Leadership Greater Topeka 2022: JACQUELINE LIGHTCAP

Photo by: Braden Dimick

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED WITH THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS?

I joined the League of Women Voters in 2011 because I wanted to be more involved in my community. I’ve always loved learning about our government and how it functions, and my time with the League has taught me so much about civic life, democracy, and how ordinary citizens can play a positive role.

WHO DO YOU LOOK UP TO?

I am drawn to women in positions of leadership in their communities who also prioritize their families—so I look up to those who manage to balance the things I also see as important. Luckily, there are several who fall in this category so I cannot pick just one!

WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED?

“It’s okay to feel two things at one time.” The midwife who cared for me during the birth of our firstborn shared that with me 18 years ago, and it has stood the test of time! It has given me “permission” to give myself grace and be patient with myself, whether as a new or seasoned parent, or a person actively working for positive change in her community, with the mix of emotions involved in all of our roles—personal and professional.

ONE WORD THAT DESCRIBES YOU?

Tenacious.

WHEN THINGS GET TOUGH, WHAT DRIVES YOU?

Growing up here, mostly in Topeka, I have a strong sense of groundedness in this place and its people. This connection has served me well in life by providing me with a true foundation of family, friends and faith that I know will be there for me, no matter what.