The Civic Council of Greater Kansas City Taps Madeleine McDonough as Chair

The Civic Council of Greater Kansas City has announced the election of Shook Chair Madeleine McDonough to a two-year term as Chair, effective June 1, 2022. A member of the Civic Council for six years, McDonough previously served as Treasury-Secretary and Vice-Chair, working to bring the Council’s vision for inclusive prosperity to communities across the Kansas City metropolitan area. McDonough succeeds Steven L. Edwards, Chairman and CEO of Black & Veatch, in the leadership role.

“Through key initiatives such as KC Rising, Kansas City Tomorrow and the Heartland Civic Collaborative, the Civic Council is evolving into a diverse, inclusive organization dedicated to increasing prosperity for all of the city’s citizens,” said McDonough. “What makes the Council unique is that it transcends the boundaries of individual businesses, drawing on the resources of its membership to bring about research-driven, inclusive economic change. I look forward to continuing its legacy of fostering impactful civic engagement among the next generation of community leaders.  We are on the cusp of naming a new President, and I am energized about that announcement, as well as the increasingly transformative work ahead.”

“Madeleine believes in the Civic Council’s vision for inclusive prosperity across the Kansas City metropolitan region and has activated on that belief through her steadfast service to the Civic Council over the past six years,” said Don Hall, Jr., Civic Council Board Member and Executive Chairman of Hallmark Cards. “I can think of no better leader to take on the role of Chair.”

McDonough will be third woman to chair the Council since its founding in 1964. Comprised of volunteers from the leadership ranks of the region’s most engaged companies, the Civic Council was created to address complex community challenges. Throughout its history, the Civic Council has given birth to significant initiatives that have contributed to the community’s economic growth and quality of life. A hallmark of the Civic Council is its focus on long-term issues that are strategic and informed by research.

“Madeleine is a Kansas City leader with a clear commitment to bettering our communities. The Civic Council has a goal to drive inclusive, economic change,” said Bill Gautreaux, Civic Council Board Member and Managing Director of MLP Holdings. “Madeleine is a true collaborator and will lead the Civic Council toward meaningful change at this critical moment in Kansas City.”

“Having known Madeleine for many years, I’m happy to pass the baton to her,” said Steve Edwards, immediate past Board Chair of the Civic Council, and Chairman and CEO of Black & Veatch. “The board looks forward to her guidance and partnership as we move Kansas City forward economically and culturally.”