Welcoming a new chair and chair-elect, the Greater Topeka Partnership is pleased to announce its distinguished leadership team for 2024.

 

Dr. Shekhar Challa, an accomplished doctor and co-founder of Kansas Medical Clinic, has assumed the pivotal role of Greater Topeka Partnership Chair, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a commitment to advancing the region’s prosperity. Joining Dr. Challa in a key leadership position is Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek, President of Washburn University, who has stepped into the role of Chair-Elect. Alongside Immediate Past-Chair John Dicus, CEO of Capitol Federal, their combined expertise and dedication to serving the community are set to steer The Partnership toward strategic initiatives that will further enhance Topeka’s economic landscape.

 

This year’s GTP leadership boasts an impressive lineup of accomplished professionals, each contributing their unique perspectives and skills to drive The Partnership’s mission forward. Key members of Partnership boards include:

·        Matt All, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, GTP Board Treasurer

·        Rob Bergquist, Cyrus Hotel, Chair of the Visit Topeka Board of Directors

·        Kevin Cook, Shawnee County Commissioner, Momentum 2027 Tri-Chair

·        Tara Dimick, Compass Marketing + Advertising Partners, Momentum 2027 Tri-Chair

·        Natalie Haag, Capitol Federal, Chamber PAC Chair

·        Calla Haggard, Community Bank, Chair of the GO Topeka Board of Directors

·        Tobias Harvey, Create Uplift, Small Business Council Chair

·        Mackenzi Mondesir, U.S. Bank, Chair of the Downtown Topeka Board of Directors

·        Mike Morse, Kansas Commercial, Chair of the Topeka Area Sports Commission

·        Michael Padilla, Mayor, Momentum 2027 Tri-Chair

·        Marquisha Paul, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Equity & Opportunity Advisory Board Chair

·        Greg Schwerdt, Schwerdt Design Group, Chair of the Riverfront Advisory Council

·        Zac Surritt, R&S Maintenance, Chair of the Forge Young Talent Leadership Board

·        Patrick Vogelsberg, ONE Gas, Chair of the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce

 

“The Greater Topeka Partnership is privileged to have such a dynamic group of leaders guiding our efforts,” said Matt Pivarnik, CEO of The Partnership. “With Dr. Challa, Dr. Mazachek and Dicus at the helm, and the priceless expertise of all our leadership, we are confident our organization will continue to make a positive impact in the community and region. Our leadership helps hold us accountable, as we work to improve economic prosperity for all. We couldn’t do the work we do without them.”

 

These leaders play a pivotal role in shaping The Partnership’s strategic direction, driving economic development initiatives and overseeing the organization’s CEO. The Partnership and its leaders strive to work hand-in-hand with our local, state, and federal elected officials to chart courses for continued growth and prosperity across the community.