Opinion: Responsible actions spread beyond office

The problem is that few of them were recognized the past month through Springfield Business Journal’s Character Ed campaign to promote quality characteristics at work in area offices. The solution is to send them in to me, as Bill Bryan did in October (see below).

Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s November character word is “caring.” Who cares for others in your office? Send me an e-mail.

Person who exemplifies “responsible” at work: Richard Ollis

Company, title: Ollis & Co., president

Submitted by: Bill Bryan 

How does Ollis exemplify responsibility? Richard Ollis exemplifies the word “responsibility” because not only does he have great responsibilities as a father and a business owner, but he seeks out ways to be responsible for the welfare of his community through supporting local charities, serving on boards and taking on a number of volunteer leadership positions. For example, he was past chairman of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, and he was recently honored by the state as a Missouri Silent Hero for his numerous contributions to the Springfield community. 

He takes on these responsibilities cheerfully, and as his latest award infers, without seeking publicity or personal gain. While most people run from responsibility, Richard has sought it out and as a result, has made some very positive contributions to the quality of life in Springfield.

Editor’s note: Bill Bryan of Merrill Lynch serves as chairman of the Character Ed committee. He considers Ollis an acquaintance.

SBJ Salutes Character Ed

The Character Ed word for November is “caring.” Who in your workplace best exemplifies this quality character trait? Send an e-mail to eolson@sbj.net with the person’s name, title, employer and a brief example of the trait at work. Responses will be published in the Dec. 3 Opinion section.

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