
Team
We are a community of educators, employers, and advocates working together to provide equitable experiences through integrated partnerships between students, teachers, and local businesses.
Meet Our Team
Every student should graduate with the tools to pursue their career goals and successfully navigate the rapidly evolving and increasingly complex economic landscape. We are activating a community to ensure that students are able to develop essential skills and understand their professional possibilities. The RWL Team supports districts, schools, and educators in creating opportunities for students to unlock their potential and empowers employers to improve career trajectories.
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Bill Nicely
Educator In Residence
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Anna Hennes
Program Leader
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Salvador Ocampo
Program Leader
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Angee Simmons
Communications & Engagement Program Leader
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Dan Tesfay
Data Strategist
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Donna McDaniel
Educator in Residence
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Todd White
Support Team
RWL Collaborators
These companies have helped shape the RWL initiative, maximizing its impact on individuals, organizations, and our communities.
Executive Committee
Comprised of employers and education leaders, our Executive Committee exists to review key resources, ensure equitable access, cultivate support, and advocate for continuous learning and innovation in our community.
- Julie Atkins
Honeywell - Dr. Kim Beatty
Metropolitan Community College - Angie Besendorfer
KC Scholars - Arthur Cheatham
Spire - Dr. Frank Harwood
DeSoto School District - Lynette Huscher
Garmin - Paula Infranca
Burns and McDonnell - Tysie McDowell
Crossroads Academy - Carolyn P. McKnight
KU Edwards Campus - Anita Newton
CommunityAmerica Credit Union - Megan Remley
Lockton - Brad Sandt
Menlo - Brandon Simpson
Entrepreneur - Dr. Kenny Southwick
Cooperating School Districts of Greater Kansas City - Mike Stradinger
Holland 1916 - Dr. Andrew Underwood
Belton School District - Molly Weaver
Sunflower Talent Strategies - Sharmelle Winsett
KC Scholars
CEO Champions Group
As part of the regional Real World Learning initiative our community partner, KC Rising, has recruited a small group of CEOs to help support and champion RWL efforts.




Employers
Employers play a central role in RWL by providing experiences that allow students to discover their passion and understand their professional trajectory. There are over 600 employers involved in this work.