Join us for a crucial panel discussion on addressing gun violence, featuring esteemed speakers: Major Dan Haley of KCPD, Melesa Johnson, Director of Public Safety for the City of KCMO, and Mayor Pro Tem and 5th District Councilwoman Ryana Parks-Shaw. Doors open at 5:00 PM for networking and refreshments, with the panel kicking off promptly at 5:30 PM. Don’t miss this vital conversation at the Pathway Financial Education Center located at 18th & Vine (1520 E 18th St, KCMO 64108).

Mayor Pro Tem Ryana Parks-Shaw represents the 5th City Council District of Kansas City. She began serving her first term in August 2019. She has lived in the 5th district with her family for over 23 years. Mayor Quinton Lucas appointed Ryana as Mayor Pro Tem of Kansas City in August 2023. She also serves as the Chair of the Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee, Chair of the Land Bank Commission, and Vice Chair of the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Commission. Mrs. Parks-Shaw is a long-time healthcare executive. She has a Bachelor of Science degree from Missouri State University and a Master of Science degree from Southwest Baptist University. Motivated by her membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and the Greater Kansas City Chapter of the Links, Incorporated, she has a deep passion for community service and improving the quality of life for Kansas City residents.

Melesa Johnson, Esq is a dedicated advocate for justice and public safety, with a deep-rooted commitment to her community. Raised and residing in one of Jackson County’s most challenged areas, Melesa witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of violent crime. These experiences fueled her lifelong mission to bring about positive change in neglected neighborhoods. A graduate of the University of Missouri School of Law, Melesa’s career path has been marked by exemplary achievements and a relentless pursuit of transformative justice. Beginning as an Assistant Prosecutor in the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office in 2014, she garnered recognition for her outstanding work, earning the office-wide Rookie of the Year award. Her dedication led her to her current role as Director of Public Safety for Kansas City, where she spearheads vital initiatives aimed at violence prevention and intervention.

Major Dan Haley, MPA, MS, JD

With nearly three decades of dedicated service to the Kansas City Missouri Police Department, Major Dan Haley stands as a pillar of leadership, innovation, and community engagement within the law enforcement community. Currently serving as the Human Resources Division Commander, Major Haley oversees recruitment, hiring, and retention efforts for a 1,700-person organization, while also leading the delivery of member benefits. Prior to his current role, Major Haley held several pivotal positions, including spearheading planning, research, and development initiatives as the Research & Development Division Commander. Throughout his esteemed career, Major Haley has consistently demonstrated a steadfast dedication to serving and protecting the community. From his tenure as the South Patrol Division Commander, where he implemented innovative community outreach initiatives, to his role as the Diversity Commander, where he pioneered efforts to promote inclusivity and equity within the department, Major Haley has left an indelible mark on the Kansas City law enforcement landscape.