As communications manager for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, I have gained an understanding of the business community, especially the concerns of small businesses. I also know the importance of good public relations, of clearly communicating with people.

Nine years on the Nixa School Board taught me the value of service: listening to the people, planning for a bright future, then working to make it happen. During my tenure, Nixa School District built three elementary schools and a $23 million high school with the latest in technology and equipment. We also maintained competitive teacher

salaries and small class sizes, in spite of being the fastest growing school district in Missouri.

In 2000, we were recognized as Missouri’s Outstanding Board of Education by the Missouri School Boards Association. Our teamwork, innovative approach to problem-solving and hard work were cited as reasons for the award.  In 2000, Nixa was "Accredited With Distinction" by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

As owner of a small business, Elwell Creative Ink, I became familiar with the challenges of starting a business and making it successful.

As a longtime community volunteer, I have learned how “better tomorrows” can happen with hard work. I especially value my work with the League of Women Voters, where I have learned the importance of taking part in our democracy. I served on the state LWV board of directors and was president of our local chapter. I have made many professional contacts through the Association for Women in Communication. And I have been able to contribute to the development of children through the Nixa PTA, throughout the 15+ years my children were in elementary and high school.

 


Bachelor's and master's degrees in mass communication,
Central Missouri State University, Warrensburg
Continued professional development through
American Chamber of Commerce Executives, SMSU Computer Institute
Certified Board Member, Missouri School Boards Association

 


Elected to serve three 3-year terms on the Nixa School Board  (1993-2002)
Missouri Outstanding Board of Education  (2000)
Nixa PTA-PTSA (1985-2002)
Nixa Community Betterment  (1995-96)
Church Youth Ministry Team  (1992-2002)
Association for Women in Communication  (1992 to present)
League of Women Voters  (1983 to present)
League of Women Voters State Board Of Directors and Local President
Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce
Christian County Democratic Central Committee
Central Missouri State University Alumni Association President  (1982-83)
Central Missouri State University Foundation

 



Married for 27 years to Dana Elwell
Two children, Daniel, 22, and Tim, 18

 


Speaker of the House, Jim Kreider

Missouri National Education Association

Springfield Labor Council

 


Treasurer:  Jim McCauley

Riann Crouse
Terri Crouse
Rhonda Gardner
Eddie & Betty Maples
Richard & Norma Moore
Kay Murnan
Stephanie Orman
Matthew Patterson
Shayla & Chris Sleeth
Debbie & Jim Stewart
Laura Ward