Denise Cyzman
Executive Director
Denise lives by the mantra, “I was helped. Now I help.” This philosophy reflects her passion to make a meaningful impact on the world, particularly related to advancing health equity and stamping out racism. Committed to the power of collaboration, she has cultivated strong partnerships with KAAP members, state agencies, professional associations, and elected and appointed policymakers. As a seasoned executive leader, Denise expertly guides non-profit organizations through strategic visioning and addressing complex challenges.
Information & Duties
- Hired in 2023, Employed Full-Time
- Together with the Board, sets the strategic vision
- Leads the KAAP Team to provide high-value services to Kansas pediatricians
- Ensures operational excellence, fiscal stability, and financial growth
- Seeks partnership opportunities and secures new resources
- Represents the organization at state and national meetings and conferences
- Organizes advocacy efforts and events for child advocacy at state and national levels
Martha Atkinson
Accountant
Martha brings over 30 years of accounting experience to KAAP which over half is with non-profits. Early into her career, she realized she wanted to work with organizations that had a mission beyond simply making a profit. She manages the detail-oriented accounting operations efficiently to insure financial information is presented in a clear and concise manner to management. She finds being part of an organization that dedicates itself to improving the lives of children through better health care and literacy programs is very rewarding.
Information & Duties
- Hired in 2018, Employed Part-Time
- Maintaining the financials for the Chapter and its Foundation
- Serves as Chair of the Finance Committee
Angela Collier
Membership Services Program Director
Angela Collier brings over seven years of experience in the association industry to her role as Membership Services Program Manager at KAAP. Known for her exceptional organizational skills and passion for members, Angela has made significant contributions throughout her career. With a passion for organization and a keen eye for detail, Angela consistently delivers results and enhances the member experience at KAAP. Her dedication to continuous improvement and her collaborative approach make her an invaluable asset to the organization.
Information & Duties
- Hired in 2024, Employed Full Time
- Plan and execute members’ professional education programs and training events
- Membership Recruitment and Retention
- Staff and Coordinate the Kansas Maternal and Child Health Council
Marisa Guerrero
Outreach and Event Coordinator
Marisa Guerrero (she/her/hers) is a young professional based in the Kansas City Metro. She is passionate about giving back and has spent most of her time in nonprofit as an event coordinator and campaign manager. Throughout her time with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) and Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA), she has learned to not only support various campaigns but also the art of networking and community outreach in the KC area.
Information & Duties
- Hired in 2024, Employed Full-Time
- Medicaid Unwinding Project and Event Planning
- Event Planning & Outreach
Michelle Horst
Foundation Operations Manager
Michelle has dedicated the past 20 years to serving various non-profit organizations in the Kansas City area. Working to create equitable opportunities for people and empower them where they are, is the guiding focus in Michelle’s work. Managing the Kansas Pediatric Foundation allows Michelle to impact child health through the Turn a Page-Touch a Mind Literacy Program and developing new partnerships to create and innovate new ways to support KAAP members to realize the strategic plan to effect child health in Kansas.
Information & Duties
- Hired in 2022, Employed Part-Time
- Provide strategic management for the Kansas Pediatric Foundation
- Research and write grants to secure funding for areas aligned with the strategic plan
- Manage the Turn a Page. Touch a Mind. (TAP-TAM) early literacy program
- Seek out new partnership opportunities
- Work with the development committee to plan and implement fundraising campaigns
Mallory Laur
Program Manager
After more than a decade in healthcare marketing, Mallory currently serves as a Program Manager of Immunizations and Medicaid Unwinding at KAAP. She leverages her strong background in communications, strategy, and community engagement to promote immunization awareness and drive vaccination uptake, as well as to collaborate with partners to increase healthcare coverage for Kansas kids affected by Medicaid Unwinding.
Information & Duties
- Hired in 2022, Employed Part-Time
- Assist KAAP members to increase childhood and adolescent vaccination rates
- Lead Medicaid Unwinding grant work
- Secure sponsorships and exhibitors for KAAP annual meetings
