Woman on a Mission: Mallory Lutz

"Don't be afraid to speak up. Your voice, and your presence in the room matters just as much as everyone else's." -Mallory Lutz

Welcome to Mallory Lutz, one of our newest Board Members!

Mallory Lutz, a Topeka native and graduate of Washburn University, serves as a lobbyist at Little Government Relations, advocating on behalf of clients in the fields of public education, access to care, local governments, and local food systems. Prior to joining Little Government Relations, Mallory worked as a Park Ranger for the National Park Service at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka. She serves on several local boards in addition to the YWCA, including Forge Young Professionals, the Shawnee County Historical Society, Friends of the Free State Capitol, and the Kanza Rail-Trails Conservancy. She recently took some time to answer a few questions about herself and her mission as a YWCA Northeast Kansas Board Member.Mallory LutzYWCA Board of Directors#ONAMISSION since January 2022How did you first get involved at the YWCA?A couple of years ago I started attending Advocacy Committee meetings and began learning more about issues the YWCA is engaged in.Who is the woman you look up to the most and why?

There are so many!! But I have tremendous respect for the women who served during the Second World War, particularly the women who served as part of the WASPs--the Women Air Force Service Pilots. Despite having served their country during the war as accomplished pilots, they were denied Veteran's status until decades later, and were not allowed to become commercial pilots for decades. A woman from Wichita, Nadine Ramsey, served as a WASP during WWII, and you can read more about her amazing story in "Taking Flight: The Nadine Ramsey Story" by Raquel Ramsey & Tricia Aurand.

What are you most proud of in your work with the YWCA?I am still relatively new to the Board, so it is an honor getting to work alongside so many accomplished, driven women, and learn more about what they do. Recently, I enjoyed being a part of the Concealed, Revealed Art Auction and meeting all of the individuals who made that such a successful event.What is one thing you’ve learned in your time on the board?Don't be afraid to speak up. Your voice, and your presence in the room matters just as much as everyone else's.What drives you to do this work?So many women don't have the ability to safely or freely speak up and speak out. And we cannot rely on others, including those in power, to speak up for us. We have to be our own advocates to fight for the things that matter to us.What do you like to do for fun?

I love reading and traveling. When I'm not working, I'm usually planning my next adventure. I also love hiking, running, and yoga. And I'm passionate about all things Downtown Topeka!

Who do you look up to or feel inspired by within the YWCA?Kathleen. She is a fierce, fearless, and unapologetic advocate for women and for the organization. She empowers others and has always made me feel valued, even when I was brand new to the Advocacy Committee.Any other words of wisdom?I am just so honored to serve alongside a diverse, collaborative, and enthusiastic group of women who are dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women in our community. The Y is one of the gems of our community that truly makes Topeka a better place.

Thank you, Mallory!

If you would like more information on how to support the mission of YWCA Northeast Kansas - even in a small way! - please consider becoming a volunteer or donating to our mission.