Jackson County Executive White and United WE’s Appointments Project® Announce First Appointee

CBIZ’s Carolyn Watley Appointed to Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees 

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Kansas City, MO – January 27, 2021 –  The Office of Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr., in partnership with the Appointments Project® today announce Carolyn Watley’s appointment to the Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees. Watley’s appointment is the first following the announcement of the Project’s expanded programming to Jackson County. Started in 2014, the Appointments Project® has successfully placed 140 women on boards and commissions, including 28 percent of those appointments represented by women of color“Carolyn Watley is an exemplary choice for the Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees and she’ll bring a unique set of experiences and perspectives to the decision-making table,” County Executive White said. “Carolyn’s appointment is the first in our collaborative partnership with United WE’s Appointments Project® to increase the number of women on county boards and commissions, and we’ll continue to ensure that we’re drawing on the talents and diversity of all our residents.” 

The Appointments Project® serves as a talent bank, advisor and advocate for women seeking opportunities to lead their communities and works to attract diverse, qualified applicants for appointed positions on boards and commissions. The Appointments Project® formula trains and mentors women through the process of applying for these positions, fast-tracking their ability to get appointed at every level of government.

“We created the Appointments Project® so boards and commissions could reflect the communities they serve,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President & CEO. “The Appointments Project addresses the gender disparities in local civic leadership and we know Carolyn’s passion for serving her community will be a valuable addition to the Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees.” 

Based on a growing number of success stories, the pipeline of women leaders is growing rapidly across the country. The Appointments Project® fills a critical need in creating a pathway to work with elected officials and better community representation that leads to better lives for all.  

A free public training event is planned for Tuesday, February 2, at 12:00 p.m. CT with local community partners Black Excellence KC, Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, Sisters’ Circle Greater Kansas City and The Links (Jackson County, MO Chapter). The event will be conducted via webinar and allows Jackson County women to learn about leadership opportunities and guides them through the process of applying for these positions. “We encourage and invite everyone to learn more and join us in unlocking women’s potential for civic leadership,” County Executive White said.

To learn more about the Appointments Project® and RSVP for the training, visit www.united-we.org/appointments-project