of 13 adult children, a plethora of grand & great grandchildren and two dogs, Maxx & Kookie. I am an active member of Palestine Missionary Baptist Church, located in the heart of Kansas City. I currently serve on two Church boards and am the Servant Leader over the Annual ministries of the church.

Dr. Brandy Janell Palacios, a native of Wyandotte County Kansas, obtained her Bachelor’s degree in biology as a 2003 graduate of Tuskegee University. Brandy has had the pleasure of experiencing pageantry on and off the stage. She was crowned Mrs. Missouri 2018, Dr. America 2021 and the first Tournament of Queens in 2023. Brandy takes pride in working in her community, which is why she has continued to volunteer and treat patients within the Wyandotte County area. She takes pride in volunteering for various organizations throughout the Greater Kansas City area and with her sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. Even as a physical therapist, instructor and wife, one of the most important roles she now plays is being a mom.

Donna-Marie Fields has been married to Windell Fields for 9 years. They love to spend time with their fur baby Riley, an 8-year-old boxer, in Lee’s Summit Missouri. Donna-Marie has been an esthetician in Overland Park, Kansas for over 20 years. Her hobbies include working out, reading a good book, and traveling (preferably to a beach). Donna has been involved and participated in pageantry for about 7 years.  She has held state titles as well as national titles, representing the USA in Singapore as Mrs. USA International 2019 at the TKS Pageants. She has also had the opportunity of representing the US in Dubai at the Milestone Pageants in 2021, as well as in Miami at the Ms. World International Pageant. As a proud Jamaican, Donna-Marie will have the opportunity compete this September as Mrs. Tourism Jamaica in Dubai.   Donna-Marie’s platform includes providing educational resources for underprivileged children in Jamaica and providing personal hygiene products to the residents at the Amethyst Place.

My name is Ebony Jean Duncan, the wife of Melvin Crayton, the dog mom of Teko Winky Crayton, the sister of Arion, Angel, and Ivory Duncan, and the aunt to the most amazing nephew Caleel Duncan. Faith and Family are the hallmark of my survival and success. I am a Licensed Master Level School Social Worker by purpose and profession. In this capacity, I am employed at Raytown South Middle School, a District Social Emotional Learning Trainer, and the President of School Social Work Association of Missouri. I am currently a student working on my Doctorate in Social Work with an emphasis in Impact Leadership in Social Work Administration. As a woman who derived from an under-resourced community on Kansas Citys Northside, I am passionate about amplifying the voices of marginalized groups. My first call to action as a youth was being an after school mentor assisting with academics and the importance of believing in oneself. As a member of Maranatha Family Worship Center and member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. I have been able to reach the community in a greater capacity by practicing servant leadership, promoting action learning, engaging diversity and difference and advancing dignity and worth. I am happy and I am whole and look forward to assisting others on their journey of happiness and wholeness.

Jasmine is a dedicated Workforce Development Specialist with a strong background in the human services field and a passion for community empowerment, particularly among young adults. With a bachelor’s degree in human services and Sociology, she has spent years making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and families through roles such as Family Advocate, Family Service Coordinator, and more. Jasmine’s, currently specializes in workforce development, helping individuals navigate career pathways and achieve economic stability. Her expertise in case management, program development, and advocacy has contributed to numerous success stories within the communities she serves. She is committed to lifelong learning and will be pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) to further enhance their ability to drive positive changes around her.

Jessica Lynn McCallop-McClellan is a dynamic inspirational speaker and Christian minister, passionately known as Jessica Lynn Speaks Life. With the mantra “I Live to Give,” Jessica has captivated audiences as a keynote speaker in corporate settings, women’s events, and inspirational movements. Jessica is a national best-selling author and a contributing author in the anthology * Agents of Social Change*. The book is available for purchase directly from her. Jessica is the Founder and President of Giving Hope & Help Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2013. Through her work, she empowers individuals to find their voice and use it for change, advocating for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, menstrual equity, education, cancer support, humanitarian causes, and social justice. She is the founder and administrator of the Black, Brown, and White UNITE for CHANGE Facebook Group. With eight years of experience as the host of Jessica Lynn Speaks Life on KUAW Radio, Kansas City’s Global Community Radio Internet Show, Jessica has received numerous awards and recognitions for her philanthropic work, humanitarianism, and leadership. Her impactful efforts have been featured in media, podcasts, magazines, and television, both locally and globally. A proud 1st generation graduate of Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, LA, Jessica earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing. She also holds a Master of Science in Business Management from Baker University in Baldwin City, KS. With over twenty-nine years of sales and management experience, including ten years in pharmaceutical and medical sales, Jessica is a seasoned Independent Corporate Trainer/Facilitator, volunteer, and leader. Jessica resides in Kansas City, Missouri with her husband, Kevin, of 27+ years. She cherishes spending time with her family, including her two adult children and grandchildren. Her faith is her anchor, inspired by her favorite Bible scriptures: Proverbs 3:5-6, Philippians 4:13, and Jeremiah 29:11. Connect with Jessica for keynote speaking engagements, training facilitations, and workshops at: Jessicalynnspeakslife@gmail.com. To partner with Giving Hope & Help, reach out at Donate@givinghopeandhelp.com. Learn more at www.GivingHopeAndHelp.org.

While society at-large tends to reinforce the idea that what you do shapes who you are, Kharissa “KP” Parker believes that when who you are shapes what you do, that’s when you’ve found your sweet spot. For her, that couldn’t be more true than in her roles as a news producer and certified holistic health coach. An 80’s baby born and raised in Kansas City, Kharissa earned her journalism and mass communications degree from the University of Missouri - Kansas City (UMKC) in 2013. Fueled by a passion for health and wellness, she went on to earn a holistic health coaching certification from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in 2019. As a news producer, Kharissa is known for raising the bar on inclusive journalism by changing the narrative, amplifying voices, and celebrating stories in marginalized communities. Through her business, The KP Method, she has also built a reputation for reshaping the landscape of health and wellness with her system, The 7 Pillars of Self-Care. Outlets and organizations such as The Kansas City Business Journal, KCUR, Startland News, the International Institute for Business Analysis - Kansas City Chapter, and several others have had Kharissa share her philosophy with their audience and team members. Over the years, she has also been recognized by The Pitch KC, Kansas City’s People Choice Awards, and the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. A true force of inspiration, Kharissa blends purpose, passion, and fresh perspective in everything she does. Her work is a testament to her belief in living authentically, empowering others, and fostering meaningful change. Whether she's producing stories that matter or guiding others on their self-care journeys, Kharissa is committed to helping people align who they are with what they do. If you’re interested in learning more or connecting with Kharissa, visit her website: thekpmethod.co.

LaTasha Jacobs is a dedicated professional who has spent more than a decade shaping the financial landscape of Kansas City. With a wealth of experience in the banking industry, she served as the Community Development Banker at UMB, one of the region's largest local banks. In this influential role, Jacobs leveraged her expertise to assist clients in finding tailored banking solutions that aligned with their financial aspirations. Beyond her role in banking, Jacobs actively contributed to her community by offering regular financial education courses and technical assistance. Her commitment extended to providing essential resources for the underserved communities of Kansas City. With a background in branch leadership and operations, Jacobs possessed a deep understanding of the financial services industry, honed over more than 10 years. Raised in Wyandotte County, Kansas, Jacobs cultivated her passion for community service early on. During her high school years at FL Schlagle High School, she dedicated her time to working with non-profit organizations, fostering a sense of purpose in advocating for individuals and communities striving for financial empowerment. Driven by her personal mission, Jacobs continues to champion the cause of financial freedom for families and individuals. She envisions a future where education and training serve as catalysts for community development. Jacobs eagerly embraces her role as an advocate, resource, and educator, guiding others towards their vision of financial stability. Now, as she steps into the role of Executive Director, Jacobs looks forward to deepening her connections with various organizations and partners. She aims to provide accessible support to the community, as she understands their unique needs firsthand. With open doors and an empathetic approach, Jacobs is poised to make a significant difference, bridging the gap between individuals and their dreams of financial security and independence.

Marla Dickinson has over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry; she is currently a CRA Mortgage Loan Officer with U.S. Bank. She earned a master’s certification in Project Management from George Washington University. Marla has been recognized for her community involvement and her passion to serve. She has received numerous awards and recognitions over the span of her career. Her most recent award “Partner of the Year” was recognition for serving and assisting HAKC Housing Authority of Kansas City with financial literacy classes and Homeownership initiatives. Currently, Marla serves on the board with Community Housing of Wyandotte county (CHWC) and U.S. Bank Development Network. Marla was instrumental in chartering UFSC-GKC Toastmasters Club. Also, a previous board member supporting Urban Financial Services Coalition of Greater Kansas City. Marla’s lifelong journey is Financial Literacy and helping our community make well informed financial decisions. Facilitating financial literacy classes and educating the community on the Journey to Homeownership stands at the forefront steering her passion to serve. Breaking Barriers in Homeownership is what drives Marla to continue to build strong community relationships guided by being intentional about serving our Black and Brown communities. “Believe in yourself, Learn, And Never Stop wanting to Build a Better World.” ~Mary Mcleod Bethune

Michele Dawson is a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for transforming communities through innovative real estate development and empowering aspiring business leaders. As the founder and CEO of Mpire Development LLC, a thriving real estate development and business consulting firm specializing in single-family homes entrepreneur development, Michele has established a reputation for creating high-quality, sustainable, and thoughtfully designed living spaces that cater to modern lifestyles. With a keen eye for market trends and a commitment to excellence, Michele has successfully led projects from concept to completion, delivering value to homeowners and investors alike. Before venturing into entrepreneurship, she built a robust foundation in the corporate world, holding key leadership roles as an Operations Manager, Process Engineer, and International Logistics Director. With over 15 years of experience optimizing processes, managing cross-functional teams, and driving efficiency in global supply chains, she brings a unique blend of strategic thinking, operational expertise, and a results-driven mindset to every endeavor. This diverse background has been instrumental in shaping their ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver impactful solutions in both real estate and business consulting. In addition to their work in real estate, Michele is deeply committed to fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs. Through the consulting offerings, Mpire Development provides tailored guidance in business development, strategic planning, and leadership coaching. Drawing from their own experiences as a self-made entrepreneur and corporate leader, Michele equips clients with the tools, insights, and confidence needed to turn their ideas into thriving ventures. Michele holds a degree in Business Management. Outside of work, Michele is dedicated to giving back to the community, supporting local charities, and mentoring young professionals.

Nicole is a dedicated Behavioral Health Program Director at University Health, where they have been making an impact since 2017. With a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati (2005) and a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Avila University (2017), they have built a strong career in mental health and community support. Over the years, they have worked in various roles, including as a Qualified Mental Health Professional and Team Leader in a Supportive Housing Program. Their experience also includes positions with Jackson County Family Court, the Missouri Children's Division, and Cornerstones of Care. Passionate about helping others, Nicole has taught Healthy Relationship Classes for singles and couples in the community. They are currently working toward Clinical Licensure to further expand their expertise in the field. Nicole is a devoted single mother of three—a 21-year-old son in college, an 18-year-old daughter graduating high school, and a 10-year-old son. Actively involved in their children’s activities, they proudly support their roles in football, basketball, competitive dance, and track. Fitness is another major passion, and they been consistently strength training for the past two years, maintaining their goal weight. They are an active member of their gym community and attend weekly group fitness classes. With a growing interest in fitness, they are considering becoming a certified personal trainer to train others part-time. Originally, from Cleveland, OH, Nicole has called Kansas City home for the past 20 years. They frequently visit family in Cleveland and love traveling whenever possible. They are also an active member of Suburban Balance, serving as a leader on the elementary division. Through a balance of career, family, and personal growth, Nicole continues to inspire those around them with their dedication and drive.

Nissa Vibe is a professional choreographer and dance instructor born and raised in Kansas City, MO. She started dancing, modeling, and acting at the young age of 5 years old. By the young age of 13, she was already dancing in professional productions such as the Missouri Black Expo, Showtime at the Gem Theater, Bonner Brothers Hair Show in Atlanta, and much more. She also teaches hip hop and heels classes available to the public. Nissa Vibe has modeled for fashion shows in Phoenix, AZ and Kansas City, MO and has also acted in several movies. Her most recent film was Emulator available on Amazon Prime. In 2022, Nissa Vibe founded the her own dance company NVEntertainment and continues to make her mark on the entertainment industry performing all over the country

As Senior Director of People and Culture at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, I lead Human Resources initiatives focused on employee development and organizational excellence. Throughout my HR career, I have successfully transformed workplace cultures through innovative programs and strategic improvements. My accomplishments include architecting comprehensive leadership development programs across management levels and revolutionizing performance management processes to foster meaningful development conversations. I've created impactful peer-to-peer facilitation programs that empower employees to lead training sessions, while also developing data-driven compensation structures that enhance pay equity and transparency. Beyond my professional role, I serve as Executive Secretary for the New Era District Congress of Christian Education and previously held the position of Chief of Staff for the Brian Derek Henderson Foundation. These volunteer roles reflect my commitment to community service and leadership development. My approach combines strategic thinking with a focus on people development, creating sustainable solutions that benefit both organizations and individuals. Although I am proud of my achievements and accomplishments, I am most proud to be married to a wonderful husband of 12 years, and mother to three amazing children, Nicholas, Arissa, and Raina. I am also a pet parent to Gizmo and Pepper, two grumpy old Yorkie Poodles.

Regan is a college graduate from the University of Missouri Kansas City with a background in media. She is a formal Universal Banker for Bank Midwest. Currently she is a top realtor at Siscos Group Realtors. No stranger to the pageant world, Regan is a former title holder in the Miss Kansas America Pageant and the Miss Kansas USA Pageant system. Regan is passionate about sharing stories in an authentic and ethical manner through her talk show the M.E.G.A. Lifestyle. Her degree in communication inspired her to be her own boss. Regan plans to establish a successful business through her brand M.E.G.A. Watch out ladies and gents. She’s bound to be a triple threat in the marketplace of fashion, media, and motivational speaking.

Shonda LaShay Grant is a dedicated leader, mentor, and entrepreneur with a heart for service and community empowerment. She is the proud mother of two children, Zion and Zaria Triplett, both of whom inspire her daily. Shonda is the Founder of InspiraShon, a platform dedicated to uplifting and inspiring individuals through mentorship, empowerment programs, and community outreach. One of her notable initiatives within InspiraShon is The Fairy Godmother Project, a scholarship program that helps high school young ladies attend prom when their families may not have the financial means to support them. Through this initiative, she provides dresses, accessories, and other essentials to ensure every girl can experience this special milestone with confidence and joy. In addition to her work with InspiraShon, Shonda is the Owner and Lead Event Planner at Elegance Granted Events, where she transforms visions into unforgettable experiences. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for bringing people together, she has successfully planned and executed numerous events, making a lasting impact on her clients and the community. Her dedication to faith and ministry is a cornerstone of her life. Shonda serves as a Minister at Memorial Church International, under the leadership of Apostle Larry B. and Olivia C.Q. Aiken. Her ministry involvement spans multiple roles, including serving in Youth Ministry, Praise Team, and Choir. She is also the Creator and Chair of the Promise Night Program, which she led for four years, helping to instill faith, discipline, and purpose in the next generation. Beyond ministry and entrepreneurship, Shonda has a strong background in leadership and mentorship in the education and sports sectors. She served as an Assistant Coach for the Grandview High School Cheerleaders for five years, helping young athletes build confidence, discipline, and teamwork. With a professional background in talent acquisition, recruitment, and HR, she is passionate about helping individuals find opportunities to grow and thrive in their careers. As an alumna of Ottawa University, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and works for the institution as an Enrollment Manager of the Physician Assistant Program currently. In 2008 – 2010 Shonda worked for Ottawa University as the Registrar Assistant and Project Coordinator, contributing to significant projects, including the remodeling of the OUKC facility and the Re-Grand Opening of the OUKC campus. Shonda LaShay Grant is a visionary leader who embodies faith, service, and excellence. Whether through ministry, event planning, mentorship, or leadership, she is committed to making a positive impact in every area of her life.

Sonya R. Vann is an accomplished nursing leader with over two decades of experience spanning long-term care, acute care, rehabilitation, home health, and psychiatric nursing. Currently serving as the Director of Nursing at Edgewood Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation, she oversees all nursing operations, ensuring the delivery of high-quality resident care, regulatory compliance, and staff development. Sonya's diverse clinical background includes her role as a Float Pool Nurse at Belton Regional Medical Center, where she provides exceptional patient care across the Emergency Room, ICU, and Med Surg units. Her adaptability and expertise allow her to seamlessly navigate complex clinical environments and optimize patient outcomes. Her leadership journey includes serving as a Charge Nurse, Weekend Supervisor, and Assistant Director of Nursing in multiple healthcare facilities, where she managed interdisciplinary teams, ensured compliance with best practices, and facilitated staff training. She has extensive experience in medication administration, IV therapy, transcribing physician orders, and implementing care plans for residents with acute and chronic conditions. Beyond clinical settings, Sonya has also demonstrated strong leadership in operations management. She previously worked as a Front-Line Evening/Night Manager at Walmart, where she supervised over 60 employees, ensuring efficiency in customer service and store operations. A proud U.S. Navy Veteran, Sonya served honorably as a Hospital Corpsman from 2000 to 2007. Her military medical training provided a strong foundation in patient care, emergency response, and medical operations, which she has carried throughout her civilian nursing career.

Terra Purifoye is a dynamic and results-driven professional with extensive experience across sales leadership, healthcare, esthetics, and caregiving. With a strong background in relationship-building and client engagement, she thrives in fast-paced environments, bringing a proactive approach to problem-solving, mentoring, and goal achievement. Currently serving as a Senior Sales Agent at SelectQuote, Terra is recognized for her expertise in customer service, insurance policy customization, and sales strategy. She has a proven track record of increasing client satisfaction, identifying customer needs, and driving revenue growth through personalized recommendations and upselling techniques. Terra’s commitment to fostering a positive work culture and continuous learning ensures her team remains motivated and well-equipped to provide exceptional service. Beyond sales, Terra has extensive experience in healthcare and caregiving. She has provided total patient care for individuals with progressed Alzheimer’s disease and stage 4 non-smoker's lung cancer, ensuring their medical, physical, and emotional needs were met with compassion. She managed daily routines, coordinated with healthcare professionals, and provided unwavering support to improve their quality of life during critical stages of their conditions. As an entrepreneur and Licensed Esthetician at Sunshyne Esthetics, Terra has successfully built and managed her own skincare business, demonstrating her expertise in skin health, hair removal, and lash extensions. She takes pride in educating her clients on proper skincare regimens, post-treatment care, and the latest esthetic techniques. Her ability to combine technical skills with outstanding customer service has earned her a loyal clientele and a thriving business. Previously, Terra worked in manufacturing at Harley Davidson Vehicle Operations as a Finesse Operator, where she played a key role in quality control, process improvement, and employee training, demonstrating her leadership and problem-solving abilities. Terra holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Administration from the University of Phoenix and an MBA with a Human Resources Certificate from Keller Graduate School. Her diverse background, adaptability, and passion for excellence make her a valuable asset in any professional setting.

Representative Tiffany Price, a Democrat, proudly represents part of Jackson County (District 26) in the Missouri House of Representatives. Elected to her first two-year term in November 2024, she is dedicated to advocating for her community and improving the lives of Missouri's most vulnerable populations. Rep. Price is the founder and executive director of Hold Em Up 4 Care, a non-profit organization that addresses clothing insecurity and provides essential clothing items to community members. Through this work, she champions initiatives to elevate mental health resilience and self-esteem, with a particular focus on marginalized groups. She earned her associate of arts degree from MCCKC-Longview. Rep. Price's district goals include improving education, enhancing public safety, and advocating for economic development opportunities for all residents in District 26. She serves on the Agriculture, Crime and Public Safety, and Emerging Issues committees, where she works to strengthen policies that impact Missouri’s rural communities, improve public safety, and address pressing emerging issues facing the state. In addition to her legislative duties, Rep. Price holds certifications in Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid and Trauma-Informed Care from Alive and Well, reflecting her commitment to mental health advocacy. She is also an active member of organizations like the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI-KC), the American Public Human Services Association (APHSA), and the National Parent Leadership Institute (NPLI), where she works to empower families and strengthen communities. As a mother of four, Rep. Price is guided by the values of family and service. Her personal experiences drive her advocacy for policies that ensure all families in Missouri have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Toni Talley is a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. She is currently a TV Host and Producer for a captivating lifestyle show on FOX4, Great Day KC, where she finds passion in telling the stories of the phenomenal people, thriving businesses, and community events around the city. She is a native of Kansas City, MO and a graduate of Raytown South High School. Toni obtained her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Communication from the illustrious Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina, and her Master of Science in Applied Communications from Missouri State University. Toni has worked as a Multimedia Journalist at WACH FOX in Columbia, SC, and as freelance reporter with 12 Magazine, Community Now, and The Kansas City Star. While excelling professionally, Toni finds fulfillment in her role as a loving mom. She cherishes quality time with her family and friends, relishing moments spent cooking delicious meals and creating lasting memories together. Additionally, Toni's compassionate nature drives her to give back to the community, using her platform to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Toni has served with various non-profits to include Starlight Theater, Fashion Honors Autism, and The Next Paige Talent Agency. She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Deeply rooted in her faith, Toni's love for God is a guiding force in her life. She is a member of Memorial Church International.

Tonya Jackson’s career at Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City (BBSKC) spanned 23 years. As the Chief Program Officer (CPO) for BBBSKC, Tonya managed the largest department and was responsible for the quality of the services provided to children, families, and volunteers. Tonya worked closely with the CEO to create and execute a strategic vision for the Program Team while continuously evaluating the program for a comprehensive plan that ensured the quality, efficiency, compliance, and consistency of BBBSKC programming. Tonya served as part of the 6-person executive leadership team at BBBSKC and contributed to making agency and leadership decisions to drive BBBSKC forward. Tonya graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City with a master’s degree in communication studies. She first joined BBBSKC as a Case Manager and also served as Senior Case Manager, Manager of Enrollment and Matching, and Director of Enrollment and Matching before moving into the role of Chief Program Officer. Under Tonya’s leadership, the Program Team innovated and flourished. With her guidance, the Program Team restructured its program service delivery model, transitioned to a paperless enrollment process, created a standing Safety Committee, and empowered a new 5-person mid-level management team to help provide direct coaching and guidance to the team’s Match Support Specialists and Enrollment & Matching Specialists. Throughout the changes, the Program Team regularly set new records, such as creating 75 Matches in a single month. As the leader of BBBSKC’s largest department, Tonya brought a wealth of expertise and a clear vision for fulfilling the agency’s mission. “I am passionate about the BBBSKC mission because I can relate to the children and families the program serves, both through first-hand experiences and proximity. As such, I felt a sense of privilege and responsibility to make sure that we were serving families with dignity and respect — to ensure that we were able to meet the unique experiences of the Littles with excellence in service, inclusion, and access to opportunities.” said Tonya, when asked about her “Why” during her career at BBBSKC. With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Tonya is excited for new opportunities to make an impact and continue utilizing her talents for empowering youth, building relationships and developing others.