Lee’s Summit Mayor and Appointments Project® Partner to Increase Women’s Participation on Boards and Commissions

United WE’s Appointments Project® Announces Expanded Programming to Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Kansas City, MO – February 18, 2021 – The Office of Mayor Bill Baird and United WE today announce their collaborative partnership to increase the number of women on local boards and commissions through the Appointments Project®. Of the 23 board and commission appointments in Lee’s Summit, 40% are female. Started in 2014, the Appointments Project® has successfully placed more than 140 women on boards and commissions, including 28 percent women of color. 

“I’ve seen firsthand the need to increase gender parity and improve representation across civic leadership to ensure we’re drawing on the talents and diversity of all our residents,” Mayor Baird said. “Our partnership with United WE and Appointments Project® is strengthening our city by increasing the number of women, including women of color, who are at the decision-making table of their communities.”

United WE’s Appointments Project® serves as a talent bank, advisor and advocate for women seeking opportunities to lead their communities and works to attract diverse applicants for appointed positions on boards and commissions. The award-winning approach guides women through the process of applying for these positions and recommends applicants for appointment.

Mayor Baird will be joined in partnership by community partner Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce.

“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 Baird, we are addressing the gender disparities in local leadership and 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.  

A public training event is planned for Thursday, March 4, at 12:00 p.m. CST. 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 Baird said.

To learn more about the Appointments Project® and to sign up for the training, please click here.

View the February 18 press conference recording here.

Appointee Profile: Julie Holland

Julie Holland was appointed to the Kansas City Brownfields Commission by Mayor Quinton Lucas.  The Brownfields Commission was created by City ordinance to help redevelop brownfields and conserve public resources applied to brownfield projects. Brownfields are any vacant or underused properties, mostly commercial or industrial, where reuse is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination. Brownfields pose health risks and cause blight and economic and environmental burdens, especially in communities of color and urban areas. 

Julie leads the Parent Leadership Training Institute-Kansas City, an initiative that supports a healthy democracy by training parents to become leading advocates for children. She is also the Kansas City regional director of the Urban Leaders Fellowship, a national public policy and community impact summer fellowship for early-to mid-career professionals. Previously, Julie served as education advisor to former Kansas City Mayor Sly James where she authored and spearheaded the development of 15+ plans, federal applications, and community reports that propelled initiatives with new funding or a new strategy, including the People Plan for $30M grant for HUD Choice Neighborhood and $300M tax plan to expand access to affordable, high-quality pre-K.

Julie earned a B.S. from Oklahoma State University, M.P.A from Syracuse University, and a doctorate in law and policy from Northeastern University. She also worked at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central New York, and congressional offices in Oklahoma and Washington, D.C.

Appointee Profile: Elizabeth Williams

Elizabeth Williams (Liz) was appointed by County Executive Frank White, Jr. to the COMBAT Commission of Jackson County, Missouri. Jackson County COMBAT strives to ensure a strong, safe community for its residents free from the dangers of illegal drugs and violent crime through the use of prevention education, treatment services and support of the criminal justice system.  The COMBAT Commission establishes goals for COMBAT funding and make recommendations on all funding requests for COMBAT initiatives.

Liz holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Missouri- Kansas City and her work experience spans over 40 years across corporate, government, and non-profit organizations.  She has held positions as a performance analyst, advisor, coach, trainer, Director of Customer Relations and most recently as an education consultant.  Her diverse experiences from a variety of roles have enabled her to integrate her skills.  She is motivated by her passion for improving the community in which she lives.  As a retiree, she enjoys spending time giving back, from working with schools to deliver life-skill curriculum to facilitating parent advocacy training for the National Parent Leadership Training Institute. Her greatest accomplishment is her family, whom she enjoys traveling,  and spending time with. In her free time, she also loves reading an inspirational book.   

Meaningful change. Meaningful legacy.

United WE Donor Feature: Jinny McCoy

“I want to help women and girls,” said Jinny McCoy, discussing her 30-year history supporting United WE, formerly Women’s Foundation. As a past board member, donor and advocate for our mission, Jinny recently joined as a founding member of United WE’s Legacy Society, comprised of individuals who make a gift in their estate plans to United WE.

Jinny is proud to support gender equity, noting that as one of few women working in the stock brokerage world in the 1960’s and 1970’s she saw the need for women’s advancement. “Women had very few options when it came to careers back then. We’ve made great strides, but there is still more to do to help empower women.”

After being asked by a friend and board member at the time, Bunni Copaken, to get involved, Jinny became an instrumental part in United WE’s board, beginning as Assistant Treasurer and Treasurer for several years. She also served on several fundraising committees. She recalled the importance of the organization’s first research study in the early 1990’s that revealed very little philanthropy was given to advance women and girls. When reflecting further on her involvement and support, she reminisced about purchasing the very first two copy machines for the organization. “I liked what the organization was doing and wanted to help make them more efficient and successful.” Jinny also enjoyed meeting so many diverse women from all walks of life. “Our board and supporters represented all races, abilities and sexual orientation, and it helped me get to know women outside of my backyard.”

“We’ve made great strides, but there is still more to do to help empower women.”

— Jinny McCoy, Founding Member, United WE Legacy Society

Investing in United WE with a legacy gift means Jinny is investing in the future of women. “I can’t take it with me,” Jinny chuckled. “I want to make an impact and truly help women and girls, long after I’m gone.” Jinny is also continuing her leadership of United WE, as she recently agreed to serve as an Honorary Chair for our new comprehensive fundraising campaign.

Thank you, Jinny, for your on-going support and passion for empowering women!

As we celebrate our 30th anniversary in 2021, United WE also wants to celebrate 30 founding members of our Legacy Society. We invite you to join Jinny and become a founding member of our Legacy Society by including United WE in your estate plan. Contact Angie Heer, Chief Development Officer at cdo@united-we.org or 816.988.2007 for further information.

A Renewed Perspective on Women’s Leadership in the New Year

A startling 140,000 people in the U.S. lost their jobs in December, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Of people who lost jobs in December, 100% were women. While the January numbers seem to be showing improvement, this statistic is still staggering, and unfortunately it’s not the first of its kind. This is why we continue to provide research and advocate for policy solutions that will advance women’s economic development. This is why we must be diligent in our push for more women to have a seat at the decision-making table. 

Earlier this month I had the honor to moderate the Kansas Department of Administration’s State of Kansas Women's Forum event. I was in good (virtual) company as Governor Laura Kelly kicked off the forum with an empowering and encouraging message. I had a lively discussion with panelists Secretary DeAngela Burns-Wallace, Secretary Laura Howard, and Secretary Julie Lorenz as they graciously shared their time and wisdom with the 400+ audience. 

These women are right on the front lines of working for change and their motivating words challenge all of us to continue working for change in 2021.

Secretary DeAngela Burns-Wallace

• The more female voices we bring to the table, it means broader perspectives are present.

• It is about ensuring that we know there is a pathway and encouraging women. Let’s think about how we can intentionally support the work and development of our state employees to make an impact.

Secretary Laura Howard

• We’ve seen many norms break down and different opportunities have opened up for women. There is still progress to be made.

• Don’t hold yourselves to pre-pandemic standards.

Secretary Julie Lorenz

• 15% of boards are female. We cannot think that we’re done evolving.

• There is nothing more powerful than collaboration and decision making. If you need a mentor, ASK.

These leaders remind us that a focus on encouraging, collaborating, and making change is critical in 2021. Our research shows that economies are lifted when more women hold leadership positions and are active in the workforce. We are hopeful as we enter the new year, especially as we see a woman of color as the Vice President of our country for the first time in history. 

We are making progress, but our work is not done. My ask of you: how will you advocate for women this year? 

Warmly,

Wendy Doyle

President & CEO, United WE

Jackson County Executive White and United WE’s Appointments Project® Announce First Appointee

CBIZ’s Carolyn Watley Appointed to Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees 

Kansas City, MO – January 27, 2021 –  The Office of Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr., in partnership with the Appointments Project® today announce Carolyn Watley’s appointment to the Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees. Watley’s appointment is the first following the announcement of the Project’s expanded programming to Jackson County. Started in 2014, the Appointments Project® has successfully placed 140 women on boards and commissions, including 28 percent of those appointments represented by women of color“Carolyn Watley is an exemplary choice for the Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees and she’ll bring a unique set of experiences and perspectives to the decision-making table,” County Executive White said. “Carolyn’s appointment is the first in our collaborative partnership with United WE’s Appointments Project® to increase the number of women on county boards and commissions, and we’ll continue to ensure that we’re drawing on the talents and diversity of all our residents.” 

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.

“We created the Appointments Project® so boards and commissions could reflect the communities they serve,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President & CEO. “The Appointments Project addresses the gender disparities in local civic leadership and we know Carolyn’s passion for serving her community will be a valuable addition to the Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees.” 

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.  

A free public training event is planned for Tuesday, February 2, at 12:00 p.m. CT with local community partners Black Excellence KC, Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, Sisters’ Circle Greater Kansas City and The Links (Jackson County, MO Chapter). The event will be conducted via webinar and allows Jackson County women to learn about leadership opportunities and guides them through the process of applying for these positions. “We encourage and invite everyone to learn more and join us in unlocking women’s potential for civic leadership,” County Executive White said.

To learn more about the Appointments Project® and RSVP for the training, visit www.united-we.org/appointments-project. 

Appointee Profile: Carolyn Watley

Carolyn Watley was appointed this week to the Jackson County Missouri Pension Plan Board of Trustees.  The purpose of this 11-member board is to establish rules and to interpret and administer Jackson County’s pension plan.  Carolyn is VP of Community Engagement for the Employment Benefit Division of CBIZ and has served in a variety of roles in her 30 plus years with the company ranging from Office Manager to Manager of Corporate Accounts to Chief Facilitating Officer.  In 2000, Carolyn became the President of CBIZ Benefits & Insurance Services in KC before serving in her current role.  Her involvement in the community extends well beyond the workplace, as Carolyn has held a variety of civic roles in organizations including Board Chair of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, KC Rising Steering Committee, KCPS Foundation, MCC Foundation First Tee Foundation, KC Campus for Animal Health, Police Foundation of Kansas City and the KC MLB Urban Youth Academy.

“Carolyn’s deep roots in Jackson County businesses and communities make her an excellent addition to this Board of Trustees,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President and CEO. “Carolyn shares our vision to increase gender diversity on boards and commissions and we look forward to seeing her great work on the Jackson County Pension Board.”

Carolyn holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration from Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas.  She has four children, Shelby, Lori, Matthew and Ellen.

United WE CEO, Wendy Doyle

United WE Reflect

This year has deepened our appreciation for good health, relationships, and all the little things of years past. It has been one of the most challenging years, but if it has taught us anything it’s that we must pivot, persevere and accelerate the pace of change towards gender equality.

If you’re a woman, you’ve likely experienced firsthand the effects of how the pandemic has disproportionately impacted you and other women you know.

Prior to COVID, women - particularly women of color - had to overcome barriers like unequal pay, lack of affordable child care and lack of sufficient paid family leave opportunities in order to fully reach their economic potential. For many women, overcoming those barriers simply uncovered even more.

It’s my hope - and pledge -  that we learn from the coronavirus experience to reimagine our economy and how underrepresented individuals are engaged in it. Our recovery must emphasize equality. The strength of our country’s economy and democracy depends upon women’s full participation. In fact, the McKinsey Global Institute found that half of states could grow their economies by more than 10% by increasing women’s participation in the workforce. To do this, our public and corporate policies and systems must support women reaching their full economic potential. Our civic leadership must represent the population it serves. And we must be willing to use our voices and take action. 

In the midst of the pandemic and social unrest this year, I am genuinely grateful to YOU for sharing your voice and taking action. Your support fuels United WE, your stories inspire us, and the barriers you face push us to continue advocating for change. This year demonstrates the need to work together to create a better future: one where every woman is supported by laws, practices and policies that allow her to realize her full potential on her terms.

Your support of women’s empowerment and our mission means the world. Together, we must continue our momentum. Your involvement is vital to achieve gender equality.

I look forward to sharing a robust recap of our year, coming first thing in 2021. In the meantime, I look forward to the day when we can gather and celebrate our successes with you.

I wish you a heartfelt holiday season filled with health, peace, love and optimism for better days ahead.

Cheers,

Wendy Doyle

President & CEO, United WE

Appointee Profile: Cindy Miles

Cindy Miles was recently appointed by Governor Laura Kelly to the Kansas Volunteer Commission. The purpose of the Commission is to prepare a national service plan for the state, ensure outreach to diverse community-based agencies, and to administer certain grant programs.

““Congratulations to Cindy Miles on her appointment to the Kansas Volunteer Commission,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President & CEO. “Cindy’s passion for serving her community shows in all that she does and her presence will be a valuable addition on the Kansas Volunteer Commission.” ”

Cindy is the CEO for the Kansas Nonprofit Chamber of Service and founder of The Incubator for Nonprofits of Kansas. Cindy is passionate about serving the community and serves on numerous nonprofit boards and committees including the Metropolitan Area Planning Commission, Wichita/Sedgwick County Subdivision Committee, City Council District 3 Advisory Board, the Wichita Coalition for Child Abuse Prevention, the Kansas Task Force for Drug Endangered Children, the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Coalition, the Newman University Alumni board, and more. Cindy earned a Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Marketing from Wichita State University and a Master of Business Administration from Newman University.  Cindy has been married to her husband, Mark Miles, for almost 30 years. They have 6 grown children and 16 grandchildren. 

Sharing Gratitude and Thanks in 2020

This year has been challenging in many different ways, but this Thanksgiving I’d like to take a moment to share gratitude, thanks and optimism for what the future holds.

Thank you to all the women who work hard every year, but especially this year. Whether you’re on the frontlines of the pandemic, working from home, helping kids with virtual school, or otherwise, we see you and recognize the incredible job you’re doing despite insurmountable challenges. And to all the people who help women succeed in doing their work, thank you for your support. We would not be able to accomplish all that we do without the helping hands that lend assistance, support and guidance.

A special thanks to our supporters, appointees, elected officials, partners and other community leaders for making our work at United WE possible. In a year filled with challenges, we are immensely grateful for your partnership, collaboration, and spirit for uniting with us to make change.

During a time when the nation has been very divided, we know it is even more important that we unite together to create a better future. We give thanks to all of you who help advance all women’s economic and civic leadership, and thank you for the unity that results from our work together to empower women to strengthen America’s economy and democracy.

In gratitude,

Wendy Doyle

President & CEO, United WE