2021 40 Under 40: Megan Buchbinder

Megan Buchbinder, 34, says Springfield was pleasantly welcoming when she came to town from North Carolina in the mid-2010s. Now, she’s working to bring visitors to the area as director of marketing for the Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau.

“My role is to lead the marketing efforts for our beloved city to attract visitors and to raise our brand awareness and stature as a must-visit destination,” Buchbinder says.

With past experience in marketing director roles for Springfield Little Theatre and Revel Advertising, her passion for the area extends to volunteer work, including membership on the Grant Avenue Parkway Project Community Advisory Committee and the Forward SGF Arts & Culture Committee.

What did you learn the hard way? Even when you think it doesn’t need it, always proofread. I worked for a summer festival in North Carolina and spelled summer wrong on a few hundred yard signs that went up all over the city.

Best celebrity meeting/sighting? I met Idina Menzel at a summer arts festival I worked for and she complimented my dress. I will never get rid of that dress. Ever.

Favorite podcast? So many! I love “Armchair Expert” with Dax Shepard, “The Daily” and “Pantsuit Politics.”

Recent TV show binge? “The West Wing.” Now, I just wish I could spend a day with C.J. Cregg.

Favorite hobby or pastime? Hiking and reading.