2022 40 Under 40: Ashley Clair

Ashley Clair is a conversation starter. Whether she is writing a tagline, running a program or coordinating social media content, Clair creates meaningful connectivity in the Queen City.

When the Missouri State University marketing major began working with Leadership Springfield as communications director, she immediately rolled up her sleeves. Clair, 32, manages the Signature Class and Academy Class and has increased reach on all Leadership Springfield’s platforms in the past year, with Instagram followers up by 674%. She invests in the next generation of communicators by proctoring interns and emphasizes diversity and inclusion efforts to bring all voices to the table.

“I love leading the community efforts for our local nonprofit leadership organization,” she says, “and look forward to continuing to increase our professionalism and reach in the years to come.”

First job? Springfield Business Journal! I was an advertising account executive.

Proudest moment? The day my daughter was born. Parenthood has been my favorite and most rewarding job!

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Mar’Ellen Felin once told me to be “politely persistent.” This has worked well for me in my career.

Favorite local order? Java the Kolsch from 4 by 4 Brewing Co.