Meet the Judges

Choosing each year’s class of 40 Under 40 honorees is a difficult task, and it’s one entrusted to an independent panel of judges. Our judges are chosen from among past 40 Under 40 honorees. Following nominations, applicants are scored based on their answers to questions about leadership, influencing the success of others, professional accomplishments and civic involvement. Résumés and letters of reference also are provided to help the judges determine which 40 individuals will be recognized. This year’s judges are:


Dr. Todd Buzbee is a dentist with Buzbee Dental Clinic PC and a 2009 Springfield Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree. He is a graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry and has been involved with the local and state dental associations. He also has continued his education with courses through the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.

---

Tyler James is president and owner of James Financial Partners LLC, a full-service financial consulting firm. Tyler earned his bachelor’s degree in business management and Missouri State University. A member of the 2008 class of 40 Under 40, James is a co-founder of Greater Springfield Business Network.

---

David Ross is director of operations for Morelock-Ross Builders, part of the Morelock-Ross Group of Cos. He manages day-to-day construction operations for the commercial construction division, including sales, estimating and project management. Ross, a 2010 40 Under 40 honoree, holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from University of Arkansas.

---

Crystal Webster is executive director of Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks, which provides financial assistance and resources for women and families affected by breast cancer. Webster, a 2010 40 Under 40 honoree, has a bachelor’s degree in marketing research/quantitative analysis from Missouri State University.

---

Architect Jennifer Wilson is owner of Jennifer Wilson Architect LLC and a Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design-Accredited Professional. Wilson, a 2009 40 Under 40 honoree, is chairwoman of Abilities First-the Greene County Board for the Developmentally Disabled. She also is a charter member of the Rotary Springfield-Metro chapter.[[In-content Ad]]