KANSASCITY, Mo. (July 24, 2024) – As the American Royal celebrates its 125th anniversary, the organization is pleased to announce the appointment of seven to the board of directors for a three-year term, ending Spring 2027. These new board members bring vast experience, visionary leadership, and a shared commitment to the mission of the organization.
New board members include:
- Kevin Heikes, Intent, Co-Founder and COO
- Carl Ice, BNSF Railway, Retired CEO
- Molly Olson, Eli Lilly and Company, Director, Strategy and Operations
- Amy Polen, Great Jobs KC, Director of Special Events
- Randy Reinhardt, Zephyr Products, CEO
- Tony Rohr, Multistudio, National Managing Principal
- Trae Venerable, Kansas City National Security Campus, Engineer
In addition to the above, the American Royal elected six individuals to serve as advisory directors:
- Justin Begnaud, Chairman’s Club Leadership Representative
- Scott Bormann, The Saddle and Sirloin Club of Kansas City President
- Rod Gray, Kansas City Barbeque Society, Chief Executive Officer
- Mindy Lallier, Visit Kansas City, Kansas, Director of Sales
- Emily Narverud, Chairman’s Club Leadership Representative
- Natalie Welch, Belles of the American Royal, President
“We’re honored to welcome these outstanding individuals to our board,” said Jackie McClaskey, American Royal President and CEO. “These new members bring diverse expertise and a fresh perspective that will drive us forward as we pursue our mission to be the nation’s leader in food and agriculture education, events and engagement.”
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About the American Royal Association
A Kansas City tradition since 1899, the American Royal is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization whose mission is to be the nation’s leader for food and agriculture education, events, and engagement. The American Royal provides opportunities for nearly half a million youth and adults from around the world to engage in high-quality events and experiences, including nationally competitive livestock shows, the world’s largest barbecue competition, regional and national equine shows, youth and professional rodeos, and elementary and secondary education outreach. Support from partners, members, and volunteers help the American Royal achieve its vision of a world where food and agriculture are celebrated, and all generations are committed to its future.