Can you believe it’s already February? I hope you all safely weathered the Missouri chill in January. The good news is that brighter (and warmer!) days are just around the corner.

The Greater Missouri Leadership Foundation leaped into 2024 with full enthusiasm, building on the momentum from last year. Due to the winter weather, our in-person board retreat was shifted online. While we missed the in-person camaraderie, the retreat was a success. We took the time to review and refine our plans from the 2023 retreat, establishing detailed strategies to achieve our goals and foster the growth of GMLF. Our focus remains on spreading the word about GMLF as the premier women’s leadership organization in Missouri and beyond, ensuring financial stability for the organization’s future, and exploring innovative ways, with the help of technology, to connect with our members. Spending the day with our energetic board was truly wonderful, and we eagerly anticipate our next meeting in April to further advance our strategic plan.

In January, board members reached out to each of their Greater Missouri Leadership Challenge classes urging them to support GMLF by joining the annual dues membership program. It’s a fantastic opportunity to show your support for our organization’s mission, and I hope you’ll join me as we continue offering the Challenge experience to the Class of 2024 and beyond.  We are challenging all alumnae to pay their dues by March 1 this year (unless you are a lifetime dues paying member). Let’s see which year is the best class ever!

Speaking of the Class of 2024, GMLF had the pleasure of introducing our 35th cohort last month—a dynamic group of women leaders ready to take on the Challenge this year. The first Class meet-and-greets in Columbia and Springfield were a success, and we’re excited about the upcoming February events in St. Louis, Kirksville, and Kansas City. Session I kicks off in Columbia on March 5, and I can’t wait to see this group of women connect, grow, and lead in the months ahead. Congratulations once again to the Class of 2024!

I encourage you to mark July 16 & 17 on your calendar to join GMLF in Kansas City for one or both days as your schedule allows. The Alumnae Reunion on July 16 is a chance to experience a mini-Challenge session, reconnect with class members, and expand your network. On July 17, we’ll gather at the brand-new CPKC Stadium – home of the women’s soccer team Kansas City Current- to recognize our 2024 Greater Missouri Leadership Foundation Women of the Year. This luncheon is Greater MO’s primary fundraising event of the year, and I hope you’ll be there with us!

I’m genuinely excited about what the year holds for GMLF and our Challenge Class. I invite you to join us in continuing the legacy of our one-of-a-kind organization dedicated to women’s leadership—attend an event, pay your membership, or sign up to volunteer. We want you to be part of this incredible journey!