Tahir Atwater, Executive Director, Midwest Innocence Project
“Tahir Atwater should be recognized because his leadership is grounded in equity, community care, and collective responsibility. He consistently shows up for others – not because it is expected, but because he believes deeply in the power of service, dignity, and meaningful connection.” These are the words of his nominator, India Williams, but they convey the thoughts of all who support Tahir as a Rising Star in 2026. As the current executive director of the Midwest Innocence Project, Tahir has a long line of fans and friends who are so excited about what this gentleman has done and will continue to do in our community.
Tahir has volunteered in the form of hands-on work and advocacy for MOCSA, Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City, Jackson County CASA, Lead to Read KC, Nonprofit Connect’s board, the Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce’s board, and as co-chair of KC Rising’s diversity, equity, and inclusion advisory committee… just to name a few. His volunteerism often involves one-on-one mentorship with kids because he wants to create spaces where people feel seen, heard, valued, and supported. Erica Ostroski, Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City; wrote of Tahir, “During Tahir’s professional tenure at BBBSKC, the agency won national recognition as BBBS of America’s National Agency of the Year. His combination of heart, professionalism, and community-focused leadership exemplifies why he is so deserving of this award.” Julie Donelon, MOCSA; said, “He has a calm, steady demeanor that instills people with confidence and immediately puts them at ease. Through his work at MOCSA, he impacted thousands of people. He leads without needing the spotlight, and Kansas City is better because of the work he chooses to do.” Gene Willis, GEHA; echoed others’ sentiments when he shared, “Tahir was the model to many for consistently living the values of empathy, encouragement, accountability, and compassion in action.”
Luis Padilla, Owner and CEO, Fresco Marketing
“When Wells Fargo partnered with Luis Padilla to develop what became the Folklore Small Business Grant Program, Luis embraced the opportunity with vision and creativity, transforming it into an initiative that has now delivered $400,000 in grants over four years. Those aren’t just dollars, they’re real opportunities for small businesses across Kansas City,” relayed Fabián Gayosso, ReeceNichols Real Estate; and Luis’ nominator for Rising Star. He went on to say, “Through Fresco Marketing, an agency he built from the ground up, he has created far more than a business. He has built a platform where Latino stories, creativity, and entrepreneurship are celebrated and supported.”
In his spare time, Luis became a licensed soccer coach in 2017, thus able to volunteer at the Soccer Nation Academy, a program serving primarily low-income, first-generation families, opening doors for kids. He was recognized as the U.S. Youth Soccer Boys National Coach of the Year in 2018. Fabian added, “Luis leads with heart. He builds bridges. He lifts people up, and he does so humbly.”
Carlos Gomez, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City; wrote, “During the pandemic, Luis collaborated with the Hispanic Chamber to launch ActivoKC, a platform focused on keeping the Latino community informed and safe during a critical time. What sets him apart is his consistency. He serves without seeking recognition, gives back without expecting visibility, and dedicates his time to ensure diverse voices are heard and valued in Kansas City.”
John Fierro, Mattie Rhodes; said, “Luis has been a partner to Mattie Rhodes, helping the organization rebrand in celebration of our 130th anniversary. He approached it with care, cultural sensitivity, creativity, and a deep understanding of our mission. I have witnessed a sincere person who has a positive influence on the world.”
Willy Pegues, Vice President Business Development, McCownGordon Construction
“Visionary leadership, community impact, and professional excellence are what exemplifies Willy Pegues,” wrote his proposer, James Maiden. While his current position at McCownGordon Construction is that of business development in the healthcare business unit, his previous position at the company was as the vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion, where he helped shape the firm’s culture and commitment to belonging. James added, “These efforts not only transformed the internal culture, but also positioned the company as a civic partner dedicated to equity and opportunity.”
Willy has carried his dedication to DEI over to his philanthropic endeavors, as well. He serves as the secretary for the executive board at Saint Luke’s South Hospital, where he helps guide initiatives that strengthen healthcare access and quality. He has also had a pivotal role in securing support for the Men of Character Academy at UMKC. This is a four-year student success initiative designed to foster academic achievement, leadership development, and community engagement among underrepresented students. His volunteer positions are too numerous to list, but among them are board terms for Literacy KC, Kansas City Symphony, Gilda’s Club Kansas City, and the American Red Cross, as well as contributions to Urban Neighborhood Initiative, and the Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce.
Kelvin Perry, who serves as president of the Black Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City; reported that, “Willy has demonstrated remarkable skill in volunteer management and community outreach as chair of the Stronger Together KC Advisory Committee, which he chaired for four years. The initiative saw a 50 percent increase in project impact under his leadership. He possesses an unusual combination of strategic vision, compassionate leadership, and strong organizational skills.”
R. Taylor Smith, Development and Marketing Director, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival
Taylor Smith’s colleagues, when referring to his nomination for the Rising Star award, use language such as, “It is my delight to endorse,” or “I have great enthusiasm for his nomination.” Kimberlee Ried, community volunteer, proposed Taylor for the award, and she said, “He has worked tirelessly on behalf of many non-profit organizations in Kansas City, and he used his skills to enhance the missions of these entities. He makes KC a better place to live, work, and play!”
Donna Thomason, Eventology; relayed, “He is one of our city’s most prolific and ardent creatives for over a decade, now. His leadership is noteworthy, and our clients were always thrilled when Taylor was assigned to a project.” Her sentiment is that Taylor is exactly the kind of emerging leader that the Rising Star program exists to highlight.
A consortium of leaders in the Lyric Opera Circle added that, “His creativity and exceptional professionalism have made him an invaluable collaborator and a standout talent in our community. His work ethic and innovative perspective make him deserving of this recognition.”
Taylor’s time and talents are shared between his current position with the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, Starlight Theatre (former employer), the Lyric Opera of Kansas City, the Kansas City Rose Society, and the Child Protection Center. Each of these organizations has benefited from his deep understanding of donor engagement, crafting compelling campaigns, and inspiring participation and generosity.
Devan Hartnett, who serves as president of the Kansas City Rose Society, reported, “Taylor’s contributions have been nothing short of transformative. He represents the next generation of local leadership: community-oriented, collaborative, and devoted to creating beauty and belonging. He has made a meaningful and lasting impact.”
Elizabeth Wheeler, Senior Director of Philanthropy, Kansas City University
“Elizabeth Wheeler embodies what it means to be a Rising Star in philanthropy. She represents the next generation of civic leaders who not only contribute their time and resources but also elevate the work of others through inspiration, inclusivity, and collaboration,” reported Jennifer Ingraham, Rising Star proposer. She continues regarding the senior director of philanthropy at Kansas City University, “Elizabeth’s leadership is rooted in authenticity.”
In addition to professionally promoting fundraising for a local educational institution, Elizabeth’s volunteer work displays a very large commitment to civic volunteerism. She serves as chair of the fund development committee for the UMKC Women’s Council. Elizabeth is co-chair Newhouse’s Imagine a Day gala this year. In addition, she is an assistant coach with Girls on the Run Serving Greater Kansas City, mentoring elementary and middle school girls through a program combining running, confidence building, and social-emotional development.
With a wide variety of volunteer positions, Elizabeth has served Kansas City Free Eye Clinic, the AIDS Service Foundation of Greater Kansas City, Madam President Camp, UMKC Women’s Council, Kansas City Anti-Violence Project, and the Association of Fundraising Professionals, naming only a few.
Courtney Thomas, Newhouse; said of Elizabeth, “Her unwavering commitment to help us tell our story, get individuals and businesses involved, and her willingness to be boots on the ground, makes her an individual I deeply admire and respect.” Gina Lichte, Girls on the Run Serving Greater Kansas City; added, “She ignites the ‘star power’ in each participant, helping them build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self. Her work is not only impactful, it is inspiring.” Sarah Hughes and Kim Kass, who are both UMKC Women’s Council board members, relayed that, “Elizabeth brings insight from her professional experience and has helped our board immensely in our fundraising efforts. She always comes to meetings with a positive attitude, great energy, and a welcoming spirit.”
Congratulations to the 2026 Class of Rising Stars!
Featured in the February 21, 2026 issue of The Independent
