The board of directors of the International Relations Council relies on active committees and planning teams to develop strategies and action plans for the work of the organization. Committees include a variety of perspectives and are intentionally comprised of a mix of board members and IRC members who are not part of the board.

For more information on joining a committee, please contact Evan Verploegh, Executive Director, at everploegh@irckc.org, and specify the committee(s) you would like to join.

EDUCATION COMMITTEE · Dr. Charles Bankart, 2022 chair

This committee supports the IRC’s various educational initiatives for K-12 and university students, teachers, and professors. Planning for 2023 includes:

Individuals with a background in K-12 or higher education or connections to opportunities for students are a good fit for these planning teams.

FINANCE COMMITTEE · David Au, CPA, CITP, CRISC, CGMA, 2023 chair

The Finance Committee, led by the IRC’s treasurer, oversees the organization’s financial interests and helps the board fulfill its fiduciary responsibility. Committee members help to plan the organization’s annual budget and prepare for the annual audit and 990. Planning for 2023 includes:

  • Staff Compensation
  • Endowment Enhancement
  • Insurance and Audit
  • Investment Review

A background in finances, investments, or accounting is helpful but not required.

FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE · Andrea Allison-Putman, President, 2023 Chair

The Fundraising Committee, led by the IRC’s president, oversees the organization’s fundraising goals and efforts and helps the board fulfill its fiduciary responsibility. Committee members help to plan the organization’s strategic fundraising goals. Planning for 2023 includes:

  • Strategic Partnerships
  • Grants
  • Community and Member Engagement

A background in grant writing, fundraising, and community engagement is helpful but not required.

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE · Anna Bazan-Munguia, 2023 chair

As a membership organization, the IRC relies on enhancing our offerings for individual and organizational members and connecting with people and groups who might be interested in getting involved. Planning for 2023 includes:

  • IRC Ambassadors, creating a welcoming environment for members
  • Member Involvement, looking for ways to involve members more fully in the IRC
  • Organizational Membership Development, connecting with prospective organizational members

Individuals who enjoy connecting with other organizations in the community will be a good fit for this committee.

PROGRAMS COMMITTEE · Karenbeth Zacharias, 2023 chair

The IRC typically hosts over 100 programs a year – including discussion groups, signature events, and series. To create programming that is relevant to the needs and interests of our Kansas City community, creative and strategic program planning is needed. Planning for 2023 includes:

  • Program Subject Matter, cultivating interesting and inclusive lectures, series, and events
  • Program Logistics, steering attendance and involvement amongst the community
  • Program Partnerships, fostering strategic relationships amongst Kansas City organizations

Individuals who have experience in international relations, education, and community organizing will be a good fit for this committee.