Appointee Profile: Barbara Boudreaux

Barbara has been appointed to the Topeka Board of Zoning Appeals, and is an experienced lawyer who practiced commercial real estate law and corporate finance across the country.

Barbara knows firsthand that zoning regulations are important to new development, community revitalization and property improvement. She is looking forward to using her experience to advocate for Topekans’ property interests. Barbara is looking forward to bringing a fresh perspective to the table and encourages diversity in boards and commissions.

“I’m excited to be part of the process and use my insight to help Topekans in their real property endeavors, said Barbara. “I bring not only corporate, legal experience but also insight from having lived in New York, Washington, DC, Louisiana and Texas and how those communities handled zoning and property challenges.”

Appointments Project® Celebrates Making 100 Appointments to Civic Boards and Commissions

Initiative to Increase Gender Diversity on Boards and Commissions Celebrates 100th Appointment

KANSAS CITY – An innovative initiative to increase the number of women in leadership roles is marking a milestone this month, as the Women’s Foundation’s Appointments Project® celebrates helping appoint more than 100 women to civic boards and commissions throughout Kansas and Missouri.

Women who have recently been appointed through the program include: Amanda Swysgood, who was appointed to Kansas City’s Liquor Control Board; Michele Legg, who was appointed to Kansas City’s Planned Industrial Expansion Authority; and Barbara Boudreaux, who was appointed to Topeka’s Board of Zoning Appeals.

“This is such an exciting milestone, and we couldn’t have reached it without the hundreds of qualified women who have raised their hands to serve,” said Wendy Doyle, President and CEO of Women’s Foundation. “As we approach the centennial anniversary of the 19th amendment and celebrate a record-breaking wave of women taking office, we’re committed to doing our part to close the leadership gap at the state and local level. Research shows that when you increase diversity in leadership roles, you improve decision-making and get better outcomes for everyone. That’s why we’re thrilled that more and more communities are participating in the Appointments Project® and elevating more women to important leadership positions.”  

The Appointments Project® works to empower women and strengthen communities by increasing the gender diversity of civic boards and commissions. Established by the Women’s Foundation in 2014, the Appointments Project® serves as a nonpartisan resource, talent bank, advisor, and advocate for women interested in serving on city, county, and state boards and commissions.

Through a landmark study, the Women’s Foundation identified the barriers causing women to be underrepresented on civic boards and commissions, and established the Appointments Project® to increase the number of women serving.  

The Women’s Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using philanthropy, research and policy solutions to make meaningful change. More information about the organization can be found at http://www.womens-foundation.org/a-p.

Testimony: Permanently Reauthorizing the Wartime Veteran's Survivor Grant program

Women’s Foundation President & CEO Wendy Doyle delivered the following testimony in support of Senate Bill 283, which would permanently reauthorize Missouri’s Wartime Veteran’s Survivor Grant program.

The Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using research, philanthropy and policy solutions to make meaningful change. 

I am here to testify in support of Senate Bill 283 because of two previous research studies the Women’s Foundation commissioned. The first study, called Project Diane, focused on the integration of women and women into leadership positions in the U.S. Army Special Forces. The second study, titled Status of Women in Missouri, focused on economic development indicators and developing a baseline to monitor Missouri’s progress. Both studies highlighted opportunities, and in some cases, lack of opportunities, women have in education and work.

When our servicemen and women put their lives on the line overseas, we cannot forget the sacrifices their families are making here at home.

The Wartime Veteran's Survivor Grant program has greatly benefited Missouri’s military families – women and men – by giving the children and spouses of veterans killed or injured in the line of duty with the opportunity to get a higher education without the stress of paying tuition or going into debt.

These grants provide the children and spouses of Missouri war veterans the opportunity to pursue a degree that can result in a higher paying job and a better quality of life.

The families of those who have put their lives on the line to defend our country deserve more than our thanks – they deserve our wholehearted support. By removing the sunset to this valuable program, SB 283 honors their sacrifices and reflects Missouri’s ongoing commitment to our military families, higher education and workforce development opportunities.

St. Louis Post Dispatch | Closing the gender gap: Why it’s time to stop talking about waves and start filling reservoirs

By Wendy Doyle | Originally published in the St. Louis Post Dispatch

When a record-breaking wave of women candidates swept into office this year, they brought with them the hopes of constituents hungry for change and ready for a government that finally reflects the diversity of the people it serves.

Thanks to these barrier-breaking leaders, the U.S. Capitol is now more diverse than ever before, with the first Muslim women, the first Native American women, and the youngest black woman ever elected to Congress.

In addition to being more diverse than ever before, research also suggests a more representative Congress will also be more effective than ever before.

Recently the Women’s Foundation released a survey of the academic research on gender parity in government. The evidence is overwhelming that bringing new voices to the decision-making table boosts effectiveness, increases public trust, and — most importantly — improves people’s lives.

For example, female legislators in Congress have been found to be more bipartisan as a whole, and sustain a broader range of legislative agenda items over the course of their careers.

In the private sector, greater gender parity has been shown to lead to improved financial performance and increase gross and net profits.

Intuitively, this makes sense: People from different backgrounds bring different perspectives to solving problems. The more perspectives you bring to tackling a given challenge, the faster and more creative your solution to overcoming it will be.

More diverse governing bodies are also shown to foster greater public trust. A study of 31 developed nations found that increased gender parity led to increased trust in government among both women and men. Other research has found that both women and men feel better about their government when that government is more diverse.

But despite several “waves” of women officeholders, women continue to be severely underrepresented at all levels of government. Women represent just 24 percent of the U.S. Congress and 29 percent of state legislators nationwide.

The disparities are even more stark at the local level, where as of 2018 women represented only 15 percent of city administrators and 21 percent of mayors. Even worse, research indicates more than half of county boards across the United States have no women on them at all.

As we approach the 100th anniversary of women winning the right to vote, now is the time to stop talking about “waves” and start filling reservoirs of qualified, empowered women who will close the leadership gap once and for all.

Achieving this goal requires a comprehensive, sustained strategy that encompasses not only elected positions, but also the many unelected roles in which women are woefully underrepresented.

In 2014, the Women’s Foundation launched the Appointments Project as a solution to empower more women to apply for positions on boards and commissions, and encourage state and local leaders to appoint them.

Many boards and commissions play a vital role in policymaking and serve as valuable training grounds for serving in higher office. They also tend to be dominated by men and filled with insiders with a vested interest in maintaining the status quo.

The Appointments Project works to change that by connecting public officials with qualified candidates for their boards and commissions, and building a pipeline of women with the confidence and experience to run for elected office down the road.

Through trainings and webinars, the Appointments Project also helps demystify the selection process, educate women about these lesser-known opportunities to serve and coach them on how to apply.

The result is more diverse voices at the decision-making table and better outcomes for everyone. To date, nearly 100 women have been appointed through the program — and we’re just getting started.

That’s good news — because when women lead, everyone wins.

This year’s boom of female candidates has been likened to a “pink wave.” But the problem with waves is they recede.

Let’s all keep working to build a more inclusive future where the government truly reflects the diversity of the people it serves.

Wendy Doyle is president and CEO of the Women’s Foundation, which promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages.

Appointee Profile: Amanda Swysgood

Amanda has been appointed to the Liquor Control Board of Kansas City. She is a public sector attorney – working for both the state and now Jackson County. She and her fiancé are foster parents to a 5-year old girl and a four-month old boy.

Amanda I applied to the Appointments Project about two years ago – after listening to Samantha Power at the Women’s Foundation annual event. She wanted to be on board that she could utilize her knowledge as a lawyer but was different than her job (Assistant County Counselor for Jackson County).

“Local government impacts your daily life much more so than what happens in Jefferson City or Washington DC. As a society, we need more women to be a part of the decision making that will impact us every day. ”

Changemaker Profile: Laura Kelly, Kansas Governor

Governor Laura Kelly, a former state senator, is the third woman to ever be elected to the office in Kansas History. She spoke to the Women’s Foundation about her background as a public servant, the challenges she has faced, and why she hopes even more women get involved in their communities.

What made you decide to get involved in public service?

I wasn’t born into politics, but I was born into public service. I’m the daughter of a career military officer. My parents taught me to put service and sacrifice above self, like so many military families do each day.

When I graduated high school, I went to work helping kids who faced significant challenges and struggles. And since then, it has been my mission to do right by our children and families. As an elected leader, I will always work to improve our communities and invest in our children’s future.

What’s the biggest challenge or setback you’ve faced?

 I’ve found that often women must work harder to be taken seriously in the workplace. Despite my career as a recreational therapist, as the Executive Director of the Kansas Recreation and Park Association for 18 years, and as a four-term State Senator, I still had my qualifications questioned when campaigning for governor. That must change for future generations of women.

What is your advice to others, especially women, who want to get involved in public service?

I’ve met many women that sadly don’t think they are prepared or qualified enough to run for office, whereas men rarely think like that.

I hope women recognize that they have absolutely the kind of qualities that make for a really good public servant: the ability to listen, collaborate, and work with others. That's how you get things done, especially when you working in a bipartisan manner.

Is there anything that has surprised you about public service?

When I worked at the Kansas Recreation and Park Association, I was always so inspired by the folks who keep up the parks and ball fields in small towns across this state. They often don’t get paid much, and often work more than one job. But they are committed to making their communities better one day, one game, one theater performance, at a time. One baseball game at a time. Their work makes a true difference in the quality of life in our communities.

What’s your favorite thing about serving in your role?

 Though I am new in my role as governor, my favorite part thus far has been meeting the people of Kansas and hearing their concerns and aspirations. I’m consistently impressed with their dedication to their communities and willingness to help one another.

How has your background shaped the way you serve your constituents?

Growing up in a military family and spending my early career with working with children with mental illness, I learned first-hand the importance of giving back to others and what it truly means to be a public servant.

Have you ever had a mentor, or someone who inspired you?

 I’ve been fortunate enough to have quite a few mentors and inspirations in my career, but in particular I’ve always admired Senator Nancy Kassebaum and the historic work she accomplished for our state and country.

Changemaker Profile: Lauren Arthur, Missouri State Senator

State Senator Lauren Arthur was elected in 2018, becoming the youngest woman ever to serve in the Missouri Senate. She won a special election on June 5, 2018 and spoke to the Women’s Foundation about why she decided to run for office and why she hopes even more women do the same.

What made you decide to get involved in public service?

I decided to run for office for myriad reasons. As a middle school teacher, I realized that decisions made in Jefferson City were negatively impacting my school, my students, and their opportunities for a better future. I ran to advocate for kids and all vulnerable populations in Missouri. I also recognized that women were seriously underrepresented in the statehouse. When I first got elected, I was the only woman in her twenties in the legislature. I believe it's important that legislators reflect the populations they represent, and I thought I could offer a unique perspective.

What’s the biggest challenge or setback you’ve faced?

Sexist and misogynistic attitudes still pervade the culture in Jefferson City. Women – and I mean all women, including staffers, lobbyists, interns, and legislators – encounter subtle forms of sexism. It’s tough to navigate. As a young woman, I battled against stereotypes. Folks wrongly presumed that I was an intern, sister or daughter instead of a legislator. They assumed that I was in over my head, demure, or inexperienced. I had to prove such misconceptions wrong while also learning a new job and trying to establish myself as a serious, professional legislator. Young men, on the other hand, were often lionized automatically.

What is your advice to others, especially women, who want to get involved in public service?

Do it! You have the network and tools needed to succeed, and you are imminently qualified. There's a popular joke in politics: The first week you're in office, you look around and think, "How did I get here?" The second week you're in office, you look around and think, "How did everyone else get here?" Don't let self-doubt prevent you from getting involved.  

Studies show that women make great public servants. Women tend to be more collaborative, solutions-oriented, and responsive to constituents. Women also make up the bulk of low-wage earners, are heads of households, and often understand the struggles of accessing affordable health care and childcare; as a result, the policy issues they focus on help families, communities, and our society overall. The fact that women comprise less than 25% of the General Assembly is a huge disservice to all Missourians.  

Is there anything that has surprised you about public service?

I don’t think I appreciated the commitment level required for public service. It entails a serious time commitment. It also demands emotional, physical, and mental investment, as well. However, it is well worth the effort and one of the most rewarding things I have ever had the privilege of doing.  

What’s your favorite thing about serving in your role?

I love talking to students about state government. They ask insightful questions and demonstrate a genuine curiosity. And, it’s vital that we encourage their engagement and involvement. I worry that knowledge of civics is waning. I recently saw a poll that stated only 31% of people surveyed could name one branch of government. Low levels of civic understanding can lead to a host of deleterious effects for society. So, teaching students the power of their voices is so important. And, the kids are so smart, and fun, and funny!

How has your background shaped the way you serve your constituents? I joke that working with middle schoolers was good preparation for joining the legislature. But, in truth, it helped me understand the power of relationships. When you have 30 people in a room who may have different experiences, personalities, opinions and interests, you have to know how to bring people together and achieve common goals. My experience in the classroom sharpened those skills. Interactions with students also taught me that I should never jump to conclusions or make assumptions. Everyone faces his or her own struggles and defines success in different ways. But, every person deserves dignity, respect, equitable opportunity and an advocate or ally. I try to have that mindset when I meet constituents.   

Have you ever had a mentor, or someone who inspired you? I was inspired by my teachers. I was shy as a young child. My teachers made me feel comfortable and encouraged me to be my true self. They helped me feel special and know my worth. They imparted valuable lessons and acted as my cheerleaders. I am grateful they helped me reach my academic potential. And, I also appreciate that they modeled public service and giving back to the community.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

It is truly the greatest honor of my life to get to serve my friends, family, neighbors, and constituents in the Missouri Senate. 

About Change Maker Profiles:

Our Change-Maker Profiles feature elected officials, civic leaders, and everyday citizens who are working for change in Missouri and Kansas. They do not represent endorsements for candidates for political office or their public policy positions.

New Research Highlights Benefits of Gender Diversity, Best Practices for Empowering More Women to Serve in Public Office

“When women lead, everyone wins.”

KANSAS CITY – In the wake of a historic year for women candidates, the Women’s Foundation’s Appointments Project® today released new research on the benefits of gender diversity and a set of best practices to help municipal leaders increase the diversity and effectiveness of public boards and commissions. Despite the progress made in 2018, women continue to be underrepresented at all levels of government, including among appointed members of civic boards and commissions.

“As a historic number of women officeholders sweeps into office nationwide, we’re committed to building on this momentum and empowering even more women to serve in public office,” said Wendy Doyle, President & CEO of the Women’s Foundation. “Last year’s boom of female candidates has been likened to a ‘pink wave’ – but the problem with waves is they recede. That’s why we’re focused on filling reservoirs of qualified, empowered women who will close the leadership gap once and for all.”

As of 2018, women represented only fifteen percent of city administrators and twenty-one percent of mayors. At the county level, research indicates more than half of county boards across the United States have no women on them at all.

VIEW THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY  HERE.

VIEW THE FULL REPORT HERE.

The research shows that increasing gender diversity improves organizational effectiveness, increases public trust, and improves the lives of residents. In addition, female legislators in the US Congress have been found to be more bipartisan as a whole, and sustain a broader range of legislative agenda items over the course of their service.

“It’s important to note that achieving gender equity in public service won’t just benefit women – it will benefit everyone by improving governance and decision-making overall,” said Doyle. “When women lead, everyone wins.”

Throughout the year, the Women’s Foundation will be visiting communities across Missouri and Kansas to educate women about opportunities to serve in public office and encourage municipal leaders to increase the number of women they appoint to leadership roles. A list of upcoming trainings is available at: http://www.womens-foundation.org/new-events/.

The best practices, developed in collaboration with researchers at the University of Missouri Institute of Public Policy, identify five strategies political executives can employ to increase the diversity and effectiveness of boards and commissions. Specifically:

• Increase the ease and transparency of applying for positions. The application process should be easy to navigate and clear to both potential applicants and officials.

• Conducting community outreach. Reaching out to individuals within the community to expand the pool of qualified candidates beyond those who normally seek vacant board positions.

• Offering professional development and training. Commitment to professional development and training not only at the time of onboarding, but throughout a member’s time on the board, can help make a member more successful, which can translate to a more effective and trusted board.

• Enacting formal policies and procedures. Developing formal policies and training members in how to implement them is important, but to make it actionable, boards should develop policies that make reporting, investigation, and decision-making processes clear.

• Regularly assessing performance. Regularly assessing performance can provide boards and commissions with information about how well they are achieving their goals and help motivate improvement.

In 2014, the Women’s Foundation launched the Appointments Project®, which works to empower women and strengthen communities by increasing the gender diversity of civic boards and commissions and building a pipeline of qualified women with the experience to run for elected office.

The Appointments Project educates women on the need and importance of their representation on civic boards and commissions; manages a talent bank of women interested in serving on civic boards and commissions; and engages elected officials on the appointment process and the adoption of best practices.

The Women’s Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using research, philanthropy and policy solutions to make meaningful change. More information about the organization can be found at www.Womens-Foundation.org.

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Women's Foundation Statement on Gov. Laura Kelly Inauguration

Laura Kelly will be third woman governor in Kansas state history

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 14, 2019

CONTACT: Channing Grate, channing@gpsimpact.com

KANSAS CITY -- The Women's Foundation today commended Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly on being sworn in as the 48th governor of Kansas. Gov. Kelly will be the third woman to occupy the governor’s office in state history.

“As an organization dedicated to increasing gender diversity at all levels, we’re thrilled that a woman is once again taking the helm of the state’s highest office and setting another strong example for other women leaders to follow,” said Wendy Doyle, President and CEO of Women’s Foundation.

“Women in leadership should be the norm, not the exception – and Governor Kelly’s inauguration gets us one step closer to closing the gap once and for all. Our research has shown that when more women are in leadership positions it increases public trust in government, boosts efficiency, and improves the lives of residents. We look forward to working with Governor Kelly and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to improve the lives of women across the region.”

In 2014, the Women’s Foundation launched the Appointments Project® to increase the number of women serving on public boards and commissions in state and local government. To date, nearly 100 women have been appointed through the program, bringing new voices to decision-making tables throughout Kansas and Missouri.

The Women’s Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using research, philanthropy and policy solutions to make meaningful change. More information about the organization can be found at www.Womens-Foundation.org.

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Women's Foundation Commends Record Number of Women Sworn in to Missouri General Assembly

This year’s midterm elections saw historic victories by women on both sides of the aisle

KANSAS CITY -- The Women's Foundation today commended the record number of women sworn in to office in the Missouri General Assembly. According to the Jefferson City News Tribune, the 100th Missouri General Assembly will include 50 women lawmakers, a record for the state.

"We're overjoyed to see record numbers of women leading in the heartland and look forward to building on this momentum in 2019 and beyond," said Wendy Doyle, President and CEO of Women's Foundation. "Closing the leadership gap is vital for our government to represent the diversity – and interests – of the communities it serves. Our research has shown that when more women are in leadership positions it increases public trust in government, boosts efficiency, and improves the lives of residents. We look forward to working with this new, more diverse Legislature to promote equity and opportunity for women and their families, and pave the way for even more women to serve in public office.”

Nine women were elected to the Missouri House and Senate leadership: Whip Sandy Crawford, Majority Caucus Secretary Jeannie Riddle, Minority Floor Leader Gina Walsh, Assistant Minority Floor Leader Kiki Curls, Minority Caucus Chair Karla May, Minority Whip Jamilah Nasheed, Caucus Chair Sonya Anderson, Caucus Secretary Chris Dinkins, and Minority Floor Leader Crystal Quade.

In Missouri, a total of 118 women ran for office in state, federal and judicial races in 2018. Sixty-one, or 53 percent, of those candidates won their respective races. The percentage of women in the Missouri General Assembly increased from 22.8 percent to 25.4 percent.

In 2014, the Women’s Foundation launched the Appointments Project® to remove barriers for women to serve on public boards and commissions so they are more reflective of the populations they serve. Based on a first-of-its-kind study that identified numerous barriers causing women to be underrepresented on public boards and commissions, the Appointments Project serves as a talent bank and advisor for women seeking appointed positions in state and local government.

The Women’s Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using research, philanthropy and policy solutions to make meaningful change. More information about the organization can be found at www.Womens-Foundation.org.

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