SPRINGFIELD BUSINESS JOURNAL · 19 MARCH 6-12, 2023 40 UNDER 40 Kristie Pierce started her career in law as a public defender in Greene County. She found opportunities to help clients dealing with DWI cases and had success in filing motions to help both her clients and local law enforcement. In a highly stressful job, she adds she always wanted to show encouragement and support to her team. “I always had an open door to discuss difficult legal issues or challenging situations,” Pierce, 34, says. In 2021, Pierce joined Twibell Pierson Criminal Law as an associate attorney focusing on criminal defense. She was brought on by the two existing attorneys and from there, has been able to show support to them and build her own practice. In addition to her law work, Pierce oversees an addiction recovery group that meets weekly at James River Church. What about your job would shock people? It’s all a bit of a culture shock. Most people have the luxury of not thinking about people who are incarcerated or not fully knowing the extent of mental health issues, addiction and violence that is around them. Best productivity hack? When I really need to focus and get hard work done, I listen to an epic movie soundtrack like “The Lord of the Rings” or “Rudy.” Your professional aha moment? Shortly after having my second daughter, I had gained new perspective to make the jump into what I was feeling called to, which was criminal defense. Best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Never quit on a bad day. —Presley Puig, Editorial Intern KRISTIE PIERCE Twibell Pierson Criminal Law LP This summer, Erin E. Plisco will perform with the Missouri State Choral Union at the prestigious Carnegie Hall concert venue. Plisco, 36, says securing this “life-changing experience for our students and community members” is her proudest accomplishment. And she had many to choose from. The associate director of choral studies at MSU is one of six American conductors selected for the International Conductors Exchange Program. She’ll travel to Germany this summer to work with musical organizations and will also host German conductors in Springfield. Her career has allowed her the opportunity to direct many choirs internationally. In summer 2024, Plisco says she’ll conduct music festivals in Austria, Bulgaria and Italy. At MSU, the choral program has grown from 40 members when she joined the staff in 2018 to 110 members in fall 2022, and Plisco’s colleagues credit her for much of the growth. She also developed a new choral ensemble last year, the Collegiate Singers. She was recently appointed to the American Choral Directors Association board and has been commissioned by Oxford University Press to write a book on teaching. Favorite TV show? “The Office.” Favorite hobby or creative outlet? Going to Orange Theory and hiking. Favorite food item or drink to order in the Springfield area? Anything from Everyday Thai or a gin martini from The Order. —Christine Temple, Executive Editor ERIN E. PLISCO Missouri State University HEATHER MOSLEY Drury University recognizes alumni Paden Chambers M.Arch ’14, Megan Eli ’10, Caitlin Golike ’12, Dani Lacio MA ’21, Michaela Steinmetz-Benton ’12, Matthew Suarez ’16, Sheri Walsh ’16 and Samantha Williams ’15 for their insight and innovation. Congratulations on being honored as part of the 40 Under 40 class of 2023. LEADERSHIP IN ACTION
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