Missouri State University alumna Lauren Shantz has built a successful career in public affairs.

In six years, she has gone from working as an intern to now serving as vice president of public affairs at the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce.

Shantz became associated with the chamber through a family connection. Her mother, who worked in the Missouri Senate, suggested she reach out to the chamber.

In 2019, Shantz earned an internship there, and what began as a temporary opportunity quickly evolved into a career-defining moment.

“It wasn’t necessarily what I expected to go into, but it turned into a passion,” she said.

Since then, Shantz has navigated multiple leadership transitions and taken on greater responsibilities at the chamber. She now leads public affairs efforts to advocate for policies that benefit local businesses and the broader community.

“One thing I enjoy most about working at the chamber is we get to do something different every day, and all of it makes a significant positive impact on our community,” Shantz said.

“Also, not only do I get to do really meaningful things, but I get to do them with an incredible team who wants to see the success of Springfield and the region just as much as I do.”

MSU’s “close-knit” feel a big draw

A native of Jefferson City, Missouri, Shantz started her undergraduate studies at the University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou). She transferred to Missouri State in 2016, where she pursued a bachelor’s degree in public relations with a minor in journalism.

“Coming from Mizzou, I knew I wanted a college experience that felt more close-knit and community-minded,” Shantz said. “That type of involvement and feeling was present from my first day at MSU, and that meant something to me as a transfer student.”

After completing her undergraduate degree in December 2018, Shantz continued her education at Missouri State, earning a Master of Public Administration in 2023.

Shantz credits her time at MSU for shaping her career.

“Even though my degree isn’t 100% tied to what I do now, everything I learned, such as writing, event planning, communication strategy and AP style, is applicable in my job today,” she said.

Making an impact

Shantz said her time at MSU helped develop her passion for communication, advocacy and community impact. Among her proudest achievements is leading the chamber’s annual Community Leadership Visit, where 85 local leaders travel to other cities to exchange ideas and bring best practices back to Springfield.

Beyond her professional role, Shantz remains connected to MSU. She was recently named an associate trustee for the Missouri State Foundation, advocating for university funding and growth.

“Being able to push for initiatives like expanding MSU’s degree offerings, including PhDs, feels personal because MSU shaped so much of my journey,” she said.

Shantz’s talent and contributions as a young professional have not gone unnoticed. She was named to Springfield Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list in 2023.

Advice for student Bears

For current students at Missouri State, Shantz emphasizes the value of taking advantage of opportunities that come around. Gaining on-the-job or hands-on experience is essential, as is networking. She also encourages students to seek mentorship and learn from professionals in their field.

“Take opportunities even if they don’t seem like a perfect fit,” she advised. “The skills you gain will serve you in ways you might not expect,” she said.

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News edited by the Reynolds College Communications Team.