Legacy & Light

Chief Stacey Graves, a lifelong Kansas Citian, began her KCPD career in 1997 as a civilian clerk before graduating from the police academy later that year. She served in patrol, investigations, Internal Affairs, and as a public information officer, later commanding Shoal Creek Division and Human Resources. In 2022, Graves became the 48th Chief of Police and the first woman to serve permanently in that role. She holds degrees from Penn Valley, the University of Missouri–Kansas City, and an Executive MBA from Benedictine College.

Ryana Parks-Shaw represents Kansas City’s 5th District and was appointed Mayor Pro Tem in 2023. She chairs the Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee, serves on the Land Bank and TIF Commissions, and has led initiatives including the Mayor’s Houseless Task Force. A longtime healthcare executive, she holds degrees from Missouri State University and Southwest Baptist University. Parks-Shaw is deeply engaged in civic life through Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and The Links, Incorporated, and has been a member of St. James United Methodist Church.

Theresa Byrd is deputy court administrator for Jackson County Family Court Services, where she has worked for more than 50 years overseeing youth and family services. Her responsibilities include residential and community-based prevention programs, supervision services, case management, and aftercare for at-risk youth. She manages restitution services, home detention, electronic monitoring, and after-school programming. Byrd holds an undergraduate degree and MBA from Friends University and serves as board chair of AdHoc Group Against Crime.

Dr. Monique N. Johnston brings extensive nonprofit experience and expertise in program development, youth engagement, and community partnerships. As executive director of Youth Ambassadors, her leadership guides the organization’s mission of empowering young people to become future community leaders willing and able to work for positive change. Johnston’s multiyear experience in responsible stewardship and strategic planning has positioned her as a key voice in Kansas City’s youth development sector.

Chris Goode is the founder and owner of Ruby Jean’s Juicery. Before launching his business, he spent 10 years across the insurance, event management, and construction industries. He founded the business in honor of his late grandmother, who died from kidney disease and diabetes complications. Goode serves on Kansas City, Missouri’s Parks and Recreation Board, working to increase access to healthier lifestyles for the community.

Brandon Calloway is a distinguished leader dedicated to closing Kansas City’s racial wealth gap as CEO and co-founder of G.I.F.T. His career spans the nonprofit and fitness industries, strengthened by military service as a nutrition specialist. He holds degrees from Avila University and Rockhurst University. Calloway serves on multiple nonprofit boards, including reStart Inc. and WeCode KC. His achievements include being named a 2022 Next Gen Leader by KC Business Journal and receiving the 2022 Pinnacle Prize Award.

Trisha Brauer is the founder of Taking Bids Fundraising, a Kansas City–based company that helps nonprofits host record-breaking events. With degrees in business and auctioneering, she also trains auctioneers nationwide through the National Auctioneers Association.

Lesley D. Smith is a Kansas City attorney who began her career focused on corporate law before dedicating her practice to criminal defense. A University of Tulsa College of Law graduate, she represents indigent defendants in state and federal courts.

Carolina Cruz anchors KCTV5 News This Morning and News at Noon. Born in Colombia and raised in St. Louis, she is a bilingual journalist and Rockhurst University graduate, proud to once again call Kansas City home.

Jamie J. Johnson is the Coalition Director for People Not Politicians Missouri. A former Missouri State Representative, she leads statewide efforts to ensure fair redistricting and mobilize volunteers toward civic engagement.

Enjoy live performances by Marlin Cortez and Jaá Reneé, bringing soulful sounds to this year’s Legacy & Light event.