WELCOME APEX CLASS OF 2028!
Kelly Adrian, KC Ballet
Kimmy Angier, Brain Group
Sarah Brengarth, Gensler
Stephanie Brimhall, Kansas City Symphony
Brian Buckner, The University of Kansas Health System
Isaac Caverly, Polsinelli, P.C.
Lesleigh Cetinguc, Sherwood Autism Center
Courtney Christensen, Kansas City Public Library
Monica Dahl, Enterprise Bank & Trust
Denisse De Leon, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Deanna DiSalvo, Elevate/Key Cannabis
Anaya Echols-Spratling, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City
Joe Flammer, BroadlySummit
Madeline Fox, KCUR 89.3
Nick Fry, CBIZ, Inc.
Zach Gredlics, KC Tech Council
Kalen Haynes, Kansas City Royals
Claire Hillman, University Health
Maclen Johnson, Midwest Innocence Project
Kerry Jo Katz, Growing Futures Early Education Center
Lex Kinser, Cyber Creationz Tech
Matt Kleinmann, Vibrant Health
Jordan Kloewer, MBB
Shauna Lea, Towner Communications, LLC
Marielena Marroquin, Cultura Consultants KC
Megan Marshall, Lockton
Traci Moon, Visit KC
Leslie Mora, Multistudio, Inc.
Álvaro Ontiveros, City of Kansas City, MO
Julia Osburn, Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City
Tavarus Pennington, Parris Communications
Derek Pike, Delta Dental of Kansas
Janea Roberts, T-Mobile
Jenna Scott, Economic Development Corporation Of Kansas City
Ben Sight, Prime Capital Financial
Courtney Sullivan, Controlled Environment Products
Andrew Swetnam, Kessinger Hunter & Company
Mackenzie VanMetre, Ronald McDonald House Kansas City
Isabelle Wahlert, The Builders, a chapter of the AGC
Cody Walls, Starlight Theatre Association of Kansas City, Inc.
Teshia Williams, Pulse Design Group
Troy Williams, Chief of Staff KC
PINNACLE
CENTURIONS INFORMATION SESSION | LUNCH & LEARN
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26 | 11:30-1:00 P.M.
The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce’s Centurions Leadership Program is a two-year program focused on building community awareness through civic opportunities and on community issues that affect Greater Kansas City. The mission is to prepare a representative cross-section of the community’s emerging leaders for their role in shaping the future of Greater Kansas City. Interested professionals around the Greater Kansas City region can attend an information session or recruiting social to learn more about the program. Register here >>
THE LEADERSHIP PIPELINE: ORGANIZATIONS BUILDING KC’S FUTURE LEADERS
THURSDAY, JULY 30 | 8:00-10:00 A.M.
Take a moment to reflect on the people, programs, and experiences that shaped your leadership journey. Whether through scouting, 4-H, faith-based groups, student government, or other organizations, many of us can point to the early opportunities that helped orient us toward leadership. Kansas City is fortunate to be home to a wide range of organizations dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders—from Scouting America and Girl Scouts to programs like Young Men of Character and others serving youth and young adults across the region.
Join the Community Leadership Committee for an engaging conversation highlighting some of these impactful programs. This event will provide an opportunity to connect with local organizations, learn about their work, and explore how today’s leaders can play a role in supporting and shaping tomorrow’s leaders. Register here >>
SPRING VALLEY PARK CLEANUP
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 | 9:00-11:00 A.M.
Join fellow Centurions Actives and Alumni for the Spring Valley Park Cleanup as we launch the Alumni Legacy Project in honor of Bernard Powell and celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Centurions Leadership Program. This meaningful day of service will bring together generations of Centurions to invest in our community, strengthen connections across classes, and honor Bernard Powell’s lasting legacy of leadership, service, and impact in Kansas City.
Volunteers will spend the morning picking up trash, gardening, and supporting miscellaneous cleanup efforts throughout Spring Valley Park to help revitalize and beautify the space. Together, we will create a lasting tribute that reflects the spirit of Centurions and our shared commitment to civic engagement for the next 50 years and beyond.
Actives – Please sign-up to volunteer for this event via VicNet.
Alumni – Register here >>
ISSUES UP CLOSE: CHOICE AND EDUCATION – A DISCUSSION ON SCHOOL CHOICE IN MISSOURI
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20 | 8:00-10:00 A.M.
In April this year, a Cole County judge ruled that Missouri can use public funds to pay for private school scholarships. This ruling allows tax dollars to be used to fund private institutions, diverting some education tax dollars from the public school system in what is commonly referred to as “school choice.”
We invite you to join us for a lively discussion on the pros and cons of school choice in the state of MO. We will hear from a variety of voices of both sides of the issue, including school district officials and politicians, in a moderated conversation format. Register here >>
ISSUES UP CLOSE: THE HUMAN SIDE OF LEADERSHIP: BUILDING RESILIENT LEADERS, TEAMS AND COMMUNITIES
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 | 8:30-10:00 A.M.
Leadership has never been more complex. Today’s leaders are expected to drive results, navigate uncertainty, support employee well-being, and build cultures of belonging, often while managing their own challenges. What does it take to lead people well in this environment, and what can we learn from those who are doing it successfully? Register here >>
APEX
CENTURIONS INFORMATION SESSION | LUNCH & LEARN
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26 | 11:30-1:00 P.M.
The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce’s Centurions Leadership Program is a two-year program focused on building community awareness through civic opportunities and on community issues that affect Greater Kansas City. The mission is to prepare a representative cross-section of the community’s emerging leaders for their role in shaping the future of Greater Kansas City. Interested professionals around the Greater Kansas City region can attend an information session or recruiting social to learn more about the program. Register here >>
THE LEADERSHIP PIPELINE: ORGANIZATIONS BUILDING KC’S FUTURE LEADERS
THURSDAY, JULY 30 | 8:00-10:00 A.M.
Take a moment to reflect on the people, programs, and experiences that shaped your leadership journey. Whether through scouting, 4-H, faith-based groups, student government, or other organizations, many of us can point to the early opportunities that helped orient us toward leadership. Kansas City is fortunate to be home to a wide range of organizations dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders—from Scouting America and Girl Scouts to programs like Young Men of Character and others serving youth and young adults across the region.
Join the Community Leadership Committee for an engaging conversation highlighting some of these impactful programs. This event will provide an opportunity to connect with local organizations, learn about their work, and explore how today’s leaders can play a role in supporting and shaping tomorrow’s leaders. Register here >>
SPRING VALLEY PARK CLEANUP
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 | 9:00-11:00 A.M.
Join fellow Centurions Actives and Alumni for the Spring Valley Park Cleanup as we launch the Alumni Legacy Project in honor of Bernard Powell and celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Centurions Leadership Program. This meaningful day of service will bring together generations of Centurions to invest in our community, strengthen connections across classes, and honor Bernard Powell’s lasting legacy of leadership, service, and impact in Kansas City.
Volunteers will spend the morning picking up trash, gardening, and supporting miscellaneous cleanup efforts throughout Spring Valley Park to help revitalize and beautify the space. Together, we will create a lasting tribute that reflects the spirit of Centurions and our shared commitment to civic engagement for the next 50 years and beyond.
Actives – Please sign-up to volunteer for this event via VicNet.
Alumni – Register here >>
FIRST YEAR BREAKFAST
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19 | 7:30-9:00 A.M.
Calling all first years to attend the Kickoff Breakfast on Wednesday, August 19 from 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the KC Chamber Board Room to recap everything you learned at one of our information sessions or networking socials. Meet with your fellow classmates and learn everything you need to know from second-year Steering Committee members and Chamber staff. Headshots will be taken, so come picture ready! Register here >>
ISSUES UP CLOSE: CHOICE AND EDUCATION – A DISCUSSION ON SCHOOL CHOICE IN MISSOURI
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20 | 8:00-10:00 A.M.
In April this year, a Cole County judge ruled that Missouri can use public funds to pay for private school scholarships. This ruling allows tax dollars to be used to fund private institutions, diverting some education tax dollars from the public school system in what is commonly referred to as “school choice.”
We invite you to join us for a lively discussion on the pros and cons of school choice in the state of MO. We will hear from a variety of voices of both sides of the issue, including school district officials and politicians, in a moderated conversation format. Register here >>
ISSUES UP CLOSE: THE HUMAN SIDE OF LEADERSHIP: BUILDING RESILIENT LEADERS, TEAMS AND COMMUNITIES
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 | 8:30-10:00 A.M.
Leadership has never been more complex. Today’s leaders are expected to drive results, navigate uncertainty, support employee well-being, and build cultures of belonging, often while managing their own challenges. What does it take to lead people well in this environment, and what can we learn from those who are doing it successfully? Register here >>
SAVE THE DATE: KICKOFF SOCIAL
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27 | 5:30-7:00 P.M.
Join us for our Apex Kickoff event! This will be the first opportunity for the classes to meet! More information to come in the coming weeks.
ALUMNI
CENTURIONS INFORMATION SESSION | LUNCH & LEARN
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26 | 11:30-1:00 P.M.
The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce’s Centurions Leadership Program is a two-year program focused on building community awareness through civic opportunities and on community issues that affect Greater Kansas City. The mission is to prepare a representative cross-section of the community’s emerging leaders for their role in shaping the future of Greater Kansas City. Interested professionals around the Greater Kansas City region can attend an information session or recruiting social to learn more about the program. Register here >>
ALUMNI ANNUAL MEETING 2026
THURSDAY, JULY 23 | 8:00-10:00 A.M.
Join us for a special morning at the beautiful Starlight Theatre as we gather to celebrate another impactful year of Centurions. Enjoy a delicious breakfast while reconnecting with classmates, expanding your alumni network, and reflecting on the accomplishments of the 2025–2026 program year.
The program will include recognition of Andre Logan as the 2026 Bernard Powell Award recipient, a recap of the year’s highlights, and the election of the 2026–2027 Alumni Board slate. Registration is required. Due to venue capacity limitations, all attendees must register and pay in advance. Walk-in registrations and pay-at-the-door guests will not be accommodated. 2026–2027 Alumni Breakfast $25 per person. Register here>>
Note: You must be a dues-paying member of the Centurions Alumni Association to attend this event. To verify if you are a member and/or request an invoice for dues, please contact Hayley Spellman at hspellman@kcchamber.com.
THE LEADERSHIP PIPELINE: ORGANIZATIONS BUILDING KC’S FUTURE LEADERS
THURSDAY, JULY 30 | 8:00-10:00 A.M.
Take a moment to reflect on the people, programs, and experiences that shaped your leadership journey. Whether through scouting, 4-H, faith-based groups, student government, or other organizations, many of us can point to the early opportunities that helped orient us toward leadership. Kansas City is fortunate to be home to a wide range of organizations dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders—from Scouting America and Girl Scouts to programs like Young Men of Character and others serving youth and young adults across the region.
Join the Community Leadership Committee for an engaging conversation highlighting some of these impactful programs. This event will provide an opportunity to connect with local organizations, learn about their work, and explore how today’s leaders can play a role in supporting and shaping tomorrow’s leaders. Register here >>
SPRING VALLEY PARK CLEANUP
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 | 9:00-11:00 A.M.
Join fellow Centurions Actives and Alumni for the Spring Valley Park Cleanup as we launch the Alumni Legacy Project in honor of Bernard Powell and celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Centurions Leadership Program. This meaningful day of service will bring together generations of Centurions to invest in our community, strengthen connections across classes, and honor Bernard Powell’s lasting legacy of leadership, service, and impact in Kansas City.
Volunteers will spend the morning picking up trash, gardening, and supporting miscellaneous cleanup efforts throughout Spring Valley Park to help revitalize and beautify the space. Together, we will create a lasting tribute that reflects the spirit of Centurions and our shared commitment to civic engagement for the next 50 years and beyond.
Actives – Please sign-up to volunteer for this event via VicNet.
Alumni – Register here >>
ISSUES UP CLOSE: CHOICE AND EDUCATION – A DISCUSSION ON SCHOOL CHOICE IN MISSOURI
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20 | 8:00-10:00 A.M.
In April this year, a Cole County judge ruled that Missouri can use public funds to pay for private school scholarships. This ruling allows tax dollars to be used to fund private institutions, diverting some education tax dollars from the public school system in what is commonly referred to as “school choice.”
We invite you to join us for a lively discussion on the pros and cons of school choice in the state of MO. We will hear from a variety of voices of both sides of the issue, including school district officials and politicians, in a moderated conversation format. Register here >>
ISSUES UP CLOSE: THE HUMAN SIDE OF LEADERSHIP: BUILDING RESILIENT LEADERS, TEAMS AND COMMUNITIES
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 | 8:30-10:00 A.M.
Leadership has never been more complex. Today’s leaders are expected to drive results, navigate uncertainty, support employee well-being, and build cultures of belonging, often while managing their own challenges. What does it take to lead people well in this environment, and what can we learn from those who are doing it successfully? Register here >>