Mayor Peduto and United WE’s Appointments Project® Partner to Increase Representation of Women on Pittsburgh Civic Boards

PITTSBURGH, PA (November 17, 2020) The Office of Mayor William Peduto and United WE today announce their collaborative partnership to increase the number of women on local boards and commissions through the Appointments Project®. Started in 2014, the Appointments Project® has successfully placed more than 140 women on boards and commissions, including 28 percent women of color.

The award-winning Appointments Project, started by United WE, formerly the Women’s Foundation, serves as a talent bank, advisor and advocate for women seeking opportunities to lead their communities. The program was piloted in Kansas City and operates in dozens of cities throughout Missouri and Kansas, working to attract diverse applicants for appointed positions on boards and commissions.

“I’m very pleased that of the 198 board and commissions appointments in Pittsburgh, 61% are female,” Mayor Peduto said. “This is promising, but still isn’t good enough. Our partnership with United WE and Appointments Project® will help us do even better to increase the number of women, including women of color, who are at the decision-making table of their communities.”

Mayor Peduto will be joined in partnership by community partners including Chatham University Women’s Institute, Gwens Girls and Executive Women’s Council.

Based on a growing number of success stories, the pipeline of women leaders is growing rapidly and the program is being sought after by other cities. The program expanded to Fort Worth in August 2020 with the help of partners like Mayor Betsy Price. United WE plans to scale the project to additional cities over the next five years. The Appointments Project® fills a critical need in creating a pathway to work with elected officials and better community representation that leads to better lives for all.

“Our research showed us that women don’t become civically engaged because they weren’t being asked. As a result, we created the Appointments Project® so local boards and commissions could reflect the communities they serve,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President & CEO. “With the help of partners like Mayor Peduto, we are addressing the gender disparities in local leadership and able to make real changes in our communities.”

Two public training events are planned for Monday, December 7, and Wednesday, January 13, at 12:00 p.m. EST. These workshops guide women through the process of applying for these positions and offer applicants for appointments. “We encourage and invite everyone to learn more and join us in unlocking women’s potential for civic leadership,” Mayor Peduto said.

To learn more about the Appointments Project® and to sign up for these trainings, please visit http://united-we.org/appointments-project.

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Appointments Project® Kansas City Expansion with Mayor Lucas, Councilwoman Parks-Shaw & Community Leaders

As announced earlier this month, the Appointments Project® is partnering with Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas to increase the representation of women on boards and commissions. 

In advance of the October 20 virtual training, Mayor Lucas joined the Appointments Project on the United WE rooftop for a press conference on October 19. Councilwoman Ryana-Parks Shaw, State Representative Barbara Washington and The Links, Inc. Jackson County Chapter President Tamara Clark Sykes also joined to discuss the importance and impact of increasing leadership representation in Kansas City. Thank you to our elected officials, and to our community partners Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, The Links, Inc., and Sisters Circle of Greater Kansas City.

Mayor Lucas announced during the conference that Kansas City has signed on with the National League of Cities Innovation Ecosystems initiative, supported by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, in effort to maintain gender parity on boards and commissions and make the city a national leader in this space. 

“As one of six women on City Council, I know firsthand how important it is to have women at the decision-making table,” Councilwoman Parks-Shaw said. “We bring a unique set of experiences and perspectives that inform how we lead, making our contributions just as important, if not more, and impactful as our male counterparts.” 

State Rep. Barbara Washington spoke on behalf of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, and is a previous participant in the Appointments Project. As a result of this training, she ran for office and is continuing to do so. “In Kansas City, we have more women that open businesses than any other demographic,” Washington said. “We’re opening businesses, we’re paying taxes, we’re employing people, it’s time for us to also have a voice at the table.” 

“As President of the Jackson County Missouri Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, I see firsthand the impact that the 50+ extraordinary women of our chapter have had and are having on our local community,” Tamara Clark Sykes said. “The Appointments Project is a tool that the Jackson County Chapter supports and champions to improve our influence and government.”  

See a full recap of the press conference here. 

More than 130 women joined the virtual training workshop on October 20. These free trainings provide valuable information to women who seek to apply for civic leadership positions and United WE helps them navigate the appointment process. We appreciate the time and efforts of our community leaders and partners to make this event a success, and look forward to elevating the appointments of more women in Kansas City. 

Learn more about the Appointments Project here. 

Mayor Lucas and United WE’s Appointments Project® Partner to Increase Representation of Women on Boards and Commissions

Councilwoman Parks-Shaw, community partners to join October 20 training event

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas—in conjunction with Fifth District Councilwoman Ryana Parks-Shaw and United WE’s Appointments Project®—today announced a virtual workshop to provide women with an overview of the application and appointment process to Kansas City boards and commissions. Any woman interested in attending the workshop, scheduled for 12-1 p.m. on Tuesday, October 20, should register on www.united-we.org/appointments-project or by using this link.

“As someone who got their start in Kansas City public service serving on a City board, I understand the importance of boards and commissions, and I’m proud that 52 percent of my appointees are women and 49 percent are from historically underrepresented groups,” said Mayor Lucas. “The collection of Kansas Citians I’ve appointed to serve in these positions is undoubtedly the most reflective of our community in my lifetime. Still, we continue our work to create more opportunities for more of our community to get involved with local government through boards and commissions. I look forward to hosting an Appointments Project Workshop with Councilwoman Parks-Shaw, United WE, and community partners The Links, Inc., and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority for women interested in civic engagement—and I hope all in our community will help encourage the talented, passionate women in their lives to attend this workshop.”

“Black women are traditionally left out of the decision-making process at all levels,” said Councilwoman Parks-Shaw. “I am proud to be part of the solution. This partnership will help eliminate barriers and empower Black women to take on an even bigger leadership roles in their communities.”

“We are encouraged to see such solid progress in Kansas City as women leaders, including women of color, step up to apply for positions on boards and commissions,” said Wendy Doyle, President & CEO of United WE. “Thanks to the support and leadership of Mayor Quinton Lucas and women applying for a seat at the decision-making tables of their communities, gender parity on Kansas City boards and commissions is gaining momentum as we work to close the gender leadership gap through our Appointments Project.”

Mayor Lucas, Councilwoman Parks-Shaw and United WE’s Appointments Project® will be joined by chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc. and The Links, Inc. to host the virtual workshop.

“Providing an opportunity for more women to share their ingenuity, resilience and compassion on our commissions and boards will enrich our city and add the diversity of experience and thought needed at the table,” said Michel D. Burris, President, Greater Kansas City Chapter, The Links, Inc.

“Diversity is necessary and ensuring Black women are a part of Kansas City boards and commissions create a varied experience and deeper perspective, allowing for greater outcomes,” said Dr. Juana Hishaw, President, Alpha Kappa Alpha Beta Omega Chapter.

“The role of women of color in positions of leadership, change and decision making is imperative to the forward moving needs in our society,” said Tiffany Ford, President, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Xi Tau Omega Chapter. “African American women are diverse in thought and experience that open doors and open ideas on matters that should be discussed and determined early on at the decision table.”

As a reminder, this workshop will be held Tuesday, October 20 from 12-1 p.m. To learn more about United WE’s Appointments Project and to register for the workshop, click here.

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Jackson County Executive White and Appointments Project® Partner to Increase Women’s Participation on Boards and Commissions

Women’s Foundation Appointments Project® Announces Expanded Programming to Jackson County, Missouri

Kansas City, MO – September 24, 2020 –  The Office of County Executive Frank White, Jr., in partnership with the Appointments Project® today announce their collaborative partnership to increase the number of women on county boards and commissions. Started in 2014, the Appointments Project® has successfully placed 140 women on boards and commissions, including 28 percent women of color since inception.  

“I’ve seen first-hand the need to increase gender parity and better drive representation across civic leadership to ensure that we’re drawing on the talents and diversity of all our residents,” County Executive White said. “We are eager to partner with the Appointments Project® and strengthen our county by increasing the number of appointed women, with an initial focus on the Jackson County Sports Complex Authority. It is my understanding that there have likely only been three female commissioners in the Authority’s 50-year history.”

The Appointments Project® serves as a talent bank, advisor and advocate for women seeking opportunities to lead their communities and works to attract diverse, qualified applicants for appointed positions on boards and commissions. The Appointments Project® formula trains and mentors women through the process of applying for these positions, fast-tracking their ability to get appointed at every level of government.

“Our research showed us that women don’t become civically engaged because they weren’t being asked. As a result, we created the Appointments Project® so boards and commissions could reflect the communities they serve,” said Wendy Doyle, Women’s Foundation President & CEO. “We are grateful to have County Executive White join us as a partner to expand the program in the Kansas City metro area. Together, we are addressing the gender disparities in local civic leadership and are able to make real changes in our communities.” 

Based on a growing number of success stories, the pipeline of women leaders is growing rapidly across the country. The Appointments Project® fills a critical need in creating a pathway to work with elected officials and better community representation that leads to better lives for all.  To learn more about the Appointments Project® visit www.appointmentsproject.org. 

About Appointments Project®

To create lasting change for women and their families, the Women’s Foundation headquartered in Kansas City focuses on relevant research and strategic partnerships. In 2014, they established the Appointments Project® to empower women and strengthen communities by increasing the gender diversity of civic boards and commissions. Through a landmark study, they identified the barriers causing women to be underrepresented on civic boards and commissions and established the Appointments Project® to improve the number of women serving. For more information, please visit www.appointmentsproject.org or follow us on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @appointmentsproject).

Changemaker Profile: Angel Zimmerman

Angel Zimmerman is managing partner at Zimmerman & Zimmerman, P.A. who was appointed to serve on the Topeka Downtown Business Improvement District Advisory Board through the Appointments Project.

What does the Topeka Downtown Business Improvement Advisory Board do? 

The purpose of the board is to monitor and oversee services provided pursuant to the business improvement district act. We survey downtown residents and businesses, advise on the district assessments, review growth opportunities and purchase items that would be beneficial for the district.

What inspired you to apply to serve on a civic board or commission?

I went to an Appointments Project presentation given by the Women’s Foundation at the Kansas Women Attorney Association’s annual conference. I was introduced to Women’s Foundation Vice President Kendall Seal and then their President & CEO Wendy Doyle and they thought I would be able to use my connections to help other women. 

When I received a call from the board asking if I would consider serving, I decided that this was a great opportunity to not only be an advocate but also serve in a leadership capacity myself. I was able to be Topeka’s first Appointments Project appointee.

Is there anything that’s surprised you? Or a challenge you didn’t anticipate?

I was surprised that an interview with the Mayor was not hard and that regular people, like me, can serve. There are challenges of not knowing the history of a board but because it is government I think it is actually easier to learn the organizational history than it is for some private and non-profit organizations. 

What’s the current gender makeup of your board? How does having (or lacking) diversity impact the effectiveness of the board?  

While there are still meetings where I am the only female at times, it is a very inclusive board and all members’ voices are heard. I own a downtown business and also a downtown building, so I have a personal stake and a familiarity with the issues we address. 

The board is a good mix of small business owners, and the large corporations are very aware of not overburdening small business and wanting to encourage smaller enterprises. This was an easier first board to be on because I was a known quantity to everyone and I also knew several board members.    

Is there a particular decision, moment, or policy that has been noteworthy during your time?

One of the policies we advocated for was specifically complimented in a City Council meeting, which was exciting to see. 

It was also rewarding to be able to raise concerns about unintended consequences and help shape the decision we ultimately made.

It is nice to have moments that you know it was your voice that impacted a policy direction and the time you gave up made a difference in your community.   

What advice do you have for other women considering serving on a board or commission?

A great quote I love to share is “Go and Do, Don’t Sit and Stew.” You are needed, so please, please, please volunteer.  

Is there anything you wish you’d known going in?

I do wish I knew Robert’s rules more than I do. Not for this board but I think if I would be more comfortable with those it would be easier to volunteer more places.   

What do you see as some of the barriers that cause women to be underrepresented in these roles?

Thinking that these are all highly specialized boards that require specific degrees and expertise or thinking a board thinks we have expertise when we don’t. I also think women like to serve where we are needed – and use our time wisely – so it’s important to have programs like the Appointments Project that proactively ask women to serve. 

Appointments Project® Celebrates Bonnie Limbird, Appointed to The Kansas State Technical Professions

Bonnie Limbird is an interior designer at SFS Architecture in Kansas City, a 2018 AIA Firm of the Year. She is a registered interior designer in the state of Missouri, certified LEED AP and NCIDQ, and professional member of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). She has served as president of the local Mid-America IIDA chapter as well as the PTA, as a steering committee member of the Centurions Leadership Program, and as a board member for the Friends of the Johnson County Library and the Girls Scouts of NE Kansas & NW Missouri. Bonnie is currently a city council member for the City of Prairie Village, Kansas, a member of the League of Women Voters of Johnson County, and business manager for the local Girl Scouts Day Camp.

Appointments Project® Celebrates Laura Horwitz, Appointed to The St. Louis County Library Board of Trustees

“Through my work, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with St. Louis County Library leadership to increase the availability and accessibility of diverse children’s books,” said Horwitz. “St. Louis County Library is one of our region’s most innovative and forward-thinking institutions, but it wasn’t until I attended the Appointments Project that I realized that I could do more to serve this mission that I love. I am really enjoying this meaningful work.”

Laura is a nonprofit leader with more than 15 years of experience in community organizing, nonprofit capacity building, and program design and evaluation. Most recently, she co-founded and served for four years as the executive director of We Stories, which engages white families in changing the conversation about racial equity in St. Louis.

She previously worked in community organizing with synagogues in Boston and New York City, served in policy and planning roles with The Pew Charitable Trusts, and led organizational learning and staff training at American Friends Service Committee. Laura is an active community volunteer, serving on the Jewish Community Relations Council and the City of Clayton’s Equity Commission.