Eyes & Ears: Character school produces healthy community

We've now come full circle in the character education classroom.

In October 2007, Springfield Business Journal published the first of a year's worth of columns touting area professionals who demonstrate character traits promoted by the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce's annual Character Ed campaign.

These notable personalities were submitted by readers and colleagues of the recognized individuals.

In these 12 months reviewing the campaign's 12 words, we've learned some office etiquette and sales tips, given thought to others and considered various points of view. This last batch is a stockpile of a few months and covers the words integrity, cooperation and respect.

The full list of columns is available at sbj.net. Type "Character Ed" in the archive, using the advanced search function. After reading this and past columns extolling the efforts of those in our community, the implied charge is that you would then go out and act accordingly. Be a businessperson of character, and help our community rise together - not just because a chamber campaign rightly says it's the thing to do, but because you know it's the right thing to do, and because you've got it in you.

A professional hat trick

Person who exemplifies integrity at work: Dana Elwell

Company, title: Guaranty Bank, senior vice president of mortgage lending

Submitted by: Yvonne Lowers

How does Elwell exemplify integrity?

"It's not easy being a mortgage loan officer in 2008. With the demise of the mortgage industry, it seems honesty and integrity are in short supply. One person who stands true, whose integrity is as strong today as when he started in the banking industry more than 30 years ago, is Dana Elwell. ... Dana works with individual homebuyers, developers and builders as well as with bank staff. He maintains honesty and fairness, no matter the situation. He goes far beyond the standard, striving to make sure that each person is treated fairly, whether he's helping a first-time homebuyer understand 'the fine print,' or talking to a builder about progress on a work site. He is uncompromising when it comes to ethics and unwavering when it comes to his principles."

Person who exemplifies cooperation and integrity at work: Amy Phillips

Company, title: St. John's/Southwest Baptist University College of Nursing, coordinator

Submitted by: N. Lee Weeks

How does Phillips exemplify cooperation and integrity?

"Amy Phillips is the anchor for all faculty, staff and students at St. John's College of Nursing and Health Sciences. Cooperation and integrity are part of Amy's faith-based philosophy to give her all in a sincere, caring manner to each and every student. She has a passion for her job, and is a team leader and player here at work, at her church and in the community."

Character Ed examples of "respect"

Person who exemplifies respect at work: Joyce Lower

Company, title: UMB Bank, receptionist

Submitted by: Ann Marie Baker

How does Lower exemplify respect?

Joyce Lower answers all incoming calls to UMB Bank's Springfield branches and greets everyone visiting our bank at 1150 E. Battlefield. Whether in person or by phone, Joyce's smile shines brightly, and her warmth is real. She treats each and every guest with care and respect. Her respectful demeanor and tone are legendary here at UMB. ... Because of her special balance of warmth and professionalism, she makes such a difference.

When I see the letters R-E-S-P-E-C-T, the famous Aretha Franklin song rings through my mind. Respect is a powerful thing. It makes us sing, open doors, warm hearts and build relationships.

There are many people whom I respect. One special person in this group greets me and hundreds of others each day.

Joyce Lower embodies the definition of respect, and I respect her so much!

Springfield Business Journal Editor Eric Olson can be reached at eolson@sbj.net.