2016 40 Under 40 Honoree: Krista Adams, 36

Krista Adams has developed quite a career. The director of development for Barnabas Foundation Inc. since 2013, Adams previously served as grants manager for Convoy of Hope for three years and as a grant administrator for four with the Missouri Department of Corrections. She’s also worked for the state library and with the Boys & Girls Town of Missouri. At Camp Barnabas, she started a new fundraiser in 2014 and the event pulled in $12,000 and garnered a $50,000 donation days later. Last year, event donations rose 50 percent.

What was your first job? I worked at Taco Bell, mostly in the drive-thru. I was terrible at it.

What was your professional “aha” moment? As I became more involved with Junior League of Springfield, I realized that volunteer experience can be as valuable as work experience and a great opportunity for professional growth.

What do you miss most about the 1990s? I miss the fashion. I could rock a floral baby doll dress and Dr. Martens.

When did you realize you had grown up? I knew I’d grown up when I was first out of college and had to choose between buying new tires or contacts one month and putting the other off until the next month.

What historical figure do you identify with most? Margaret Thatcher

If you could have one superpower, what would it be? I’m a mom, I already have superpowers.

What did you learn the hard way? Save files regularly, especially when you are working on a grant application.