Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area (FFNHA) is pleased to announce the appointment of three new members to its Board of Trustees, strengthening the organization’s leadership and advancing its mission to promote tourism and economic development along the Missouri-Kansas border by preserving the region’s nationally significant history.

Joining the board are Karl Brooks, professor of the practice at KU’s School of Public Affairs and Administration; Katy Owens, retired teacher from Independence, Missouri; and David Trowbridge, associate professor of history at UMKC and creator of the Clio mobile app. Each brings valuable experience, regional insight, and a shared commitment to heritage preservation, education, and community engagement.

“We are honored to welcome Professor Brooks, Ms. Owens, and Professor Trowbridge to our board,” said Lucinda Adams, FFNHA executive director. “Their collective expertise and passion for this region’s history will help guide Freedom’s Frontier as we continue to support partners, expand public awareness, and steward the stories that define the American experience.”

The FFNHA Board of Trustees represents diverse communities and professional backgrounds across the organization’s 41-county boundary in eastern Kansas and western Missouri. Board members provide strategic guidance, fiduciary oversight, and advocacy in support of the heritage area’s programs and partnerships.

For more information about Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area and its Board of Trustees, visit freedomsfrontier.org/trustees.