As we step into May, I am reminded of the transitions that often accompany this month—a sentiment that resonates with me personally. This month, my daughter will graduate from high school, marking a significant milestone for both of us as we embrace this new chapter. Over the past year, I’ve navigated various life transitions, including marriage, a sabbatical from my University teaching job, and the upcoming sale of my house. These transitions have brought both joy and challenges, as is the nature of life’s journey. Undoubtedly, many of you have experienced similar transitions since your time with GMLC, and I trust that your experiences with the Leadership Challenge have equipped you well for the challenges you face. 

As I’ve mentioned before, we are eagerly anticipating the 2024 Alumnae Reunion. This gathering presents a wonderful opportunity for alums—both familiar faces and new connections—to come together and discuss the life transitions we’re navigating. The GMLC network is vast and rich with experience and wisdom, offering valuable insights regardless of where you currently find yourself in life’s journey. I invite you to join me in Kansas City on July 16 & 17 for what promises to be another memorable GMLF learning experience. Further details about the event can be found here. 

We recently announced the honorees for the 2024 Women of the Year: DeAngela Burns-Wallace, Ed.D., Angela Drake, JD, Angie Long, and Dr. Leigh Anne Taylor Knight. This year, the event will have a fresh look and feel as we celebrate these remarkable women leaders on July 17 at the CPKC Stadium, home of the Kansas City Current professional women’s soccer team on the Berkley Riverfront. The choice of venue is particularly fitting, as this newly opened stadium (March 2024) is the world’s first stadium dedicated solely to a women’s sport—a perfect setting to honor women’s leadership and contributions to our state and beyond! Corporate and business sponsorships are welcome, as well as individual tickets, and we hope to see you there to celebrate these outstanding women. 

Over the past month, we’ve had some enjoyable gatherings bringing alumnae from across the state together. If you’re interested in hosting an event in your area, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re more than happy to assist with coordination! Here are some highlights: 

• GMLF board members convened in Columbia on April 11 for our quarterly board meeting. 
• Alumnae gathered in Springfield and Columbia for their monthly luncheons. 
• Ameren alumnae reconnected at the St. Louis headquarters. 
• Karen Miller (Class of 2011, 2017 Woman of the Year) and Stacey Button (Class of 2016) hosted Mid Missouri alumnae for a happy hour. 
• Dr. Leigh Anne Taylor Knight (Class of 2010, Alumnae Council) hosted a virtual professional development opportunity to aid alumnae in discovering their Agilities. 

I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to reconnect with you soon. If Greater MO can be of assistance to you, please don’t hesitate to reach out by contacting us at hello@greatermo.org.