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Nominate an executive leader for the inaugural Kauffman Uncommon Leader Visionary Award

The award honors those who have brought their vision to life by creating lasting, measurable change.

Written by Julie Scheidegger
Uncommon leaders make more possible

The nomination window for the inaugural Kauffman Uncommon Leader Visionary Award is open through June 1. The award is designed to honor an executive leader from a 501(c)(3) public charity in the Kansas City region building an inspiring and impactful legacy.

We believe uncommon leaders make more possible. Like our founder, Ewing Marion Kauffman, they stand out because they build organizations and cultivate movements that shift systems. They open doors that remain open to expand access and equity. They develop enduring organizational and community value that continues to generate impact long after they step away.

Uncommon leadership is defined by outcomes, not recognition. The Visionary Award honors those who have brought their vision to life by creating lasting, measurable change.

Uncommon leadership is how real progress happens. It develops over time through service, collaboration, and change that endures. When we shine a spotlight on this kind of leadership, we do more than celebrate it. We create the opportunity to learn from it, and for others to carry it forward.

— Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace
President and CEO, Kauffman Foundation

Up to five awardees will be recognized at the Uncommon Leader Award celebration this fall. The Visionary Awardee will receive $75,000 individually in addition to $150,000 for their organization. Finalists will be awarded $10,000 individually in addition to $15,000 for their organization.

“Visionaries often lead without fanfare and from behind the scenes, which is why we’re counting on the community for nominations to celebrate the outstanding impact of these leaders,” said Allison Greenwood Bajracharya, chief impact and strategy officer for the Foundation. “If you know a leader who has created lasting change, please nominate them.”

The Visionary Award is the second of two Kauffman Uncommon Leader Awards; it builds on last year’s Impact Award spotlighting emerging leaders among Kansas City’s nonprofit organizations. The application form, award criteria, eligibility requirements, resources, and frequently asked questions can be found here.

Nominate an uncommon leader

Media inquiries may be directed to Julie Scheidegger via our media contact form, or by calling 816-932-1180.

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