10 minute presentations on their organizations
Connor Uptegrove of CCVI
Connor Uptegrove is a public servant and leader in field of education and health care. He currently serves on the organizational leadership team of Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired, as the Director of Strategic Partnerships. For nearly 75 years, Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired (CCVI) has served students who are blind or have low vision. Through the Mobile Outreach for Vision Education (MOVE) Program, Early Intervention Program, and the Early Learning Academy, over 300 children annually receive educational support, evaluations, and therapy. All programming is designed to meet children and their families where they are, both geographically and developmentally. CCVI partners with the state of Missouri’s infant and toddler program, as well as area school districts to ensure that all children receive appropriate education from birth until age 21. With a priority on identification, intervention, and accessibility, CCVI teaches families how to navigate the sighted world and changes the way the world sees children who are blind. From the Kansas/Colorado border to Cape Girardeau, CCVI’s staff works to achieve the vision: empowered children, who thrive in an equitable system of support, regardless of their visual impairment.
Connor has held numerous positions at different organizations across the Kansas City metro area and beyond including CCVI, the Kansas City Zoo, and institutions of higher education. Connor is currently in the Centurions Leadership Program of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. As a member of the Pinnacle Class of 2026, he has served on the Education Task Force, and currently serves as the co-chair for the Healthy KC Task Force and sits on the Community Leadership committee.
Jade Van Slykea from HopeKids
Jade Van Slyke is a passionate community builder and difference maker dedicated to creating hope-filled experiences for children and families in Kansas City. As the Program Manager at HopeKids Kansas City, she helps turn challenging moments into lasting memories for families with a child who has a life-threatening medical condition.
With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and event management, including roles with the American Lung Association, Love KC, and Heartland Community Church, Jade has devoted her career to strengthening relationships and building programs that bring people together for a greater purpose.
A proud Kansas Citian, Jade believes in engaging intentionally, serving compassionately, and making a meaningful difference in others' lives.