2007 Most Influential Women Honoree: Sandy Howard

Sandy Howard believes that “to lead is to serve.” She does her part to lead the Springfield community by serving as vice president of public affairs for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce – but she prefers to let her actions speak for themselves.

“True leadership happens only with sincerity, integrity and a willingness to lead by example,” Howard said. “While I hope I’ve demonstrated effective leadership, others would be a better judge of that.”

The best gauge of Howard’s success, however, could be her list of accomplishments. She serves as chairwoman of the Missouri Chamber Federation, which represents 42 chambers of commerce statewide and establishes legislative priorities on key business issues. She calls her appointment as chair her proudest professional accomplishment.

“Relatively new to the chamber world, I was honored to be asked to serve in this capacity,” Howard said, pointing to her chamber employment since 2004, after working nearly 15 years in sales with telecommunications company SBC.

The biggest part of leadership, Howard said, is inspiring others to work harder and achieve what seems unachievable.

“What I have learned from many mentors along the way is to believe in the human spirit and lift up those around you as often as you can,” she said. “Each day presents opportunities to inspire and encourage others, and the challenge is to recognize those opportunities and act on them.”

Her encouragement and inspiration of others extends to her civic and charitable work. Howard is on the board of directors for Junior League of Springfield and was involved in the planning and fund-raising efforts for Isabel’s House, an area crisis nursery.

“I believe this project will change the lives of the clients we serve, but I also know that it has positively impacted the lives of those who worked to make it a reality,” she said.

Howard also serves on the board of directors for the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools, and she was chairwoman of the schools’ Teacher Appreciation Banquet.

Her civic responsibilities, she said, are one aspect of her life she hopes to pass on to her children: Nathan, 8, and Audrey, 5. As proof, she points to a quote that hangs in her office:

“Live your life so that your children tell their children that you not only stood for something wonderful, you acted on it.”

One-on-one with Sandy Howard

What advice do you have for young women preparing to enter the work force?

Seek out mentors and learn from them. Find work that you feel is meaningful and then be passionate about what you are doing. Take responsibility for your career, and start by establishing goals. Never compromise your integrity.

Beyond the Golden Rule, what philosophy guides you?

Be grateful for every opportunity in life. No matter the situation, there is always something to be learned. Everyone has something positive to contribute, or teach, or share.

What’s something about you that most people don’t know?

I was a failure at ballet as a young girl but really enjoyed playing piano, which required far less grace!

Please tell us about your family.

My husband is Joe Howard, and he owns Palisades Stone, a stone-veneer manufacturing facility. Our son, Nathan, will be 9 on Sept. 21 and is in third grade this year. His sister, Audrey, is 5 and started Kindergarten this year.

Information accurate at the time of the honor.[[In-content Ad]]