LEADERSHIP

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Dr. Yvette Richards is a highly respected member of the academic community and is committed to serving the needs of the Greater Kansas City Chapter of Societa Docta Inc. and its members. She is dedicated to fostering excellence in all areas of academia and believes strongly in the power of education and knowledge. 

Dr. Yvette ascended to president of the Greater Kansas City Chapter of Societas Docta, Inc., in 2025. The Greater Kansas City Chapter of Societas Docta, Incorporated was organized under the local leadership of Dr. Everlyn Williams in March 2007. Dr. Williams, Dr. Mary Long, Dr. JoAnna Warren and Dr. Edith Coleman attended the SDI National Conference in Newark, New Jersey in October of 2006, where they received the Greater Kansas City Chapter charter. These four members, along with Dr. Jessie Kirksey, each began recruiting more members and, as a result of their tireless efforts, 13 more ladies joined the chapter, making a total of eighteen members. Chartering members were: Dr. Everlyn Williams, Dr. Mary Long, Dr. JoAnna Warren, Dr. Edith Coleman, Dr. Gwendolyn Squires, Dr. Marjorie Williams, Dr. Janice Cade, Dr. Juana Hishaw, Dr. Margaret Evans, Dr. Mary McConnell, Dr. Terita McCauley, Dr. Eva Tucker-Nevels, Dr. Jessie Kirskey, Dr. Loyce Caruthers, Dr. Paula Livingston, Dr. Deloris Pinkard, Dr. Brenda Matthews, Dr. Zora Durham. 

Dr. Richards served as the National President of the United Methodist Women Organization from (2012-2016) and General Board of Global Ministry 2011-2016. Chaired the United Methodist Women Legacy Fund and Special Property Committee. Currently a member of the Missouri Mission Council and World Methodist Council, World Methodist Council Nomination Committee and Evangelism Committee Secretary (2016-2021). Ms. Richards is a John Maxwell Team Member, certified in Coaching, Leadership, Training and Speaking. Currently self-employed as a Consultant in Coaching, Training, Speaking and Leadership Development. She holds a Bachelors in Mass Communications from North Carolina A&T State University, in (1985), a Master’s in Leadership Development from Walden University (2013). She completed a Masters from United Theological Seminary in 2019, and a Doctor of Ministry in 2022. She is an active member of over 36 years in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She chaired and coordinated the State Farm Bayou Classic KaBOOM! Playground for New Orleans, LA after Hurricane Katrina (responsible for 250 volunteers) Media spokesperson for Bayou Classic (TV and Radio) Planning and executing pregame and postgame activities. She is employed at St. James UMC as Director of Community Connections and Mission, since 2017.

Dr. Richards has demonstrated the ability to support and implement successful programs and build successful community partnerships. She is a strong, ethical pillar in her community. She focuses daily on uplifting all people, regardless of age, ability, economic status, religious affiliation, and the like.  Through her engaging manner and leadership skills, Dr. Yvette has brought individuals and organizations together to better the lives of children, neighborhoods, the state, and the region. She constantly seeks new ways to serve and assist in improving the quality of life and lived experiences for those around her, as well as those whom she may never meet.   

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