16 Leaders Across Missouri Share Why They Are Grateful

St. Louis MO

08 December, 2021

10:54 AM

Description

Press release from Lents & Associates, LLC: Dec. 8, 2021 As the holidays are upon us, we've asked leaders across the state…what are you thankful for? Industries from nonprofits to education to catering – it's so reassuring to find that people are still indeed grateful. "Especially at this time of year, we are grateful for the opportunities we have at Harris-Stowe State University to broaden and enhance the opportunities for minority students, and especially, under resourced students. Serving these capable students is the focus of our mission, and, in doing so, we not only enhance their lifelong possibilities, but add to the richness and diversity of the fabric of our community and region." Dr. LaTonia Collins SmithInterim President, Harris-Stowe State University "I am so thankful for all the strong women who came before me, including my grandmother and mother, whose legacies continue through our work for change." Wendy D. Doyle President & CEO, United WE "Providing the highest quality of oral healthcare to diverse, marginalized and vulnerable populations is our mission. We, the faculty, staff and students at the St. Louis Dental Center, are deeply grateful for the privilege to serve patients of all ages and backgrounds. Our work would not be possible without the collaboration from our key partner, Affinia Healthcare, and several other partners in the region who share and support our mission. We thank you and wish you joy, peace, hope and health throughout this season and beyond." Dwight E. McLeod, DDS, MS Professor of Periodontics and Dean A.T. Still University - Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health St. Louis Dental Center "I am thankful for the women leaders and mentors who continue to build a path for younger generations. Through their work, they are setting young women up for success in their future careers and to be strong and powerful leaders in the future." Jami Dolby Director of Development, FORCE Women in Leadership, Maryville University "I am grateful to be a part of a family-owned business where my kids are collaborating, our team has become a second family and we are part of a community that has come together to find creative solutions. Together we have weathered the past two years without losing focus on creating every reason to celebrate." Richard Nix, Jr.President, Butler's Pantry "I'm grateful for my family and friends, and that I have the opportunity to be part of a work family that strives to fulfill our clients' financial dreams with enthusiasm, excitement and heart." Wendy Hartman President, Buckingham Strategic Wealth "I am thankful for all of the women leaders across the state of Missouri that work to make a difference in the workforce and in our communities. I love connecting with women leaders and feel grateful to be in a position of bringing women together to listen, learn and discuss important issues as they continue in their leadership journeys." Katie Steele Danner Executive Director, Greater Missouri Leadership Foundation "It is a blessing to work in a space of collaboration and innovation, where we are fostering the growth of the next generation of entrepreneurs and business and community leaders." Dr. Stacy Gee Hollins Dean, Anheuser-Busch School of Business, Harris-Stowe State University "I am grateful for the parents, children, and young adults who show us what inner strength is when faced with a diagnosis of cancer or sickle cell or when dealing with speech and language disorders, as well as the trained music and speech therapists who bring joy to patients and families." Ebonee F. Shaw Director of Special Programs, Walker Scottish Rite Clinic & Kids Rock Cancer, Maryville University "I'm grateful for the pediatricians across the state who have worked tirelessly in a constantly changing environment to keep kids & families safe and healthy during the pandemic. And I'm incredibly thankful for safe and effective vaccines that keep our families safe. The pandemic has presented enormous challenges for all of us, but I remain hopeful for what the future brings." Kristin Sohl, MD, FAAP President, Missouri Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics "What better time of year to think about what we all must do to move our community and our region forward. At the Missouri Botanical Garden, embedded in our mission is ensuring that all of our communities are seen, their presences welcomed, and their voices heard as we all work together to sustain our planet." Amanda Shields Director of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging, Missouri Botanical Garden "I am grateful for the opportunity to work with fun and dedicated people who help kids discover the best in themselves." Addie Bond Interim Executive Director, Sherwood Forest "We're grateful for the educators, workforce development professionals, and civic leaders who equip our community for a bright future. This holiday season is a perfect time to remember those who have invested in each of us, and to help the next person along their career journey." Dr. Leigh Anne Taylor Knight Executive Director & COO, The DeBruce Foundation "In the coming weeks, we are thankful for the special occasions that will honor our colleagues and students around the world. We know that we are at our best when we celebrate each other, and through our words and actions, show our concern for each other. That is why we unequivocally state that we are grateful for our students, faculty, and staff – whose light has not dimmed nor high spirits wavered during these times." Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) Stroble Chancellor of Webster University "We are fortunate at the National Council of Jewish Women St Louis that we have the opportunity every day with every program to positively impact the myriad of people who need what we all can offer. For us, going to work is the proverbial labor of love. As we all realize, there are so many, too many, who need a helping hand—whether it's a backpack of school supplies, a microloan or a phone call that says, "how are you?". As we gather 'round our holiday tables, we will give thanks for all that we have and for the opportunity to help improve the lives of women, children and families in our community." Ellen Alper CEO, National Council of Jewish Women St. Louis "I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with an amazing team, innovative entrepreneurs, and dedicated community leaders who champion the bold every day." Emily Lohse-Busch Executive Director, Arch Grants This press release was produced by Lents & Associates, LLC. The views expressed here are the author's own.