Руководители советов директоров делятся своими мотивами.

Marilyn Sherron and Lisa Schaures share something unique in common: each has stepped up to lead KCSARC’s Board of Directors as its president.

Marilyn was elected and began serving as Board president in 2021, leading the group through a pandemic, a transition in the CEO role, and more. When Marilyn’s term expired this summer, Lisa was elected to take the reins. We asked each of these dynamic leaders to reflect on what the role means to them.

Marilyn: When I stepped into this leadership role during a period of steady stability, none of us could have predicted the historic shifts ahead. The arrival of COVID-19 demanded immediate, decisive action. To ensure KCSARC never wavered in its mission, the Board rapidly modernized—moving meetings and major fundraisers online so our frontline staff could focus entirely on what matters most: supporting survivors and their families.

True leadership is defined in times of transition, and I am incredibly proud of how we secured KCSARC’s future. Together, we honored a 50-year legacy by seamlessly guiding trailblazing CEO Mary Ellen Stone into retirement, while strategically recruiting Kate Garvey to lead us forward. In today’s complex political landscape, we have actively partnered with Kate to forge powerful new alliances, secure vital funding, and anchor our presence with fresh city, county, and state leadership.

We did not just survive an unprecedented era — the KCSARC Board emerged stronger, smarter, and more resilient than ever. It has been an absolute honor to serve alongside this extraordinary team, and I pass the baton to incoming Board President Lisa Schaures with total confidence that KCSARC’s vital work will continue to thrive.

Lisa: Over the past several years, what I am proud of is supporting a collaborative board and staff team with a focus on strengthening KCSARC’s prevention, client service, and policy advocacy work. One of the highlights of my board service has been contributing to strategic efforts that broaden public awareness and engagement around issues that are often difficult to discuss. Through initiatives such as Let’s Talk About It campaign, KCSARC has continued to elevate important conversations about consent, prevention, survivor support, and the lasting positive impacts of KCSARC’s work. I am grateful to support those efforts as part of an organization that consistently demonstrates both compassion and courage.

During a period marked by significant social, economic, and organizational challenges, we have remained focused on serving survivors and our community effectively and sustainably. As I step into the role of Board President, I look forward to building on that work and advancing KCSARC’s mission in the years ahead.

Join us in thanking Marilyn and Lisa for their leadership, and all of the Board members who dedicate their time and energy to KCSARC’s mission!

Learn more about all of our Board members here.