Sheri Gonzales is an experienced leader in community, economic and workforce development. She currently serves as the Civic Council VP and Director of KC Rising, to achieve a shared vision of regional prosperity for all. Sheri works with businesses, organizations and leaders to promote system alignment, identify gaps, and monitor the region’s outcomes in key economic indicators. Her career has focused on economic and community development in local, state, and international contexts. Prior to the position at the Civic Council, she served as Community, Economic and Workforce Development Director at the Mid-America Regional Council. With early career experiences in public broadcasting, international relief, and community development, she also served on the staff of two healthcare foundations in Virginia. She holds a BA in Communications and Journalism from the University of New Mexico and a Master’s of Public Administration from the University of Kansas.