The Western Kansas Community Foundation Board of Directors recently named Katie Reck as the incoming Executive Director, effective June 22. She succeeds Conny Bogaard who will retire June 30.
“Katie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in leadership, higher education, nonprofit work, workforce development, grant management, and community collaboration,” Paula Rowden, WKCF Board Chair, said. “The WKCF board is confident that Katie’s background and knowledge will help strengthen WKCF’s commitment to rural philanthropy while allowing us to adapt our strategy and approach as needed to best meet the evolving needs of western Kansas communities.”
Dr. Reck comes to WKCF from Seward County Community College, where she most recently served as Director of Adult Education. During her time there, she led significant program growth across southwest Kansas, developed innovative workforce and community partnerships, and secured grant funding to expand educational opportunities for adult learners.
“I’ve always believed that the most meaningful work is work that positively impacts the lives of others,” Reck said. “Joining the Western Kansas Community Foundation is an opportunity to help connect generosity, leadership, and local passion to create lasting impact across western Kansas. I’m thrilled to work alongside the passionate and positive change-makers at Western Kansas Community Foundation.”
Prior to her work in Kansas, Dr. Reck was a tenured Professor of Human Development and Family Studies at Central Michigan University, where she focused on effective teaching practices, community programming, and outreach. She is passionate about strengthening communities, building meaningful partnerships, and creating opportunities that lead to generational change. Dr. Reck looks forward to working alongside the WKCF team, board members, donors, and community partners to help foster a strong and vibrant future for western Kansas.
WKCF is hosting a come-and-go reception from 4 – 6 p.m. on June 23 at Patrick Dugan’s Coffee House, 301 N. Main, Garden City. Members of the community are welcome to greet Katie Reck and thank Conny Bogaard for her years of service.
