IN-PERSON | Lessons in Leadership with Julie Klima and Special Guest, Kia Walsh!
Lessons in Leadership is for leaders eager to grow. Join fellow CXers for a conversation with a woman leader in the community, so you can grow in knowledge, learn from others, and identify ways to stretch yourself.
Each session our Lessons in Leadership facilitator, Julie Klima, Managing Director at Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership at UMKC, will interview a guest woman in leadership who will share their experience and philosophies. May's special guest is Kia Walsh, CEO at Sherwood Autism Center.
Whether you are a manager or project leader, new entrant to the workforce with company leadership on the horizon, an entrepreneur leading in a variety of ways, or an executive, you are welcome to join Lessons in Leadership. Real discussion leads to evolving mindsets and behaviors, and CX's environment is comfortable for open discussion and sharing.
Kia Walsh is a dynamic leader with nearly two decades of experience driving organizational transformation and community engagement. As the CEO of Sherwood Autism Center, Kia oversees operations that support nearly 100 individuals with autism while leading a team to achieve significant milestones, including a 90% reduction in turnover and the successful implementation of innovative strategies that promote inclusivity and operational efficiency. Her commitment to fostering collaboration and excellence has positioned her as a trailblazer in the nonprofit sector.
Before her tenure at Sherwood Autism Center, Kia held pivotal roles in healthcare management, where she spearheaded market expansion across multiple states, enhanced operational performance, and built high-value partnerships. Her strategic vision and ability to lead organizational restructuring have consistently resulted in sustainable growth and improved outcomes. Kia’s ability to navigate complex challenges with clarity and purpose has made her a trusted advisor and leader.
Kia’s influence extends beyond her professional roles. She serves on several boards, including the Health Forward Foundation and University Health System-TMC Foundation, where her insights drive impactful decisions and initiatives. Kia embodies a commitment to service and community development. Her dedication to empowering others through mentorship and leadership has inspired countless professionals to realize their potential.
Join Lessons in Leadership to learn from Kia Walsh’s journey of innovation, resilience, and leadership excellence. Her insights on building inclusive teams, strategic growth, and fostering meaningful connections will empower you to stretch your perspectives and redefine your approach to leadership. Whether you are an emerging leader, entrepreneur, or seasoned executive, Kia’s story will inspire you to lead with authenticity and impact.
Julie Klima is the Managing Director at the Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership at UMKC, which is dedicated to enhancing performance and effectiveness in the nonprofit community through education, research and service. Julie is a passionate advocate for a thriving nonprofit sector and has more than two decades of cross-sector experience leading teams through growth and change.
Date and Time
Tuesday May 13, 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM CDT
5:00 pm - Arrival, mingle and enjoy appetizers and wine
5:30 pm - Discussion begins
6:30 pm - Stick around and mingle if desired
7:00 pm - Event ends
Please Provide Us Notice If You Need To Cancel:
We understand that schedules change. If you have registered for this program and can no longer attend, we greatly appreciate you notifying us of your cancellation by completing our cancellation form or emailing hello@centralexchange.org at least 48-hours prior to the program if possible. This is so we can adjust our catering order to help eliminate food waste and prepare accordingly. Thank you!
Location
IN-PERSON AT UMKC BLOCH EXECUTIVE HALL
5108 CHERRY STREET, ROOM 331
KANSAS CITY, MO 64110
Pick up your parking pass in Lot 12. Click HERE to download a pdf with parking instructions.
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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