Spotlight: Eric Syverson
Bridging Policy, Community, and Impact in Kansas City
Kansas City’s momentum continues to draw purpose-driven professionals who want to create a lasting impact, and Eric Syverson, MPA, is no exception. With a background in public policy and a heart for civic engagement, Eric is bringing his talents home to the Midwest to strengthen education and workforce systems across Kansas and Missouri.
A Midwest Homecoming
Eric’s roots trace back to Wisconsin and Wichita, but his professional path has been a national one. After earning a Master’s in Public Administration in Denver, he spent several years working with state lawmakers across the country, helping them tackle tough policy challenges in areas like tax reform, education, and fiscal strategy.
Still, a pull toward the region that shaped him kept growing stronger. Kansas City offered the perfect blend: affordability, high quality of life, and a community on the rise. For Eric, it wasn’t just about coming back to familiar places—it was about being part of something actively evolving.
“What makes KC special is that it’s big enough to have an impact, but small enough to build real community. That combination makes it feel like home in the best way.”
Policy Work That Makes A Difference
Now, as Director of Policy and Research for Kansas at Aligned, Eric is focused on one mission: building stronger bridges between education and workforce systems. Aligned is an incredibly impactful nonpartisan nonprofit that works with state lawmakers, business leaders, and community stakeholders to ensure students are equipped for the opportunities of tomorrow.
From early learning to higher education, Aligned’s work aims to remove barriers, improve access, and create smarter, more equitable policy. And Kansas City is a key part of that.
“We believe state policy is a powerful lever to create meaningful, lasting change. It’s not just about fixing problems—it’s about creating opportunity.”
Plugging into KC’s Civic Fabric
Though Eric has only recently made KC home, he’s already immersing himself in the local community—attending events, learning about neighborhood histories, and connecting with fellow civic-minded professionals.
“Kansas City is full of people who want to build things that last—whether that’s a business, a neighborhood, or a solution. That’s incredibly energizing.”
He lives in Roeland Park—a city with a rich history as a streetcar suburb and WWII defense housing hub—and encourages newcomers to KC to explore the unique stories and character behind each neighborhood.
Looking Ahead
Professionally, Eric hopes to continue deepening his impact across state lines—but with a strong local focus. Personally, he’s eager to expand his network and become a go-to resource in Kansas City’s civic and policy ecosystem.
Advice for Newcomers
“Take time to learn the history. So much of what’s happening in Kansas City now is shaped by what came before. Understanding the evolution of neighborhoods and communities here will help you feel even more connected.”
How to Connect
Reach out to connect on LinkedIn. Learn more about Eric’s work at: wearealigned.org or feel free to email him at erics@wearealigned.org
Check back next week to read our spotlight on Andy Pace – who Back2KC was inspired by and created for back in 2018!
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