40 under 40

Each year, Business Today accepts nominations from individuals, employers, community organizations and the publication staff for local professionals deserving of our recognition. A panel of Business Today staff members and Southeast Missourian representatives review each nomination and select 40 outstanding men and women who have had a significant impact in their workplace or in the community. For more information about 40 under 40, contact Business Today editor Callie Clark Miller at cmiller@semissourian.com.

See a gallery of photos of the selected 40 under 40

Maggie Buckley

Landmark Hospital

Age: 33

Family: Husband Michael; son, Zach; daughter, Kathryn

Position: Director of social services

Community Involvement: President of the Gibson Recovery Center Board of Directors

Maggie Buckley is one of the lucky people who loves what she does. Her husband Michael says she is "the hardest working, most respected, compassionate social worker you will ever have the pleasure of knowing."

"I can't imagine doing anything else," she said.

Her husband also says she's also "the perfect wife and mother."

Michael says he's proud of her academic and career achievements, noting that Maggie graduated from Sikeston High School a year early with one semester of college credit completed, and earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from Southeast Missouri State University. Her MSW -- Master of Social Work -- came from the University of Missouri, and she earned her LSCW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) in 2006. She has worked for the State of Missouri Division of Aging, and was the director of Social Services for the Missouri Delta Medical Center for about four years.

At Landmark, Buckley said she " helps people cope with illness, end of life care and family support."

Her compassion extends to her community involvement with the Gibson Center, a drug treatment facility. As a board member she is involved with policy review and fiscal management.

"I've been on that board five or six years now," she said, "and I've seen a lot of growth in that facility. It's able to provide a lot more services than when I first started on that board."

Maria Swan Childress

JCS/Tel-Link

Age: 29

Family: Husband Jim; two dogs, baby due in April

Employer:

Position: Office manager

Community involvement: Active with the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce Leadership Development Committee since 2002 when she graduated from Leadership Cape, and has served as class presenter, project coordinator, vice chair and chair. Leadership Cape Alumni Committee; Zonta club of Cape Girardeau president-elect, president, and public relations chair as well as international delegate to the Zonta International Convention in 2006. Has served on United Way campaign cabinet and Girl Scouts of Otahki Council board of directors; American Cancer Society Gala Auction and publicity committees and the board for the Tri-State Advertising Club. Member of the BI Chapter of P.E.O., Alumni Association of the University of Missouri and St. Vincent de Paul church.

Maria Childress firmly believes in giving back to the community.

"It is a gift you can give ... and I don't mean financially, but the gift of your time," she said. "I think this belief comes from my mother, Kathy Swan, who has given back hour after hour to our community. She instilled in me the idea that giving back benefits the community and it benefits you as a person -- giving feels good! And she's right."

Says Cheryl Mothes, "Maria is a true example of serving others above herself. She takes on inordinate tasks and responsibility and has for the 10 years I have known her, and can accomplish more than any person I know. She has excellent skills in leadership and in developing others, and you know that when she is in charge of something it will absolutely get done and get done right. She is mature beyond her years, is poised and professional at all times. I enjoy working with Maria because she is decisive and delegates well, not to mention the fact that she is fun, she affirms others and their contributions, and she is just great to be around."

Childress, who works in her family's business, believes in the value of Leadership Cape.

"Leadership Cape became a passion of mine after graduating from the program in 2002," she said. "Leadership Cape is such a fantastic program for any business person in Cape. It's a necessary tool for those who want to learn more about Cape and gain leadership skills at the same time."

Following her mother's footsteps, Childress also is active in Zonta International, a service organization for professional women.

"I joined the Zonta Club initially as a way to connect with other professional women in the area," she said, "but it soon became the club's mission of advancing the status of women both locally and internationally that kept me interested and more involved in the club as the years have gone by.

"Each organization I have been honored to be a part of is doing such wonderful things in Cape. I believe in them because they believe in Cape. That is why I give of my time, because without volunteers or active memberships in service organizations, so many wonderful things couldn't happen in our community, state and collectively, nationwide or worldwide."

Jonathan Stahly

W E Walker-Lakenan, LLC

Age: 27

Family: Parents, Joe and Jane Stahly, sisters, Jodi and Jamie, fiancee, Amanda McGuire

Position: Producer/account executive

Community Involvement: Member of Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce, Cape Girardeau Noon Lions Club, Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals, committee member of Independent Agents of Missouri Young Agents

For Jon Stahly, balancing time between work and community involvement is easy: "Work always comes first." When he does have time, he involves himself in the community attending chamber events and business after hours to do some networking and to meet new people. Since joining W E Walker-Lakenan in 2004, Stahly has provided insurance programs of the highest quality to meet the needs of individual clients. He enjoys meeting new people through his job and turning the relationships into long term friendships. He says, "I also enjoy the challenge and responsibility involved in analyzing the insurance needs of my clients and working with them in order to protect their business assets and future."

"It's a great privilege to be nominated," he says, and hopes that his work will continue to shine through.

Emily Stapleton

Contours Express

Age: 32

Family: Husband, Herb, son Joseph, 3, and a baby on the way

Position: owner/manager

Community Involvement: Member of Zonta Club, member of Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce Chair of Health and Human Services Committee running Shape Up Cape program, involved with Centenary Methodist Church

Emily Stapleton loves "working with other women and helping them to lead a healthier lifestyle." She has owned the Cape Girardeau fitness location for women for two and a half years. Stapleton is able to balance her job and her involvement with the community by keeping her "priorities straight all the time."

As the owner of her own business, she says her husband and her employees provide a solid support system for her. "I have some really good employees," she says. "It takes more than one person."

Stapleton is pleased to be nominated as a business owner. "I'm honored that Contours Express has been recognized as a business worthy of nomination. We work really hard to provide an alternative exercise for women."

Dawn Dauer

The Bank of Missouri

Age: 32

Family: Husband, Larry

Position: Vice president -- mortgage production manager

Community Involvement: Junior Achievement board of directors, chairwoman for Leadership Development Committee and sits on the Education Committee for the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce, Cape Girardeau Board of Realtors, volunteers time to teach classes in local schools, active at Cape First Church singing in the choir, and teaching Sunday school for Teen Challenge.

Dawn Dauer has been in banking for nearly 11 years, having started right out of college. She travels a lot, managing mortgage production for 11 different bank locations throughout Missouri, but still finds time to give back to her community. "I love dealing with people and helping them. Whenever we find a first time home buyer, it's a very rewarding experience," she says.

Dauer says she works for a great company that encourages community involvement and that allows her the time to participate in extracurricular programs. One thing she is deeply passionate about is the Junior Achievers program. "It's a wonderful program. We actually get to go into the classroom and teach business" techniques such as how to write a check or fill out a deposit slip. She is also an adviser for a graduate program for bankers called the Stonier Graduate School of Banking where she advises three students with their master's thesis.

"I don't like to sit still," she says, "and I love coming up with new ideas and seeing them to the end."

Sara Gerau

Southeast Missourian

Age: 33

Family: Husband Brian; son, Jackson and daughter, Brooke

Position: targeted sales manager

Community Involvement: Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, Jackson Chamber of Commerce, American Red Cross Southeast Missouri Chapter, board of directors, 2007 Leadership Cape Girardeau graduate, Tri-State Advertising Marketing Board - secretary, 2008 Addy's Chair

Balancing home and work made it possible for Sara Gerau to have come to the attention of Cheryl Klueppel of the American Red Cross, who writes, "She is a loving mother and wife and demonstrates balance of work and family. Her leadership extends to the community serving on the Board of Directors for the American Red Cross Southeast Missouri Chapter. She has committed to sharing her fund-raising expertise and marketing expertise to make the fund-raising efforts of the Red Cross successful, ensuring services in Southeast Missouri."

Giving back to the community is important for Gerau.

"That's what we're supposed to do," she said. "The whole circle of life, we're supposed to pay it forward. It's important to help where we're needed. Whether it's an hour or two, everyone can contribute."

Before she went to work for the Missourian, Gerau was a stay at home mom and sales manager for a media firm in Columbia, Mo. She is a graduate of the University of Missouri and holds a degree in marketing.

On being nominated, she says "I'm very flattered and honored to be acknowledged for what I do."

Gordon Glaus

Dix & Glaus LLC, Attorneys

and Law

Age: 30

Family: Single

Position: Attorney; former assistant prosecuting attorney for Cape Girardeau County

Community Involvement: St. Vincent's Catholic church, member Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, Cape Bicycle Racing Team, Velo Girardeau Cycling Club

After serving the community as an assistant prosecuting attorney, Gordon Glaus now practices law with a partner in private practice, and in his off time promotes bicycling.

Shannon Davis says that Glaus and his firm help sponsor the Tour de Cape charity bicycle ride. Glaus said he is also working toward bringing an international bicycle race to Cape Girardeau, along the lines of the Tour of Missouri Pro Cycling Race that took place in 2007 in other parts of the state.

"Gordon is also active in the local cycling community and has been involved with the effort to bring bike lanes and more bike paths to Cape Girardeau," Davis said.

On days when he knows he doesn't have to be in court, Glaus said he has cycled to work.

"It's something I really enjoy and it's one of the things I put my energy into," he said.

Glaus recently diversified his activities and opened a real estate investment business, GLG Realty, LLC, specializing in rental property.

"It's an exciting thing for me," he said.

Davis added that the Dix & Glaus firm has also donated to and sponsored such events and organizations as the Community Counseling Center, Youth Soccer Leagues and have participated in the Corporate Games as a member of the Attorneys' Corporate game team.

Glaus has also lectured at Southeast Missouri State University political science classes on the subject of the criminal justice system and the practice of law.

As for being named to the 40 Under 40, he said, "I'm excited about this. It's really cool."

Scott Horman

state of missouri

Age: 32

Family: Wife Leslie, Sons Garner and Griffin

Position: Scott County Associate Circuit Judge, 33rd Circuit, Division V

Community Involvement; Young Alumni Award from Central Methodist University. His family was named "Family of the Month" by the Knights of Columbus Council 6420; Eucharistic Minister at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Chaffee; former Chaffee R-II School Board president and vice president; member of the Chaffee Centennial Committee Board of Directors, member and former president of the Chaffee Chamber of Commerce; Kelso Fast-Pitch Softball League, member of the Elks Lodge 1810 in Chaffee.

A judge since November, 2006, when he defeated a 27-year incumbent, Horman is one of the youngest judges in the state. Angela Senciboy nominated him to be among the 40 Under 40 because of his youth and accomplishments.

"When he dedicates himself to something, either professionally or personally, he puts everything he can into it," Senciboy said. "He cares deeply about his position and doing what is best for Scott County."

Horman says it's a result of hard work.

"I don't put much thought into it other than that," he said. "Hopefully we've improved the court system in Scott County, and I look forward to continuing that."

Among the changes Horman implemented involved consolidating the court system and scheduling cases to insure that defendants get their day in court more quickly.

When he's away from the bench, Horman lives with his family on a small farm. He looks forward to coaching T-ball when his oldest son starts playing in the summer. He also enjoys hunting and fishing, and riding horses.

Being named to the 40 Under 40, he said, is "very humbling."

Rhett Hendrickson

Southeast Missouri Hospital

Age: 35

Family: Wife Jennifer; daughter, Madeline; Parents, Jim and Karen Hendrickson

Position: Health Works coordinator

Community Involvement: Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce; Leadership Cape Class of 2004; Chamber Young Professionals, charter committee member and steering committee member; Leadership Cape Alumni Committee, Chair 2007; Leadership Cape Team Liaison, 2008; Chamber Ethics Workshop; Old Town Cape board of directors and secretary; Chamber Beautification and Enhancement Committee; Chairman of the Technical Assistance Team for Keep Southeast Missouri Beautiful; Assistant Scout Master Troop 2 chartered by Grace United Methodist church; Southeast Missouri Hospital Explorer Post 4077 committee chairman; Southeast Missouri Symphony Orchestra, Board of Directors.

Before returning to his hometown of Cape Girardeau, Hendrickson was recognized by the St. Louis Business Journal in 2001 as being among the notable 30 Under 30. There seems to be a pattern developing.

"I got older," he said.

He's apparently just as busy and committed.

"As a young professional, he is committed to helping businesses and our communities become successful and strong," wrote Cheryl Klueppel. "He has demonstrated leadership through chamber activities and helping to develop future community and business leadership with his involvement in the Leadership Cape program and Cape Chamber Young Professionals."

In addition to his own work at Southeast Missouri Hospital, Hendrickson started a business with his wife, Jennifer, who is also among the area's 40 Under 40. Their company, Hendrickson Business Advisors, is dedicated to helping businesses succeed.

Klueppel noted also, "Not only is he committed to helping businesses succeed, but also helping the employees be healthy through his job as Health Works Coordinator for Southeast Missouri Hospital."

Hendrickson said being involved in the community is something everyone should do. His favorite activity, he said, is his work with the Boy Scouts. He has been involved with Boy Scouts since 1980. Among his accomplishments with Boy Scouts is when he coordinated the adaptive recreation for high school students with disabilities in St. Louis.

"It was phenomenal," he said. "I loved it."

So when he returned to Cape Girardeau, he said, he remained active in Scouting, because "its very rewarding making sure folks have a good time, learning how to get along with people different from them."

Hendrickson's love of music comes from his days at Southeast Missouri State University, where he earned a degree in general studies with a focus on music. He plays violin with the Southeast Symphony.

"It's really become a lifelong hobby for me," he said.

Andy Hancock

gordonville grill

Age: 37

Family: Wife Amy and five cats

Position: Owner

Community Involvement: Jackson City and Zoning Board, Humane Society, participant in numerous fundraisers.

"Andy Hancock is just one of those people who always has a smile and a handshake," said Chris Hardy. "He is a genuine person from the inside out. He started out as a proprietor of Outback Steakhouse and went on to own a successful pub and grill in Gordonvillle."

Hancock says he has been involved with various organizations over the years but the one he has stayed with is the Humane Society. When he was working for Outback, that restaurant catered the Humane Society's auction and dinner, its major fund-raiser. Now that Outback has decided not to participate, Hancock jumped at the chance to cater it from his Gordonville Grill.

Hancock and his wife have five cats, so their connection to the Humane Society is a personal one.

"I like to help out," he said. "It's an opportunity for me to get back in (the auction and dinner) and help out with the food."

Diners will enjoy having him back, this time with his own popular restaurant behind the auction's dinner.

Hancock attended Southeast Missouri State University studying business for several years but left to join Outback. He opened Gordonville Grill less than a year ago, and says business has been going very well.

"It's great to be working for ourselves," he said.

Philip Moore

Regions bank

Age: 37

Family: Wife, Suzan; children: Zachary and Connor

Position: Vice president and branch sales manager

Community Involvement: Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Cape Class of 2005, Leadership Cape Alumni Board member, Cape Noon Optimist member; Board of Governors Cape Girardeau Country Club; member of Lynwood Baptist church.

It would be appropriate to call Philip Moore a rising young executive. Since he left the car sales business and went into banking, he has quickly risen up the corporate ladder -- five promotions in four years.

"It's been a wild ride," he said.

Moore spent 12 years in the auto business, moving through the ranks from salesman to finance director. His success in that meant working long hours. As his family began to grow, he began to think about making a career change so he could spend more time with his children. He took a job with what was then Union Planters Bank, and has worked his way up to his most recent promotion, manager of the Kingshighway branch of Regions Bank, the bank's largest branch in Southeast Missouri.

He enjoys his latest position because "it allows me to help individuals and businesses reach their financial goals," he said. "It's really awesome."

Before he moved to this position, he ran the bank's branch in Scott City for 10 months, said his wife Suzan Moore. "He was identified as a leader there quickly and was elected to be the president of the Scott City Area Chamber of Commerce," she said.

Just as quickly, she added, he has become involved with the Cape Chamber and already is asked to serve on committees, "and is viewed by his peers as an up and coming young leader in Cape Girardeau," she said.

In his free time, Moore enjoys playing golf and being with his children.

Dana Hukel

saint francis

medical center

Age: 31

Family: Husband Brian; Daughters Olivia and Ella

Position: Manager of marketing and public relations

Community Involvement: Leadership Cape Class of 2004; Leadership Missouri Class of 2005; member of Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, Chamber Young Professionals, Tri-State Advertising and Marketing Professionals, and Society of Heathcare Strategy and Market Development

Dana Hukel has used her skills in business management and marketing to be an advocate for the medical community at Saint Francis Medical Center and the community at large.

"Whether spreading the word about a new medical treatment or serving as an advocate for patients, Hukel puts 100 percent effort into every endeavor she tackles," writes Barbara Thompson, vice president of marketing at Saint Francis.

Hukel said her involvement with the chamber and with Leadership Cape made it easy for her to come back to Cape Girardeau after having lived elsewhere for 10 years.

"Through a take-charge attitude, logical reasoning and willingness to acknowledge everyone's contributions to the team's effort, Hukel has earned the respect of superiors and subordinates," Thompson said. "Co-workers are impressed with her ability to mentor less-experienced staff members, and her interest in seeing those around her succeed -- a quality of great mentor -- is valued throughout the medical center."

Hukel, who holds a master's degree in business administration from William Wood University, said she is honored to be named one of the 40 Under 40.

"It's a tremendous honor because some of the individuals who are also in this category have done so much for Cape Girardeau and the business and economic industry," she said. "It's a great honor to be partnered with them."

Jennifer Hendrickson

Hendrickson Business advisors

Age: 32

Family: Husband Rhett, Daughter Madeline; Parents Hal and Carol Smith of Springfield, Mo.

Position: Owner

Community Involvement: Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce -- active member, chairman of Chamber Young Professionals, Leadership Cape Class of 2007, Leadership Cape Alumni Committee, former University Relations Committee Chair.

Zonta Club of Cape Girardeau -- Board of Directors, treasurer, Foundation Alzheimer's Association, Southeast Missouri Advisory Committee; Tri-State Advertising and Marketing Professionals; American Red Cross Southeast Missouri Chapter volunteer; Southeast Missouri State University Catholic Campus Ministry, Development Committee; St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church

An entrepreneurial spirit marks Jennifer Hendrickson of Cape Girardeau. After working in the banking industry for 15 years leading to positions as marketing director and chief financial officer, Hendrickson and her husband Rhett began Hendrickson Business Advisors last fall.

"She took her knowledge and expertise in finance and management, experience in marketing, and entrepreneurial spirit to start a family business helping other businesses and organizations succeed," said Cheryl Klueppel of the American Red Cross.

"I really have a passion for business," Hendrickson said. "I decided I've always been entrepreneurial in nature. I always had a goal to start a business."

As a consultant she now helps other small and medium-sized business owners realize their own dreams.

"I feel I've been very fortunate to have had the opportunities I've had in my career," Hendrickson said. "I like to give back to the community."

Tameka Randle

Lakes County Resource center

Age: 32

Family: Parents, sister and brother-in-law

Position: Regional supervisor

Community Involvement: Member Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, Chamber Young Professionals Steering Committee, Leadership Cape Class of 2006, Boys and Girls Club of Cape Girardeau, Board of Directors member and chairman

Tameka Randle builds relationships, and helps build people, whether she's working with the disabled or with young people. She does that with the goal of building the community as a result.

"Tameka is a model for youth, young professionals and women," says Cheryl Klueppel of the American Red Cross. "She has a strong, faithful, energetic spirit that transcends into skillful ability to lead and motivate others. She is a tremendous asset and resource for Southeast Missouri helping adults and people with disabilities find job training and employment. She is a model for honesty, integrity, work ethic and leadership to all who know and meet her. Through her servant leadership she helps minority youth to build character, courage and to have a positive outlook on the future. She has strong family values and promotes the strength of women by her actions."

Randle says she likes to show her clients a leg brace she wore as a child and tell them they have to "brace themselves for success."

Whether she's working or giving her time to the youth in the Boys and Girls Club, Randle tries to be an inspiration.

"My goal is networking," she said, "getting young people involved and learning more about the business community."

It's all about connecting and building relationships, she said -- making youngsters feel they're a part of something. Similarly she encourages the business community to make an investment in the area's young people with both their time and their resources.

Randle says she finds it exciting to be named to the 40 Under 40, especially in light of her work with children.

"It's nice to be recognized for that," she said.

Dana Lehman-Swan

Mers goodwill

Age: 37

Family: Husband Jerry; children Joey, Alex and Peyton

Position: Youth coordinator

Community Involvement: CAPA, SHRM, River Corridor Task Force, Adult Education and Literacy Advisory Committee, Southern Growth Policy Board

Dana Lehman-Swan is all about second chances. As a youth coordinator for MERS-Goodwill, Swan works with young people who have dropped out of school and who have had trouble finding and keeping a job. She works with them to help them become productive citizens.

"Mrs. Swan exemplifies the professional qualities of a competent leader," said Sidney S. Hemmann, also of MERS-Goodwill. "She listens, provides positive feedback and inspires employees to do their best. In addition, Mrs. Swan is diligent in her efforts to "get back" with employees who seek her assistance thereby fostering a sense of warmth in her employees. "

As a coordinator, Swan works with case managers who work with youths age 17 through 21 in the counties of Cape Girardeau, Scott, Stoddard and Perry. She helps them teach the young people how to reach their goals: either learning to read, earning a GED, and eventually teaching them the skills they need to get and keep a job.

"Some things are just common sense, but some kids have no idea," she said. "They go into an interview and leave their cell phone on, do all sorts of things. They have no idea how to put a resume together."

The agency also works with area businesses encouraging them to hire the people who have come through their programs. Businesses are encouraged to let the youth shadow employees on the job to see firsthand what will someday be expected of them. Her clients are given real work experience there, she said. "They're not just an extra set of hands, they're not just mopping floors. They're doing something they might want to do."

The participants are counseled both as a group and individually, to reinforce the skills they are learning.

"It's wonderful," she said. "It's giving them opportunities to go above and beyond what they thought they could do."

Swan holds a bachelor's degree in early childhood education and recently finished her master's degree in education administration. While she found fulfillment when she was a teacher, she said her current position is more satisfying.

"Where I am right now is where I am supposed to be," she said.

Bruce Skinner

southeast Missouri State University

Age: 34

Family: Wife Tonya; daughters Sierra and Alexis

Position: Director, office of residence life and housing

Community Involvement: Past winner of the Association of College and University Housing Professional "Outstanding New Professional" award; Delta Chi Alumnus of the Year award; Delta Chi Faculty Advisor award; International Educators' Program Recognition; assists with local and district Future Business Leaders of America programs, Leadership Cape participant; member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT); former member of the Chaffee Park Board and Planning and Zoning committees and volunteers with the Boy Scouts of America.

It can be daunting to be responsible for more than a thousand new students each year to Southeast Missouri State University and to the city of Cape Girardeau. Bruce Skinner does that and more: he is responsible also for the 1,500 returning on-campus students. His office arranges their housing and meals, and makes them feel welcome. He arranges activities that bring faculty, staff and students together over common interests and concerns.

"Other aspects evident to those around him are his attention to detail and his desire to take on new challenges," says Kim Fees, who, along with president Ken Dobbins, nominated Skinner. "Bruce has been successful in using his role at the university to assist the Cape Community as well. From partnering with the Chamber of Commerce for the opening week to the academic year to assisting the Community Caring Council in the collection of items left behind by students, Bruce make an effort to link the on-campus living community with the wider Cape Girardeau community."

It would seem that Skinner has spent most of his adult life at the university. Dobbins says Skinner began working for the university when he was a student there. But Skinner says he did take some time away to go to Kansas City where he studied at the University of Missouri School of Law after earning his bachelor's degree at SEMO. He didn't finish law school, though. He was recruited to come back to graduate school at SEMO, where he earned an MA in public administration and now is finishing up his Ph.D. in educational policy.

At some point, he says, he will leave the academic setting and pursue a career in city management.

Until then, Skinner works to bring students and faculty together, and to bring the university community harmoniously into the general community. One such project is a university group that helps Habitat for Humanity build houses. His involvement with Leadership Cape has helped bridge the two entities.

Skinner plans to have his doctoral dissertation finished by 2009. Then he'll assess his next step.

"It's very important a person look for the next opportunity," he said. "I enjoy working in the college atmosphere, residential life in particular. I look forward to whatever next opportunity presents itself."

Joel Neikirk

MidAmerica Hotels, Corp. Drury Restaurants Inc; Honey Baked Ham, Roth Restaurant Supply

Age: 37

Position: Owner

Family: Wife, Danette; sons, Jared and Alex; daughter Katelyn

Community Involvement: Board of Directors of American Red Cross, Executive Committee and Treasurer; Eastern Illinois University Accounting Advisory Board; coach for Upward Bound Basketball; Chamber of Commerce; Advisor to Cape Convention and Visitors Bureau; treasurer of Cape Bible Chapel, member of Cape Bible Chapel Missions Committee and leads overseas missions trips from the church; leader in Cape Bible Chapel Awana Youth Program; active in water purification projects for undeveloped areas of the world.

Joel Neikirk takes a very practical approach to the mission work he loves to do. Maybe it's a reflection of his accounting and business background. Neikirk wants undeveloped areas to have something Americans take for granted: clean water. His involvement with bringing clean water to people in Guatemala and the Dominican Republic earned him two recommendations to the 40 Under 40 list.

Neikirk says his faith is manifested more in practical matters than in evangelical efforts. It's important, he says, to leave the world a better place.

"I want to see what I did, what the results are," he said. "With water you can do that. You know kids will have something better to drink. I wanted to find something I could get plugged into that I could physically do."

It's important to Neikirk that he is involved in efforts that will improve life not just to children, but all levels of a village: from teaching people to prevent disease by washing their hands, to teaching them the health benefits of drinking clean water, showing them that clean water is their key to freedom. It's so important to him that he gives all the profits he makes from his Honey Baked Ham business to mission work.

His faith and his determination to leave the earth better than it was led Neikirk and his wife to adopt their third child, a daughter, from Guatemala.

Sen. Jason Crowell

Osburn Hines Kunte Yates and Murphy and the Missouri Senate

Age: 36

Family: Parents, Terry and Terry Crowell; brother Josh

Position: Attorney and state senator

Community Involvement: Board of Directors, SEMO NASV; Friends of Southeast Missouri Hospital Friends of St. Francis Medical Center, University of Missouri Delta Center Advisory Board, Cape Girardeau Noon Lions Club, Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, Southeast Missouri State University Copper Dome Society, Southeast Missouri State University Booster Club, Southeast Missouri Pachyderm Club, Missouri Farm Bureau, Cape Girardeau Farm Bureau, Graduate Leadership Cape. Numerous awards and recognition, both civic and professional.

Jason Crowell began demonstrating his leadership abilities while still in college at Southeast Missouri State University, says Kathy Swan.

"From his college years as the student government president to his current positions as an attorney and state senator, Jason has repeatedly been recognized for his knowledge and skills, utilized not only to the benefit of his clients, but for all Missourians, particularly in legislation regarding veterans' affairs, retirement and pensions, education, work comp reform, tort reform, law enforcement and substance abuse," Swan wrote. "Most recently Senator Crowell championed legislation to phase out state income tax on Social Security benefits and public pension benefits for over 200,000 Missouri senior citizens. Additionally he has successfully worked toward ensuring that our local veterans receive the federal benefits they have earned, worked for increased funding for our Veterans Home, secured funds to build an autism center in Southeast Missouri, made college more affordable for Southeast Missouri students, increased money for our schools and continued to work to protect Southeast Missouri business."

Of all the acknowledgement and of all the activities, Crowell said the dearest to his heart is public service. It began, he said, when he was on the Student Council in high school and carried through to college, the Missouri House and now in the Senate.

"It means most to me to be in a position where my job is to try to do everything I can to make tomorrow just a little bit better than today," he said.

Terry Spence

Innovative Orthodontics

Age: 36

Family: Parents, Paul and Phyllis Spence and the late Kathleen Spence, five siblings, wife, Jeri Packard Spence, infant daughter, Charlotte

Position: Orthodontist

Community Involvement: Former president of Southeast Dental Society, trustee of Missouri Dental Association, former school board member Nell Holcomb, soccer coach SMSC Quake, Community Caring Council Oral Health Coalition, volunteer for school dental screenings, member of Cape Girardeau Noon Optimist Club, member of St. Mary Cathedral.

Terry Spence may be a proud new father, but he has been watching plenty of children grow up for years. As an orthodontist, he gets to see his patients, mainly children, almost every month. "They grow up right in front of you," he says. "I get to see them go from children to young adults."

Spence says he has learned a lot from the dentists and dental specialists in Southeast Missouri. The majority in this area really do a lot of community service and have held a lot of important positions in local dental organizations, he says. "I knew right away that it's not just about getting to the office and fixing teeth, but it's to do things to improve your community."

Spence says there is a new generation moving into town and stepping up to the plate of volunteering. He says that is important because someone needs to be there to give back to the community. "It's kind of fun to learn the ins and outs."

One of his favorite activities, outside of work, is coaching a youth soccer team that he has been with for five years. The team travels often and participates in a number of tournaments. He is inspired by the children's ability to handle diversity, saying their reactions are often "refreshing."

Greg Cook

Great Plains Media, INC.

Age: 34

Family: Parents, Glen and Mary Ellen Cook

Position: Vice president of operations

Community Involvement: Chairman of Annual American Cancer Society Gala 2001-2002, member of Leadership Cape Class 2008, board of directors for Old Town Cape, Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce Special Projects Task Force, Old Town Cape annual fundraising drive and Christmas parade, St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church

Greg Cook wears several different hats in the course of a single day. He can be found working public relations, facilitating, coordinating projects, and traveling or researching for new business acquisitions. During his time at Great Plains Media, he has built wonderful relationships with his coworkers. "We have a large group of great people that work for the company and strive for one common goal, and that is to be successful," he says.

Cook is able to balance his numerous community projects with his daily job because his company has a strong belief in giving back.

The owner of our company, Jerry Zimmer, is very supportive of the organizations that his employees volunteer with on a daily basis. He has taught all of his employees the great importance of supporting the community where you live and work, says Cook.

"I wake up every day with a new challenge before me. I enjoy the opportunity I have with this diverse company. I continue to learn something new everyday about Corporate America," he says.

Cook is thankful for the opportunities he has had to take his professional life to the next level. "Cape Girardeau has a lot to offer its residents and I want to be a part of making Cape a better place to work, live and play."

Brandi Hamm

broadway prescription shop

Age: 28

Family: Mother, Theresa Siebert, stepfather, David Siebert, father, Rick Hamm, stepmother, Emilie Hamm, sister, Keisha

Position: Owner/manager

Community Involvement: Chairwoman for American Cancer Society Cure for Cape, team captain for American Cancer Society Relay for Life, Chair for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Corporate Achievers Campaign, Advisory council member for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Corporate Achievers Campaign, Old Town Cape board member, Old Town Cape fundraising committee, Old Town Cape organization committee, Leadership Cape participant class of 2008, member of Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce

Brandi Hamm has been involved in pharmacy for nine years starting in college as a part-time pharmacy technician. She has owned her own pharmacy since summer of last year and loves it. "There's nothing I don't enjoy, honestly," she says.

Hamm always knew she wanted to do something in regards to medicine, but is more of a business oriented person. "Being a pharmacy owner is kind of the best of both worlds," she says. "I still get to help people." Balancing her shop and numerous community projects keeps her schedule full. "I carry a big planner," she says. "You've got to stay organized and write in pencil."

Hamm is driven by her desire to help people, "not only my customers, but in the community."

Sheila King

Realty Executives of Cape County

Age: 39

Family: Husband, Bill, daughter, Kasey, 15, son Karson, 12

Position: Realtor

Community Involvement: Member of the Jackson Chamber of Commerce, won a number of awards when with Century 21 including the Quality Service award and was in the top 10 in units closed two years in a row, very active in Cape County Board of Realtors, received an award from Missouri Association of Realtors, completed e-Pro Designation and working toward her GRI, is a member of Library Board and recently signed up for Junior Achievement.

"I'm a very peoplely person," says Sheila King, who has been in real estate for nearly six and a half years. "I enjoy working with people and meeting people." One of King's favorite parts of her job is helping people who have never bought a house before find that perfect home. "They're so excited to get their first house."

The busy mother of two juggles work with her community involvements and her children's sporting events, relying on "very good time management skills." She takes advantage of her days off by hitting the gym or attending her children's games. "My favorite thing to do is travel with them and watch their sports games," she says.

Merideth Pobst nominated Sheila and writes: "She got me started in real estate, she sold me my house. She is always willing to help whenever she can, and is very proud of her hometown roots."

Brittney Lee

First missouri state bank

Age: 26

Family: Husband, Josh

Position: Bank officer/sales and marketing manager

Community Involvement: American Heart Association Heart Walk, American Cancer Society Relay for Life, Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce -- Leadership Development Committee, graduate of Leadership Cape, member of Tri-State Advertising and Marketing Professionals, Jr. Achievement volunteer, Account Manager of United Way Campaign

Brittney Lee says she usually works better under pressure. She stays busy handling all the marketing and advertising for First Missouri State Bank as well as overseeing their sales people and developing new products and programs for the sales force. She likes the fact that she is never doing the same thing and that each day presents different challenges and duties. Lee has learned to balance her community commitments with what she gets paid to do. "It's not that hard," she says. "I'm not really one of those people to sit around and do nothing. I like a lot of things going on. I also have a husband who is very understanding."

Sean Byrd

Skyview Animal Clinic

Age: 33

Family: Parents, Steve and Chris, sister, Nicki

Position: Veterinarian

Community Involvement: Member of Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce, member of Chamber of Young Professionals, volunteers time at Human Society of Southeast Missouri, visits local schools to talk about being a vet and answers questions about their pets, volunteers time to speak to people in the community about pet health, participates in career day

For about six years, Dr. Sean Byrd has been caring after Cape Girardeau's pets. As an avid animal lover, he loves going to work every day. "It's challenging and every day I learn something new," he says.

"I think that pets are a really important part of peoples lives. I think they make you happier and they've proven to make you healthier," says Byrd.

About four or five times a year he visits local schools to talk about being a vet and answers questions about pets. Byrd also volunteers time to speak to people in the community about pet health. He is happy that he is able to help and be there for the relationship between owner and pet, when the animal needs care.

Laurie Everett nominated Byrd, writing, "I have had the pleasure of knowing him as a friend and colleague for about five years. He takes great pride in his work and also volunteers within the community."

Bill Zellmer

Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar

Age: 39

Family: Wife, Shelley, daughter, Larissa, 13, parents, Pat and Bill Zellmer

Position: Owner and operator of restaurants in Cape Girardeau, Sikeston, Poplar Bluff, and Carbondale, Ill.

Community Involvement: For five years in conjunction with La Croix Church, donates wings to about 1,000 people working on Christmas Day and always does the cooking himself, numerous sales awards, New Franchisee of the Year, sponsored and supported area sports teams.

Bill Zellmer has a passion for business. It shows from the four Buffalo Wild Wings restaurants he has opened in and around Cape Girardeau, and the two he plans to open over the next couple of years. "The money is great," he says, "but not important. I enjoy doing this stuff 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Doing what I love for a living is pretty cool."

His knack for business comes natural to him as does his giving nature. For five years he has donated his time and wings to people who were working on Christmas Day. This past holiday season, he fed 900 people.

"I do this for a living because it's fun and to be recognized as a leader in business is cool; it's unexpected, and I appreciate it. I'm just a regular guy who wears jeans and a T-shirt to work."

Candice Davis

Southeast Missourian -- The Banner Press

Age: 29

Family: Husband, Greg, son, Liam, 4

Position: Managing editor

Community Involvement: Served nine years as a journalist in the U.S. Navy, member of the Bollinger County Chamber of Commerce, member of Woodland School District's A+ Advisory Committee, member of Cape Bible Chapel

"I enjoy getting to know the people in the community the most," says Candice Davis about her editor's job at the Banner Press in Marble Hill, Mo. Her great - grandparents were from Fredericktown and had ties to the area she is working in now. "I've run into several people through my work who knew them and it makes me feel a little closer to them somehow. The Bollinger County community is very tight-knit and they do a good job of taking care of each other. It's a fun place to be a part of things."

For Davis, community involvement comes naturally and is a big part of her job. "I love it when there are community events that Greg, Liam, and I can enjoy, that I can write about in the Banner Press." She and her husband work toward things as a team and he is very supportive of her. She also relies on a higher power: "I have to stay connected and focused on God or nothing else will be in focus."

Jerry Wohsey II

Security Service of America

(A Division of ABM Industries)

Age: 32

Family: Wife, Amy

Position: District manager

Community Involvement: 2003 Forth Quarter Sales Award for the most business sold, 2003, 2004, 2006 1,000 hours sold club, 2004, 2005 Mover & Shaker Award, 2004 Gold Award for Revenue Growth, American Society for Industrial Security, Elks Lodge #1810, Cape, Jackson, and Joplin Chamber of Commerce, Member of Old Town Cape Organization, donate time coaching high school basketball along with teaching basketball fundamentals to youth league players

Jerry Wohsey II essentially grew up in the security business. He has been with ABM Security Services, a company first owned by his father, for almost 10 years. They cover a very diverse area, providing security guard services for basically anyone that needs it, including industrial facilities to bingo halls. "The relationships with my officers and my clients is what I enjoy the most," he says. With 185 under his command, Wohsey gets to know a lot of different people and their families.

"We have good people in the field," he says and is able to lean on his supervisors to take some of the burden off of the main office. "I just really try to take pride in the quality of service that we provide to our clients," he says, "and I always try to grow our business."

Regional manager, Don Orcutt, writes: "Jerry started out in the private security business at a young age so he understood the industry and what it takes to be successful. Due to his experience and education he has worked his way up to District Manager for one of the top 10 private security companies in the country."

Chad Crow

progressive farm credit service

Age: 31

Family: Wife, Valerie, daughter, Karsyn, 6, son, Carter, 2

Position: Branch manager/vice president

Community Involvement: Sikeston Jaycee president, former Sikeston Jaycee Vice president, treasurer Sikeston Rotary, former Sikeston Country Club Board member, Sikeston Area Chamber of Commerce Ex Officio Board member, Sikeston Area Chamber Agriculture Member, former YMCA Board Member Finance Committee, Dale Carnigie graduate

Chad Crow is the youngest branch manager of Progressive Farm Credit Service, a company that lends money for real estate help to deserving farmers. He manages an office of five, and though the company covers 12 counties in Southeast Missouri, his mainly covers Scott and New Madrid.

Crow enjoys helping people succeed and better their operations. "What drives me is helping people better themselves," he says. Though attributes much of their success to his team. "Without my team members none of us would succeed."

Crow remembers the advice from his farmer father, which was not to go into farming because it's a tough life and a lot of hard work. After switching to banking for several years, his father repeated the same advice about banking. Crow's position is a combination of both. He laughs and says, "I guess I didn't listen very well."

Shawna Klingel

Li'l red barn LLC

Age: 23

Family: Parents, Penny and Bill Klingel

Position: Co-owner/operator

Community Involvement: Li'l Red Barn

Shawna Klingel has been in the restaurant industry since she was 16, starting as an employee at Kentucky Fried Chicken and moving up to a manager by the age of 17. She has been with her current business, Li'l Red Barn, for four years, and has been a co-owner for about six months. She enjoys meeting people the most.

It no wonder Julie Farrow nominated the 23 year old. Klingel rises each morning at 4 a.m. and is at her restaurant by 5, often working until 9 p.m., sometimes as late as 1 a.m.

"Shawna has worked hard since she was 16 to build herself in the restaurant business. She gives 200 percent and has given her life and her interests to the restaurant. Shawna is an outstanding person, friendly, happy and very capable in all that she attempts to do," says Farrow.

In addition to cooking, cleaning, and doing dishes, she serves, does paperwork and oversees the other employees. "This is my life," she says. "There's no time for anything." But she loves it and says the best rewards for her is "probably how happy I make the people."

"Her devotion is amazing for someone of her age," says Farrow. "She goes out of her way to make everyone feel welcome, comfortable and important.

Jeff Brune

NOrthwestern mutual financial agency -

the hahs agency

Age: 34

Family: Wife, Shea, daughter, Adalia, 3 and infant son, Ellis

Position: Financial representative

Community Involvement: Chamber of Commerce, Chamber Young Professionals, Leadership Cape Alumnus, First Presbyterian Church -- Finance Committee, Cape Youth Tackle Football League president, Southeast Missouri Hospital Association, Saluki Letterwinners Club, SIU Alumni Association, Southeast Missouri State University Booster Club, 2007 Community Caring Council Kasten Award recipient for service as the Cape County Transit Executive Director, Missouri Public Transit Association 2007 Leadership Award, Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Pacesetter First 40 Award 2007, Southeast Missouri State University Planned Giving Committee

For 10 months Jeff Brune has been helping create financial security for individuals, families, and businesses. "I help people take the necessary steps to address the financial issues in their lives. I truly believe that I have been placed in this position, with this great company, at this precise time, to impact the lives of the people that are put in my path," he says. "My job is incredibly rewarding because I have the opportunity to help save people financially every day."

Brune is very involved in the community which he says is definitely a "tall task," but both he and his wife, Shea, enjoy giving back to the community. He likes the saying, "... plant a tree knowing that someday it will be somebody else enjoying its shade," and says "that symbolizes why I am active in our great community."

Though he stays busy with work and community activities, he has recently taken on a second identity: Superman. While watching the movie a few months ago, Brune's three year old daughter asked him if he was Superman. Brune said yes, and she has been calling him that ever since. She'll even call him at work and whisper, "Are you Superman or Clark Kent right now?"

"How great is that? I love being her hero," he says.

Richard Couch

city of cape girardeau police department

Age: 34

Family: Wife Carrie; son Tad

Position: Patrolman, community service officer

Community Involvement: Public appearances for civic, school and service groups speaking on crime prevention, quality of life issues and establishing safe communities though partnerships.

As a police officer Richard Couch is sworn to protect and serve. As a community service officer he also develops relationships and helps resolve community issues, says Capt. Roger Fields.

"He primarily works with neighborhood resident groups serving as a link between the residents, police department and various service agencies," Fields said. "He makes arrests, responds to calls and assists the patrol and detective division as needed."

Couch often can be seen walking in neighborhood and business districts or on bicycle patrol -- making him approachable and accessible to residents. He also talks to schools and service groups.

"Patrolman Couch takes great pride in his assigned task developing enduring professional relationships," Fields said. "He makes a positive impression not only for the police department but for the entire city of Cape Girardeau."

Couch says his biggest challenge is helping people understand that their problems can be solved, but over time.

"Nothing is solved overnight," he said.

Downtown merchants concerned with graffiti and vandalism to their businesses overnight have become acquainted with Couch. Again, while their concerns are frustrating to them, Couch say he believes that the city has made strides.

"We have a lot of people identified and are keeping on top of who's doing that, things of that nature," he said.

It takes time to build a case solid enough to bring to court. And, he said, "other issues spring up across the city."

Couch said he believes he's been well received in the community.

"I think it's a great position," he said "We're able to help the public to see that we are a police department that is willing to protect and serve and cares for the community."

Tim Arbeiter

Cape girardeau area

chamber of commerce

Age: 32

Family: Wife, Pam, daughters Abby, 4, and Faith, 1 1/2

Position: Vice president for community development

Community Involvement: Former member of Cape School Board, member of KRCU Advisory Board, Co-Chair of Missouri First Steps Advisory Panel Southeast Missouri Region, Leadership Cape and Leadership Missouri Graduate, member of Cape West Rotary, member of St. Andrew Lutheran Church

For Tim Arbeiter, no day at the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce is ever the same. He gets to work on a wide array of community issues in which there is a lot of variety and a great deal of complexity. "It's just fun to work for the future of the Cape Girardeau area," he says. The elements of his job combined provide a "very stimulating position" and his favorite part of the job is the variety.

He feels blessed in having the opportunity to work with "great chamber volunteers" who aid in the design of initiatives and programs that have a lasting impact on the community. He is also "encouraged by the amount of collaboration being done among the cities, county, and private sector," and hopes to enhance those partnerships through his position at the chamber.

He says one of the great things about being so involved in the community, outside of work, is that it is highly encouraged by his supervisor, John Mehner. "A big part of community involvement for me is the importance of giving back." Being involved in other organizations in addition to his daily work "provides me the opportunity to utilize my skills and talents in other capacities through the Cape Girardeau area," he says.

Arbeiter is encouraged by the fact that he gets to do things for the greater good of the community. "I get to think and work and do things in the big picture," he says. "That is really what inspires me. That and the smiles on my two little girls."

Gary Howard

First State Community Bank

Age: 32

Family: Wife, Shannon, daughter, Kate

Position: Vice president

Community Involvement: United Way -- Finance Committee and Allocations Committee, Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce -- Government and Public Policy Committee, Southeast Public Radio -- Advisory Board member, 2007 Leadership Cape Program graduate, Member of Minor League Baseball Alumni Association

"I get up in the mornings and I'm excited to go to work," says Gary Howard, who juggles a little bit of everything in his position of Vice President of First State Community Bank. He acts as a relationship manager and laughs when calling himself a "glorified flunky." Being able to help individuals with their financial needs is something that Howards enjoys most about his job. He especially likes "being able to help my clients achieve some of their dreams," including homeownership, opening their own business, or even buying a car for the first time.

He believes his job goes back and helps impact the community, saying "it's all interrelated." Howard gives thanks to his employers for allowing him to fulfill his civic duty and give back to the community.

"He is very active in the community and is willing to help anyone," says Bill Coomer, who nominated Howard.

Lauren Keith

KFVS12

Age: 29

Family: Husband, Brain, oodles of Heurings from across Southeast Missouri

Position: Breakfast Show and noon anchor, Does it Work Wednesday reporter

Community Involvement: Active with Southeast Missouri Chapter of the American Red Cross as a spokeswoman for the Heroes Fundraising Campaign, United Way Marketing Committee and an advisory board member of Union County Hospital's "Health Woman" program, awarded for outstanding community service, Missouri and Iowa Broadcasters Awards for Investigative Journalism in 2003, Sydney's Santa program, visits local schools for career days, makes public speaking appearances at numerous clubs and conferences

This month, Lauren Keith will celebrate her fourth year with KFVS12. The early morning anchor says, "I love writing and meeting new people and this job combines both." She especially enjoys her weekly Does it Work Wednesday piece. "I thoroughly enjoy getting e-mail from viewers hearing about the products they'd like me to 'try before they buy' and also hearing back from them how much they depend on my piece to help them make good shopping choices."

Through her involvement with the Red Cross, Keith has seen first hand the difference the organization makes and she is very happy to do her part to get behind their mission. She feels it's important to be involved and give back to the community and says it also helps keep her grounded. "The best way to network is to get involved in a few groups whose missions are something you believe in. You meet great individuals along the way."

This past Christmas, she and her mother helped deliver gifts for Sydney's Santa program out of New Madrid, Mo. The donations go to families in need of a little extra help during the holidays. "It was the best things we did all Christmas season," she says.

Angie umfleet

chap arnold insurance

Age: 36

Family: Husband Mike and two children

Position: Agent

Community Involvement: Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, Board Member, Leadership Development Committee vice-chair, Education Committee; Girl Scouts of America, board member; United Way, cabinet member; member of Cape First church.

Angie Umfleet's community involvement caught the attention of one of her insurance customers, Lee Schlitt, who nominated her to be featured in 40 Under 40.

"I am on the Leadership Development Committee and the United Way Campaign Cabinet with Angie," Schlitt wrote. "She is very active and always follows through with her commitments. I believe this is a very important aspect of a community leader and business person. It is very easy to commit and sit ideally on any board. It is another thing to commit and actually try to make a difference in the organizations that you are a part of."

Umfleet is especially proud of her work with the Girl Scouts.

"I was a Girl Scout at one time," she said. "It's important to give back and kids are a big part of it. As a former teacher I think it's important to give back to the kids who will at some point make decisions for me."

Umfleet earned a bachelor of science in education and a master's degree in administration from Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Okla. She taught for eight years, but now enjoys her position in business.

"And being a family business, it takes a whole different dimension, for sure," she said.

Robert (Robbie) Guard

regions bank

Age: 30

Family: two cats Inky and Felix

Position: Community relations manager

Community Involvement: Cape Girardeau Jaycees, Community Development chairman; Cape Girardeau Lions Club; Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, Chamber Young Professionals and Alumnus of Leadership Cape.

It's easy to imagine Robbie Guard as an up and coming leader in the community when one considers that Jennifer Crouch described him as someone "who can sell a fudge Popsicle to a lady wearing white gloves."

That's what he could do. What he has done, Crouch said, is "He was recently promoted from mortgage loan officer to community relationship manager at Regions Bank after one year of service because of an outstanding track record in loans closed."

In his current position, Guard said his job is "making relationships with different types of businesses and organizations and try to be as involved as possible."

It's his goal to see that businesses do well. Because when that happens, the community benefits.

"I try to meet more and more people every day," he said. "I really enjoy all I do. I'm very fortunate. A lot of people when they first graduate from college don't know what they want to do or what they can do. I'm fortunate that I got the opportunity to come to work for Regions. I'm really thankful."

Being involved in the community makes it possible for Guard to do all he can to help it grow.

"I'm very proud of Cape Girardeau," he said. "I try to give back to the community that has given me so much."

Although he has risen quickly through the ranks, Guard said he wants to stay in his current position for a while. He believes he can make an impact there. But he does plan to move up.

"Hopefully, one day, I aspire to be a bank president," he said. "It's more of a long term goal."

Jennifer Crouch

Muscular Dystrophy Association

Age: 30

Family: Daughter, Elizabeth Mae

Position: Area program coordinator

Community Involvement: Chamber Young Professionals; Chamber of Commerce Member, member Beta Sigma Phi

Jennifer Crouch says she has wanted to be a director of a non-profit agency ever since she was an intern at one during college, so when she had the chance to go to work for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, she was pleased to accept the offer.

As program director, Crouch works with the patients and their families to make sure they take full advantage of the MDA's services and programs. Her reward, she said, is "seeing the results, which would be the smiles on the faces of our people. I feel I am close to some of our patients, they are part of my family now."

Said Robert Guard, who nominated her: "Jennifer puts her heart and soul into raising awareness and funds for the research to find a cure for one of the many neuromuscular diseases that MDA encompasses. It is truly amazing the amount of time and effort that she devotes to the families and friends of those unfortunate people who carry this deadly disease. Jennifer has been very successful in what she does because she truly cares about the people of Southeast Missouri."

A graduate of Fredericktown High School,