Meet the Makers! Engaging local leaders in KC

Are you curious about how a family-owned business uses marquee lights to light up events and special occasions in our city? Or how a KC-area cycle instructor is reenvisioning how we view exercise through confidence and body positivity? What about how a nature lover developed a hiking business that flourished during the pandemic, exploring our great city? Or how a chef and area restaurateur has big plans for our local food culture?
These four Kansas City leaders have the answers to your burning questions about how they got to where they are. Learn from some of the most innovative minds of KC, including:
- Heather Coday of Alpha Lit KC
- Thomas Tyler of Revive Indoor Cycling
- Lisa Peña of Urban Hikes Kansas City
- Chef Howard Hanna of Ça va
The live program will be emceed by Nick Davis, '19, DJ and Live Performer in Kansas City.
We will be honoring our 2023 Faber Young Alumni Award Winners, Kaela Varberg, '12, and John Borders, '10 '13 MBA, during our live program. The Faber Young Alumni Award is given to a young alumnus(a) who has demonstrated leadership capability, substantial indication of a commitment to the service of others, demonstration of potential for leadership/distinction in the long-term, and substantial commitment to Rockhurst University and its mission.
The Young Alumni Council invites all alumni, students and friends of the University to an evening at Rockhurst learning from each of our speakers. Presented in a TED Talk format, each speaker will hit on their experiences in the KC makers market.
5:30 p.m. | doors open and social hour
6:15 p.m. | TED Talk presentations
7:30 p.m. | meet the makers! vendor pop-up in lobby
After the presentations, all guests are invited to shop with our presenting vendors:
- Bernie Lee with Art from Architecture
- Maggie (Cain) Knopke '18, with XOXO by Mags
- Gianna Procopio, '10 with Macramade KC
- Cherry Co.
$15 registration includes complimentary beverages, appetizers, and admission into the event! *RU students, message us to receive your special discount code to attend!
*Please note, tickets are non-refundable.
Event Location:
Rockhurst University
Pedro Arrupe, S.J., Hall - Auditorium
1100 Rockhurst Road
Kansas City, MO 64110
Questions? Contact Hannah Tarwater, '18, '21 MA at hannah.tarwater@rockhurst.edu or 816-501-4888.