Former Hallmark, Crayola exec joins Reconciliation Services, shifting focus to equity of personal well-being

A nearly 20-year corporate veteran has joined one of the most prominent nonprofit operations on Kansas City’s east side — marking another new chapter for Troost-based Reconciliation Services as Kristen Harris starts work as its new COO.

“This role is an incredible opportunity to combine my passion for community impact with innovative leadership,” Harris said. “I am eager to drive initiatives that bring hope, healing, and equity to our neighbors while advancing the organization’s growth and sustainability. It is truly an honor to join the dedicated team at Reconciliation Services and contribute to transforming lives and strengthening connections within our community.”

Harris joins the nonprofit as it continues to scale its social venture initiatives and community programs, addressing critical needs, including mental health support, social services assistance, and creating social connections.

Father Justin Mathews, Thelma’s Kitchen, Reconciliation Services; photo by Nikki Overfelt Chifalu, Startland News

Her leadership will help the organization build sustainable growth while remaining deeply rooted in its mission to heal and empower Kansas City’s most vulnerable neighbors, said Father Justin Mathews, CEO at Reconciliation Services.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kristen Harris to our leadership team,” Mathews said. “Her extensive corporate experience, coupled with her passion for creating meaningful change, will enhance the efficiency and impact of our programs and our ability to serve the Kansas City community with greater depth and innovation.”

Harris comes from a background in operations and supply chain management at Hallmark, where she led teams in strategy development, change management, and culture transformation to deliver outstanding business results, according to a press release from Reconciliation Services. 

She served as the global vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for Hallmark and Crayola, where she spearheaded business-integrated DEI strategies that influenced product development, brand engagement, employee experience, and community outreach. She has spent the past year consulting with businesses, professional organizations, and boards while speaking on leadership development, cultural awareness, inclusion, and brand trust.

“Her proven track record and deep passion for equity and community impact make her uniquely positioned to support RS in its next chapter of growth and transformation,” the nonprofit said.

Reconciliation Services addresses the root causes and symptoms of poverty and trauma in our City by promoting dignity by increasing personal well-being, fostering healthy community by transforming dividing lines into gathering places and helping people advocate for themselves, their families, and their neighbors.

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Harris’ leadership also extends into community service. She is a board director for the Urban Neighborhood Initiative and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and actively volunteers with several Kansas City metro organizations focusing on education, health services, and economic development. Additionally, she is a lifetime member of the National Society of Black Engineers and a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the Executive Leadership Council, and the Civic Council of Greater Kansas City, KCT Leadership Class 44.