In whatever endeavor Krystal Russell tackles, she will likely end up in a leadership role.
"I have a natural tendency to lead in a group setting, and I have a passion to find solutions to any situation or goal," says Russell, a QuickBooks Pro Advisor who opened Spectrum Accounting in May.
As an undergraduate at Missouri Southern State University in Joplin, Russell earned a bachelor's degree in business administration with a major in accounting. She served as president of the accounting club and Rotaract and received numerous honors, including scholarships from organizations and businesses such as BKD LLP and Jack Henry & Associates.
Russell also has a law degree from Creighton University, where she held several leadership positions with Phi Delta Phi International Legal Fraternity.
Russell says opening her accounting firm is her proudest accomplishment so far. She specializes in working with businesses and individuals who need accounting help but not a full-time controller.
"I have worked in public accounting for 10 years for others and been successful at their business development," Russell says. "Since opening Spectrum Accounting, I have been successful in retaining clients that I had brought to my prior employers and even more successful in gaining new clients to build my business. I am proud to say that my own business has allowed me to give my clients more hands-on assistance."
Prior to opening her accounting business, Russell - who also launched Spectrum Photography in May - worked at two accounting firms and owned Video Mart LLC with her husband in Mount Vernon. Russell believes her penchant for leadership influenced the young people she employed.
"We helped mentor and encourage the teens ... (and) built relationships with the teenagers that have flowed to their adult lives," she says. "I have received thank-you notes from several parents for influencing their children to become educated, responsible, professional members of the community."
Russell's civic involvement keeps her busy.
She is a board member for the statewide Special Olympics and works on the finance committee and with athletes during events. As treasurer for Junior Achievement Ozarks Region, Russell helped create a new budget and accounting system, and she sits on the steering committee.
"In addition to my work on the board, I also teach programming to elementary students," she says. "Our ... goal is to influence and spark interest in the students about the free enterprise system."
As a member of the Junior League of Springfield, Russell has served on multiple committees and volunteered for Isabel's House, the Plaid Door and Court Appointed Special Advocates. She also raises funds for the Scleroderma Foundation.
"One of my best friends has scleroderma, and she is very passionate about bringing awareness and education to the public," Russell says. "Hopefully my efforts will aid in a cure."
Previous: Brenda RantzNext: Stacey SchultzReturn to Profiles
