Kansas Leadership Center CEO Kaye Monk-Morgan to discuss how individual leadership drives community change
Kansas State University and Manhattan community members are invited to hear from Kaye
Monk-Morgan, president and CEO of the Kansas Leadership Center, during the Fall 2025 Lou Douglas Lecture hosted by UFM Community Learning Center. Monk-Morgan will present “Leading for Impact: How to Change Your Community One Person at a Time” at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, in Forum Hall at the K-State Student Union.
The Lou Douglas Lecture Series brings nationally recognized leaders to campus to explore complex issues of public policy, leadership and democratic engagement. Monk-Morgan’s address will offer practical insights into how individuals — regardless of position or title — can strengthen organizations, build coalitions and create meaningful, lasting change.
“Each of us has something to offer to make Kansas stronger, healthier and more prosperous,” Monk-Morgan said. “Our communities need individuals who are willing to show up and work with others to make big, difficult change possible.”
A third-generation Kansan, Monk-Morgan leads the Kansas Leadership Center, an internationally recognized organization dedicated to developing stronger civic and organizational leadership across sectors. Before becoming president and CEO, she served as the center’s inaugural chief impact officer, helping advance efforts to foster collaboration and problem-solving throughout the state.
Monk-Morgan brings more than 30 years of experience in higher education, including leadership roles at Wichita State University, where she served as vice president for strategic engagement and planning. Her professional background includes strategic planning, economic and community development, accreditation, and extensive work supporting first-generation college students. Earlier in her career, she directed Wichita State’s TRIO Upward Bound Math Science program, mentoring students from underserved communities pursuing STEM careers.
An active civic leader, Monk-Morgan serves on several nonprofit and corporate boards, including Emprise Bank, The Kansas African American Museum, NXTUS and the Wichita Land Bank. She is also a faculty member with NASPA’s Center for First-generation Student Success and the Higher Learning Commission’s Advancing Strategy Institute.
A first-generation college graduate herself, Monk-Morgan holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and business, a Master of Public Administration, and a doctorate in educational leadership. Her research and international speaking engagements focus on women in leadership and the success of first-generation students.
Monk-Morgan’s lecture will challenge attendees to consider how they can apply adaptive leadership principles within their own professional and civic lives. Participants will gain strategies for mobilizing others, engaging across differences and leading with clarity and purpose to create impact in their organizations and communities.
The Fall 2025 Lou Douglas Lecture, presented by UFM Community Learning Center in partnership with K-State Extension, will take place at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, in Forum Hall at the K-State Student Union. Admission is free, and registration is available online.
Learn more about the Lou Douglas Lecture Series and explore past speakers.