The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce’s Centurions Leadership Program announced on March 9 a series of upcoming events, award nominations, and information sessions for its members and alumni. The program is encouraging nominations for the Bernard Powell Award, which recognizes alumni who have shown exceptional leadership and commitment to improving the Greater Kansas City area. Nominations are due by March 26, with the recipient to be honored at the Annual Alumni Meeting.
The Centurions Leadership Program is a two-year initiative aimed at building community awareness through civic engagement and addressing issues affecting Greater Kansas City. It seeks to prepare emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds for future roles in shaping the region.
Several events are scheduled throughout March and April. First-year members are invited to an orientation breakfast on March 19 at the KC Chamber Board Room, while second-year members can attend a bowling night social event on March 9. The Pinnacle Kickoff Social for incoming classes will take place on March 25 at UMB Bank, preceded by a private art tour. A retreat is planned for April 8-10 in Nebraska City, Nebraska.
Information sessions about the Centurions program will be held on March 13 at BOK Financial, open to interested professionals from across the region. Additional networking opportunities include coffee gatherings at Equal Minded Cafe on March 19 and a social event at T-Shotz for Apex cohort members.
The Welcoming & Belonging Symposium Series will feature a screening of ‘Big Sonia,’ a documentary about Holocaust survivor Sonia Warshawski, with her daughter Regina Kort as special guest. This event aims to highlight stories that should not be forgotten within the community.
Leadership development remains central to the program’s mission. Dr. Rochelle Parker, CEO of Girl Scouts NE Kansas and NW Missouri, will lead several ‘Leadership Up Close’ conversations focusing on professional alignment and authenticity in leadership. Alumni can also participate in Wine Education 101 at Lavada Wines on April 14.
These activities reflect ongoing efforts by the Centurions Leadership Program to foster connection, learning, and service among current members and alumni.
