Turning Research, Policy Solutions and Civic Engagement into Results for Kansas Women

United WE has been breaking down barriers to women’s economic growth and leadership since 1991. The “think and do” tank’s nonpartisan, research-backed approach has driven meaningful change across the nation, proving that when women succeed, communities and economies flourish. Kansas in particular has been fertile ground for United WE’s policy agenda, including increasing access to childcare, occupational licensing reform, fostering women’s entrepreneurship and growing the civic leadership bench with women interested in serving their communities.

Joni Wickham is a former Chief of Staff to Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Sly James, and previously worked with the American Federation of Teachers, the Missouri Department of Transportation, and in the office of Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan. A recipient of the 2019 University of Missouri Truman School of Public Affairs Mel Carnahan Public Service Award, she was also named to the Kansas City Business Journal’s prestigious Class of 2023 Women Who Mean Business.

Wendy Doyle is a leading advocate for women’s economic and civic advancement, serving as president and CEO of United WE. Over the past decade, she has driven impactful policy change through research, advocacy, and initiatives like the Appointments Project. Wendy regularly advises policymakers, testifies before legislatures, and champions reforms in equal pay, childcare, paid leave, and more. Her leadership has earned numerous honors, including the Missouri Lieutenant Governor’s Women of Achievement award and induction into the Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame. She holds a B.A. from Rockhurst University.

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Inspired by the leadership legacies of Senators Bob and Elizabeth Dole, and the enduring civic contributions of the Greatest Generation, the Dole Institute of Politics strives to promote a new era of leadership that uses politics to bring people together through opportunities that emphasize bipartisan cooperation, public service, and civic education and engagement.