Meet the Board of Directors
We are delighted to introduce the dedicated individuals who drive the Kansas Black Leadership Council mission forward and make a profound impact
across Kansas. This is a passionate group of leaders committed to
advancing the rights, opportunities, and prosperity of #BlackKansas.
Co-Founder & Board Member
Editor-in-Chief & Owner
The Community Voice
Bonita Gooch
In the fall of 2015, Gooch invited others to join her efforts and the Kansas Black Leadership Council (KBLC) was launched. Gooch Editor-in-Chief of The Community Voice, co-host of weekly Community Voice Radio Show on Wichita's KDGS Radio, and she also serves on the board of the American Red Cross.
Board Treasurer
President
Gooch Strategies
Kerry Gooch
Kerry Gooch joined Summit Strategies Group as a partner in 2021. He has worked in various positions in Kansas over the past decade or more. In addition to his positions within KBLC and Gooch Strategies, Gooch is the former Senate staffer and Democratic Party Executive Director.
.png)
Board President
Executive Director
Kansas African American Affairs Commission
Stacey Knoell
In addition to her work with the KAAAC, she
sits on the Johnson County Fine Arts Commission, is president of the
Board of Directors of the Kansas Black Leadership Council, and is the vice-
chair of the Kansas 250 Commission.
Board Member
Vice President
Kansas AFL-CIO
John Nave
John has been with the Kansas AFL-CIO since 2018, bringing his experience as a union rep and a member of the United Steel Workers and Teamsters. With a strong political background, including serving as a councilman, John is dedicated to supporting public servants at the local and state levels.