When you make a purchase at a women-owned and led businesses in downtown Springfield, you’ll receive a Women’s Day Downtown sticker to show your support (while supplies last). Then you can visit Brunch Box, at 211 E Walnut, wearing the sticker between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to spin a prize wheel and get a free gift!
Brunch Box, owned by Rachel Fair, is a completely vegan restaurant where event participants can also purchase food or a coffee to get a sticker and win a prize.
417 Cocktails is your local Cocktail Boutique that carries locally and small business crafted wares with a focus on female-owned companies. Shop owner Mandi Fritz is the local cocktail expert — ready to teach you a new cocktail recipe and show you the tools you’ll need to make it!
Celebrate Women’s day at 417 Cocktails with 10% off all products from women-owned businesses (that’s a lot of the shop, because they’ve got great taste.) Plus buy 3, get the 4th free on ALL cocktail kits! They’re open 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Kaitlin Oxenreider’s businesses are here to help you have a good time! 417 Pedal Tours takes up to 14 passengers on a cruise around downtown at a nice leisurely pace. You won’t have to pedal too hard as their electric assist motor helps keep you moving. And don’t miss out on Shot Shack! It’s the perfect marriage of that old run down barn in your hometown, your uncle’s backyard “tavern”, and….well, an actual bar. Photo Ops galore with over 100+ shots available.
Use code WD24 for $50 off any 417 Pedal Tour booked in April online at www.417pedaltours.com. And stop by Shot Shack on Saturday for a $3 Women’s Day shot.
At Brunch Box, owner Rachel Fair is on a mission to prove that eating compassionately doesn’t have to mean sacrificing taste or tradition. Brunch Box is a subtle form of activism, hoping to encourage people to leave animals off their plate by offering them the best, highest quality vegan food that will satisfy all their needs and preferences.
When you make a purchase at a women-owned and led businesses in downtown Springfield, you’ll receive a Women’s Day Downtown sticker to show your support (while supplies last). Patrons can then visit Brunch Box wearing their sticker between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to spin a prize wheel and get a free gift.
Sisters Kelle Rathe and Kaleen Long drew on family heritage to create J.L. Long Traders. The store stands where their great-great-grandfather operated J.L. Long and Songs Furniture Co., established in 1903. J.L. Long Traders offers unique items ranging from paper products to vintage furniture in “micro-batches.” Explore our custom selection of gifts and home decor from local creators.
Welcome to The Ritzy Flat, a place where Chanel meets Gatsby. At Emily’s flat she uses the latest skincare trends and techniques to customize your treatment plan. She offers Facials, Waxing, Body Treatments and Lash/Brow services. Book with her and walk into a time from the 1920’s. See you soon, Darling!
Lean into your soft side, the delicately beautiful side from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Ritzy Flat for Women’s Day Downtown. Enjoy some unique delights from Ali Macarons, $15 travel size perfume bar (every scent is customized) and multiple services from Nurse Mack!
5 Pound Apparel is a social-conscious clothing brand and gift store that carries and creates Goods that Give Back! Brina acquired 5 Pound Apparel in 2017, after negotiating the acquisition of the store during her last semester at MSU — where she was getting her degree in Fashion Merchandising and Marketing. In the store, Brina does her best to select companies that commit to socially responsible and/or fair-trade practices. When a company does not make its own donation to the charity 5 Pound Apparel makes their own donation to Ozarks Food Harvest for each unit sold.
Valeria’s passion has always been to help her guests love their hair while educating them on how to care for it. She has also become driven by sharing her knowledge of the industry and helping others succeed. Now in their third building downtown, A Valeria Boss Salon has grown to 8,000 sq ft with over 25 stylists. AVBS’s success is a team effort of positive individuals that love to serve their guests.
With 25+ years experience in stress relief and whole person health, in combination with her knowledge of the current real estate market and legal matters, Candace Faith Frugé is fully equipped to assist you in making your home and community dreams come true. Candace also oversees Circle on the Square: Holistic Life Center which offers holistic and traditional counseling, body and energy therapies, certified yoga and express arts therapy and more.
Kat has her MBA and more than 15 years of experience in nonprofit management and leadership across a range of fields including arts, education, and youth services. Kat is mission-driven and has extensive experience in creating strategic plans and operational structures to support and sustain effective programming. The Child Advocacy Center’s mission is twofold – serving the needs of abused and neglected children in Southwest and South Central Missouri, and providing education to break abuse cycles and ultimately prevent child abuse in the region. Springfield has the largest child advocacy center in the state of Missouri, serving 15 counties in the southwest and south-central regions of the state.
Anne started working in the hospitality industry as a teenager, bussing tables at a family friend’s restaurant. As the daughter of Korean immigrants, her parents taught her the value of the dollar and hard work. Those values are peppered throughout Anne’s life, and were crucial as she had the unexpected opportunity to become a bar owner in her early 20s, taking over Finnegan’s Wake. Now Anne co-owns three of downtown Springfield’s best bars and restaurants: Finnegan’s Wake, Civil Kitchen and Tinga Tacos. However, she never draws too much attention to herself preferring to lend the credit to her trusty team members.
Creative professional in the Specialty Coffee Industry Michelle has owned The Coffee Ethic in downtown Springfield since 2007 and co-owned Cherry Picker Package & Fare since 2016. With fifteen years of experience in specialty coffee sourcing, roasting, and production, Michelle enjoys a visionary role in business pursuits and mobilizes teams to realize the business vision.
Winter Kinne was named the Community Foundation of the Ozarks’ fourth president and CEO in 2023. CFO’s mission is to enhance the quality of life in this region through resource development, community grantmaking, collaboration and public leadership.
Rachel Munday has more than 15 years of leadership and management experience gained from working in multiple sectors. She joined Missouri State University in 2015 and currently serves as the Executive Director of the efactory. The efactory opened in March 2013 with one goal in mind: to serve entrepreneurs and business owners. Today their network of programs are designed to support both large and small businesses throughout southern Missouri.
A trip to Washington, D.C., for Call-on Congress in 2009, lit a fire within Anjee Davis, a patient advocate at heart. Anjee joined Fight Colorectal Cancer in 2011 as the first Director of Community Engagement. In 2015, she accepted the role of President. Today, the organization continues to relentlessly pursue its mission to fight to cure colorectal cancer and serve as relentless champions of hope for all affected by this disease through informed patient support, impactful policy change and breakthrough research endeavors.
Formed: An Artist Collective, is a multi-artist gallery and retail space, designed to support local and emerging artists. Owners Grace Huckfeldt and Laura Ingalsbe’s focus is creating a one stop shop for local art. They also offer community support and direction for emerging artists, whether they’re just out of school, or focusing on their craft later in their careers. Formed’s goal is to offer a multitude of services, from classroom and studio time, photography assistance, fine art printing, guidance on social media and web design, and online retail needs.
Dr. Jennifer Baker is a licensed clinical psychologist and marriage and family therapist. Dr. Baker recognized the impact of father absence on child well-being and came together with other business owners for the purpose of supporting father engagement. Now, Good Dads is the only organization in Southern Missouri focused on helping all dads be more engaged with their children. In 2018 Dr. Baker was recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year by the Springfield Business Journal.
What does it take to make a dream come true? Well, if you ask Susan & Carol McLeod – sisters, owners, and master brewers of Hold Fast Brewing – they will tell you, “Passion, courage, fear, and a little bit of crazy!” Located in Downtown in old Fire Station #1, with rotating daily food trucks and the best craft beer, Hold Fast is pet and kid friendly!
Andrea has spent more than 20 years in creative and marketing agencies, helping brands find their voice and connect with their audience in meaningful ways. Outside of client work, she’s also a painter and visual artist, which brings another layer of depth to her creative perspective. At Istari Creative, Andrea leads with collaboration and curiosity. She’s all about supporting others and creating space for people to bring their ideas forward. The work matters to her, but so do the people. She’s at her best when she’s building something beautiful, intentional and genuinely connected to the story behind it.
Jennifer Morris offers an authentic Italian Experience alongside her husband Alessandro. If you want to try food like you traveled across the Atlantic, and you’re sitting on a “dehor” in Rome, Florence or Capri, Italian Kitchen is the right place! Each plate Jennifer prepares is crafted with care and a dash of love.
LA Luna Hair offers a fresh, new approach to cosmetology school. As the owner and lead stylist/instructor of LA Luna, Emily brings over 13 years of salon experience to the table. While living in Los Angeles, Emily styled celebrities like Ariana Grande, Billy Idol, Gavin Rossdale and Paul Rubens, gaining a large, successful clientele as a result. Now, she’s bringing the LA Lifestyle back to our community and her hometown – Springfield, MO. Emily is passionate about empowering her students and giving them an artist’s education, one that you can’t obtain in a more basic cosmetology setting. She works with each student individually to ensure they have the tools for success, both in and out of the salon.
Gloria Hereford is the owner of Mama G’s Kitchen, a soul food restaurant serving up family recipes with a“Taste of Lovely” in honor of her late mother, Evelyn “Lovely” Hairston. Growing up in her mother’s catering business, Hereford developed a deep love for cooking, which she rediscovered after years away from the kitchen. Specializing in comfort food like fried chicken, pork chops, catfish, and meatloaf, Hereford takes pride in creating meals that remind customers of home.
Nicole Brow is a Realtor and co-owner of MudLounge Coffee & Cocktails with her husband Chris. Featuring more than 80 beers, a fully stocked bar, delicious shareables, and (their claim to fame!) unique coffee cocktails, MudLounge is the best spot for cozy vibes and irresistible libations. Nicole is also an official with Sculpture Walk Springfield
Shelby and Lacy Linton have 20+ years combined experience in the printing world. Multi Printing is celebrating its 50th year in business. Shelby and Lacy take pride in their work and pass that along to their customers with fast, friendly service and competitive pricing. If you have printing and design needs contact them today for fast and affordable service. If you can think it, they can ink it!
Times have surely changed since Normans Bridal opened their doors in 1980. Over the last 43 years Brenda Norman and Liz Stoner and their staff have provided brides and formal wear customers an atmosphere of elegance and fun while surrounded by top of the line designer wedding dresses and formalwear.
Paula Adams joined Penmac Staffing in 1995 and worked in nearly every department before becoming Vice-President in 2002, and President in 2006. As president, Adams manages corporate and branch operations. In addition to her work with Penmac, She was named to the Staffing Industry Analysts’s Staffing 100 list twice, the SIA Global Power 150 five times, and Biz 417 Magazine’s Biz 100 list for the last 7 years. Adams is dedicated to improving her community, and is on the board of nine different organizations in southwest Missouri. In 2019, she was named the Springfield Business Journal’s Economic Impact Community Involvement Champion. She is a proud alumna of the University of Missouri.
Owner Becky Berger is 417 born and raised. With a passion for vintage and sustainability, Becky curates a unique, eclectic, and unexpected mix of inventory. Come explore Queen City Collectors and add another piece to your collection.
With 15+ years of marketing experience, Nicole is in tune with traditional and new media tactics. Working across a wide range of industries has given Nicole an eye for unique strategic opportunities for any target audience. Whenever there is a question about your marketing initiatives, Nicole should be your first call.
The Riksha is a family affair, as you’ll often not only find Sakiko at the restaurant, but her whole wonderful family! Grab a bite of the best Chinese Restaurant in Downtown for over 30 years.
Recently returning to the area, Springfield native Bridget Bechtel is the Executive Director of Sculpture Walk Springfield where she manages artists, installations, fundraising as well as acts as HR, social media manager and administrative assistant. She is active in The Network, Sunrise Rotary of Springfield and is looking forward to growing involvement in the community. Sculpture Walk Springfield’s mission to encourage the artistic transformation of Springfield through outdoor sculpture, thus enhancing our quality of life and promoting economic vitality. Public art has proven itself to play a major role in rejuvenating public spaces and local economies.
Christina Chanter has been leading Springfield Brewing Company for more than 10 years. Coming from a background originally in healthcare, Christina’s leadership style is understated. She is incredibly bright, wonderfully detail orientated and avidly passionate about all they do at SBC and the services they provide to the community. Her favorite SBC beers are Double Track, McDaniel’s and the Hefeweizen and her favorite TID cocktails are their traditional Manhattan and traditional Old Fashioned.
Springfield Little Theatre (SLT) is a nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization energized by the highest artistic ideals that strives to entertain, educate, and involve the community in live theatrical productions and in the preservation of the historic Landers Theatre. Lead by Executive Director Beth Domann, SLT has 10 full-time staff Women members helping them run the show: Lorianne Dunn – Education Director, Lisa Hamaker – Development Director, Angela Peabody – Business Manager, Karen Richter -, Director of Customer Relations / Box Office Manager, Michelle Sturm – Volunteer Coordinator, Becky Smith – Costume Shop and Rental Sales Manager, Kaley Jackson – Costume Designer, Bailey Doran – Costume Designer, Jessica Bower – SLT Academy Program Coordinator and Tonya Forbes – Lead Registar. SLT also has seven women that sit on their Board of Directors and 11 that sit on their Associate Board of Directors.
Jenny Russo runs the day-to-day operations of St. Michaels, which she co-owns with her husband Nick. Amid the downtown bustle, Jenny provides a place to unwind and eat well. The menu at St. Michael’s is simple and widely varied — burgers, sandwiches, wraps, pasta and salads — and the focus is on flavor.
Amy is a business owner, a wife, a mom, a yogi and an amateur farmer. Amy fell in love with yoga in 2012 when she became a single mom. She found that time on her mat not only helped her get in shape, but allowed her to manage the stress of everyday life and to be more actively involved and present in the lives of her kids. In 2022, Amy open Wellness Collective Studios, a community of wellness professionals who are dedicated to helping their clients reach their fullest potential in MIND. BODY. SPIRIT.
A Hip Joint was an idea born from Dr. Tania Reavis after she read a motivational book that ignited a fire. For the next two days, she couldn’t stop jotting down all this swirling of ideas in her head in a little notebook. Within 3 days, Tania and her husband Eric had set up a fictitious name, set up the LLC, EIN, fully functioning website, business model, and business plan. Dr. Tania is a seasoned chiropractor, who decided to create a new business model that would treat the patient as they should be treated — with innovative ideas that makes their patients happy.
Unique offers all things beauty in her studio in the Holland Building. Offering locs, braids, makeup and lashes — Unique has a talent for making you feel your best.
APO is a community based health clinic offering HIV/STI testing and education, primary medical care, mental health services, HIV case management, and harm reduction services in a safe, confidential environment. APO Downtown opened in 2009 and provides HIV/STI testing and safer sex supplies, in addition to Naloxone and other harm reduction supplies. Lynne Meyerkord has led the agency as the executive director since 1998. Prior to that, she was a volunteer, board member and client services director. She has a passion for serving the underdog and believes that all folks should have access to affordable healthcare.
Austen is a one-woman operation – CJ runs the storefront, curates the collections, the website/social media and ships all orders. Austen is a women’s boutique inspired by the hopeless romantics. The aesthetic is soft, cozy, romantic, feminine and neutral. When you’re wearing your Austen pieces, CJ wants you to feel as though you could be standing on the terrace during a rainstorm as a handsome stranger confesses they love you most ardently… but if that doesn’t happen this week, she at least wants you to be cozy while reading about it.
Aubrey has been in the service industry for 20+ years, grew up in Southwest Missouri. Bruno’s has been a staple in the community for many years, and Aubrey was proud to take it over in January 2025. Bruno’s food is from original recipes, the brick oven pizza is hand made and they pride themselves on their dishes being made from scratch. Aubrey looks forward to continuing to provide customers with authentic, traditional Italian dishes, and having you at her table.
Carlea has a passion for fashion, believing clothes have no limitations. She took her maximalist aesthetic onto the runway and transformed her passion into Carl’s Bad Designs. Carl’s Bad Designs’ brick and mortar shop is a go-to spot for fresh, unique fashion that’s all about handmade and vintage clothing, with a strong commitment to sustainability. Carlea prioritizes reclaiming materials and limiting waste during both production and sourcing, ensuring that the style is both impactful and eco-friendly.
Joselyn Baldner serves as Central Bank’s first female president and CEO. Joselyn is accustomed to hard work, collaboration and trailblazing with 20+ years of experience in the banking industry. Central Trust Bank strives to be an inclusive and supportive employer, where every team member can thrive.
Kim Jackson opened Coco Noir Salon in 2013. Her salon operates out of Hearts of Fire Tattoo where her husband Ethan is a tattoo artist. Kim offers 10+ years of experience. Come check out her salon, relax and unwind in a fun, vintage, modern setting.
Janet Dankert has been with Community Partnership of the Ozarks Inc. for more than 20 years. CPO’s mission is to facilitate and promote the building of resilient children, healthy families and strong neighborhoods & communities through collaboration, programming and resource development.
Empress Salon is a private salon setting where you can feel safe to be you and become your even better self. Empress Salon is bringing your beauty to the surface and helping you shine like the Empress that you are. Jesi focuses on all things hair, make up and lash extensions. She specializes with vivids colors, creative cuts and a fun time.
Uliana and Khrystyna are two Ukrainian/Moldovian sisters who grew up in a household where cooking and baking were beyond cherished. To this day they’re food-obsessed and you’ll often find them at local farmers markets, scouting for all things fresh and homegrown. They are proud to say that The European is running on roughly 70% girl power, in an industry that’s predominantly male. (Uliana and Khrystyna are pictured with their grandmother).
Madison’s passion for bridal style began while she was studying fashion at Missouri State University. Since graduating, Madison has been working in the wedding industry and her love for all things bridal has been growing ever since. She dreamed of creating something lovely, unique and fresh for the modern bride. Not to mention, celebrating the beauty & gift of marriage has been on her heart for a long time. She is so excited to be sharing these dreams with you and can’t wait to celebrate you and your love!
Kaitlyn started FATED after spending her career in creative and entrepreneurial spaces. From photography to graphic design to website design, she loves to create beautiful pieces that leave an impression. FATED is a creative studio specializing in graphic design, website design and visual content. For them, there are no typical rules and boundaries you’d find at an agency. Kaitlyn and her partner just love to work with cool people and make cool stuff with purpose that elevates a business and sets it apart.
Sheneak owns and operates Gifted Hands, a full-service salon that specializes in locs, braids and twists. Sheneak is dedicated to providing top-notch services for all hair types and textures. Whether you’re looking to maintain your locs, get a fresh set of braids or try out some stylish twists, they’ve got you covered.
Rev. Tracey Wolff was appointed as Lead Pastor of Grace United Methodist Church in 2023. A former Lady Bear, Wolff started her career as a basketball coach and wasn’t ordained until 2021. Now she serves both Grace UMC and Pitts Chapel.
Grace Billingsley is a seasoned nonprofit advisor with over a decade of experience, specializing in arts administration. Having grown up immersed in theatre education programs in Springfield, she is dedicated to enriching the local arts community. As the Executive Director of High Tide Theatrical, Grace is passionate about making theatre accessible to all.
Christine Newberry took over the iconic Holland Building, making her just the third owners in the property’s 108-year history. This premier office building in Downtown Springfield hosts all kinds of businesses.
Jenni Hargis is an experienced litigator, mediator and estate planning attorney, trusted by businesses and individuals to help them reach their best possible self-determined outcome.
Carrie Richardson is Executive Director of Leadership Springfield, a nonprofit that seeks to inspire, develop and connect leaders to serve the Springfield community. Carrie is a graduate of Leadership Springfield Signature Class 25 and serves on the Prosper Springfield Cabinet. She is a mentor with the efactory and Missouri Small Business Development Center at MSU Mentorship Program.
Katie Putthoff is the owner of Loomi, a DIY candle shop. She purchased Heirloom Candle Bar in January 2024, marking her first brick-and-mortar business venture. With a background in marketing and a passion for entrepreneurship, she rebranded the shop while preserving its custom candle-making experience. Loomi offers DIY candles, personalized labels, premade candles, and unique gifts, creating a welcoming space for creativity and community.
Melesha Bailey is a Nutritional Holistic Health Coach and owner of Love 4 Life Wellness, with offices at 205 Park Central E, Suite 412. Melesha opened Love 4 Life Wellness in 2018 and has achieved much success in helping nearly 100 clients lower their A1C, control High Blood Pressure, manage weight, and turn around their health. She treats the whole person, body, mind, and spirit with innovative coaching techniques and natural remedies that get results. She is on the SpringMo Black Wellness Initiative’s executive committee, which conducts workshops, conferences, and educational resources addressing health disparities in the black community.
Ann is the manager of Next to New, a non-profit consignment and resale clothing shop. The shop is a ministry of Christ Episcopal Church. Living up to its name for over 60 years in business, the shop is still unique for quality and prices. In its long life, Next to New has given hundreds of thousands of dollars to charity, much of it donated right here in Springfield.
Nurse Hustle Recruitment is a full-service healthcare staffing agency specializing in the placement of experienced nursing and allied healthcare professionals on long and short-term contracts across the country. The name of the agency came from the word ‘hustle,’ which for them means hustling to save lives and hustling for the people that need their love and support. At Nurse Hustle Recruitment, they are the HUSTLE. They work hard to help organizations and job seekers find effective staffing solutions and life-changing careers.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, and the Ozarks Counseling Centers Executive Director, Andrea serves many roles throughout the Springfield community. Andrea leads a staff of 27 therapists and administrative support to provide approximately 12,000 hours of counseling to more than 1,800 individuals a year. She teaches graduate psychology classes at Missouri State University and has volunteered at several organizations, including the Junior League of Springfield and Springfield Public Schools. She also owns Knightsbridge Consulting LLC, a small private practice, and advises other therapists with an entrepreneurial bent about starting a business.
Jennifer Murvin is a writer, teacher, and owner of indie bookstore Pagination Bookshop. Jen has written a book that will be published this year by Small Harbor Publishing and her essays, stories, and graphic narrative have appeared in various publications! Jen is also an Assistant Professor of English at Missouri State University, where she teaches creative writing, literary publication and literature. Jen opened Pagination Bookshop in 2019 in a historic home built in 1905! They offer new and used books, literary gifts and host author events.
For anyone who has a passion for hair, Polyphony Salon is the ultimate destination. Mallory McWilliams has put together a team of stylists and colorists that are true hair enthusiasts, who are dedicated to the art of hair care. Whether it’s a simple cut, a new hairstyle, or a change in color, the experienced professionals at Polyphony Salon can help you achieve your desired look.
Jayme is more than just a “photographer,” she’s your hype girl. No matter what kind of session you book with her, she’s hollering, complimenting and praising the WHOLE time. Jayme offers family/couple, boudoir and wedding/engagement photography sessions.
Eriana started Raising Kings LLC to focus on building up her black sons as they enter into a society that will view them as a threat. Eriana wants to provide the tribe, safe haven and sanctuary for boys to constantly remind them that they are beautiful, loved and treasured. Raising Kings is an international platform for Boy Moms to connect, inspire and promote mother-son relationships through motherhood, play, travel and programming.
Nadda opened Rama Thai Cafe in 2015, drawing on traditional Thailand recipes and flavors. Rama Thai uses the finest herbs and spices to create the real taste of Thai food. Nadda hopes you enjoy their food and have a great time with your family and your love ones at Rama Thai Cafe.
Meleah Spencer’s has always had a huge heart — making her a great fit as CEO of The Kitchen Inc., parent organization of Rare Breed Youth Outreach Center. Rare Breed is a central hub that provides immediate access to basic needs and rapid access to community services for homeless and at-risk youth ages 13-24.
Sarah Jenkins is a freelance copywriter and creative director with 10+ years of agency experience. She was a writer for Springfield’s Emmy-winning late night talk show, The Mystery Hour and now is part of monthly improv shows and occasional SGF-inspired videos.
While Abigail is administratively focused in her current role at Springfield Ballet her passion for dance and the performing arts is evident in all she does. She grew up through theatre and dance, beginning at a family-oriented dance school in Kansas run by her initial inspiration Beth M. Bell, to her current role in guiding Springfield Ballet so the organization can bring the art of ballet to the community. Abigail brings more than 15 years of experience with various profit and nonprofit organizations managing logistics, marketing and research for these operations both on and off the stage to her position at Springfield Ballet. With this experience, and the art form of dance near and dear to her heart, she hopes to encourage the community to share in her enthusiasm for dance.
Jennifer Falter’s craft as a potter allows her to both create and embellish. She enjoys making functional, yet decorative porcelain pots, encased in a tactile, sgraffito or carved surface. Her love of pattern making, line, and mark making appear in both her narrative, light-hearted pieces and in the quiet nature-inspired wares. Springfield Pottery is a fine craft gallery, community clay center, and Jennifer’s working studio with her partner Nathan. They have been teaching pottery classes to the community of Southwest Missouri since 1998. 2023 is their 25th Anniversary!
Leslie Forrester is the Executive Director of the Springfield Regional Arts Council where she oversees every aspect of running the non-profit organization including budgeting, facility management, and programming. She serves on several community teams including the Community Focus Report and the Any Given Child committees. Leslie served as a board member for Missouri Citizens for the Arts and the Missouri Association for Community Arts Agencies. Leslie also teaches courses in Art History, Art Appreciation, Arts Administration, Stakeholder Development, and Cultural Policy at OTC and Drury.
Jennifer Cotner-Jones joined the Springfield Symphony Orchestra in April 2019 as Executive Director. Jennifer came to SSO with over 20 years of non-profit experience. Her passion for serving others has provided her with vast experiences ranging from development, event planning, volunteer recruitment, marketing, and donor relations. Jennifer’s love of music and community brought her to the Springfield Symphony.
Patti Penny’s strong desire to help people succeed in their work led to her founding Penmac Staffing Services in January 1988. From one small office in Springfield, MO, Penmac has expanded into more than 32 offices in eight states, which provide employment, education and training opportunities for more than 25,000 associates annually. In 2010, the Penny family transferred ownership of Penmac to its employees through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan and in January 2012, Patti stepped down as CEO. Now Patti serves as Chairwoman of the Board for Suit Yourself Boutique, a nonprofit boutique dedicated to providing clothing and services to assist individuals who lack these resources to help them succeed in the workforce.
Jennifer Smith has always had a passion for food and a knack for creating fresh and unique menus. She is a certified chef and did her early apprenticeships at the Tower Club, Millwood Country Club and the James River Grill. In 2004, Jennifer decided she had what it takes to start a catering business. Ready to become the entrepreneur she had always wanted to be, Jennifer started The Traveling Chef by catering weddings and intimate parties. Now, The Traveling Chef is proud to support numerous non-profit events and fundraisers while also steadily catering small to mid-size private parties.
As Founder, CEO and President — Lori Ross leads the charge at Foster Adopt Connect, a nonprofit that supports children and families navigating the child welfare system in Missouri and Kansas. the YouthConnect Center in Downtown Springfield, is Foster Adopt Connect’s drop-in center for school aged youth 13-18 years old. The YCC center aims to provide quality and meaningful opportunities for youth that will give them a sense of pride and accomplishment while honoring their families and caregivers.
