IN CLOSING
Want to Make a Difference? Learn to Be Intentional BY MADELINE ROMIOUS, ’95 MBA
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o say that we find ourselves in dynamic and challenging times in the world today is a huge understatement. In the past year and a half, we have been inundated with constant change, eroding trust, and concerns about our mental and physical health and safety. I contend that in addition to the calm that my faith provides me, maintaining a focus on intentionality in my actions and engagements and being focused on solutions more than problems has been key to my coping and thriving in today’s world. A recent opportunity that came my way and is testing my theory about intentionality and being solutions focused is being voted to serve as the chairperson of the Police Foundation of Kansas City (PFKC). I am often asked why, as a person of color, I am doing this given the attention swirling in the media about the lack of trust and concerns over policing policies toward people of color. My response is usually quick and simple. We must all make intentional choices to change the communities we live in for the better. Whether that choice is to be active in your neighborhood association, mentoring kids who desperately need role models or volunteering to make food and serve the homeless, we must take intentional steps to make an impact. I have found that it can be as complex as leading change in an organization or as simple as saying hello to the person you pass on your morning walk. The PFKC focuses on engaging communities and assisting in reducing crime by generating funds for Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department initiatives. In addition, the PFKC supports the impact of technology, social workers and community engagement on reducing crime. The PFKC also works toward supporting the phenomenal members of the KCPD who keep our city safe while at the same time trying to figure out how to make more people feel a part of the solution and build trust in our communities. In my view, the Police Foundation is just one part of the ecosystem of impact in Kansas City. I have made an intentional decision to channel my efforts there. I challenge everyone else to be intentional about your actions in a way that strengthens your personal resolve and supports your community.
Madeline Romious is regional vice president for AT&T, where she is responsible for governmental and external affairs in the Kansas City, Missouri, area. She earned her MBA from Rockhurst University in 1995 and is a past member the University’s board of trustees. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from Northwestern University.
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FALL 2021
