It's Your Business includes Shannon Kennedy, Meriya Hundley, Candi Luat and Blaine Clark
Hires
The Kansas Youth Empowerment Academy announced the appointment of Shannon Kennedy as executive director. With a decade of experience in the Topeka nonprofit sector, Kennedy brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven dedication to child welfare and advocacy. She previously served in IT as a project manager within the engineering industry. Her transition showcases a seamless blend of managerial expertise and a commitment to improving the lives of youths. Outgoing executive director Julia Connellis said: “Passing the torch to Shannon is a tremendous moment for youth with disabilities who are the center and driving force of KYEA, the passionate staff and volunteers, the dedicated board of directors and for myself.“ Board president Dallas Hathaway said, “As a parent, she is passionate about creating supportive and inclusive environments. Her enthusiasm and determination will be a great asset for not only youth with disabilities across Kansas but also our community partners and supporters.” Kennedy said: "I am honored to join the incredible staff and youth of KYEA and continue the vital work of empowering youth with disabilities that Julia and staff have built on over the last 18 years. My passion for equipping youth with disabilities with the skills and confidence to advocate for themselves, develop leadership capabilities, and make a meaningful difference in their community aligns perfectly with the mission of KYEA."
Meriya Hundley has joined the staff at i.h.s. salon, also known as Indian Hills Styling Salon, 5642 SW 29th St. in Barrington Village Shopping Center, as a full-time stylist and nail technician. She is a graduate of Washburn Tech Academy of Cosmetology. Having received advanced training and certification in blonding techniques, Hundley specializes in highlights, lowlights, balayage, foilayage and all color services including color correction. She is also certified in the application and removal of hair extensions. She also offers cutting for men, women and children, manicuring, pedicuring and facial waxing. She recently completed her associate's degree from Highland Community College and will pursue her education toward a bachelor's degree in Business.
Retirement
Longtime State of Kansas employee and KPERS staff member Candi (Brown) Luat, benefits representative, retired Oct. 27. Luat had more than 29 years of public service. She began her career at the Kansas Highway Patrol in November 1989. Luat held a variety of roles at the State Board of Indigents Defense, Department for Children and Families, Department of Agriculture, Office of the Fire Marshall, Department of Corrections, Department of Revenue, the State Bank Commissioner and the Department of Education before joining KPERS. Luat joined the KPERS team in May 2022 as a benefits representative in the Benefits and Member Services Division. Throughout her tenure, she has been a helpful resource to KPERS employers and staff members.
Honor
Blaine Clark, application developer, was selected as the KPERS Outstanding Service Award recipient for December 2023 to March 2024. Clark was nominated for his exemplary service to KPERS and the Information Technology Division. In his role, Clark provides support for KPERS’ online business applications and systems. This requires advanced-level data reporting and application coding. Recently, Clark was instrumental in implementing new solutions to strengthen KPERS’ IT security against potential threats. He researched options and presented findings to leadership, then worked with internal teams to gather requirements, gain user input, prepare project estimates, design the software and schedule implementation. Clark is extremely professional and demonstrated a fantastic sense of customer service. His excellent collaboration and communication contributed to the overall success of the entire team and the project implementation. The Outstanding Service Award recognizes employees who consistently demonstrate KPERS’ core values in providing exemplary service and commitment to job excellence, or who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.
Topeka-area hirings, promotions, retirements and other announcements can be emailed to iyb@cjonline.com.
This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: It's Your Business has Kansas Youth Empowerment Academy and KPERS
