8th Annual Governors Reception Recap

The Women in Government Relations' 8th Annual Governors Reception took place February 9 during the National Governors Association Winter Meeting at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C. The reception honored two awardees: Governor Laura Kelly (D-KS) and Christina Gungoll Lepore, Director of the Washington, D.C. Office of Governor Kevin Stitt (R-OK).

Photo by Event Photography of North America Corporation

A record  number of attendees included governors' staff, non-profit and corporate sponsors, and special guests, including Governor Kevin Stitt (R-OK) and Representative Sharice Davids (D-KS).

The awards ceremony was kicked off by the event Co-Chair Jen Ustynoski, Stateside Associates. She thanked attendees and WEN sponsors for their continued support of women in state government and government relations and introduced the staff award sponsor, Meaghan O'Brien, Director of State Issues at Stateside Associates.

Meaghan introduced Governor Stitt, who shared his praise for Christina Gungoll Lepore, calling her essential for the state of Oklahoma's successful navigation of D.C. as Director of the Washington, D.C. Office. He referenced Christina's long and successful career in state government relations, and described her as well-liked and well-respected by her peers. Christina accepted her Governor’s Staff Award and gave some brief remarks.

Elisabeth Fletcher, the event Co-Chair with Deloitte, then introduced Susan Neely, CEO of the American Council of Life Insurers, as the Governor’s Award sponsor to present the final award to Governor Laura Kelly. Susan spoke of Governor Kelly’s long record of service to the State of Kansas. The Governor was awarded for being a superlative leader, as a state legislator and as a governor, guiding her state through a pandemic and championing growth in Kansas. Her dedication to serving her constituents and willingness to be the kind of leader who rolls up her sleeves and tackles big issues has made her a strong advocate for her constituents and an inspiration to women and men, alike. Governor Kelly's commitment to advancing women in public service is an example for senior leaders in any organization, and we greatly appreciate her past support of WGR. Governor Kelly was invited to the stage to accept her Governor’s Award.

Thank you to our event and WEN sponsors for supporting the 8th Annual Governors Reception.