The Rockhurst University Leadership Series (RULS) brings some of the world’s foremost thinkers and luminaries to St. Louis to speak on aspects of their leadership.
Past featured guests of the St. Louis RU Leadership Series include NFL Hall of Fame Coach Dick Vermeil, U.S. Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Homeboy Industries Founder Greg Boyle S.J., and former KMOX top-rated radio talk show host Charlie Brennan.
The event also includes both the annual Magis Award and Faber Young Alumni Award celebrations.
2025 Special Guest
Kelly Chase
Former St. Louis Blues Player and Broadcaster
"A Fight Beyond the Game"
The Rockhurst University St. Louis Leaders Council invites you to the 2025 Rockhurst University Leadership Series luncheon, featuring Kelly Chase, beloved former St. Louis Blues player and broadcaster.
Known for his grit, heart, and humor, Kelly will share inspiring stories and leadership lessons from his years on the ice, his courageous battle with cancer, and his tireless commitment to raising funds and awareness for cancer research.
Join us for an afternoon of connection, inspiration, and community as we celebrate the power of leadership to create lasting impact.
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Thursday, November 6
Clayton Plaza Hotel
7750 Carondelet Ave. Clayton, MO 63105
Tickets
Individual Tickets are Available for $150
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITES
PRESENTING SPONSOR • $10,000
- Two elite table locations for 20 guests seated near the keynote speaker, Kelly Chase
- On-stage presentation from your company’s representative
- Company logo on all event materials, webpage, and in RU magazine
- Title sponsorship listing and acknowledgment in all marketing materials
- Complimentary gift for each guest
JESUIT SPONSOR • $5,000
- Premier table locations for 10 guests
- Company logo on all event materials, webpage, and in RU magazine
- Sponsorship listing and acknowledgment in all marketing materials
- Complimentary gift for each guest
ST. LOUIS SPONSOR • $3,000
- Upgraded table locations for 10 guests
- Company logo on all event materials, webpage and in the RU Magazine
- Complimentary gift for each guest
MISSION SPONSOR • $2,000
- Select table locations for 10 guests
- Sponsorship listing and acknowledgment in all marketing materials
- Complimentary gift for each guest
Become a Sponsor Today!
Click Here To Secure Your Sponsorship
For questions about sponsorship or tickets, contact Mary Kennedy at mary.kennedy@rockhurst.edu or 816-589-2586.
2025 Magis Award
Image
This year’s Magis Award honors Bob (’89) and Laura (McGrady) Bira (’90) for their lifelong commitment to the Jesuit value of magis, meaning "more." They met as Resident Advisors at Rockhurst University and married a few years later in St. Louis, with Fr. Nick Rashford, S.J., officiating. Grounded in the values of service, leadership, and faith, they continue to give back to Rockhurst and their community.
Laura is the founder of POP Marketing, a St. Louis firm focused on branding and packaging, and an advocate for women-led businesses. She has served on the St. Louis RU Leaders Council since 2019, including terms as Vice Chair and Chair. Bob is Vice President of Sales at Deloitte Consulting and a De Smet Jesuit alumnus. He is active in parish leadership and supports military and homeland security organizations. Together, they live out Jesuit ideals in their work and service.
Proud parents of Nate and Abby, the Biras enjoy family time at the Lake of the Ozarks. They remain closely involved with Rockhurst, primarily through their connection with Fr. Stephen Hess, S.J., and the Mabee Chapel, continuing to lead by example in faith and generosity.
Faber Young Alumni Award
Image
This year’s Faber Young Alumni award recipient is Claire Burkemper, ’16, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist, and the founder of Play As You Are Therapy in Maplewood, Missouri. Her practice offers compassionate, play-based therapy for children experiencing anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges. Claire also teaches graduate-level play therapy at the University of Missouri–St. Louis and provides professional training for nonprofits throughout the St. Louis area.
While at Rockhurst, Claire was deeply involved in campus ministry, VOICES for Justice, Ambassadors, and international service trips to Belize. After graduation, she joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps and spent two years teaching eighth grade in Pohnpei, Micronesia. She later earned her Master of Social Work through Loyola University Chicago’s MAGIS program while serving youth in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood through Catholic Charities.
Claire’s work is grounded in the values of justice, connection, and care. She is also active with the St. Louis Catholic Worker, a community committed to hospitality and the Works of Mercy. Claire currently lives in St. Louis with her spouse, Jack Reid, ’16, and they are preparing to welcome their first child this fall.
