A Keystone of Strength: Celebrating Sharon Niekamp’s Lasting Legacy of Leadership and Service

Sharon Niekamp, charter member of NAWIC Central Missouri Chapter #341 since 1991, was recently awarded the Keystone Service Award in recognition of more than three decades of exceptional service, leadership, and mentorship. Over her 35+ year career in construction and long-standing NAWIC involvement, Sharon has held every chapter board position and continues to serve actively in retirement through committees, events, and mentorship. Her leadership is defined by consistency, reliability, and a willingness to step into any role needed, making her a foundational presence in both the chapter and the Midwest Region.

Her impact extends beyond day-to-day operations to long-term initiatives that continue to benefit others. Notably, Sharon helped establish the Shirley Kidwell Honorary Scholarship, which has supported students annually since 1998. She has also contributed at the regional level through roles such as Block Kids Chair and fundraising liaison, advancing workforce development and outreach to future industry professionals. Known for fostering a welcoming, collaborative culture, Sharon has mentored generations of members and played a critical role in the chapter’s sustained growth and success.

Two endorsement letters highlight Sharon’s extraordinary influence and lasting impact on Chapter #341. Chapter President DeIla Ray describes her as an “ever-guiding light” and shares that "the legacy that Sharon has crafted is the very culture of Chapter #341. By mentoring a generation of leaders and maintaining a steadfast presence through her graceful retirement, she ensured our chapter remained a place where women are empowered to speak up. Her influence across the region has turned a professional association into a lifelong support system. She is the "Keystone" because she has held us together since our first meeting, proving that with integrity and heart, one woman can mark the trajectory of an entire chapter."  Connie Leipard echoes this sentiment, calling Sharon a “voice of reason” and adding, "It is truly an honor to call Sharon Niekamp my friend for more than 30 years. Most importantly, Sharon is a friend to everyone in our chapter; we are truly blessed by her guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow the Central MO Chapter #341. Sharon’s solid leadership throughout the years has been a key to our collective success."

Sharon has served as NFSF Fundraising liaison for many years. According the Connie Leipard, "You cannot say 'no' to Sharon when she has an arm’s length of raffle tickets draped around her neck working the NAWIC crowd."