Laura McConwell

Laura’s introduction to parks, nature, and the great outdoors started young.  She was often outdoors from dawn until dusk – playing, exploring and observing nature. There was a lot more green space in Johnson County in the 1970’s. Laura has a long history with JCPRD from collecting newspapers as a small child to help Theater-in-the-Park realize its dream and swimming for the Blazers as a teenager, to watching her children participate in JCPRD classes and activities.

Her understanding of the benefits of preserving green space and providing amenities to the public grew when she served three terms as Mayor of Mission. There, she was the guiding force behind several impressive smart growth and sustainable initiatives in the city which allows Mission to truly be a community for all ages.

As a Foundation Board Member since 2018, she is committed to the Foundation’s mission of providing a high quality of life for Johnson County residents. She believes that “Green space, parks, arts, theater, and museums are precious assets for the community. These amenities are available to all and provide rich learning and sharing opportunities as well as places where memories are made.” 

Laura practices law in Mission, Kansas. She and her husband have 5 children and 2 dogs, Hosmer and Sophie, both of whom are quite fond of the off-leash dog area at Shawnee Mission Park.