News

DATE:   February 6, 2024
CONTACT: Tama Wagner, Buchanan County Coordinator, (816) 244-6197, wagner@saintjoseph.com

Leadership Northwest Missouri honored at Great Northwest Day

Jefferson City, Mo. – Community leaders from Northwest Missouri are gathering today and tomorrow in Jefferson City to discuss the region’s legislative priorities, as they have done for 20 years as part of Great Northwest Day at the Capitol.

The event now spans two days and includes representatives from 19 counties. The group is introduced to the Senate and House, spends time visiting with legislators and gathers to celebrate all things good in the “Great Northwest” in an evening event open to legislators and their staff members.

At tonight’s event, the first Northwest Missouri Citizen of the Year Award will be given to the Leadership Northwest Missouri classes of 2001, 2002, and 2003, which were the founders of Great Northwest Day at the Capitol.

“Leadership Northwest Missouri is a leadership development program to encourage and support the emergence of leaders in the region,” Kendra Pickering, Executive Director of Leadership Northwest Missouri. “The classes of 2001, 2002 and 2003 were involved with the creation of Great Northwest Day at the Capitol. This group of dedicated leaders saw a need for collaboration and communication throughout the region. On behalf of Leadership Northwest Missouri Board, Alumni, and myself, we are honored to receive the Citizen of the Year Award. The recognition is immensely appreciated.”

The award will be given tonight at the Great Northwest Evening Reception, sponsored by Touchstone Energy, in the Capitol Plaza Ballroom. For more information on Great Northwest Day, visit https://www.greatnorthwestday.com/

 

DATE:   February 1, 2024
CONTACT: Shane Lynch, slynch@saintlukeskc.org, 660-358-5834 

Leadership Northwest Music Jam returns over Trenton’s Alumni weekend and announces new scholarship opportunity for two high school students

The Leadership Northwest Music Jam, presented by Wright Memorial Hospital and Hedrick Medical Center, is set to make its return for the fourth consecutive year at Black Silo Winery in Trenton, MO. The event is scheduled for Saturday, August 31, coinciding with Trenton’s Alumni weekend celebration.

As in previous years, ticket proceeds will benefit the Leadership Northwest Missouri program, but a significant addition to this year’s festivities is the introduction of a scholarship initiative. For the first time, Leadership Northwest Missouri will offer two $500 scholarships to deserving high school seniors. One scholarship will be awarded to a student from Grundy County, the hosting county for the Music Jam, while the second scholarship will go to a student from any of the 19 counties within the Northwest Missouri region. Applications are available at www.leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org and interested students can get more information from their high school counselor. The application deadline is April 1, 2024, and completed submissions can be emailed to leadershipnorthwestmissouri@gmail.com. Scholarship funds will be directly submitted to the institution selected by the awarded students.

Shane Lynch, the Music Jam coordinator, expressed his gratitude, stating, “We are humbled and thrilled that the Leadership Northwest Music Jam has reached a new level, enabling us to give back and award students with these scholarships. None of this would be possible without the unwavering support and generosity of our sponsors and every individual who has purchased a ticket to the Music Jam over the last three years. We extend our heartfelt thanks to each one of you.”

The Leadership Northwest Music Jam committee for this year’s event includes Shane Lynch, Jenna Stevens, Marcia Cox, and Scott Sharp. Over the past three years, the event has raised over $31,000 for the program, garnered a combined attendance of over 800 supporters, and, in 2023, secured a record 38 sponsors.

Wright Memorial Hospital and Hedrick Medical Center are proud to continue their role as presenting sponsors for the Leadership Northwest Music Jam for the fourth consecutive year. Stay tuned for more exciting announcements, including details about this year’s entertainment lineup, ticket on-sale dates, and sponsor spotlights, to be released in the coming months.

For those interested in sponsorship information or seeking more event details, please contact Shane Lynch at slynch@saintlukeskc.org or call 660-358-5834.

DATE:   January 30, 2024
CONTACT: Kendra Pickering, Executive Director, leadershipnorthwestmissouri@gmail.com

24 Regional Participants Begin Leadership Northwest Missouri Program

Twenty-four women and men make up the 2024 class of Leadership Northwest Missouri, an annual series of sessions that bring together existing and emerging leaders from throughout a 19-county region to discover and sharpen their leadership skills, explore regional issues, and build a network of contacts throughout Northwest Missouri.

The 2024 class began with a two-day retreat, January 24 and 25, at Conception Abbey. The participants will gather monthly for day-long sessions in varied locations throughout the region. The series concludes with a July 11 graduation celebration in Jamesport, Missouri.

Members of the 2024 class and the 12 counties they represent are: Jeff Agnew, Ethan Piveral, Atchison County; Sarah Battreall, Isaura Garcia, Victoria Masucci, Carolynn Sollars, Amanda Zessi, Buchanan County; Jordan Wright, Carroll County; Cydney Andrews, David Woody, Clinton County; Nicole Lynch, Daviess County; Chris Martin, DeKalb County; Valarie Shisler, Gentry County; Olivia Burchett, Lauren Dannar, Nevada Fields, Tocarra Williams, Grundy County; Rebecca TenHulzen, Harrison County; Richard Switzer, Linn County; Wes Rockwood, Vanessa Slemp, Ashley Turner, Shelby Wood, Nodaway County; Rachel Brown, Worth County.

Leadership Northwest Missouri has become the catalyst for identifying, training, and connecting the leaders of our region and is a pathway for effective leadership for generations to come. There is a deliberate focus on fostering a sense of ownership for the region – that we have interdependent roles and we depend on each other for the progress and success of Northwest Missouri.

Here are comments from some of our 2024 participants:

“The opening retreat was nothing short of inspirational. I came into this experience with modest expectations and Leadership Northwest didn’t just surpass them, they completely blew them out of the water. Instead of professional development that merely checks off boxes, the opening retreat revealed the exceptional capacities for leadership we already possess and has already started to cultivate them through meaningful connections with one another. I can’t wait for what this journey has in store for all of us and our region.”
Tocarra Williams, Grundy County

“I am blown away by how much I took away from the opening retreat and I cannot wait to keep going! Not only did I leave on Thursday afternoon more confident in myself, I also left with the start of many new lifelong friendships that will prove to be beneficial not only to me, but to those that I serve across the Northwest region.”
Rachel Brown, Worth County

“The Leadership Northwest Missouri opening retreat proved to be an incredibly enriching experience. Over the span of just a few days, the visionary organizers of this event completely reshaped my understanding of leadership. Personally, I found myself delving into self-discovery, and the bonds formed with my fellow classmates were truly invaluable. Adding to the overall brilliance of the retreat was the enchanting setting of Conception Abbey—a place of serene beauty that offered the perfect backdrop for introspection and mental clarity.
Isaura Garcia, Buchanan County

A big thank you to our Platinum Level Sponsor BTC Bank. BTC Bank is a community bank founded in 1919 with headquarters in Bethany, Missouri. Since 1919, they’ve grown to include 22 branch locations across Missouri and Iowa. BTC Bank is proud to call the following communities home: Albany, Beaman, Bethany, Boonville, Buffalo, Cameron, Carrollton, Chillicothe, Columbia, Fayette, Gallatin, Gilman City, Hardin, Jamesport, Maysville, Oregon, Osborn, Pattonsburg, Salisbury, Trenton, and Lamoni (IA). BTC Bank is agriculturally minded, service oriented and driven to strengthen the communities it serves. BTC safeguards the assets of its customers by creating a strong financial base through sound loans, investments and quality service.

Please contact Kendra Pickering for information on Leadership Northwest Missouri.  http://www.leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org    

DATE:   September 11, 2023
CONTACT: Kendra Pickering, Executive Director, leadershipnorthwestmissouri@gmail.com

LEADERSHIP NORTHWEST MISSOURI RECRUITING FOR 2024 CLASS

St. Joseph – Leadership Northwest Missouri continues to offer opportunities to lead, connect and grow within the Northwest Missouri region. They are looking for the right men and women to fill its 2024 class, promising those who join an experience they’ll never forget. Eight days over a seven-month period is the commitment, but the results are worth so much more. The deadline to apply is November 1, 2023.

Often, seminars offer tips on leadership and networking, but Leadership Northwest Missouri is different. This program provides a localized experience, offering leadership training, education on hot topics in the region, and access to a well-connected network of contacts. Here is what some of the 2023 class participants have to say about their experience:

“Leadership Northwest Missouri was such an amazing, worthwhile experience. I will carry the connections that I have made long after this experience has completed. The skills (professionally and personally) I was able to develop and grow will continue to benefit my family, community, and my organization. There is something so powerful about uniting with leaders across the Northwest MO Region to work collaboratively on tackling regional issues. The synergy that comes from such a diverse group of individuals working together to make the communities we live and work the best they possibly can be, is something extremely powerful. I’m so grateful I was granted the opportunity to participate in Leadership Northwest Missouri. I know I am truly better because of this experience.”
Kelsi Meyer, Nodaway County

“I would recommend Leadership Northwest Missouri to anyone wanting to get into a leadership role. Often people think that a leader is the one who tells us what to do and where to go. This training course proves the statement above incorrect. Leaders coming out of this program have an entire tool belt of ways to act, think, and communicate as a leader. On top of that, this course helps you build friendships and connections within the Northwest part of Missouri. You visit the multiple regions and learn a little bit about each one and what makes them tick. From guest speakers to “Tim Time,” you will leave this course with an encouraged heart ready to lead your workplace, home, and community.”
Cole Soptic, Grundy County

“Participating in Leadership Northwest Missouri Class of 2023 has been an incredibly transformative experience. From day one, I was immersed in a dynamic, supportive learning environment that fostered personal and professional growth. The curriculum was thoughtfully designed, covering various leadership topics and providing practical tools for success in Northwest Missouri. The passionate and knowledgeable facilitators shared invaluable insights and challenged us to think critically and creatively. Through engaging discussions and collaborative projects, I formed lasting connections with a diverse group of talented individuals, expanding my network and broadening my perspectives. This program has equipped me with the skills, confidence, and inspiration to become a more effective and influential leader in my region. I highly recommend the Leadership Northwest Missouri class to anyone seeking to enhance their leadership abilities.”
John C. Nab, Caldwell County

The 2024 class will begin with a two-day retreat at Conception Abbey, January 24 and 25, led by Tim Crowley, Ph.D., a national speaker on personal and professional development. Day-long monthly classes will follow in various communities throughout our 19-county region, (Andrew, Atchison, Buchanan, Caldwell, Carroll, Clay, Clinton, Daviess, DeKalb, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Holt, Linn, Livingston, Mercer, Nodaway, Sullivan and Worth), with the class graduation scheduled for July 11, 2024. 

Class participants will come away with a new outlook on the workplace, enhanced leadership skills, hands-on team building exercises, communication and motivational skills, and so much more. To create an effective experience, Leadership Northwest Missouri will limit the number of class participants. The deadline to apply is November 1. Please contact Kendra Pickering if you have questions, leadershipnorthwestmissouri@gmail.com. An application is available to download at:  https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org/program-information

DATE:   September 5, 2023
CONTACT:  Shane Lynch, Event Coordinator, slynch@saintlukeskc.org, 660-358-5834

Leadership Northwest Music Jam breaks attendance record by drawing approximately 315 attendees and raising nearly $12,000 for the leadership organization.

Country music #1 hit songwriter and recording artist, Greylan James, and Trenton locals, Charlie Bacon, Travis Mullenix, and Sam Gibson, drew a crowd of approximately 315 attendees to the Leadership Northwest Music Jam on Saturday night, which is the largest crowd to date at the event over the last three years.   All ticket proceeds benefited the Leadership Northwest Missouri program and raised $11,615 for the organization.  

The show was hosted for the third year at Black Silo Winery in Trenton, MO on Saturday, September 2.   Black Silo Grill and Powerhouse Food provided food for dinner options.

“This year’s Leadership Northwest Music Jam was fantastic,” said Kendra Pickering, LNWMO Class of 2022 and LNWMO Executive Director. “There was entertaining live music, good food, and wonderful company getting together to benefit a great organization.”

Leadership Northwest Missouri would like to thank the attendees for supporting the music event and making it the most successful year yet.  Also, a very special thank you to all the sponsors for their ongoing generosity and support for the event and organization.   Leadership Northwest Music Jam had 38 sponsors from the Northwest Region, which increased from 31 sponsors for last year’s fundraising event.

Sponsors of Leadership Northwest Music Jam include:

Premier Platinum level sponsors are Wright Memorial Hospital and Hedrick Medical Center.

Platinum level sponsors are Black Silo Winery, Regional Radio, K4C Premier Cottages, Northwest Missouri State University Nursing Program, North Central Missouri College, Missouri Sound and Technology, Essig Family McDonald’s of Trenton, and HK Tax and Accounting, LLC.

Gold level sponsors are BTC Bank, Trenton Coca-Cola Bottling, LLC, CFM Insurance, Carroll County Memorial Hospital, Stevens Excavating & Plumbing, and Farmers Bank of Northern Missouri.

Silver level sponsors are Dillon Harp – State Farm Agent, Marcia J Cox, ASM, Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance, Trenton Hy-Vee, Main Street Mercantile, Cobblestone Inn & Suites, Ron Dougan Agency, No Creek Properties, LLC, AgChem, Landes Farms, Dave’s Body Shop, Northwest Health Services, Dynamic Tax & Accounting, Southern Bank, Chula Farmers Coop, and Cameron Regional Medical Center.

Bronze level sponsors are Century 21 Team Elite, Trenton Abstract & Title Company, Farmers State Bank, Main Street Trenton – TDIA, LNWMO Class of 2001, Landes Oil, Inc., Pettijohn Ford of Trenton, and All Smiles Photo Booth.

Leadership Northwest Missouri (LNWMO) is a program for community leaders interested in the regional growth of Northwest Missouri through high-quality training and networking opportunities.  Participants are selected from the nineteen counties of the Northwest region and there are currently 484 alumni members that have benefited from this program.  Leadership Northwest Missouri is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Other upcoming Leadership Northwest Missouri events include a Golf Tournament on September 9 and a Leadership Summit titled “Fill Your Cup” on October 5.  For more information, please visit  https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org/events-class-sessions/

Leadership Northwest Missouri is currently recruiting for the Class of 2024.  An application can be found at https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org/.  The application deadline is Wednesday, November 1.  For more information about Leadership Northwest Missouri, please visit the website.

If interested in more Leadership Northwest Music Jam event information, please reach out to Shane Lynch.

DATE:   July 25, 2023
CONTACT:  Deb Powers, Executive Director

Leadership Northwest Missouri Class of 2023 Graduates 24 from Northwest Missouri

Leadership Northwest Missouri recently held their 2023 graduation celebration in Hamilton at the Hamilton United Methodist Church – Family Life Center. The evening began with a welcome by Emcee, Courtney Jimenez, LNWMO Board President and 2020 LNWMO alum. Marsha Martin, Class of 2022, blessed the group with an invocation prior to dinner. RaCail King and Kelsi Meyer, members of the Class of 2023, reflected on their class year sharing memorable moments, followed by a class video presentation created by Jenna Keyes, Class of 2023. Dr. Tim Crowley shared uplifting leadership thoughts to all in attendance. Deborah Borchers, Board Treasurer and 2012 LNWMO alum, thanked all Program Sponsors-Affiliate: Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri; Platinum: BTC Bank; Gold: Farmers Bank of Northern Missouri and US Bank; Silver: Carroll County Chamber of Commerce, Carroll County Memorial Hospital, Farmers State Bank, Hedrick Medical Center/Wright Memorial Hospital, Mosaic Health System, North Central Missouri College and Northwest Missouri State University; Bronze: Commerce Bank/St. Joseph, Nodaway Valley Bank and St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.

Jennifer Jarvis, Board President Elect and 2021 LNWMO alum, recognized retiring board members: Deborah Borchers, St. Joseph; Courtney Jimenez, St. Joseph; and Randy Mendenhall, Oregon. LNWMO is honored to welcome new board members: Marcie Cutsinger, Trenton; Kasi Norris, St. Joseph; Cole Soptic, Trenton; Jackie Spainhower, Grant City; and Carrie Watkins, Savannah.

Melissa Birdsell, General Board Member and 2017 LNWMO alum, presented the Leadership Northwest Missouri Citizenship Award for 2023 to Carrie Watkins, Community Engagement Director, Voices of Courage Child Advocacy Center. Carrie has worked to bring teams together to benefit children and families all over Northwest Missouri. Carrie’s role is to coordinate team investigative efforts in cases of child abuse and neglect in a 9-county coverage area. Her ultimate goal is to make sure each team functions to the best of its ability so that child abuse cases can have best outcomes for kids. Carrie is making a big difference in kids’ lives both in her role as a Forensic Interviewer as well as her role as our Multi-Disciplinary Team Coordinator. She is also an alum of the LNWMO Class of 2023.

The Leadership Northwest Missouri Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Deb Powers for her service to Leadership Northwest Missouri as Executive Director for a combined 14 years. Deb is retiring in December and the new Executive Director was introduced at graduation; Kendra Pickering, Nodaway County and LNWMO alum from the Class of 2022.

Courtney Jimenez presented each of the 24 graduating class members a plaque for completing the program. Graduates from the 2023 class, “Breaking out of the Box,” represented the following 12 counties: Jenna Keyes, Machelle Skinner, Carrie Watkins, Andrew County; Brooke Vette, Melissa Williamson, Kamron Woodring, Atchison County; Alexander Murray, April Wood, Buchanan County; John C. Nab, Caldwell County; Jeffrey Martin, Carroll County; Chad Howerton, Clinton County; RaCail King, Daviess County; Laura Almquist, Shawna Dye, Gentry County; Lisa Colson, Kerry Savage, Cole Soptic, Becky Vandevender, Grundy County; Sarah Williamson, Harrison County; Lee Ann Blazer, Adam Summers, Holt County; DeAnn Davison, Kelsi Meyer, Ian Myers, Nodaway County.

A special thank you to the Graduation Planning Committee from the Class of 2022: Matt Barry, Amy Ford, Brittany Higgins, Marsha Martin, Joni Oaks, Scott Sharp, and Marissa Spillman.

Leadership Northwest Missouri is a leadership development program designed to bring together participants from throughout a 19-county region to build, strengthen and inspire leaders through training and networking experiences. This class began in January and continued through July with monthly sessions in various Northwest Missouri communities. Classes during the 2023 class year were held in Conception, Trenton, Maryville, St. Joseph, Mound City and Carrollton. Each session contained instruction on various leadership skills, examination of various issues facing the region and hands-on exercises. In addition to education, other regional issues that were addressed included agriculture, team empowerment, healthcare, mental health, and economic development.

DATE:   June 28, 2023
CONTACT:  Deb Powers, Executive Director

Leadership Northwest Missouri Receives Charitable Gift

Leadership Northwest Missouri is grateful to have recently received a charitable gift from the Norma J. and William J. Kenney Charitable Trust, U.S. Bank, N.A. Trustee, in the amount of $2,000.

These funds will be used to purchase much needed technology for Leadership Northwest Missouri which will greatly assist with sustaining our mission to build, strengthen and inspire leaders through training and networking experiences. With the upcoming graduation of the Class of 2023, alumni numbering 484 have benefited from Leadership Northwest Missouri. Effective leadership is vital to the future prosperity of Northwest Missouri and charitable donations enable us to present a high-quality program to a new group of regional leaders each year.

Leadership Northwest Missouri is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org  

Courtney Jimenez, Assistant Vice President/Trust Officer, U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, presented a check to the Leadership Northwest Missouri Board of Directors.

DATE: June 26, 2023         
CONTACT: Shane Lynch, Event Coordinator, slynch@saintlukeskc.org, 660-358-5834

Leadership Northwest Music Jam headliner, Greylan James, co-writes the #1 Country song in the nation.

This year’s Leadership Northwest Music Jam headliner, Greylan James, has helped pen the #1 Country Music song in the nation.  The hit song is titled “Next Thing You Know” and is performed by Country hitmaker, Jordan Davis.  Having written several songs that have been recorded by numerous artists, this is Greylan’s first #1 chart topper and he will be performing it live at Leadership Northwest Music Jam presented by Wright Memorial Hospital and Hedrick Medical Center.  The event will be held on Saturday, September 2 at Black Silo Winery in Trenton, MO for the third year in a row and is a fundraiser for the Leadership Northwest Missouri organization. 

The event is being held during Trenton’s Alumni weekend and will also include performances from local Trenton alumni, Charlie Bacon, Sam Gibson, and Travis Mullenix. 

Currently opening shows on Old Dominion’s sellout tour through July, Greylan James signed his first major record deal with Big Machine Label Group in March of this year.  Greylan will be making a stop in Trenton to headline Leadership Northwest Music Jam before opening tour dates for Jordan Davis and Cole Swindell later this Fall.

Tickets are available now via Eventbrite for $25.  Tickets and more show information are available on the Facebook pages for Leadership Northwest Missouri, Black Silo Winery, and Greylan James.  Ticket prices will increase to $30 at the door on the day of the show.

Doors open at 6:30pm.  Food trucks will be available for dinner options again this year.

Tickets can be purchased at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/615104814057

About Leadership Northwest Missouri (LNWMO): 
Leadership Northwest Missouri is a program for community leaders interested in the regional growth of Northwest Missouri through high-quality training and networking opportunities.  Participants are selected from the nineteen counties of the Northwest region and there are currently 484 alumni members that have benefited from this program.  Leadership Northwest Missouri is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

About Greylan James: 

After high school, Greylan James moved to Nashville, TN in pursuit of his dreams in the music business.  Shortly after, Universal Music Publishing signed Greylan to a global publishing deal at just 18 years old.  While writing, he was also featured on NBC’s The Voice and was ranked one of the best guitarists in the world under 21 by Guitar Center Magazine’s Brotherhood of the Guitar Top 100.  His songwriting is proven to be relatable, often ending up in the hands of notable names such as Chris Young, Blake Shelton, Jordan Davis, Cole Swindell, Darius Rucker, and Chris Janson.  In 2020, Kenny Chesney personally called Greylan to inform him that he was recording his song “Happy Does,” which peaked at #2 on Country radio charts.    “Next Thing You Know,” is a song Greylan co-wrote that is currently the #1 song on the Country radio charts and performed by Jordan Davis.  In 2023, Greylan is also opening sold-out shows for Old Dominion on the No Bad Vibes Tour from January through July and has been shown support as a new artist by People Country, American Songwriter, CMT, and Billboard.  In April, Greylan was named as SiriusXM’s The Highway’s newest Highway Find, featuring his songs “My Future” and “2 Years Back.”  In the same month, Greylan signed his first major record deal with Big Machine Label Group with plans to release his first single to Country radio this year.

Currently, sponsors of Leadership Northwest Music Jam include:

Premier Platinum level sponsors are Wright Memorial Hospital and Hedrick Medical Center.

Platinum level sponsors are Black Silo Winery, Regional Radio, K4C Premier Cottages, Northwest Missouri State University Nursing Program, North Central Missouri College, Missouri Sound and Technology, Essig Family McDonald’s of Trenton, and HK Tax and Accounting, LLC.

Gold level sponsors are BTC Bank, Trenton Coca-Cola Bottling, LLC, CFM Insurance, Carroll County Memorial Hospital, Stevens Excavating & Plumbing, and Farmers Bank of Northern Missouri.

Silver level sponsors are Dillon Harp – State Farm Agent, Marcia J Cox, ASM, Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance, Trenton Hy-Vee, Main Street Mercantile, Cobblestone Inn & Suites, Ron Dougan Agency, No Creek Properties, LLC, AgChem, Landes Farms, Dave’s Body Shop, Northwest Health Services, Dynamic Tax & Accounting, Southern Bank, Chula Farmers Coop, and Cameron Regional Medical Center.

Bronze level sponsors are Century 21 Team Elite, Trenton Abstract & Title Company, Farmers State Bank, Main Street Trenton – TDIA, LNWMO Class of 2001, Landes Oil, Inc., and Pettijohn Ford of Trenton.

If interested in sponsorship information or more event information, please reach out to Shane Lynch.

DATE:   January 30, 2023
CONTACT:  Deb Powers, Executive Director

24 Regional Participants Begin Leadership Northwest Missouri Program

Twenty-four women and men make up the 2023 class of Leadership Northwest Missouri, an annual series of sessions that bring together existing and emerging leaders from throughout a 19-county region to discover and sharpen their leadership skills, explore regional issues, and build a network of contacts throughout Northwest Missouri.

The 2023 class began with a two-day retreat, January 18 and 19, at Conception Abbey. The participants will gather monthly for day-long sessions in varied locations throughout the region. The series concludes with a July 13 graduation celebration in Hamilton, Missouri.

Members of the 2023 class and the 14 counties they represent are: Jenna Keyes, Andrew County; Brooke Vette, Melissa Williamson, Kamron Woodring, Atchison County; Alexander Murray, Carrie Watkins, April Wood, Buchanan County; Dr. John Nab, Caldwell County; Jeffrey Martin, Carroll County; Chad Howerton, Clinton County; RaCail King, Daviess County; Laura Almquist, Shawna Dye, Gentry County; Cole Soptic, Becky Vandevender, Grundy County; Sarah Williamson, Harrison County; Lee Ann Blazer, Adam Summers, Holt County; Kerry Savage, Livingston County; Lisa Colson, Mercer County; DeAnn Davison, Kelsi Meyer, Ian Myers, Dr. Machelle Skinner, Nodaway County.

Leadership Northwest Missouri has become the catalyst for identifying, training and connecting the leaders of our region and is a pathway for effective leadership for generations to come. There is a deliberate focus on fostering a sense of ownership for the region – that we have interdependent roles and we depend on each other for the progress and success of Northwest Missouri.

Comments from some of our 2023 participants:

“I am excited to see my Leadership grow over the next several months.”
Shawna Dye, Gentry County

“LNWMO was such an amazing experience. Not only do you get to learn more about leadership and yourself, you get to meet a group of amazing people. Deb, Tim, The Board, and most importantly your class. You immediately form a new family upon walking into the doors, a family that will be sure to last a life time. I highly recommend this opportunity to anyone.”
Cole Soptic, Grundy County

“What an amazing experience! Meeting my classmates and sharing experiences with them was truly something so special – you truly come as strangers and leave as family. I look forward to being able to see everyone each month, catch up and continue to grow and share.”
Carrie Watkins, Buchanan County

“Our two-day retreat was an amazing experience that I’d recommend to anyone no matter their employment role. I have been able to apply what I’ve learned to my career and my personal life.”
Becky Vandevender, Grundy County

A big thank you to our Platinum Level Sponsor BTC Bank. BTC Bank is a community bank founded in 1919 with headquarters in Bethany, Missouri. Since 1919, they’ve grown to include 22 branch locations across Missouri and Iowa. BTC Bank is proud to call the following communities home: Albany, Beaman, Bethany, Boonville, Buffalo, Cameron, Carrollton, Chillicothe, Columbia, Fayette, Gallatin, Gilman City, Hardin, Jamesport, Maysville, Oregon, Osborn, Pattonsburg, Salisbury, Trenton, and Lamoni (IA). BTC Bank is agriculturally minded, service oriented and driven to strengthen the communities it serves. BTC safeguards the assets of its customers by creating a strong financial base through sound loans, investments and quality service.

Please contact Deb Powers for information on Leadership Northwest Missouri.  http://www.leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org

DATE: September 6, 2022         
CONTACT: Deb Powers, Executive Director

Leadership Northwest Missouri Receives Charitable Gifts

Leadership Northwest Missouri is grateful to have recently received two charitable gifts. One from The Harry and Helena Messick Charitable Trust, US Bank, N.A. Trustee, in the amount of $4,500, and one from a Private Foundation donor in the amount of $7,000.

These funds will greatly assist with sustaining our mission to build, strengthen and inspire leaders through training and networking experiences. Alumni numbering 460 have benefited from Leadership Northwest Missouri. Effective leadership is vital to the future prosperity of Northwest Missouri and charitable donations enable us to present a high-quality program to a new group of regional leaders each year.

Leadership Northwest Missouri is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org   

Courtney Jimenez, Assistant Vice President/Trust Officer, U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, presented checks to the Leadership Northwest Missouri Board of Directors.

DATE: August 29, 2022         
CONTACT: Shane Lynch, Event Coordinator

Leadership Northwest Music Jam drew approximately 225 attendees and raised nearly $9,500 for the leadership organization.

Country music recording artist, Ryan Griffin, and local Trenton resident, Charlie Bacon, drew a crowd of approximately 225 attendees to the Leadership Northwest Music Jam on Saturday night.   All ticket proceeds benefited the Leadership Northwest Missouri program and raised $9,451 for the organization.   

The show was hosted for the second year at Black Silo Winery in Trenton, MO on Saturday, August 27.   Smoked Iguana and 50 Grams Foods provided food trucks for dinner options.

“This year’s Leadership Northwest Music Jam event hit all the right notes,” said Rachel Davidson, LNWMO’s Past President. “The event’s committee produced an excellent event, and it was incredible to see so many generous businesses and individuals committed to developing leaders in our region.”

Leadership Northwest Missouri would like to thank the attendees for supporting the music event for a second year.  Also, a very special thank you to all the sponsors for their ongoing generosity and support for the event and organization.   Leadership Northwest Music Jam had 31 sponsors from the Northwest Region, which increased from 21 sponsors for last year’s fundraising event. 

Sponsors of Leadership Northwest Music Jam include:

Wright Memorial Hospital and Hedrick Medical Center were the Premier Platinum and presenting sponsors for the second year.

Platinum level sponsors are:  Black Silo Winery, Regional Radio, K4C Premier Cottages, Northwest Missouri State University Nursing Program, Marcia J Cox, ASM, Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance/Princeton Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, LLC, Carroll County Memorial Hospital, and Smithfield Foods.

Gold level sponsors are:  North Central Missouri College, BTC Bank, Northwest Health Services, Trenton Coca-Cola Bottling, LLC, and CFM Insurance.

Silver level sponsors are:  Dillon Harp – State Farm Agent, Ron Dougan Agency, Trenton Hy-Vee, No Creek Properties, LLC, Broker Direct Ag Chemicals, Main Street Mercantile, Citizens Bank & Trust, Cameron Regional Medical Center, LNWMO Alumni Class of 2001, Tim Crowley Leadership Group, and Cobblestone Inn & Suites.

Bronze level sponsors are:  Century 21 Team Elite, Landes Farms, Landes Oil, Inc., Trenton Abstract & Title Company, Dynamic Tax and Accounting, Farmers State Bank, and Main Street Trenton – TDIA.

Leadership Northwest Missouri (LNWMO) is a program for community leaders interested in the regional growth of Northwest Missouri through high-quality training and networking opportunities.  Participants are selected from the nineteen counties of the Northwest region and there are currently 460 alumni members that have benefited from this program.  Leadership Northwest Missouri is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Other upcoming Leadership Northwest Missouri events include a Stewards of Children training and a Leadership Summit titled “Fill Your Cup.”  For more information, please visit  https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org/events-class-sessions/

Leadership Northwest Missouri is currently recruiting for the Class of 2023.  An application can be found at https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org/.  The application deadline is Tuesday, November 1.  For more information about Leadership Northwest Missouri, please visit the website.

DATE: July 22, 2022         
CONTACT: Deb Powers, Executive Director

Leadership Northwest Missouri is grateful to have recently received a charitable gift from The Harold P. Dugdale Charitable Trust, US Bank, N.A. Trustee, in the amount of $3,000. These funds will greatly assist with sustaining our mission to build, strengthen and inspire leaders through training and networking experiences.

Leadership Northwest Missouri is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org       

Courtney Jimenez, Assistant Vice President/Trust Officer, U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, presented a check to members of the Leadership Northwest Missouri Board of Directors.

DATE:   February 21, 2022
CONTACT:  Deb Powers, Executive Director

Leadership Northwest Missouri is grateful to have recently received a charitable gift from the Patterson Family Foundation in the amount of $2,000. These funds will greatly assist with sustaining our mission to build, strengthen and inspire leaders through training and networking experiences.

The Patterson Family Foundation is a family-led foundation extending the legacy of Neal and Jeanne Patterson. They strive to help lift up rural communities through health care, education, economic opportunity, and beyond. Their mission is “Advancing health care, education, and strengthening communities, particularly in rural areas.”

Leadership Northwest Missouri is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org

DATE:   October 26, 2021
CONTACT:  Kate Bonderer

Leadership Summit Held at Bethany Community Gym

Bethany Community Gym hosted Leadership Northwest Missouri on Thursday, October 14, 2021, for a “Fill Your Cup” leadership summit. Twenty-Four alumni of Leadership Northwest Missouri and their guests had a day of professional development and leadership building exercises. The event was organized by the 2021 Leadership Northwest Missouri class to “Recharge, Re-engage and Recruit.” Brian Carter, Bethany Chamber of Commerce President offered a welcome to Bethany, Patrick Miller, LNWMO Class of 2015, provided the group with a regional success story and Shelbi Davis, University of Missouri Medical Student, provided information and resources about the ongoing opioid epidemic. Dr. Tim Crowley followed as the keynote speaker.

Leadership Northwest Missouri is a program for community leaders interested in the regional growth of Northwest Missouri through high-quality training and networking opportunities. Participants are selected from the nineteen counties of Andrew, Atchison, Buchanan, Caldwell, Carroll, Clay, Clinton, Daviess, DeKalb, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Holt, Linn, Livingston, Mercer, Nodaway, Sullivan and Worth. For More information, visit www.leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org.

DATE:   September 28, 2021
CONTACT:  Shane Lynch, Event Coordinator

First ever Leadership Northwest Music Jam drew approximately 300 attendees and raised over $9,800 for the leadership organization.

Country music recording artist, Sunny Sweeney, and local Trenton resident, Salem Croy, drew a crowd of approximately 300 attendees to the first ever Leadership Northwest Music Jam on Saturday night.   All ticket proceeds benefited the Leadership Northwest Missouri program and raised $9,881 for the organization.   

The show was hosted at Black Silo Winery in Trenton, MO on Saturday, September 25.   Smoked Iguana and 50 Grams Foods provided food trucks for dinner options.

“I hope the Music Jam becomes an annual event.  It was a wonderful opportunity to re-connect with Leadership Northwest alumni, enjoy some good food and listen to fantastic music with great friends.” says Dr. Kristen Alley, LNWMO Board of Directors.  She adds, “Sunny and Salem were incredible, the weather was perfect, and the fellowship was exceptional.  It was great to see a variety of people, young and old, socializing and having such an enjoyable evening.  This is what makes our local, small communities so special.  Our newest alumni did a fabulous job organizing this event.  They set the bar high for future classes and really demonstrated why we call our part of Missouri the Great Northwest!”

Leadership Northwest Missouri would like to thank the attendees for supporting the music event and the organization.  Also, a very special thank you to all the sponsors for their overwhelming generosity and support for the event.

Sponsors of Leadership Northwest Music Jam include: Platinum level sponsors – Black Silo Winery, Regional Radio, K4C Premier Cottages, North Central Missouri College, Smithfield, Northwest Health Services, and Northwest Missouri State University Nursing Program;  Gold level sponsors – BTC Bank, Main Street Mercantile, Marcia J Cox, ASM, Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance, and Zane and Jordan Jones;  Silver level sponsors – Carroll County Memorial Hospital, Farmers State Bank, Trenton HyVee, Weldon Builders & Construction, and Cobblestone Inn & Suites of Trenton;  Bronze level sponsors – Dillon Harp – State Farm Agent, Main Street Trenton – TDIA, Century 21 Team Elite and, Jennee Gregory.

Leadership Northwest Missouri (LNWMO) is a program for community leaders interested in the regional growth of Northwest Missouri through high-quality training and networking opportunities.  Participants are selected from the nineteen counties of the Northwest region and there are currently 440 alumni members that have benefited from this program.  Leadership Northwest Missouri is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

The next Leadership Northwest Missouri event is a Leadership Summit titled “Fill Your Cup,” which will be held in Bethany, MO on Thursday, October 14. 

Leadership Northwest Missouri is currently recruiting for the Class of 2022.  An application can be found at https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org/.  The application deadline is Monday, November 1.  For more information about Leadership Northwest Missouri, please visit the website.

DATE:   July 28, 2021
CONTACT:  Deb Powers, Executive Director

Leadership Northwest Missouri is grateful to have recently received two charitable gifts. One from The Harry and Helena Messick Charitable Trust, US Bank, N.A. Trustee, in the amount of $4,500, and one from The Harold P. Dugdale Charitable Trust, US Bank, N.A. Trustee, in the amount of $2,000. These funds will greatly assist with sustaining our mission to build, strengthen and inspire leaders through training and networking experiences.

Leadership Northwest Missouri is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org       

Courtney Jimenez, Trust Advisor, U.S. Bank Wealth Management, presented checks to members of the Leadership Northwest Missouri Board of Directors.

DATE:   September 23, 2020
CONTACT:  Deb Powers, Executive Director

Leadership Northwest Missouri is grateful to have recently received two charitable gifts. One from The Harry and Helena Messick Charitable Trust, US Bank, N.A. Trustee and one from The Gary G. Taylor Charitable Trust, US Bank, N.A. Trustee, in the amounts of $4,500 each. These funds will greatly assist with sustaining our mission to build, strengthen and inspire leaders through training and networking experiences.

Leadership Northwest Missouri is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org

Courtney Nixon, Trust Officer, U.S. Bank Wealth Management, presented checks to members of the Leadership Northwest Missouri Class of 2020 recently at one of their class sessions.

DATE:   October 22, 2018
CONTACT:  Alicia Endicott, aendicott@mail.ncmissouri.edu

Leadership Summit Held at NCMC

Trenton, MO – North Central Missouri College hosted Leadership Northwest Missouri on Thursday, October 18, 2018, for a “Fill Your Cup” summit.  Eighty-five alumni of Leadership Northwest Missouri and their guests had a day of professional development and leadership building exercises.  The seminar was organized by the 2018 Leadership Northwest Missouri class to “Recharge, Re-engage and Recruit”.  Dr. Tim Crowley facilitated the discussions and a leadership panel Q&A with regional leaders that included,  Marcia Cunningham – Brookfield Area Growth Partnership, Program Coordinator; Greg McDanel – Maryville, City Manager; Phillip Ray – Grundy County Presiding Commissioner – Elect, & NCMDA Board of Directors; Steve Schieber – CEO of Hedrick Medical Center, Chillicothe and Interim CEO of Wright Memorial Hospital, Trenton; Annette Weeks – Director of Center for Entrepreneurship, Craig School of Business & Technology, MWSU.

Leadership Northwest Missouri is a program for community leaders interested in the regional growth of Northwest Missouri through high-quality training and networking opportunities.  Participants are selected from the nineteen counties of Andrew, Atchison, Buchanan, Caldwell, Carroll, Clay, Clinton, Daviess, DeKalb, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Holt, Linn, Livingston, Mercer, Nodaway, Sullivan and Worth.

DATE: September 1, 2016
CONTACT: Ben White, President; Staci Baker, President Elect

LEADERSHIP NORTHWEST MISSOURI AFFILIATES WITH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHWEST MISSOURI
Leadership Northwest Missouri is pleased to announce their affiliation with Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri.  They are a great organization for LNWMO to affiliate with.  Community Foundation’s vision is “To be a national leader in regional collaboration creating the culture which results in increased philanthropy and prosperity.” Their vivid description: “Northwest Missouri is known for its vibrant home towns with extraordinary citizens who invest in and care about the prosperity of their region. Through regional collaboration the Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri fosters grass roots innovation and economic vibrancy in communities. We believe our success in the future is based on our work today.”

Leadership Northwest Missouri mirrors Community Foundation’s efforts in our region, providing the fit needed to continue to grow our communities now and in the future. Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri covers 18 of our 19 counties in Northwest Missouri.  This change will provide continuity of the program as the board continues to look at potential growth for Leadership Northwest Missouri. “Our partnership with Community Foundation is invaluable and our visions for the future of Northwest Missouri are very similar. This affiliation made sense on so many levels. Their resources will be a huge asset to our organization, and we look forward to working with them to better the Great Northwest,”  President Ben White said. Our “physical” office/mailing address is now:  1006 West St. Maartens Drive, Suite B, St. Joseph, MO 64506.

In addition to this new partnership, LNWMO is pleased to share that Deb Powers has been hired by Leadership Northwest Missouri to continue as Executive Director.  President Elect Staci Baker said, “We are very excited that Deb accepted LNWMO’s proposal.  We are blessed to have her.  She does an amazing job keeping things on track and maintaining the organization of the program.  With her knowledge and enthusiasm, LNWMO will continue to foster leadership development and growth throughout our Region.”  https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org/board-of-directors