IN-PERSON | CEO Series with Kansas City's Friends of Alvin Ailey's Carla Williams-Evans!
The CEO Series, originally established in 2001, offers members and guests the opportunity to connect with Kansas City CEOs as they share their leadership journeys, insights from their business experiences, and the latest business trends. Whether you're looking to enhance your personal and professional performance or simply hear from top industry leaders, this is an event you won't want to miss!

Carla Williams-Evans, LSSGB has over 25 years leading teams, projects and operations in multiple industries and sectors, with responsibilities ranging from system development, business planning, project management and non-profit management. She is currently Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA), providing executive leadership and oversight of KCFAA, including strategic planning, board governance, financial stability, community engagement, programming, and staff management.
As CEO, Carla is responsible for leading the development and execution of the organization’s strategic plan, driving marketing & fundraising strategies, maximizing operational efficiency, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and increasing the visibility of KCFAA’s vision and mission along with impact and value to the community.
Carla's commitment to excellence is underscored by her Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification, highlighting her focus on process improvement and operational excellence. Her collaborative approach empowers her team to embrace challenges and drive positive change, ensuring that KCFAA continues to be a vital force in promoting the arts and cultural heritage within the community.
With a deep understanding of the intricacies of non-profit leadership and a commitment to social impact, Carla Williams-Evans stands out as a transformative leader dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals through the power of the arts.
Carla has previously held leadership or Board positions with Connections to Success, Dress for Success KC, Central Exchange, The Links, Jack and Jill, Awesome Ambitions, Envision Grow Lead and Band of Angels. Her deep commitment to community engagement aligns perfectly with KCFAA’s mission, and her passion for promoting diversity and inclusion through the arts will undoubtedly enhance the organization’s reach and influence.

Date and Time
Wednesday Oct 29, 2025
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM CDT
8:30 am - Arrival, mingle and enjoy breakfast
9:00 am - Program begins
10:00 am - Event ends
Already registered but now unable to attend? Please cancel at least 48-hours in advance at centralexchange.org/cancel-program-registration
Location
IN-PERSON AT UMKC BLOCH EXECUTIVE HALL
5108 CHERRY STREET, ROOM 414
You will receive an email from UMKC Parking 24-48 hours prior to the program. This will include a personalized link to the parking registration portal. To complete registration, you will enter your vehicle information, including your license plate number.
Parking is available in the Cherry Street Garage and you are able to park in Lot 12, Lot 14 or Lot 19, or any of the other lots in red on the map (see here).
Fees/Admission
FREE for CX Members
1 Voucher for CX Partners
$35.00 for Non-members
No refunds.
Interested in becoming a CX Member? Read more about membership here and be our guest for up to two CX Programs or Exchange Circles.
Contact Information
Allison Baker
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