Biz 417’s 2021 Biz 100

Biz 417’s Person of the Year: Tim O’Reilly

By developing BigShots Golf on East Kearney Street, Tim O’Reilly took concrete steps to transform one of Springfield, Missouri’s most important gateways. With a vital donation to Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, his family foundation will help transform young lives at the new O’Reilly Unit inside Williams Elementary. He is Biz 417’s Person of the Year. Read the full story here.

Brad Erwin

President/Principal, Paragon Architecture
M.Arch., University of Illinois; B.Arch., Drury University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Brad Erwin founded Paragon Architecture in 2010 and moved the firm into its new headquarters on West College Street last year. Erwin is known for his work with tornado-safe design. To date, he’s helped secure funding for more than 40 community safe rooms. 

Robert Low

President/Founder Prime Inc.
University of Missouri
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: There’s a lot happening at Robert Low’s company. Prime Inc. recently invested in a flatbed securement bay for its Springfield terminal. According to the Prime website, it allows drivers to load up with a remote-controlled crane, which means they don’t have to climb across the truck bed and risk falling. Prime has also implemented “green” initiatives, like constructing tires for improved gas mileage and finding new uses for old tires. “Prime’s policy has always been the Golden Rule—‘Do your best, do what’s right and treat others the way you want to be treated,’” Low says, according to a news release on Prime’s website. “Environmental sustainability practices fall into ‘do what’s right.’”

Mark Walker

Chairman/CEO, TransLand
B.A., Drury University
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: Mark Walker became CEO of TransLand in 2013. The company now has 230 employees serving customers throughout the U.S. with transportation needs like dry van and flatbed trucking. He currently serves on the Drury University Board of Trustees, the National CASA Board of Directors and United Way of the Ozarks Campaign Cabinet.
Big in 2021: In June, Walker and his son Andrew won the Highland Springs member guest golf event. “Just playing with [Andrew] was special,” Walker says, “but persevering to win the three-day event was extra special.”
The Insight: When Walker looks to the future of TransLand, he’s excited about growing operations, particularly in the St. Louis area.

Brian Weiler

POWER PLAY

Director of Aviation, Springfield-Branson National Airport
M.S., University of Central Missouri; B.S., Embry-Riddle University
Returning, Third Year
The Essential: Brian Weiler served in the Marines before managing airports and working with the Missouri Department of Transportation. In 2011, he was named director of aviation at the Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF).
Big in 2021: Despite the pandemic, SGF retained all its airline partners and added two more nonstop destinations.
Bet You Didn’t Know: In the ’80s, Weiler did a stint as the head bouncer at an MTV Spring Break bar in Daytona Beach, Florida.
Power Play: Weiler closed a deal with American Airlines to build a new maintenance facility at SGF, an accomplishment he describes as “years in the making. Definitely a career highlight,” he says. 

Paula Adams

President, Penmac Staffing Services, Inc.
B.S., University of Missouri
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Paula Adams says her industry is all about people. “You are helping individuals find employment so they can provide for their families. You are helping small business owners find the staff they need to keep things running smoothly. You are helping the people in our communities to make sure goods and services are available. Those daily connections with job seekers, employees and business leaders will always be the most inspiring part of the job.”
Big in 2021: Penmac opened two new locations—its 33rd branch office in Republic and an on-site office at the Missouri Job Center in Springfield.
Bet You Didn’t Know: Adams’s mother, Penmac founder Patti Penny, created the company’s motto, “We place people first.”

Christina Angle

CFO/Vice President of Group Services, Erlen Group
B.S., Washington and Lee University
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: Christina Angle sharpened her skills on the East Coast and in London before joining her family’s business. She’s part of the Erlen Group’s third generation.
The Insight: The Erlen Group often refers to philosopher John Ruskin’s words: “When we build, let us think that we build forever. Let it not be for present delight, nor for present use alone; let it be such work as our descendants will thank us for, and let us think, as we lay stone on stone, that a time is to come when those stones will be held sacred because our hands have touched them, and that men will say as they look upon the labor and wrought substance of them, ‘See! This our fathers did for us.’”

Michelle Cantrell

Owner, Cantrell Real Estate
New
The Essential: For the last two years in a row, Michelle Cantrell’s team sold more than $100 million in 417-land real estate. This year will break records, with almost $140 million in closed and pending sales at press time. Without actively recruiting agents, she says her group has added 23 new team members.
Big in 2021: She launched her own brokerage, Cantrell Real Estate.
The Insight: Cantrell applauds diversity and inclusion initiatives in 417-land. She says, “The effort is working, and we need to continue to be inclusive to grow.”
The Advice She’d Give Herself: “Dream bigger! I really didn’t understand what a successful real estate career would mean for my family when I started this business… It has changed the financial trajectory of our family and created generational wealth.”

Marco Denis

President, Springfield Property LLC
New
The Essential: Developer Marco Denis sparked a lot of excitement when he purchased the iconic Plaza Towers building at the corner of Glenstone and Sunshine. It should be in good hands—Denis has restored more than 250 homes in Springfield.
Big in 2021: Denis hired architecture firms Esterly, Schneider & Associates and Marshall Waters Woody to work on the Plaza Towers renovation.
The Insight: He sees his work as critical to 417-land’s future. “Refurbishing properties creates jobs for the hardest-working members of our community, such as plumbers, electricians and carpenters,” he says. “It’s a particularly good feeling to see all our community members grow and become successful.” 

Patrick Murney

Owner, Murney Associates, Realtors
B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: When Murney Associates was formed, it had seven agents, and Patrick Murney says he thought it might eventually grow to include as many as 20 agents. It’s since become one of the most recognizable names in 417-land real estate.
The Insight: “I’ve always sought to exceed my clients’ expectations,” Murney says. “If we can dispel the notion that buying and selling homes is an arduous process, then we’re headed in the right direction.” 

Tom Rankin

Owner, Rankin Development LLC and SVN/Rankin Company, LLC

B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: For more than three decades, Tom Rankin has been an important figure in 417-land real estate. Lately, he’s seeing significant activity in the industrial market.
Big in 2021: Rankin played a significant role in the deal that brought the Amazon Fulfillment Center to Republic.
The Insight: Rankin says the best business advice he’s ever received is, “Do all the little things right, and the big things will take care of themselves.”

Debbie Shantz-Hart

Principal/Owner, Housing Plus, LLC; DHTC Development, LLC
J.D. University of Missouri; B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: Following a career in real estate law, Debbie Shantz-Hart founded Housing Plus, LLC and DHTC Development, LLC. Since 2008, Shantz-Hart has developed more than 900 units of affordable family, senior and special needs housing.
Big in 2021: She’s now collaborating with her son. “Working with Riley has energized me and made my work even more exciting,” she says.
The Insight: Shantz-Hart hopes Springfield will succeed in curbing crime rates, something she believes is key to alleviating poverty because it will spur further economic development. She also hopes to see re-development in Springfield’s older neighborhoods “to attract younger families,” she says.

Stephanie Stenger

CEO, Springfield Land LP
J.D., University of Southern California; B.S., University of Missouri
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: Stephanie Stenger is passionate about developing 417-land. She’s had an up-close perspective on the community since the 1990s, when she began working for her father’s businesses. She now operates one of those businesses, Springfield Land LP, with her brother.
Big in 2021: Stenger is part owner of medical marijuana dispensary The Farmer’s Wife.

Amaka "Coach Mox" Agugua-Hamilton

POWER PLAY

Women’s Head Basketball Coach, Missouri State University
M.S., Virginia Commonwealth University; B.B.A., Hofstra University
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: Since Missouri State University named Amaka “Coach Mox” Agugua-Hamilton head coach of its women’s basketball team, the Lady Bears have racked up a string of honors. This year, they finished 14th in the Coaches Poll, the team’s highest ranking since 2001.
The Insight: She still gets goosebumps when she thinks of her team’s accomplishments. “These first two years have been amazing,” she says.
The Advice She’d Give Herself: “Stay prayed up! Grind now; shine later. The best is yet to come.”
Power Play: The Lady Bears went to a second consecutive NCAA Sweet 16 Tournament, where they were the No. 5 seed.

J. Timothy Cloyd, PHD

POWER PLAY

President/Professor of Management and Leadership/Professor of Political Science, Drury University
Ph.D. and M.A., University of Massachusetts Amherst; B.A., Emory and Henry
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: J. Timothy Cloyd believes his greatest triumphs have come when he’s given opportunities to others, and he considers his toughest moments “when I tried to do it or think it out alone.” He’s been Drury University’s president since 2016.
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “There is no lesson in the second kick of a mule.”
Power Play: In recent years, Cloyd has overseen nearly $100 million in fundraising, including $27 million dedicated to the C.H. "Chub" O'Reilly Enterprise Center and Breech School of Business Administration and the Judy Thompson Executive Conference Center.

Dana Ford

Men’s Head Basketball Coach, Missouri State University
B.S., Illinois State University
Returning, Third Year
The Essential: In 2018, Dana Ford became the 18th head  coach of the Missouri State Bears. He and his wife, Christina, are known for their nonprofit organization, The Rebound Foundation, which seeks to restore women who’ve experienced domestic abuse and break the generational cycle of abuse. They’re the proud parents of five children.
The Insight: Ford says, “Always choose the harder right instead of the easier wrong,” is the best business advice he’s ever received.
Big in 2021: The Bears finished third in their conference and tied a school record with seven conference wins on the road. 

Dr. Hal Higdon

Chancellor, Ozarks Technical Community College
Ph.D. and M.Ed., University of Southern Mississippi; B.S., University of Alabama
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: This year, Hal Higdon observed his 15th anniversary as chancellor of Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC). During his tenure, he’s expanded OTC’s program offerings and strategic partnerships.
Big in 2021: The hotly anticipated Robert W. Plaster Center for Advanced Manufacturing has received significant donations from the Robert W. Plaster Foundation, Emerson, American National, Durham Company, Larry and Donna Snyder, Rick’s Automotive and Sunderland Foundation. 

Dr. Grenita Lathan

Superintendent of Schools, Springfield Public Schools
Ph.D., Southern Illinois University; M.S., University of North Carolina; B.S., North Carolina A&T State University
New
The Essential: Dr. Grenita Lathan assumed leadership of Missouri’s largest school district in July and immediately began connecting with 417-land. “It is important for me—not only as a newcomer to Springfield but as superintendent—to be active and visible,” she says.
Big in 2021: Lathan is pleased that Springfield schools opened with in-person learning available for all students. Due to the pandemic’s impact, “We have allocated additional resources to provide academic, physical and mental health supports that they can access at school,” she says. “This assistance is important to making the 2021–22 school year a successful one for everyone.” 

Bobby Petrino

Head Football Coach, Missouri State University
New
The Essential: When Missouri State University hired Bobby Petrino in 2020, it marked a turning point for Bears Football. During the spring season, Petrino led the team to a share of the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) title and the Bears’ first playoff appearance in 30 years. The fall season looks promising for the Bears, too, with a 4-2 record at press time.
Big in 2021: The MVC named Petrino coach of the year, and Missouri State extended his contract through the 2025 season.

H. Wes Pratt

Assistant to the President/Chief Diversity Officer, Missouri State University
J.D., University of San Diego; B.A., Drury University
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: After growing up in Springfield, H. Wes Pratt spent time on the West Coast, where—among other roles—he served as the first African American director of the California Conservation Corps. He returned home “to promote the value of inclusion on campus and in the community,” he says. Around 417-land, he’s known as a go-to source for training in diversity, equity and inclusion.
The Insight: Pratt wants to see our citizens, residents, organizations, institutions and businesses continue to cultivate cultural consciousness. “Springfield will be a model for the nation,” he says, “when it collectively and individually incorporates inclusive excellence in all sectors.” 

Clif Smart

President, Missouri State University
J.D., University of Arkansas
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: According to Springfield Mayor (and fellow Biz 100 honoree) Ken McClure, Clif Smart “assumed the Missouri State University presidency during a very difficult time in the university’s history.” Smart says this career turn surprised him; it seems to have worked out. Since taking on the role in 2011, he’s successfully advocated for a $10 million increase in the university’s appropriations, overseen the “Onward, Upward” fundraising campaign—and he also made Bears Football happen.
Bet You Didn’t Know: Growing up, Smart spent a year in Afghanistan.
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “Always work hard, whether or not you love your job—or your manager.” 

Joselyn Baldner

POWER PLAY

President/CEO, Central Bank
New

The Essential: Eighteen years ago, Joselyn Baldner began her career as a teller with holding company Central Bank. Now, as the bank’s leader, she's been on the frontlines of the economic recovery through the facilitation of the Paycheck Protection Program.
Big in 2021: She says she’s been inspired by “all of the work that the Chamber of Commerce has done for our business community, the teachers who go amazingly above and beyond... and the tireless work that the team at CPO did to ensure one of our most vulnerable populations, the homeless, was housed from week to week.”
Power Play: Baldner is the first woman to become president and CEO of Central Bank. 

Shaun A. Burke

President/CEO, Guaranty Bank
Graduate Banking School of Colorado; B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Shaun A. Burke has experienced two of banking’s biggest challenges: the Great Recession, which led him to advocate for best banking practices and regulatory guidance, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Guaranty Bank has processed 630 loans—more than $53 million worth—as part of the pandemic relief-oriented Paycheck Protection Program.
The Insight: Like many CEOs, Burke is focused on talent acquisition and retention. “We’re implementing a more flexible mobile work policy that will allow our associates to meet our customers’ needs while providing increased work-life balance,” he says. “This approach will greatly benefit our customers and our ability to serve them with talented, experienced bankers.”

Paula Dougherty

Certified Financial Planner/Private Wealth Advisor/Owner, Achieve Private Wealth/Ameriprise Financial
M.B.A., Missouri State University; B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: Paula Dougherty loves that her work involves “developing people and seeing their successes.” During her 26 years with Ameriprise, many women have joined her in the financial services industry. “It is an exciting time,” she says, “to see so many women in the C-suite and at the boardroom table.”
The Advice She’d Give Herself: “Trust in God, and trust in yourself. A lot of people will come into your life. Some will stay, and some will go. Learn from all of it.”

John Everett

President/CEO, Legacy Bank and Trust
B.A., Drury University
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: John Everett says his experience as a charter employee of THE BANK “gave me the background and experience that has propelled me for the rest of my career.” In 2004, he joined Legacy Bank and Trust as CFO, and in 2009, Legacy named him president and CEO. This year, he’s serving as Chairman of the Missouri Bankers Association.
Big in 2021: Legacy Bank moved into its new Springfield headquarters, a 40,000-square-foot building on East Sunshine.
The Insight: Everett considers his father his greatest mentor. “He taught me how to treat everyone with respect,” he says.

Randy Johnson

CEO/Chairman of the Board
OakStar Bank
New
The Essential: Randy Johnson says he leads “the most amazing team.” With 500 employees in 27 locations, he feels “challenged daily to improve our company and be personal with each banking team I serve.”
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “Invest [in] people. If we will listen, they will teach so much.”

Doug Neff

Chairman/CEO, Commerce Bank Southwest Missouri
Graduate School of Banking, University of Wisconsin; B.S., University of Missouri
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Doug Neff recently celebrated his 30th anniversary at Commerce Bank, where he’s worked with every aspect of the industry, including commercial banking, credit and wealth management.
The Insight: When asked about the biggest barriers 417-land needs to overcome, Neff says, “We must become a more diverse and inclusive community to reach our potential.”
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “Be open-minded and willing to take on challenges that take you out of your comfort zone.”
Bet You Didn’t Know: Neff describes himself as “a farm kid from western Kansas.” He graduated from high school with just 10 other classmates.

Gary Schafer

Managing Partner—Southern Missouri Offices, BKD LLP

B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Third Year
The Essential: Gary Schafer helms BKD LLP and oversees the firm’s 417-land operations. After almost 25 years in his industry, Schafer says, “The opportunity to work with innovative entrepreneurs and outstanding business leaders and managers is one of the best things about being in public accounting.”
The Insight: Schafer describes the moment he learned “that there was a hard limit to how many balls I could juggle at once,” as one of his most valuable lessons. While he values multitasking, he says, “trying to keep too many people happy at one time is a sure way to disappoint all of them.”

Joe Turner

President/CEO, Great Southern Bank
J.D., University of Missouri; B.S., Drake University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Joe Turner tells us his father taught him the importance of effectively communicating with colleagues and subordinates. “[My father] always said, ‘People are down on what they’re not up on,’” Turner says. It was Turner’s father who convinced him to move away from his legal career and join Great Southern Bank.
The Insight: During his career, Turner has learned to view things with a long-range lens. Early on, he says, “my time horizon was too short. Now, I realize it’s advantageous to think in terms of five-, 10- or even 20-year periods.”

Shawn Askinosie

CEO/Founder, Askinosie Chocolate
J.D. and B.S., University of Missouri
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Lawyer-turned-chocolatier Shawn Askinosie is 417-famous for making chocolate that tastes great and feels just as good, since the profits get shared with the smallholder farmers who produce the cocoa. He tells us he’s still inspired by the prospect of “finding God in all things and in all people.”
Big in 2021: Askinosie’s biggest challenge has been supply chain issues with every ingredient, “except the cocoa beans,” he says. “They’ve been great and on time.”
Bet You Didn’t Know: Askinosie managed Sheryl Crow’s band in college. He once pitched the band to the Junior League of Springfield, but, he says, “They turned us down.” 

Lyle Foster

CEO, Big Momma’s Coffee and Espresso
Ph.D., University of Missouri; M.A., Brown University; M.A., Yale University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: If you're out and about in 417-land, you'll run into Lyle Foster. You might see him at Missouri State University, where he’s a faculty member, or at his popular C-Street coffee shop, Big Momma's. There’s his new venture, Queen City Soul Kitchen, which he co-owns with fellow Biz 100 honoree Francine Pratt. He’s also the grant administrator for nearly $57 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding for Greene County.
Big in 2021: The Springfield-Greene County African American Heritage Trail, which Foster organized, raised funds for four more historic markers, bringing the current number to 13.

Sam Hamra

Founder/Chairman, Hamra Enterprises
B.S./B.A., University of Missouri
Returning, Sixth Year 
The Essential: Hamra says the following wisdom from his friend, Danny Thomas, has always resonated with him: “Success has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself. It is what you do for others.” This might be why he’s as known for his philanthropic activities, including donations to The Kitchen, the Springfield Art Museum and multiple colleges and universities, as he is for his investments in quick-service staples like Wendy’s and Panera Bread.
The Insight: His philosophy is, “Never give up! If something you invest in does not work, pick yourself up and keep going.” 

Sally Hargis

Vice President/Chairman, Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr Pepper Bottling Co.
B.S., University of Missouri
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: The enterprise that Edwin C. “Cookie” Rice Sr. founded a century ago has become a major force throughout 417-land. Rice’s granddaughter, Sally Hargis, now leads the company, along with Edwin C. Rice Jr. and Bruce Long.
The Insight: When asked about the best business advice she’s received, Hargis says, “Never let an opportunity pass to say a kind and encouraging thing to—or about—somebody. Praise good work.”
Big in 2021: Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr Pepper Bottling Co. opened a new, 432,000-square-foot warehouse in Springfield. 

Andy Kuntz

President/CEO, Andy’s Frozen Custard
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: 417-land’s favorite drive-through dessert got its start more than three decades ago in Osage Beach, where John and Carol Kuntz began offering it. Now their son, Andy Kuntz, helms the business, which serves up deliciousness in 14 states.
Big in 2021: In August, Andy’s opened its 100th store, located in Kansas City.

Teresa McGeehan

Owner/Operator, McDonald’s Restaurants
New
The Essential: At 16, when Teresa McGeehan began working at McDonald’s, she couldn’t have guessed that she was destined to own the counter she was working behind. She rose through various leadership roles and was approved for her first restaurant in 2009. She and her husband Chip now own and operate 19 McDonald’s. She’s passionate about advocating for other female leaders—in her own organization and throughout the community.
Big in 2021: Chip and Teresa McGeehan were executive producers of the Harmony House exhibit, “Standing Together,” which raised awareness of domestic violence.
The Advice She’d Give Herself: “Lead confidently—if you don’t question your ability, others won’t either. Not taking risks because you fear failure is self-sabotage; get uncomfortable and grow!”

Jeff Schrag

James Tillman

Managing Member, First Watch
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: When James Tillman brought the First Watch concept to Springfield in 2017, 417-landers fell in love with its health-oriented breakfast, brunch and lunch options. Tillman soon opened a second Springfield location; he’s now the managing member of seven First Watch restaurants. He also owns several other businesses, including Complete Electrical Solutions, and has multiple real estate ventures. 

Teresa Coyan

Vice President of Public Affairs, CoxHealth
M.B.A., Webster University; B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Fourth Year
The Essential: As CoxHealth’s Vice President of Public Affairs, Teresa Coyan calls on her enthusiasm for connecting people with state and local issues.
Bet You Didn’t Know: She tells us she used to be uncomfortable speaking publicly. “I pushed myself till it became easier and easier,” she says. “I'm still sometimes shocked that I work in a role that is in constant communication and made for an extrovert.” And she’s proud that those days of shyness are in her rear-view mirror. “It helps me remember that if you work hard at something and are determined enough, anyone can achieve their goals,” she says. 

C.J. Davis

POWER PLAY

President/CEO, BurrellBehavioral Health

Psy.D., Forest Institute of Professional Psychology; M.S., University of Central Missouri; B.S., Culver-Stockton College
Returning, Third Year
The Essential: When C.J. Davis joined Burrell Behavioral Health in 2017, he came in with more than 20 years of experience—as both a clinical psychologist and an executive. As president/CEO, he’s remained committed to accessibility, mission expansion and promoting a better understanding of behavioral health.
Bet You Didn’t Know: He played college basketball.
Power Play: Davis and the whole Burrell organization are driving the conversation around mental health in 417-land. They’re raising awareness through high-impact programs, such as the Be Well Community and the suicide prevention project, ONE Initiative. 

Steve Edwards

President/CEO, CoxHealth

M.H.A., Washington University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Steve Edwards comes from a healthcare family with deep roots at CoxHealth. “If I had my mom, dad, sisters and brother-in-law around the table, I think we’d have 155 years of service to Cox,” he says. Edwards has spent 29 years with the hospital—the last decade as CEO. CoxHealth’s Vice President of Public Affairs (and fellow Biz 100 honoree) Teresa Coyan tells us he’s a mentor, too. “He has taught me through leading that ethical leadership and the highest integrity are so important,” she says. “Our organization is grounded in doing the right thing. Top down.”

Brent Hubbard

COO, Mercy Hospitals Springfield Communities
M.B.A., Southwestern Oklahoma State University; B.S., Oklahoma State University
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: Mercy President and COO Brent Hubbard says that in some ways, his job is like managing a small city. He keeps things running smoothly for 10,000 team members working across multiple sites. This year, as they’ve responded to the pandemic with grit and grace, Hubbard says 417-land’s strong history of collaboration has been a big asset.
Big in 2021: In June, Mercy opened the first pediatric ER in the region, which will help keep the youngest patients close to home. The third phase of Mercy’s Heart Hospital—an $80 million investment that serves a four-state region—just passed its one-year anniversary.

Craig McCoy

President, Mercy Springfield Communities
M.H.A., Clemson University/Medical University of South Carolina; B.A., Furman University; A.D., Greenville Technical College
New
The Essential: Craig McCoy spent seven years working as a paramedic before transitioning into healthcare administration, so he understands the pressure frontline responders experience. And he makes a point of investing in people throughout the organization. He says by doing so, “you have a greater impact than you ever could have by only focusing on your own goals.”
The Insight: McCoy says Springfield reminds him of his old hometown, Greenville, South Carolina. Greenville’s downtown experienced a resurgence, which proved vital to the city’s development, and he sees something similar happening here. “The downtown area is primed to explode,” he says. 

Tim Connell

Owner, Connell Insurance, Inc.
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: In more than three decades with Connell Insurance, Tim Connell has defined a few principles he can count on to keep him grounded. Among them: “You will draw critics, which can come in the form of friends or relatives, people who oppose you or who just have bad advice,” and, “You will receive accolades; be humble.” After many professional highlights, including a string of exciting new hires during the last couple of years, Connell still calls his marriage to his wife, Kim, one of the most defining moments of his career. 

Trevor Crist

CEO, Nixon & Lindstrom Insurance
B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Trevor Crist joined the team at Nixon & Lindstrom Insurance in 2002—the result of a cold call he made to President/Owner Luke Nixon. Crist rose to a leadership position as CEO. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Insight: When asked for his favorite piece of business advice, Crist says, “The deal of a lifetime only comes around every couple of months.”

Gordon Kinne

President, Med-Pay, Inc.
B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Gordon Kinne founded Med-Pay, Inc. less than a decade into his career, and it’s become a major provider for 417-landers. He says, “COVID has and is testing us all. We as a community have and will get through it.”
Big in 2021: Kinne has been enjoying time with his grandchildren, Walker and Kate.
The Insight: He says his favorite piece of business advice is, “Be honest and never burn the bridge.” 

Richard Ollis

CEO, Ollis/Akers/Arney
B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Richard Ollis helped steer the company his great-grandfather founded through its transition to an entirely employee-owned model. This change, which began in the 1980s and was completed in 2008, “has enabled significant buy-in to our mission of protecting clients,” he says.
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “Spend as much time building and nurturing your team as you spend developing yourself.”
Bet You Didn’t Know: When he was 17, Ollis joined the Navy. “I began my career cleaning bathrooms, mopping floors and washing dishes.” Turns out these skills come in handy; he still volunteers for trash duty around the office. 

David Agee

Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: David Agee’s two decades with Husch Blackwell have taken him on many journeys—of the professional and literal varieties. He’s traveled to 44 states and 14 countries, including Russia, Bahrain, Panama, Brazil and the United Kingdom, while working with law related to manufacturing, transportation, aviation and technology.
Big in 2021: Agee was invited to join the boards of directors of United Way of the Ozarks and Wings of Hope.
Bet You Didn’t Know: When Agee was a kid, he showed Hereford cattle at the Ozark Empire Fair. One year he showed the grand champion bull. 

Crista Hogan

Executive Director, Springfield Metropolitan Bar
J.D., University of Tulsa School of Law; B.BA., George Washington University 
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: Crista Hogan has worked with the Springfield Metropolitan Bar for two decades. The organization, which has been part of 417-land since 1903, has more than 900 members.
Big in 2021: The Community Partnership of the Ozarks and the Ozarks Alliance to End Homelessness recognized Hogan with the Housing Champions Award.
The Insight: When Hogan looks to the future, she says, “attracting and retaining progressive young talent,” is one of the greatest hurdles our region needs to overcome to reach its full potential.

Christa B. Moss

Assistant United States Attorney, United States Attorney’s Office
J.D., College of William and Mary; B.A., Oral Roberts University
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: In barely more than a decade, Christa B. Moss went from graduating summa cum laude from Oral Roberts University to being sworn in as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. She says much of this success stems from her parents, “who taught me the value of hard work and sacrifice and the significance of standing on the shoulders of my ancestors.”
The Insight: For businesses seeking to nurture diverse teams and foster inclusive environments, Moss recommends taking a proactive approach. “Don't underestimate the influence that intentional sponsorship and mentorship have in recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce,” she says. 

Randell Wallace

Partner, Kutak Rock, LLP
J.D., Vanderbilt University Law School; B.A., Drury University
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: Randell Wallace says mergers and acquisitions have been particularly busy this year. Kutak Rock closed a number of transactions in 2021, some of which commenced more than 18 months ago.
Big in 2021: BTI Consulting Group included Kutak Rock’s national mergers and acquisitions practice group in a list of 32 law firms that are highly trusted to make deals happen.
Bet You Didn’t Know: Wallace originally intended to spend a few years practicing law before transitioning into a business career. But, he says, “I didn’t realize how much I would enjoy practicing law.” 

Bobby Allison

Flunky, Custom Protein Corp.
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Around 417-land, Bobby Allison is known for business success and charitable impact. You’ll spot his contributions across Missouri State University’s campus, at the Betty and Bobby Allison Ozarks Counseling Center, at the Springfield Dream Center and in many other cherished institutions.
Big in 2021: In the spring, construction began on the Betty & Bobby Allison Sports Town, an eagerly anticipated sports park on Springfield’s west side.

Jerry Cook

CEO, Loren Cook Company
New
The Essential: Loren Cook Company, which was founded by current CEO Jerry Cook's father, celebrated its 80th anniversary this year. The Springfield-based company is known as one of the most important manufacturing employers in 417-land. It specializes in a range of air-moving products. Last year, in response to COVID-19, Loren Cook quickly developed the Mobile Air Cleaner, a high-efficiency air purifier. 

John Gentry

Advisor/Senior Engineering Director, Positronic Industries Inc.
B.S., Georgia Institute of Technology
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: John Gentry served as CEO of Positronic from 1978 until February of this year, when the company sold to Amphenol Corporation. Gentry remains on in an advisory role. On its website, Amphenol is described as “one of the largest manufacturers of interconnect products in the world. The Company designs, manufactures and markets electrical, electronic and fiber optic connectors, coaxial and flat-ribbon cable, and interconnect systems.”
Big in 2021: Gentry is the current Chair of the Board of Trustees for Ozarks Technical Community College.

Jena Holtberg-Benge

POWER PLAY

General Manager, John Deere Reman

M.IM., Thunderbird School of Global Management; B.A., Vassar College
New
The Essential: As general manager of John Deere Reman, Jena Holtberg-Benge is responsible for strategy and production related to the remanufacturing of engines as well as drivetrain, hydraulic, fuel and electronic components. This work helps John Deere provide “quality products while executing on sustainability goals,” she says.
Big in 2021: She’s now a foster parent.
The Insight: Holtberg-Benge is a fan of 417-land placemaking, which she calls “collective work to create a place where people want to come and stay.”
Power Play: In March, Deere & Co. announced expanded operations in Springfield. As a result, Holtberg-Benge hired more than 100 people “in the midst of an economic recovery, inflation and pandemic,” she says.

David Moore

President/CEO, Paul Mueller Co.
M.B.A., University of Chicago; B.A., Middlebury College
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: David Moore leads the company his grandfather founded in 1940. Paul Mueller Co. employs approximately 1,000 people who work from locations all over the world, including Osceola, Iowa, the Netherlands and Vietnam.
Big in 2021: The City of Springfield named August 7, 2021, “Paul Mueller Day” in honor of the company’s 80 years of impact on 417-land. 

Joe Reynolds

President, Central States Industrial (CSI)
B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Third Year
The Essential: It’s Joe Reynolds’s 23rd year with CSI and his sixth as president. You’ll also find him serving on the City Utilities Advisory Board, the Food Industry Supplier Association and advisory boards for Missouri State University and Ozarks Technical Community College as well as in various roles at his church.
Big in 2021: When many organizations were making tough calls about pandemic-related layoffs, CSI committed to retaining its employees. At the end of the fiscal year in June, CSI wasn’t only at 100% employment, it had also made a profit.
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “Be kind and live generously! Give your L-I-F-E (labor, influence, finance and expertise) to serve others.”

Jack Stack

President/CEO, SRC Holdings Corp.
B.S., Elmhurst College
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: When you ask folks in the 417-land business scene to name someone they admire or regard as a mentor, Jack Stack’s name comes up—a lot. This shouldn’t surprise anyone. Stack and his partners earned their credibility by transforming a failing business into a thriving one. They did it with an open-book management style that’s designed to empower every member of an organization. Stack wrote about this system in his book, The Great Game of Business: The Only Sensible Way to Run a Business.
The Insight: Stack says he lives by the motto, “You get what you give.”

Rob Blevins

POWER PLAY

Executive Director, Discovery Center of Springfield Inc.

B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: Rob Blevins says he’s always “embraced his inner geek.” As executive director of the Discovery Center, he’s built on his history in community engagement to broaden the center’s programs and services. He’s passionate about education, mentoring and helping provide pathways out of generational poverty.
Bet You Didn’t Know: Blevins’s history with NASA goes back to high school, when he got to predict dust storms on Mars. Most recently, he was asked to lead a NASA TV segment as part of the coverage of the 2020 SpaceX, NASA and JAXA Crew-1 Flight.
Power Play: The Discovery Center opened Discovery School in 2020. This year, the school expanded, and there’s currently a waitlist for admission.

Erin Danastasio

POWER PLAY

Executive Director, Hatch Foundation

B.S., University of Missouri
New
The Essential: In 2019, Erin Danastasio’s family sold its businesses, and she arrived at a personal crossroads. “I’ve now learned that our family legacy will be played out through our new family foundation,” she says. “We believe that Springfield can reach its full potential when we all come together and create the change that our neighbors see as a need.”
Power Play: When local teens started building mountain bike trails, the Hatch Foundation stepped up with financial support, which helped formalize the Lone Pine Bike Park. We’re looking forward to more of this fresh, grassroots approach to philanthropy with initiatives like the MIDxMIDWST street art festival, now slated for September 2022.

Hal Donaldson

POWER PLAY

President/CEO, Convoy of Hope
B.A., Bethany University; B.A., San Jose University
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: Everyone in 417-land knows the nonprofit Hal Donaldson founded, which has delivered more than $1.5 billion in food and supplies to more than 165 million people. For 18 years, Convoy of Hope has maintained a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, and Forbes recognized it as one of the “Top 100 Charities” in the United States.
Big in 2021: Convoy of Hope has distributed 200 million meals in response to challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Power Play: In August, Convoy of Hope opened its new World Distribution Center in Republic. The facility offers significantly more space and easy access to the James River Freeway. 

Brian Fogle

President, Community Foundation of the Ozarks
M.B.A. and B.B.A., University of Mississippi
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: You’re likely to find Brian Fogle wherever people are working to build a better 417-land. In addition to leading the Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO), he currently serves on the Good Community Committee, the Healthy Living Alliance, Every Child Promise, the Downtown Council of Champions, The Missouri Scholarship and Loan Foundation and the Missouri College Access Network.
Big in 2021: This year the CFO set a record for gifts and contributions—$73 million. By the end of the fiscal year in June, $53 million had been distributed, nearly $5 million for COVID-related needs.
Bet You Didn’t Know: He tells us his motto is, “Often wrong, seldom in doubt.”

Brandy Harris

Chief Executive Officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield
M.A., Missouri State University; B.A., Drury University
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: As a kid, Brandy Harris attended 13 different schools before moving to Springfield in 1999 and joining Reed Academy. This life experience infuses her leadership of Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield with depth and compassion—key assets in the organization’s mission to provide positive, nurturing environments for 417-land kids.
The Insight: Early in her career, Harris moved to Lawrence, Kansas, and planned to teach. “But there were zero teaching jobs,” she says. “The Boys & Girls Clubs offered me a frontline position where I made $300 a month. I took it.”
The Advice She’d Give Herself: “Get a therapist. Worry less because integrity prevails. Listen more.” 

Mary Kromrey

Executive Director, Ozark Greenways
M.S., Missouri State University; B.S., Arkansas State University
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: If you’ve enjoyed the trails that connect our region’s neighborhoods and landmarks, you’ve benefited from Mary Kromrey’s work. As she builds on last year’s milestone—the completion of the Fulbright Spring Greenway—Kromrey is looking forward to partnering with City Utilities, Watershed Committee of the Ozarks, the Missouri Department of Conservation and TrailSpring for a recreation destination that connects 417-landers with our primary source of drinking water, Fellows Lake.
The Advice She’d Give Herself: “Pace yourself.”
Bet You Didn’t Know: The Kromrey family is planning to build a tiny house. At least, “in theory,” she says.

Francine Pratt

Executive Director, Missouri College Access Network and Prosper Springfield, Co-owner, Queen City Soul Kitchen
B.S., University of Phoenix
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: Francine Pratt says her favorite business advice is, “When someone says ‘no,’ do not give up… If it is important to you, repackage your presentation, stay consistent and be willing to crawl before you walk.” This tenacity helps her tackle some of our region’s most important issues, like poverty reduction, community development and inclusion.
Big in 2021: 417-landers rave about the food at Queen City Soul Kitchen, the restaurant Pratt opened with fellow Biz 100 honoree Lyle Foster. 

Roy Blunt

U.S. Senator for Missouri

M.A., Missouri State University; B.A., Southwest Baptist University
Returning, Fourth Year
The Essential: History teacher-turned-public servant Roy Blunt was the first in his family to graduate from college. After teaching, he worked as Greene County Clerk and served in the U.S. House of Representatives before getting elected to the United States Senate in 2010.
Big in 2021: In March, Blunt announced he will retire when his term ends in January 2023. 

David Cameron

POWER PLAY

City Administrator, City of Republic

B.S., John Brown University
New
The Essential: David Cameron tells us that since 2020, his team has executed more than 1.7 million square feet of industrial development—$200 million worth—in Republic.
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “Seek wise counsel. Asking for help is not a sign of incompetence—quite the opposite. Commit to your convictions, values and leadership style. Select your path and decisions. Not everyone will like you. Be your best self and leave the results to the Lord.”
Power Play: We’re excited about Republic’s explosive economic growth—epitomized by the new Amazon Fulfillment Center. Cameron says, “The ability of our team to take the call on June 2, 2020, approve the plans by August 2020, and start construction in September” is what propelled the center to its opening in August of this year.

Jason Gage

City Manager, City of Springfield
M.P.A., University of Missouri; B.A., Missouri Southern State University
Returning, Third Year
The Essential: Jason Gage is excited about Quality of Place projects like the Grant Avenue Parkway and the Jordan Creek Renewal Project, examples of his belief in city government’s power to help build community.
The Insight: When Gage needs to recharge, he pencils in outdoor time or picks up a book about a leader who’s navigated tough situations. “If that doesn’t work,” he says, “a good action movie followed by Andy’s usually does the trick.”
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “The work will sometimes be harder than expected. Always try to be empathetic and listen intently before making a decision.” 

Gary Gibson

POWER PLAY

President/CEO, City Utilities of Springfield

B.S., Missouri S&T
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: As the leader of City Utilities, Gary Gibson shoulders the responsibility for keeping 320 square miles supplied with electricity, natural gas, water, broadband and public transportation services.
The Insight: When asked about the future, Gibson says, “One of the biggest opportunities is working together to ensure Springfield is an inclusive community where we can celebrate the best parts of each other.”
Bet You Didn’t Know: He enjoyed the unique experience of attending his great-grandmother’s wedding.
Power Play: Last winter, extreme weather overwhelmed utilities infrastructures in several parts of the United States—but not in 417-land.

Lincoln P. Hough

Missouri State Senator, District 30

B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: Throughout his political career, Lincoln P. Hough has been passionate about supporting firefighters, who suffer from higher rates of certain cancers due to specific hazards of their work. This year, he was instrumental in establishing a firefighter pool fund to help with cancer-related expenses. “Negotiating common ground was a lot of work,” he says, “but it was a great feeling to be in Governor Parson’s office when he signed the bill.”
Bet You Didn’t Know: Hough is part of the seventh generation of his family to call Greene County home; he’s currently raising the eighth.

Billy Long

U.S. Congressman for Missouri’s 7th Congressional District
New
The Essential: Billy Long has represented 417-land in the U.S. Congress for the past decade. He lists reducing diesel emissions, rural broadband deployment and suicide prevention among his top legislative priorities.
Big in 2021: In August, he announced his campaign for the U.S. Senate. 

Ken McClure

Mayor, City of Springfield
M.A., University of Missouri; B.A., Missouri State University
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: When the Delta variant hit our region, Springfield Mayor Ken McClure and his partners in healthcare responded aggressively. “The solution is vaccination,” he says. “I urge, in the strongest possible terms, everyone to be vaccinated. A high vaccination rate is the only way we can defeat the virus.”
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “Treat each position you hold as if it will be the one from which you retire.”
Bet You Didn’t Know: McClure has played the national anthem on trombone for the Springfield Cardinals—three times—and played for the Springfield Symphony. He also spent eight years singing bass in a traveling gospel quartet.  

Matt Morrow

President/CEO, Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce
M.B.A. and B.S., Southwest Baptist University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Matt Morrow believes collaboration is the heartbeat of Springfield’s success. He hopes 417-land can resist a nationwide “collapse of civility” and retain its identity as “people who may see the world in different ways but are willing to work constructively together for shared goals and shared good.”
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “Don’t get in a hurry… Learning to persevere through a little workplace adversity turns those years into an investment that will pay dividends for decades.”
Bet You Didn’t Know: He’s the reigning Community Partnership of the Ozarks lip sync champion. Morrow and his kids wowed the audience with “In Summer” from Frozen. (Morrow played the part of Olaf.)

Michael Parson

Governor, State of Missouri
Returning, Fourth Year
The Essential: The 57th Governor of Missouri, Michael Parson, has given significant focus to issues like infrastructure and workforce development. His career in public service began in the early 1990s when he was elected Polk County sheriff.
Big in 2021: In August, Parson delivered his annual State of the State address at Springfield’s JQH Arena. He highlighted job growth in the state, calling Missouri “a hub for new economic activity,” according to the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s recap of the event.

Crystal Quade

District 132 Representative, Missouri House of Representatives; House Minority Floor Leader, 101st General Assembly
B.S.W., Missouri State University
Returning, Fourth Year
The Essential: Before getting elected to public office in 2016, Quade worked at Care to Learn. Locally, she is involved in the League of Women Voters of Southwest Missouri.
Big in 2021: Quade’s support was critical to a number of 417-land business priorities this year, including the passage of the online sales tax, the gas tax increase, the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program and the Hand-Up Pilot Child Care Assistance Program.

Tim Rosenbury

Director of Quality of Place Initiatives, City of Springfield
B.Arch., Mississippi State University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: After more than three decades with BRP Architects, Tim Rosenbury took on his new role as Springfield’s director of quality of place initiatives. His work focuses on developing plans, policies and projects that achieve public placemaking excellence, raising the bar for capital projects and promoting placemaking to the development community.
Big in 2021: Rosenbury and the City of Springfield announced a team to design and build the Grant Avenue Parkway, which will connect downtown Springfield to Wonders of Wildlife. 

Paul F. Williams

Chief of Police, City of Springfield
M.S., Northeastern State University; B.S., Northern Michigan University
New
The Essential: The past two years have demanded particularly strong leadership from Paul F. Williams. In March 2020, the department lost its first officer killed in the line of duty since 1932. Shortly thereafter, a nationwide downturn in police applications left the force short-staffed. But Williams tells us he leads “an outstanding group of men and women… who work day in and day out to keep the community safe, all while grieving the loss of a fellow officer.”
The Insight: Williams considers his service as board chair for Burrell Behavioral Health a transformational experience because it provided greater knowledge of mental health needs and services.
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “Life doesn’t always go as planned. Embrace the circumstances and adjust.”

Audrey Garard

Owner, Grooms Office Environments
B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Second Year
The Essential: Audrey Garard began her career with Grooms Office Environments as a sales representative, just two years after her college graduation. She worked her way up the ladder, serving as sales manager and COO before she and her husband purchased the company.
The Insight: Garard says she lives by the motto, “Do the right thing.” And she recommends doing so regardless of whether it ends up costing more money. “You’re only as good as your word,” she says. 

Greg Johnson

CEO/Co-president, O’Reilly Auto Parts
B.S., Tennessee Tech University
New
The Essential: Greg Johnson considers his move to Springfield "a leap of faith" and "the best decision of my career." In his leadership role at O'Reilly Auto Parts, he loves coaching and mentoring employees and watching them grow.
The Advice He'd Give Himself: "There is no better way to earn and maintain [people's] respect than to demonstrate you are willing to work alongside them, no matter what job title you hold."

Johnny Morris

CEO/Founder, Bass Pro Shops
B.A., Drury University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Bass Pro Founder Johnny Morris is famous for celebrating the beauty of the Ozarks through projects like Top of the Rock, Big Cedar Lodge, Finley Farms and Dogwood Canyon—and for enticing tourists with attractions like Payne’s Valley Golf Course and Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium.
Big in 2021: In September, Morris was inducted into the Hall of Famous Missourians. 

Abigail Pinegar-Rose

Entrepreneur, Pinegar Chevrolet Buick GMC–Branson; Pinegar Chevrolet–Republic; Pinegar Land & Cattle, CATAA Properties; Wildwood Plaza
B.S., Missouri State University
New
The Essential: Abigail Pinegar-Rose plays a vital role in her family’s auto dealerships and in commercial real estate. She was recently appointed to the Missouri Lottery Commission.
The Insight: Pinegar-Rose’s father, businessman Ed Pinegar, died in 2020. “This loss hasn’t only been my biggest challenge this year; I’m sure [it will be] for the rest of my life,” she says. “I didn’t just lose my father. He was a mentor, a confidant and my champion. I learned my ‘juggling act’ from him. Personally, this loss will never be filled, but professionally, his absence has to be filled to the best of my ability. He always said, ‘Just do the best you can, and if it still doesn’t work out, then you know you did your best.’ I remember this every day.”
Big in 2021: Pinegar-Rose serves as vice president for 417-land's chapter of the Dream Factory, which she describes as "an organization that grants dreams to local children who are critically or chronically ill." After learning about the organization through a family that had personal experience with it, she says. "We decided that the Springfield area was in need of a local chapter and began Dream Factory SWMO in 2019. It was an extraordinary accomplishment for us to not only get this chapter going during a pandemic but to also raise enough funds to have the ability to send two children and their families on their dream trip to Disney World this summer."

Jeffrey W. Russell

President/CEO, Russell Cellular, Inc.
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Since transitioning from turkey farming to selling Alltel wireless phones out of his car, Jeffrey W. Russell and his wife Kym have made Russell Cellular one of the nation’s largest Verizon-authorized retailers. There are now more than 700 stores across 42 states.
Big in 2021: Russell Cellular adapted to the realities of the pandemic, learning how to serve customers while keeping employees safe. The company also rolled out a new call center to support retail stores.
The Insight: When he looks to the future, Russell says he’s excited about “5G wireless and the capabilities it will offer our customers through speed and technology.” 

Thomas H. Douglas

CEO, JMARK Business Solutions, Inc.
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Thomas H. Douglas’s company has been easing many organizations into new realities, including increased remote work. “Reliance on technology has never been greater,” he says. “There are many shifts that have occurred that will never reverse.” As a result, JMARK has been helping clients level up security protocols that will prevent breaches and protect intellectual property.
The Insight: Douglas says one of his favorite bits of advice is, “Surround yourself by smart people and let them do their work.”

David Foss

Board Chair/President/CEO, Jack Henry & Associates, Inc.
B.S., Minnesota State University
Returning, Fourth Year
The Essential: David Foss led Jack Henry & Associates through many challenges in 2021. With 7,000 team members working throughout the country and more than 8,000 bank and credit union customers depending on its services, the company had to remain productive and deliver positive results for shareholders—even as various regions contended with surges of COVID-19.
Big in 2021: Foss’s oldest son is now a doctor in Milwaukee. “Three days after he completed his residency, he brought his girlfriend to our home and asked her to marry him while they were with us for the week,” Foss says. “That was pretty cool.”  

Doug Pitt

Founder/Co-owner, Pitt Technology Group; Owner/Developer, Pitt Development Group LLD; Founder, Care to Learn
B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Businessman and philanthropist Doug Pitt founded Care to Learn to help alleviate challenges for families living in poverty in Springfield. Pitt was also the first Goodwill Ambassador of the United Republic of Tanzania.
Big in 2021: Care to Learn hired a new CEO, Krystal Simon, in July.

Gordon Elliott

President/CEO, Elliott Lodging, Ltd
B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: After founding the public accounting firm Elliott, Robinson & Company LLP, Gordon Elliott has gone on to own and manage hotels and apartment complexes throughout 417-land.
The Insight: Elliott says one of his business mottos is, “Always put yourself in the other person’s shoes.” He believes that once you know someone else’s values and goals, you can work on finding common ground. 

Jack Herschend

Co-founder/Co-owner, Herschend Enterprises
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Jack Herschend founded Herschend Enterprises with his brother, Peter. For the first 50 years of the company’s history, he served as the company’s chairman, president and CEO, according to the Herschend Enterprises website. 

Peter Herschend

Co-founder/Co-owner, Herschend Enterprises
B.S., University of Missouri
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Peter Herschend worked as Herschend Enterprises’ executive vice president of marketing and vice-chairman, per the Herschend Enterprises website. He was inducted into Missouri's Public Affairs Hall of Fame in 2018.

Mary Kellogg-Joslyn

President/COO/Co-owner, Titanic Museum Attractions
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: Mary Kellogg-Joslyn spent 10 years at CBS and 20 years at Walt Disney Co. before founding Titanic Museum Attractions. Her TV know-how helps make the immersive Titanic experience a huge draw for tourists in 417-land. “The concept is the same,” she says. “When you do a television show it has to be perfect for your viewers, and when you open your doors at a museum, it has to be perfect for your guests.”
The Insight: Her motto is, “Stay the course.” Even when dealing with big challenges like COVID-19, she says, it’s important to invest in and develop a solid management team.
The Advice She’d Give Herself: “Don’t let the men bully you!”

Billy McQueary

Co-owner/Co-developer, Hotel Vandivort
B.S., William Jewell College
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: When Billy McQueary started discussing opening an upscale hotel with his brother and sister-in-law, they hoped it would advance the downtown revival that was already underway. The result of those discussions, Hotel Vandivort, opened in 2015 and quickly became a favorite 417-land meet-up. The hotel's V2 expansion opened in 2019, along with the Vantage Rooftop Lounge and Conservatory, which offers epic views of downtown Springfield—the very neighborhood the family's original business, McQueary Bros. Drug Company, used to call home.

John McQueary

Co-developer/Co-owner, Hotel Vandivort; Founder, Springfield Identity Project 
B.S., Missouri S&T
Returning, Sixth Year
The Essential: Native 417-lander John McQueary says, “The culture, lifestyle and prosperity of our city depends on its residents. We have the ability to make Springfield what we want it to be.” Hotel Vandivort, which he opened with his wife and brother, is known for wowing guests and ushering in a new era for downtown.
Big in 2021: McQueary’s Springfield Identity Project succeeded in getting the proposed Springfield flag, already a fixture in businesses around town, up for official consideration with the City of Springfield.
The Advice He’d Give Himself: “Think bigger and pay attention to your instincts.”

Karen McQueary

Co-owner, Hotel Vandivort
B.A., Missouri State University
Returning, Fourth Year
The Essential: Karen McQueary leveraged her flair for design to create Hotel Vandivort’s memorable look, and the hotel has become a centerpiece of 417-land culture. She thinks of it as “a retreat for those in our community and a showcase spot for those visiting.” She says, “We are so incredibly grateful that the community continues to embrace us.”
The Insight: McQueary believes Springfield is poised for progress. “We have great assets and amenities,” she says, “but there is plenty of space and support for entrepreneurship.”
The Advice She’d Give Herself: “Connect with people every chance you have. The way to stay excited and energized is to surround yourself with bold people who are passionately creating.” 

Dan Reiter

Vice President/General Manager, Springfield Cardinals
B.S., University of Missouri
New
The Essential: Since joining the Springfield Cardinals in 2005, Dan Reiter has risen through the ranks to his current role as the franchise’s leader. He sees his mission in two parts: ensuring the Springfield Cardinals are advocates for a great community and doing everything possible to help the St. Louis team bring the World Championship back to Missouri.
Big in 2021: Reiter says he’s never been prouder of the people around him, like the Cardinals’ front office team, which “came together to innovate, do it quickly, then change and keep pressing forward the entire time.”
Bet You Didn’t Know: Reiter got his start with Cardinals Baseball in 2004, when he won the Fox Sports TV contest “Payin’ Your Dues.”

Megan Stack

Foundation & Philanthropy Advisor, Bass Pro Shops
M.A., University of Washington Evans School; B.A., University of Colorado
Returning, Third Year
The Essential: Megan Stack continues to follow in her father and fellow Biz 100 honoree Johnny Morris’s footsteps as she develops showstopping retail and hospitality destinations, such as Finley Farms.
Big in 2021: This fall, the hotly anticipated Ozark Mill restaurant opened at Finley Farms. It quickly lit up social media all over 417-land. 

Brad Thomas

President, Silver Dollar City Attractions
M.B.A. and B.S., Missouri State University
Returning, Fifth Year
The Essential: Brad Thomas likes to ask, “What is our objective?” This clear-eyed thinking helps him effectively lead one of 417-land’s most popular destinations, Silver Dollar City. And this work is vital, he says, because “guests still want and need to laugh and have fun, and they need to do all of that in an environment that is safe.”
The Insight: For Thomas, focus is the key. “No business can be successful at everything,” he says. “[When we] prioritize, it helps ensure that our few focused priorities can be delivered at excellence.”

Craig Wescott

President, The Track Family Fun Parks
M.B.A. and B.B.A., Baylor University
Returning, Third Year
The Essential: Craig Wescott has made The Track Family Fun Parks a distinctive feature of Branson’s skyline and a top stop on many family to-do lists. He serves on the board of directors for the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce/CVB.
Big in 2021: People were ready to gather and have fun, he says, but labor shortages presented some challenges. Even so, he says, “our team crushed it as they helped many families escape from reality and create unforgettable moments together.”
Bet You Didn’t Know: Wescott’s a guitarist. He plays in the worship band at his church, with his band Mile Zero, and in his vintage Volkswagen bus, “Sunnie.”