april Newsletter

Prepared, Connected & Moving Forward

As we move into April, we continue to build on the strong momentum created throughout the first quarter of 2026. Thank you for your ongoing leadership, engagement, and commitment to the Kansas City, Kansas Chamber of Commerce. Your involvement continues to drive progress and strengthen our business community.

We want to extend our appreciation to all who joined us for the Congressional Forum with KCK Mayor Christal Watson last month. The conversation provided valuable insight into key priorities, community initiatives, and the future of Kansas City, Kansas. Events like this reinforce the importance of staying engaged and connected as we work together to advocate for and support our local business environment.

Looking ahead, we are excited to highlight our upcoming Small Business Lunch & Learn: Emergency Planning event. This session is designed to equip business owners and leaders with practical tools and strategies to prepare for the unexpected, protect operations, and ensure long-term resilience. In today’s ever-changing environment, being prepared is essential—and this event offers valuable guidance to help safeguard your business and team.

April also brings continued opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow. From networking events to educational programming, the Chamber remains committed to creating meaningful experiences that support your success and strengthen our collective impact.

Thank you for being an active part of the KCK Chamber. We look forward to seeing you at upcoming events and continuing to build a strong, resilient, and thriving Kansas City, Kansas together.

Warm regards,

Renee Hadley, KCK Chamber President

Renee Hadley

New Members

Law Office of Manu K. Rattan

Young Women on the Move

Signature Event

Golf Tournament

Enjoy a day of golf, networking, and friendly competition while building connections with fellow business and community leaders.

Location: Dubs Dread Golf Course
12601 Hollingsworth Rd, Kansas City, KS 66109

May 20, 7:00am - 6:00pm

April Events

Executive Briefing Series with Turning Point

Gain expert insights and strategic perspectives from industry leaders while engaging in meaningful discussion on key business and community issues.

Chamber Member Discount Code:
KCKBIZ99

Apr 7, 7:30am - 8:30am

Prepare to Score BIG! Global Marketing Training

Learn strategies to expand your reach, connect with international audiences, and prepare your business for global opportunities and growth.

Apr 7, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Free to Attend

Small Business Lunch & Learn: Emergency Planning

Gain practical strategies to prepare for emergencies, protect operations, and ensure business continuity while connecting with fellow professionals.

Location: KCK Chamber Office
727 Minnesota Avenue
Kansas City, KS 66101

Apr 8, 11:30am - 1:00pm

$10 to Attend

Over The Fence Happy Hour

Connect with fellow professionals in a relaxed setting, build relationships, and expand your network across the business community.

Apr 16, 4:00pm - 6:00pm

Free to Attend

Executive Briefing Series with Turning Point

Hear from industry leaders, gain strategic insights, and engage in meaningful discussions on key business and community challenges.

Chamber Member Discount Code:
KCKBIZ99

Apr 21, 7:30am - 8:30am

Coffee & Connect

Start your day with coffee, build meaningful connections, and expand your network in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Apr 30, 8:00am - 10:00am

Free to Attend

Executive Briefing Series with Turning Point

Designed for executives and senior leaders, this 60-minute virtual series provides practical frameworks to improve decision-making, align teams, and lead with clarity in high-pressure environments.

Chamber Member Discount Code:
KCKBIZ99

Executive Leadership Briefing Series
Virtual | 60-Minute Sessions
1st & 3rd Tuesdays | April – September

Piper USD 203 Announces Dr. Kellen Adams as Next Superintendent of Schools

Kansas City, Kan. — The Board of Education of Piper Unified School District 203 is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Kellen Adams as the district’s next Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Adams will officially begin serving Piper USD 203 on July 1, 2026.

Dr. Jessica Dain, current Superintendent, will continue in her role through June 30, 2026, ensuring a smooth and stable leadership transition.

Dr. Adams currently serves as Superintendent of Leavenworth USD 453, where he provides executive leadership for a district of approximately 3,300 students and 550 staff members. His leadership focuses on accountability, strategic alignment, and transparent communication while overseeing a $40 million annual budget and all district operations.

Prior to his role in Leavenworth, Dr. Adams served as Superintendent of Chanute USD 413, where he led district-wide initiatives, managed over $18 million in annual expenditures, and directed capital improvement projects. His leadership experience also includes service as a principal, assistant superintendent, and classroom teacher, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of PreK–12 education.

Dr. Adams is widely recognized for his leadership across Kansas and his commitment to advancing public education statewide. He has been nominated twice for Kansas Superintendent of the Year, highlighting the respect he has earned among colleagues and communities.

He is actively involved in several key professional organizations, demonstrating his leadership beyond the district level:

Board Member, Kansas School Superintendents’ Association (KSSA)
Board Member, Kansas Association of School Business Officials (KASBO)
Executive Board Member, Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA)
Member, American Association of School Administrators (AASA)
Member, United School Administrators (USA-Kansas)

In addition, Dr. Adams contributes to the development of future educational leaders as a Professor of Practice in Educational Leadership at Kansas State University, where he teaches graduate courses and mentors aspiring administrators across the state.

“Dr. Adams’ proven track record of impactful leadership, his ability to build strong relationships, and his clear focus on student success set him apart throughout our search process,” said Ashley Biondi, President of the Piper USD 203 Board of Education. “We are confident in his ability to lead Piper USD 203 forward, strengthen our district’s culture, and continue delivering exceptional opportunities for our students and staff.”

Dr. Adams shared his enthusiasm for joining the Piper community:

“I am honored to be selected as the next superintendent of Piper USD 203. I look forward to working alongside students, staff, families, and the community to continue the district’s strong tradition of excellence and to create new opportunities for all learners.”

The Board of Education extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Jessica Dain for her leadership and dedication to Piper USD 203 and for her support in ensuring a smooth transition.

For more information about the Piper School District, please visit www.piperschools.com.