Leading by example isn't just a slogan to Jennifer Dalton.
During nearly 10 years with the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, she has applied her leadership skills to the betterment of business and nonprofit communities.
Dalton started at the chamber in 1999 as financial manager and, after seeking more responsibility, moved into her current position as vice president of administration responsible for all internal operations.
"Early on in my career with the chamber, I had the opportunity to complete the Leadership Springfield program that was instrumental in providing leadership training that was useful, not only professionally, but also in civic involvement," says Dalton, who holds a bachelor's degree in agricultural finance and management and a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in finance from Missouri State University.
She is a member of Junior League of Springfield and has been its treasurer, and she also has served as treasurer for Adoption for Families and James River Basin Partnership. Dalton volunteered for six years as a big sister at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks.
As a Big Sister, Dalton mentored a 9-year-old girl, emphasizing the importance of doing well in school and taking responsibility for one's own actions.
"I believe that our time together was beneficial for both of us, and I'm proud to be associated in a small way with the successes that she will achieve in her future," Dalton says.
Volunteer work closest to Dalton's heart is her involvement with Southwest Missouri Humane Society, where she has served on the board since 1994.
In 1996, the organization began a capital campaign for a new facility, and Dalton served on the campaign committee and assisted fundraising efforts, which are ongoing.
"I'm proud of the fact that we have currently received pledges of just over $2.5 million, and construction is under way on the new facility that is scheduled to open this fall," Dalton says. "When that happens, this facility will serve as a state-of-the-art humane care and education center that will ... reduce the homeless animal population ... and set the standard for humane organizations in this region."
Dalton places a premium on earning the respect of peers through listening and hard work.
"I also believe it's very important not to ask anyone to do something that you wouldn't be willing to do yourself," she says. "Actions speak much louder than words, and by following these basic principles, others will get behind your efforts and follow your lead."[[In-content Ad]]
A relocation to Nixa from Republic and a rebranding occurred for Aspen Elevated Health; Kuick Noodles LLC opened; and Phelps County Bank launched a new southwest Springfield branch.
