Kauffman Uncommon Leader Impact Awards Program - December 11, 2025
The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation revealed Dr. Rachel Melson as the inaugural Uncommon Leader Impact awardee during a celebration Dec. 11 in Kansas City. Dr. Melson, outreach clinic director, Swope Health Services, received $50,000 as well as $100,000 for Swope Health. "It means more than I can express because the work we’re being recognized for tonight is not abstract, and it is not theoretical. It is human. It is important. And it is happening every day in our city," Dr. Melson said. During the past decade, she has revolutionized healthcare access for some of Kansas City’s most vulnerable residents. Widely praised for her compassion, equity-centered leadership, and data-driven impact, Dr. Melson is reshaping how communities define accessible care. “Dr. Melson’s work reminds us of what is possible when equity is not just an aspiration but a practiced commitment. Her model of care meets people with dignity, compassion, and excellence exactly where they are,” said Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace, president and CEO of the Kauffman Foundation. “We’re proud to celebrate her service and leadership with this award.” The Kauffman Uncommon Leader Impact Award recognizes everyday Kansas Citians doing extraordinary things to uplift their neighbors and neighborhoods, creating lasting change through bold and compassionate action. Nominations began in June 2025 to honor non-C-suite employees at a 501(c)(3) public charity who drive meaningful impact through their work aligned with the Foundation’s mission to advance economic mobility and who demonstrate significant contributions to the Kansas City region’s well-being, growth, and empowerment. Three hundred nominations highlighted the people creating lasting change in their communities. In October 2025, 12 semifinalists were announced, and from those exceptional candidates, five finalists were selected: Joel Barrett, Sr. Business Development Consultant, Small Business Development Center at UMKC Dr. Rachel Melson, Outreach Clinic Director, Swope Health Services Anna Munguia, Director of Community Outreach, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City Kimberly Weaver, Program Director, Community Health Council of Wyandotte Brandon Yangmi, Program Director, Rebel Song Academy, Art as Mentorship Learn more about Dr. Melson, her fellow finalists, and the award: https://www.kauffman.org/impact-award/ For more content from the Kauffman Foundation, Follow us on social media: LinkedIn, / kauffman-foundation Facebook, / kauffmanfdn Instagram, / kauffmanfdn