PDA Expands Its National Footprint with Kansas City Chapter Launch

PDA is pleased to announce the launch of its newest official Chapter in Kansas City, becoming the organization’s 22nd Chapter and further strengthening PDA’s national network of leaders committed to advancing private company governance.

The Kansas City Chapter‑in‑Formation held its inaugural event on April 21 at Lockton Companies—Global Headquarters in Kansas City, bringing together business leaders, governance professionals, and members of the region’s private company community. The successful launch to full Chapter status this past week, reflects the dedication of Chapter President Erica McGeachy Crenshaw and the newly formed Founding Board: Shruti Dubey, Jessica‑Marie Hutchison, JD, Travis E. Leonard, MBA, Sue Tran, Joni Cobb, Wendy Guillies, Deborah Orozco, Amy B. Kweskin, and Madeleine McDonough. PDA also recognizes the support of Chapter Relations Manager Jonathan Griffith, who helped guide the Chapter through its formation process, along with sponsors CFAR and Lockton, whose generosity made this event possible.  

 

 

With more than 50 attendees, the kick-off event featured strong networking and an engaging educational session, Inside the Boardroom: How the C‑suite and the Board Create Value Together. Moderator Stacie Prosser, Kansas City Business Journal Market President & Publisher, led a thoughtful discussion with panelists Sue Tran, former Senior Vice President—General Counsel & Secretary for SC Johnson; Esther George, former President & CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City; and Travis Leonard, Chief Financial Officer at Lockton, offering insight into how executives and boards collaborate to drive performance and long‑term value in private companies.

“With more than 30 members already part of the Kansas City community, our newest Chapter is well‑positioned to contribute to PDA’s mission of strengthening private company governance and supporting directors across the Heartland,” said PDA President & CEO Debra McGuire, FASAE, MBA, IOM, CAE. “While the Chapter has crossed an important milestone with its inaugural event, many more opportunities lie ahead as the leadership team continues building programming, engagement, and visibility throughout the central region of the United States. Eventually, we hope to establish flourishing Chapters in other cities, such as St. Louis and Omaha, as well.”

PDA congratulates the Kansas City Chapter on a successful launch and looks forward to supporting its continued growth and impact.