CPO makes hire for leadership team

Community Partnership of the Ozarks Inc. has hired a new employee who is part of the Springfield-based nonprofit's leadership team.

Melody Shuck started April 29 as vice president of communications, according to a news release. She joins the nonprofit with nearly 20 years of communications experience, most recently as communications manager for the city of Branson.

"Melody’s experience and qualifications are a perfect fit for CPO and will help us continue the positive momentum we have right now,” CPO President Janet Dankert said in the release.

Shuck said via email that she succeeds Justin Lockhart, who moved into the role of vice president of community and neighborhood development for CPO. Shuck is one of six vice presidents who manage CPO along with the CEO and chief operating officer, she said.

The vice president of communications reports to Dankert and works to build awareness of the nonprofit, according to the release.

"Last year alone, CPO served more than 85,000 people right here in the Ozarks. From helping families obtain affordable housing, feeding the hungry, to preventing violence, drug use and suicide across the Ozarks – you can’t deny the incredible positive impact CPO has on our local communities. Yet, some people still aren’t aware of all of the programs CPO offers that make our neighborhoods better every day," Shuck said in the release. "I am grateful for this opportunity to be a part of giving back to the heart of what makes the Ozarks unique – our children, families and neighborhoods.”

CPO ranked No. 8 on Springfield Business Journal's list this year of the area's largest local charitable nonprofits. CPO reported 85 employees and an operating budget of $9.7 million.