By Sarah Jensen
This third year of partnering with the Her Art Project to do a group art exhibit was a fantastic success! Last Thursday, March 1st, the turnout from the Kansas City and UMKC communities to celebrate the artistic talent on display at the “Vanguards and Visionaries” Opening Reception at the Leedy-Voulkos Art Center surpassed expectations. It was also a night honoring the past leadership of the UMKC Women’s Center. Dean Peter Witte gave a warm welcome on behalf of UMKC and introduced Jolie Justice. Special guest Jolie Justice, of the Missouri State Senate, spoke in recognition of the Women’s Center’s 40 years, hoping to celebrate many more years to come. Largely it was a wonderful evening. We look forward to up and coming events at the Women’s Center, including but not limited to the 40th Anniversary Gala, click here for more details! 
When asked about the general reaction to the reception, Women’s Center Assistant Director Arzie Umali replied: “I think it was positive; but it always gets a positive response”. She also shared her own thoughts on this collaborative event; “This was a great reception. Many of the artists are quite established, so it was obvious that their patrons were there that night. It’s always good to have new audiences attend our events. I liked having the exhibit parallel the 40th anniversary celebration of the Women’s Center, because I don’t think this type of recognition for women in the arts in Kansas City has ever been done before. Everyone seemed to be genuinely enjoying themselves in addition to learning something about the Women’s Center, our forty year history, and what we are doing with the Her Art Project to support women in the arts”. 
The UMKC Women’s Center would like to give a hearty thanks to the sponsors who made this event possible! Annedore’s Fine Chocolates, Boulevard Brewing Co., Hoop Dog Studio, Leedy-Voulkos Art Center, Kenny Johnson Photography, M & M Graphics, Moxie Catering, Office Port KC, Print Time The Roasterie, A Store Named Stuff, UMKC, UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance, and World’s Window