2026 Business Leaders of the Year: Shane Cowger

While Shane Cowger was named Springfield market president of Arvest Bank late last year, he says his proudest accomplishments come through mentoring and watching others succeed.

“Serving across three markets, and now as president in Springfield, I can look back and see the impact of my intentional investment on many associates’ professional journeys,” Cowger says. “My passion for investing in people continues to drive not only my own personal success but that of Arvest as a company.”

Cowger says leadership involves investing in potential.

“I work diligently to align the unique strengths and ambitions of my associates – whether they seek executive roles, specialized expertise or increased confidence – with tailored growth opportunities,” Cowger says. “This hands-on commitment is how we intentionally cultivate a company culture centered on mentorship and sustained high performance.”

Prior to taking on Arvest Bank’s presidential role in Springfield, the company employee of more than 25 years served as loan manager for the Springfield market and previously was sales manager. In becoming president, he succeeded Jason England, who held the role for three years and was promoted to serve as Arvest’s corporate’s chief credit administration officer.

“My leadership philosophy is centered on one guiding conviction: People are the foundation of our success, not just resources to be managed for a result,” Cowger says. “For me, leadership is the responsibility of stewarding human potential. When I invest time into truly understanding an associate’s strengths, ambitions and unique challenges, I am not just developing an employee; I’m strengthening the foundation of Arvest.

“This commitment to developing talent is what directly translates into high performance, innovation and, ultimately, the enduring impact we have in the Ozarks.”

Beyond the walls of Arvest Bank, Cowger says working in the community is not a corporate mandate. It’s a personal value for him. It’s also a family affair.

“My dedication to serving the Springfield area was inspired early on by my father’s deep involvement with United Way, and this commitment became a family tradition that my wife and I have instilled in our children from a young age through activities like serving meals at the Ronald McDonald House,” Cowger says.

Cowger recently joined the boards of United Way Ozarks Region and the Missouri Bankers Association Bankers Service Corp., through which he also serves as a member of the Ozark PAC Committee. He’s also on the board of Camp Barnabas and a committee member for the Missouri Bankers’ Association Executive Management Conference. His past philanthropic work includes board service for Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks Inc. and the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Missouri and Kansas.

“Through this focused investment of time and resources, I work to ensure that Arvest is not just a financial institution but an integrated partner in the health and vitality of the Springfield community,” Cowger says.