Reflecting on a Year of Growth and Gratitude

This past year at KC IABC has been one for the community! Kansas City business communicators and marketers have connected, collaborated, and learned from each other in ways that continue to inspire. As 2025 comes to a close, we want to take a moment to express gratitude to our members, volunteers, and partners who make this organization vibrant and thriving. Together, we have shared the current trends in communications, built community with our KC members, and paved the way for an even more exciting 2026!

We kicked off the year with our annual BCS Conference, which brought together some of the brightest minds in business communications. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from leaders across a variety of industries, including KC Current, KC Transportation Authority, and Sporting KC. The insights shared at BCS helped our members stay ahead of trends, sharpen their skills, and apply innovative strategies in their own organizations.

In addition to our conference, KC IABC continued to prioritize professional development through our monthly events. This year, members explored communications in new and creative ways: from the power of improv with Shannon Walsh of Improv Springboard, to legal perspectives on social media strategy with Annette Choti, attorney and founder of digital marketing agency Law Quill, to navigating the growing world of artificial intelligence in communications. Each session provided practical tools, real-world examples, and networking opportunities that left members energized and inspired.

A highlight of this year was the launch of Member Lite memberships, offering flexible membership options for both new and existing members. This initiative made joining KC IABC more accessible and allowed more business communicators to experience the value of our community. We are proud that this option brought in new perspectives and strengthened our network of engaged professionals.

Another standout moment was our speed networking event, which created a dynamic space for members to make meaningful connections in a short amount of time. The energy, enthusiasm, and genuine engagement at this event reinforced what makes KC IABC so special: a community that supports, learns from, and uplifts each other.

We also want to acknowledge our incredible speakers, whose expertise and passion have enriched our community this year.

Elizabeth McFadden, founder and CEO of Novella Brandhouse, shared insights into brand storytelling, while Annette Choti provided valuable guidance on the intersection of law and communications. Each speaker has contributed to our mission of empowering communicators and creating opportunities for growth and innovation.

As we reflect on 2025, our gratitude extends to every member, volunteer, and partner who contributed to the success of KC IABC. Your participation, ideas, and commitment to professional excellence have made this year memorable and impactful. We are inspired by the dedication and creativity within our community, and we are excited to build on this momentum in 2026.

Looking ahead, we encourage you to join KC IABC and experience the benefits of our professional network firsthand. Our Member Lite package offers an accessible way to connect, learn, and grow with other Kansas City communicators. Don’t miss out on our BCS Conference in February 2026, where you can hear from top industry leaders and expand your professional horizons. Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and other social media channels to stay updated on upcoming events and opportunities to engage with our community.

Thank you for being part of KC IABC. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected, and empowered community of communicators. One event, one connection, and one shared idea at a time. Here’s to a successful year behind us and an even brighter 2026 ahead!