Lauren Allen is a graduate of Philander Smith College with a degree in English Literature and received her Juris Doctor from the University of Georgia School of Law. She also holds a Masters of Law (LL.M) from American University Washington College of Law. In 2018, Lauren was appointed to the Board of Trustees of City Trusts in Kansas City, Missouri.
Growing up, I was lucky to be surrounded by fierce, strong, empowered women like many of the women who support the Women’s Foundation, and like my mother.
My mother taught me that no room was too big…. no goal too ambitious… no barrier too high. She showed, through her example, what it takes to navigate male-dominated fields and make your voice heard.
When I first had the thought about joining a board, I had the support of family and colleagues and that propelled me forward. However, I did not have the knowledge necessary to navigate the board process.
But thanks to the Women’s Foundation and the Appointments Project, I didn’t have to go it alone. And you don’t have to either.
Learning about the Appointments Project, I was excited to have someone help me bridge the gap between civic leadership opportunities and the skills I possessed.
Civic boards and commissions play a vital role in shaping policy – from economic development and infrastructure, to child welfare and the arts. I serve on the Board of City Trusts, which oversees all the property that has been entrusted to the city.
As a first-time board member, I was so grateful to have the Appointments Project as a partner to help me navigate the process every step of the way.
Serving on the Board of City Trusts has given me access to a new network of leaders – from city planners to architects – and that has brought fresh opportunities my way.
I have the opportunity to showcase not only my skills and expertise, but I also have the added value of having the voices of women heard.
It is important that the boards making up our cities are reflective of the citizens that represent it.
Even more than that, these boards provide access to networks and leadership opportunities that women have too often been denied.
So my advice to any of you here who’s thinking of applying for a public leadership role: don’t wait, go for it now. Do the research to find a board that interests you and see where you can be of service. You can apply for the Appointments Project online, right from your phone. It only takes a few minutes.
Our neighborhoods and government will be better and stronger because more women will be at the table – using your voice and your power to make positive change.