2024 Men of the Year: Duan Gavel

A self-described natural problem solver, Duan Gavel is using his talents to help diverse businesses thrive.

In 2022, Gavel and his wife, Michelle, launched All Things Diverse SGF, a directory-style app that’s free to users and participating businesses.

“I am a person that does not shy away from problems,” Gavel says. “When I see a need, my goal is to assist in any way I can. I provide strategic ideas and appropriate solutions.”

The creation of All Things Diverse SGF is Gavel’s proudest professional accomplishment, and he says it has connected many in the community to resources, businesses, organizations and professionals that the app’s users may have not known about.

“It is my way of giving back to the community and letting people know that there is a community here for them and that they can find belonging,” Gavel says. “If people feel welcomed and that they belong, their experience and perception of Springfield will be positive.”

Through All Things Diverse SGF, Gavel has helped businesses connect with resources that are needed for growth. An example is websites, of which All Things Diverse SGF has created more than 10 for businesses and nonprofits. In some cases, those services are donated.

“I personally do not want capital to be a hurdle for an organization that provides a valuable service to the greater Springfield community,” Gavel says. “Many small businesses across Springfield require websites and mobile applications to stay competitive with larger companies. All Things Diverse SGF has made these tools more affordable to organizations so that they can reach their target audience and make running their businesses easier.”

Multicultural Business Association Executive Director Darline Mabins says Gavel’s work with All Things Diverse SGF shows his commitment and care for the community.

“This is something he does because he cares about the small-business community in Springfield,” Mabins says, adding his desire is “to make this a place his children will be proud to live and work in someday.”

Gavel, who also works as an electric system designer for City Utilities of Springfield, has been involved civically with organizations such as the Multicultural Business Association and the Springfield chapter of the NAACP.

Gavel is an active board member of the Multicultural Business Association, where he assists in the maintenance of the organization’s website and its social media posts, says Mabins.

“He consistently engages with the members of the organization as a mentor or a resource for their small businesses,” Mabins says. “Duan displays a tireless level of engagement and dedication to helping others.”

Gavel is pursuing a bachelor’s degree from Missouri State University in electrical engineering. He also has bachelor’s degrees in physics and information technology from MSU.

With all of his professional endeavors, he says he brings the skill sets of “problem solving, analysis, software development, teamwork, customer service and project management.”