Leadership

When coalitions face budget cuts, uncertainty, or burnout, what keeps them going? In our 3-part video series, two respected coalition leaders—Kelly Wells Sittig (Iowa Cancer Consortium) and Trena Mitchell (Arkansas Cancer Coalition)—shared candid stories about leading through real challenges.

In this powerful final conversation, Kelly and Trena pull back the curtain on who keeps them going. From candid staff conversations to unexpected board support, they share how vulnerability, trust, and teamwork became their greatest assets. They also offer a bold, hopeful vision for the future of cancer coalitions—one rooted in people, partnerships, and purpose.

In this powerful conversation, Kelly and Trena show us what real leadership looks like under pressure. From losing staff and navigating grief to rallying communities and rebuilding trust, these two leaders offer practical, inspiring lessons in how coalitions can adapt, persist—and even grow—through uncertainty.

Recently, we were joined by two seasoned Coalition leaders, Trena Mitchell of Arkansas and Kelly Wells Sitting of Iowa, to begin a conversation on change. In this episode, we discuss the inner work behind effective leadership.