National Leaders in Business, Media, and Sports to Convene at United WE’s 35th Anniversary Champions for Change
Forbes Editor-at-Large, IMA Financial Group CEO, and The Female Quotient Founder & CEO to Headline United WE’s 35th Anniversary Champions for Change
KANSAS CITY, MO –United WE, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing women's economic and civic leadership, today announced a powerhouse lineup of national leaders who will take the stage at the organization’s 2026 Champions for Change event. The hybrid event will mark United WE’s 35th anniversary and take place at CPKC Stadium, Home of Kansas City Current, on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 7:30 – 9:30 AM (formal programming to begin at 8:30 am).
The event, presented by Bank of America, will feature Kansas City Current Co-Owner Brittany Mahomes and a virtual program streamed across the country and emceed by NFL Network Host and On-Air Talent Kimmi Chex.
The event will also feature a panel of national leaders for a powerful and timely conversation about the places, spaces, and systems influencing women’s economic participation nationwide, including:
Maneet Ahuja, Editor-At-Large, Forbes
Robert L. Cohen, Chairman & CEO, IMA Financial Group; Controlling Owner, Denver Summit FC
Shelley Zalis, Founder & CEO, The Female Quotient
“During Women’s History Month, we reflect on the progress women have made and the opportunities ahead to strengthen communities and expand economic participation nationwide,” said Wendy Doyle, President & CEO of United WE. “Champions for Change brings together leaders in media, finance, and the workplace to explore the investments and environments that fuel growth. This is not just a celebration of 35 years of impact—it’s an opportunity to help shape what comes next for our economy.”
Event leadership includes co-chairs Chancellor Mauli Agrawal, University of Missouri-Kansas City; Susan Schaefer, Kansas City General Construction Group Market Leader, JE Dunn; Clay Smith, Kansas City Market President, IMA Financial Group; and Beth Wade, CEO, VML KC.
Cathi and David Brain, longtime supporters of United WE and active leaders in Kansas City’s civic and philanthropic community, will serve as Honorary Chairs. Additional speakers, including elected officials, will be announced closer to the event.
Hosted at the first stadium in the world built specifically for a women’s professional sports team, United WE’s 2026 Champions for Change will celebrate the organization’s three decades of advancing women’s economic and civic leadership. From expanding access to child care and breaking down licensing barriers to empowering hundreds of women to serve on local boards and commissions, United WE advances solutions across policy and practice. Its “Research. Solutions. Results.” model translates evidence into systemic change, removing barriers to women’s labor force participation and strengthening the overall economy.
United WE invites all civic leaders, policymakers, business executives, philanthropists, community changemakers, media, entrepreneurs, and corporate leaders to celebrate, connect, and champion.
Tickets and sponsorships are available now. For more information, visit: www.united-we.org/champions-for-change-2026
