2008 40 Under 40 Honoree: Stu Stenger

As a real estate developer with Ron Stenger Cos., he consults with multiple parties, including attorneys, land planners, engineers, geologists and architects, on each of the company’s projects.

“My job is to listen to all of their professional input and knowledge and make the final decision for each step of the development process,” he says. “As you would guess, there are always surprises or issues that come up on each development, and that’s when leadership skills must come out in order to get the project back on track.”

Projects he’s been involved with include residential developments Wild Horse, Lakes at Wild Horse, Bent Tree, Lions Gate and Stone Meadow, and commercial developments National Plaza and Marshfield Commons.

Stenger says the best way he can influence others is by being a role model for young people. To that end, he serves on the board of directors of the Boys and Girls Club of Springfield.

“The kids that they serve need a positive role model in terms of life skills and business skills,” Stenger says. “Because they have so many programs, the board of directors gets to be involved with the kids and mentor them.”

Stenger also contributes to the Junior League of Springfield and the Springfield Pub lic Schools Foundation, as well as other children’s charities.

“Any time you have the chance to influence or improve a young person’s life, I think you need to take the opportunity to do it,” he adds. “The earlier you can get to them the better. There are always more good causes than money so you have to pick what is near and dear to your heart. For me, that is kids.”

Stenger also works to lead by example in maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise.

“I make goals in all areas, and the kids can see the results,” he says. “They see that hard work eventually pays off in the end, whether it is working on a large project, reading more … raising capital for the community or training for a marathon.”

On the horizon, Stenger is looking forward to development of James River Commons with joint venture partners The Kroenke Group. James River Commons, located at James River Expressway and Campbell Avenue, will be anchored by a Sam’s Club, with 150,000 square feet of additional retail space.

Double Play

Birth date: March 1, 1976

Family: My wife, Arlene, and I have been married for eight years. We have four children: Colin, 5; Annabel, 4; Chloe, 2; Grayson, 2 months. I also have three siblings: Zack Stenger, Shannon Sivils and Stephanie Montgomery. Stephanie and I work together in our family business at Ron Stenger Cos. Ron and Lezah Stenger are my parents.

Philosophy to live/work by: It’s always better to under-promise and over-perform. Never lose your humility.

In a fantasy world, which professional sport would you play? It would have to be professional golf. You can make a nice income and see some of the best real estate in the world and your retirement (senior tour) is continuing to play the game you love. Not a bad way to go.

Information accurate at the time of the honor.