Mehner to be recognized by Missouri Chamber

For more than two decades, John Mehner has served as president and CEO of the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce. He will be honored Thursday by the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, receiving the Leadership Missouri Lifetime Achievement Award in Branson, Missouri for the work throughout his career.

"The award that is given out is given to graduates of the Leadership Missouri program who have, over their career, demonstrated what we believe is the epitome of a leader," said Karen Buschmann, vice president of communications at the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

"And John Mehner has truly displayed those qualities."

Mehner was a member of the inaugural class of Leadership Missouri, a program that has been organized annually by the Missouri Chamber since 1990, according to a report by the Southeast Missourian's Bridget Brown.

Nearly 900 people have completed the Leadership Missouri program since it began, all of whom are eligible for the award. This is the fifth year for the award. Mehner's selection from such a large pool of eligible candidates shows the immense level of respect he's garnered from colleagues.

Tammy Long, director of the Missouri Chamber Federation, nominated him. She worked with him more than 20 years in her current role as president of the Warrensburg Chamber of Commerce.

"He was my No. 1 choice," Long said. "Whether you've been with the chamber for a day or a decade, he is always open and easily approachable."

Buschmann commended his economic development skills and his humility.

"One of his strengths is he always gives credit to others. And I think that's what has made him so effective in the economic development world," she said. "He is so effective and successful at building relationships and collaboration, and one of the reasons is he never takes any credit for himself."

Indeed, Mehner was humble when asked about the recognition: "It is an honor, and I appreciate it very much," he said in an email.

It is quite an honor, and we congratulate you, Mr. Mehner.