Psychologist Reciprocity Bill Would Ease Mental Health Provider Shortage, Empower Women Economically

Research shows that women are disproportionately impacted by occupational licensing rules

KANSAS CITY – May is Mental Health Month and the Women’s Foundation is lending its support to pending legislation (SB 204) that would make it easier for psychologists to practice in Missouri. Senate Bill 204, sponsored by Missouri state Sen. Jeanie Riddle, would allow a psychologist licensed in a state that has signed the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Board’s reciprocity agreement to be eligible for a license in Missouri.

Missouri has 110 Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas and the highest percentage of unmet mental health care need out of all 50 states. 

“Our research has found that women are more likely to be impacted by burdensome and unnecessary occupational licensing rules, which make it harder for them to break into new fields or practice their profession if they move across state lines,” said Wendy Doyle, Women’s Foundation President & CEO. “This bill is a win-win: empowering women economically while helping to ease the severe shortage of mental health providers across the state.”

Women’s Foundation research on occupational licensing and reciprocity has shown that women are disproportionately impacted by state-level regulations that make it harder for people who relocate to another state to legally practice their profession. For example, according to the American Psychological Association, of the 70,311 students enrolled in psychology graduate programs in 2014, 75 percent were women.

Occupational licensing requirements have risen from five percent of the workforce holding a license in the 1950s to about twenty-six percent of the workforce holding a license in 2016.

Read the Women’s Foundation report on occupational licensing and reciprocity in Missouri and the U.S. at: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/545815dce4b0d75692c341a8/t/59e0cd6ef5e231eea5471593/1507904882586/Occupational+Licensing+and+Reciprocity-+Final+10.13.2017.pdf 

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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Appointee Profile: Erika O'Shea

Erika will serve on the Environmental Management Commission. The Environmental Management Commission promotes environmental awareness and resource efficiency to the City’s leaders and staff, and assists the progress of Kansas City toward sustainability.

She learned about the Appointments Project® at a workplace presentation. For Erika, it seemed like a great way to become more involved in her community, guide the discussion around important topics, and meet other individuals passionate about the city.

Erika hopes that she will be able to shape policy recommendations that will make Kansas City a more beautiful, healthy, and environmentally sustainable place to live. She also hopes that her involvement on the commission will grow her leadership skills and professional network within the community.

New Laws Mean Fewer Licensing Regulations and Lower Fees for Veterans and Women Entrepreneurs

Women’s Foundation encourages Missourians to take advantage of new opportunities to obtain a license

KANSAS CITY – The Women’s Foundation is encouraging Missourians to take advantage of new laws that make it easier and less expensive for veterans, women entrepreneurs and others to obtain a professional license in Missouri.

For example, military families and low-income Missourians are eligible to have their licensing fees waived for two years from the date their application is approved. In addition, Missourians interested in pursuing a career as a professional hair braider can now watch a four-hour video instead of taking more than 1,000 hours of cosmetology training.

“These common-sense reforms are helping to break down the barriers that make it harder for women to pursue a new career or start their own business,” said Wendy Doyle, Women’s Foundation President & CEO. “Ever since our research identified licensing barriers as a challenge facing women and their families, we’ve worked hard to make it easier and less expensive to obtain a license in Missouri. Now that these reforms are being implemented, we’re encouraging eligible Missourians to take advantage of these new opportunities to obtain a license and move up the economic ladder.”

In 2018, the Women’s Foundation worked with the Missouri General Assembly to pass HB 1500, which allows those seeking to pursue a career in hair braiding to complete an online video and obtain a certificate of registration. Previously, hair braiders had to complete over 1,000 hours of training for a cosmetology license, even though the training did not include hair braiding skills.

“I am pleased to see that the Hair Braiding Freedom Act is being implemented so that these mostly female entrepreneurs can start new small businesses,” said Missouri state Representative Shamed Dogan who sponsored the hair braiding reforms. “I look forward to seeing more hair braiding shops open across Missouri to provide our citizens with economic opportunity and creative hairstyles."

SB 843, passed in 2018, waived licensing fees for military families and low-income Missourians. Missourians can learn more about applying for a fee waiver at: https://pr.mo.gov/boards/apelsla2/apelsla/SB843.pdf

In addition, veterans taking professional state licensing or certification examinations required by the Department of Insurance, Finance and Professional Registration can be reimbursed for the cost of the exam. More information is available at: https://difp.mo.gov/licensing/veterans_reimbursement.php

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.

Women’s Foundation Statement on House Ethics Committee Report on Sexual Harassment by Representative McGee

KANSAS CITY – The Women’s Foundation made the following statement regarding findings that Missouri House Assistant Minority Leader Daron McGee sexually harassed and retaliated against an employee.

“Sexual harassment must never be tolerated — not in our workplaces, not on our college campuses, and not in the halls of government,” said Wendy Doyle, Women’s Foundation President & CEO. “The fact that the victim in this case was ultimately fired is another troubling example of why sexual harassment has profound and lasting impacts on women’s financial – as well as emotional – well-being. We thank the House Ethics Committee for its vigorous and thorough investigation of Representative McGee’s misconduct, and the leadership of the Missouri House for continuing to embrace the reforms we helped initiate four years ago. Combating sexual harassment will take constant vigilance and a sustained effort, and we look forward to continuing to work to eradicate sexual harassment and misconduct from our state capitals once and for all.”

Following multiple reports of sexual harassment and hostile work environments in the Missouri State Capitol in 2015, the Women’s Foundation worked with former House Speaker Todd Richardson to strengthen sexual harassment policies.

The Women’s Foundation also partnered with Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence (MCADSV), and Partners In Prevention, to create the Intern Resource Network to help identify, report and prevent sexual harassment against interns.

In Kansas, the Women’s Foundation worked with former Gov. Jeff Colyer and state Sen. Susan Wagle to make recommendations and take steps to prevent sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation across state government.

More information on the Women’s Foundation’s work to combat sexual harassment is available at: http://www.womens-foundation.org/sexual-harassment

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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Changemaker Profile: Vicki Schmidt

Vicki Schmidt is a former member of the Kansas Senate, representing the 20th District, from 2005 to 2019. She was recently elected Kansas Insurance Commissioner in 2018. 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?

This is the question where I’m supposed to tell you that service to others is how I was raised and those values were instilled in me at a very young age. All of that is true and it is why I decided to become a pharmacist. However, if I’m being completely honest, which isn’t a new thing for those that know me, I first ran for office because I was upset.

I was on the Board of Pharmacy attending a legislative committee hearing, and one of the committee members fell asleep during my testimony. I left that meeting unhappy that an elected official would care so little about their work that I thought I could do a better job, so I decided to run for office.

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

My biggest challenge has always been getting elected. Every time I have run for office, it has been a highly contested race.

It is not easy to run for office.  If I am going to work that hard to get elected, I am going to get something done when elected. As a Senator, I was known for asking questions and getting answers. There is a lot of red tape in the government so it was always the most rewarding to help someone get through that to get an answer.  I didn’t always like the answer I got, but I believe everyone deserves an answer.

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

Public service is more than serving in an elected office. There are a number of boards and commissions at both a state and local level that are in desperate need of people who are passionate and willing to put in the time to do a great job. Being involved in the community you live in is the best way to start making a difference.

If you decide that running for office office is something you want to do, don’t wait for permission. Yes, it is good to have relationships with people in your political party so you have a base of potential volunteers and supporters. Yes, it is always good to get advice and counsel from other community leaders before deciding to run. However, if you’re passionate about running, don’t let any of that stop you. Make your case to voters why you should have the privilege of serving and they may just decide they agree.

Is there anything that has surprised you about public service?

Yes, I was surprised by how much I have enjoyed it.  I never thought I would engage in politics, serve in the Kansas Senate for 14 years or run for statewide office.  However, I have thoroughly enjoyed the work and the feelings of helping others.

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

I served in the Kansas Senate for 14 years, and there are days I wish I could put my policy hat back on and weigh in on a number of issues. However, I am thoroughly enjoying my time as Insurance Commissioner because as I now get to serve and help my entire state.

Most people have insurance and pray they never need it, but when they do, I want it to work for them. There is a lot of important work that goes into protecting Kansans, whether it is a market conduct study, reviewing a company’s financials for determining their ability to pay claims, or looking into potential insurance fraud. All of these tasks are important to oversee and protect Kansas consumers.

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

I was the first person on my dad’s side of the family to graduate from college. I’ve spent my entire professional career as a pharmacist working with people who need it. My upbringing and my professional career gave me an appreciation and compassion for the challenges Kansans face every day and a desire to make a positive difference where I can.

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

My parents made a world of difference in my life. Mentorship is important, but nothing can make up for the value of loving parental support. I have also been fortunate to have a number of excellent teachers and professors along the way that have impacted my life.

If I had to name someone that has inspired me, I would say it is Marily Rhudy, who was the first woman to become president of the Kansas Pharmacist Association. Marily was a pioneer for women in the profession and truly an inspiration in my life.

Cindy McCain to Headline Women’s Foundation Annual Event Focusing on Civic Engagement

“Changemakers: Celebrating the Power of Women to Make Positive Change” will be held on September 24 at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

KANSAS CITY – The Women’s Foundation announced today that businesswoman and philanthropist Cindy McCain will headline the organization’s “We Work for Change” Annual Event, presented by Bank of America, on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 – focusing on the power of women to make positive change through civic engagement and public service.

Coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote, this year’s event will bring together elected officials, activists, and business executives around the theme of “Changemakers” – to celebrate the progress women have made and reflect on the work that still must be done to close the leadership gap once and for all.

The event is set for 4-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 24 at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, Helzberg Hall. It is a fundraiser for the Women’s Foundation, which promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages in Kansas and Missouri.

“Cindy McCain has dedicated her life to making positive change and empowering the next generation of barrier-breaking public servants,” said Wendy Doyle, Women’s Foundation President & CEO. “From working to end human trafficking worldwide to promoting character-driven leadership and civic engagement, Cindy is carrying on her family’s inspiring legacy of public service. We’re thrilled that she’s joining us to celebrate the power of women to make positive change and our shared responsibility as citizens to leave our communities better than we found them.”

As the Chair of the Board of Trustees of the McCain Institute for International Leadership at Arizona State University, Cindy oversees the organization’s focus on advancing character-driven global leadership based on security, economic opportunity, freedom and human dignity.

Cindy also chairs the Institute’s Human Trafficking Advisory Council. This is an issue she cares deeply about and is committed to ending human trafficking and supporting victims in Arizona, the United States and around the world. Through her work with the McCain Institute, several partnerships have been formed with anti-trafficking organizations working on solving various aspects of the problem. She also serves as co-chair of the Arizona Governor’s Council on human trafficking.

In addition to her work at the McCain Institute, she serves on the Board of Directors of Project C.U.R.E and the Advisory Boards of Too Small To Fail and Warriors and Quiet Waters. Cindy holds an undergraduate degree in Education and a Master’s in Special Education from USC and is a member of the USC Rossier School of Education Board of Councilors.

Cindy is the Chairman of her family’s business, Hensley Beverage Company, which is one of the largest Anheuser-Busch distributors in the nation. Cindy is the wife of the late U.S. Senator John McCain who passed away in 2018. Together, they have four children.

The Women’s Foundation also announced its 2019 event leadership: Co-chairing are Cathi and David Brain and their daughter, Caroline Brain, and Millie and Mike Brown and their daughter, Stephanie Brown. The Patron Committee co-chairs are Marjorie Adair, Courtney Kounkel, Dr. Marion Pierson, and Kelly Scanlon.

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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Appointee Profile: Torrey Peterson

Torrey decided to apply for the Appointments Project because she wanted to find a way to use her skills and background as a lawyer to help serve the Kansas City community. She loves what the Women’s Foundation stands for and wanted to take advantage of their Appointments Project to, hopefully, be another woman serving in the area. As someone unfamiliar with board selection processes, she decided to use the Appointments Project to help guide herself through the process and help with placement. She knew she wanted to serve on a board and her community and applying through the Appointments Project was best way for her to achieve that goal.

Torrey hopes she can provide valuable input and help make positive decisions through her work on the Liquor Controls Board. She also hopes that, by serving, her work and leadership can help encourage other women to serve as well. She plans to make lasting professional relationships both through other board members and working with businesses and individuals in the KC community who are working with the board.

She will be serving on the Liquor Controls Board of KC. The board deals with appeals and complaints regarding alcohol-related industries.

Appointee Profile: Jennifer Dancer

Jennifer Dancer has been appointed to the Kansas City Trusts Board of Trustees. After attending many community meetings hosted with Mayor Sly James, she decided to step up herself and get more involved in local initiatives.

Jennifer is excited to bring her unique perspective to the decision making table. She will help administer trusts throughout the city for charitable purposes.

“I can’t wait to get started on the Board. I’m looking forward to serve my amazing community in any way that I can.”

Appointee Profile: Meggie Mapes

Meggie Mapes has been appointed to the Kansas City Environmental Management Commission. She is a Strategic Communications Specialist for the University of Kansas Libraries.

Meggie is excited to bring her unique perspective to the decision making table. The Environmental Management Commission prepares short and long-term environmental priorities to preserve Kansas City’s legacy. She is currently working on preparing reports for the incoming mayor of Kansas City.

“I believe in Kansas City. I also believe that women deserve a seat at the table, that a diversity of perspectives and insights lead to better policy making. The Appointments Project places those issues at the forefront.”

Kellyann Jones: Four Things to Know About Getting Appointed to a Board or Commission

Kellyann Jones is a participant in the Appointments Project® and was appointed to the Kansas City Health Commission in May 2018.

Before attending an information session about the Appointments Project, I had never heard of boards and commissions—the whole world of state and city governance was a total mystery. Even after joining the Health Commission in May 2016, I experienced a steep learning curve of city budgets, resolutions, state policies, and levies to understand how the Health Commission advises the Kansas City, MO Health Department in serving our city’s most vulnerable patient populations. As my three-year term comes to an end, I wanted to share some reflections and advice on getting appointed and making the most out of the experience:

You Have Enough Experience

 This message is what I needed to hear when I was first considering an appointment. I was a senior graduate student working towards my doctorate in microbiology when I attended an Appointments Project information session. I had only ever been a student at that point and had never held a “real job” so I really doubted that I had any expertise or experience to offer a board or commission. I was scared that I would not be qualified, so my first instinct was just to not apply! Imposter syndrome, especially for white women and women and men of color, is very real and can be barrier for recognizing your worth. Even though I had limited formal employment, I had significant experience with project management from working on my thesis as well a plethora of leadership experience through extracurricular activities—all is which is valuable real-world experience. If you are a student or do not have a wealth of traditional employment experience, you should still consider putting yourself forward for an appointment. 

Self-Advocacy is Key

Just like any opportunity, you will not know everything! While you may be a content area expert, you may need a refresher on Robert’s Rules or the intricacies of a city or state budget. Go into your appointment with an open mind and do not be embarrassed if you’re not chairing a committee right away—it will take time to ease into the rhythm of your board/commission. Ask questions and talk to more seasoned members about their experiences. The Health Commission holds an orientation session for all new commissioners as well as more informal meetings with commission leadership to get to know you and your passions which really helped with my onboarding.

Additionally, if there is a project or proposal that you want to be involved with on your board and commission, speak up for yourself and ask for opportunities! Unlike your day job, you often only attend meetings a handful of times per year so it can be harder to show off your expertise and skillset in more limited interactions especially if you are an introvert.  

Build Relationships

One of the most wonderful aspects of being on a board or commission are all the incredible and fascinating people you meet! All the people I’ve met through the Health Commission, including my fellow commissioners, healthcare providers, and community members, make me feel optimistic about the future of public health in Kansas City. Being on a board/commission opens you up to meetings and events you may not have had access to prior. Take advantage of this new pool of colleagues to make genuine connections that will benefit you during your service and beyond. For example, though the Health Commission, I’ve been able to meet numerous individuals and organizations that I’ve been able to call upon to provide opportunities for the K-12 students I work with in my day job at an education nonprofit.  

Starting on the Ground Floor

Being on a board or commission is a crash course in city or state policy and politics and can also provide insight into whether a run for elected office might be in your future! Serving on a board/commission is a great place to start if you want a future in politics. Depending on the charge of your board/commission, you can be involved in advocacy, sponsoring ordinances and resolutions, and presenting to bodies of elected officials.

Overall, the past three years has been an enlightening experience and while it has been my first experience serving as an appointee, I know this will not be the last!