Governor appoints two members
to Kansas Criminal Justice Reform Commission
Governor Laura Kelly appointed Sylvia Penner and Adrion Roberson to the Kansas Criminal Justice Reform Commission.
“Sylvia and Adrion have a proven track record of working hard in their communities,” Kelly said. “We have a lot of work to do. I know they are ready for the challenge and will become integral voices in the discussion and work of this commission.”
Penner, Wichita, currently serves as an attorney at the firm Fleeson, Gooing, Coulson and Kitch, LLC. Previously, she was an instructor for both Tabor College in Wichita, and Washburn University School of Law in Topeka. Penner received her bachelor’s degree in biology from Tabor College, and a juris doctor from the University of Kansas School of Law. Penner has held numerous leadership and membership positions including: American Bar Association, Kansas Bar Association, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Wichita Crime Commission, Wichita Women Attorneys Association, Kansas Admissions Review Board and Kansas Appleseed board of directors.
Penner will fill the position of the criminal defense attorney appointment.
Roberson, Kansas City, currently serves as co-pastor of the Berean Fellowship Church and as CEO/co-founder of KC United! Youth Sports and Education Initiative. Previously, Roberson served as a faculty member for the Kansas Leadership Center and created multiple development initiative programs to help Kansans mobilize and gain critical life skills. He served as chairman for Connect the DOTTES for a better KCK. Roberson received his bachelor’s degree in urban pastoral theology from Calvary Bible College.
Roberson will fill the position of the faith-based community appointment.
The Kansas Criminal Justice Reform Commission was created as part of HB 2290, which passed during the 2019 legislative session. The governor appoints one criminal defense attorney or public defender, one member of the faith-based community and one facilitator to provide administrative assistance to develop a project plan and assist the Commission in its duties.