The Rosie program is powered by the dedication and leadership of incredible women in our community. Each year, a committee of passionate volunteers helps guide Rosie’s initiatives. From networking events and professional development to book club gatherings and the annual 100 Wise Women event, Rosie Committee members are collaborating behind the scenes in various subcommittees to develop, plan, and execute events and communications all year long, ensuring their success.
We are excited to introduce this year’s Rosie Chair, Dr. Laurie Edmondson, and Vice Chair, Lauren Southern, who will lead the 2025-2026 committee with vision, encouragement, and heart. Continue reading to learn about these leaders, their involvement with Rosie, and meet the rest of the Rosie Committee.
Dr. Laurie Edmondson, Rosie Chair
About Laurie
Dr. Laurie Edmondson has been an educator
in the Springfield area for more than thirty years. She served as a curriculum and literacy specialist for Springfield Public Schools before moving to Drury University, where she now teaches future K-12 educators and supports master’s students preparing to become reading specialists.
Beyond the classroom, Laurie is a passionate advocate for children and families. She has served on the Mayor’s Commission for Children, the Springfield Greene County Library Foundation board, and is the past president of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks board of directors. Most recently, she joined the board of directors for the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools. Laurie is married to Ben and has two daughters, Emily, a graduate student at Missouri State University, and Amy, a senior at Saint Louis University.
Why Rosie?
“I have always been drawn to the Rosie group because it represents women supporting and encouraging each other to be our best selves. We can do so much more together than we can individually. It is truly an honor to stand beside such wonderful women in our community who are out there doing great things every day to make Springfield a better place to live.”
Looking Ahead
Laurie is most excited about Rosie’s mentoring opportunities and the connections women build through both formal and informal gatherings. “I have found some truly special colleagues and friends within this framework.” And of course, she can’t wait for the annual Wise Women dinner—“Honest to goodness, the best event of the year. The conversations and collaborations are truly magical.”
Her Advice for Rosies
“My advice is to jump in there and get started. You will be welcomed with open arms, and you will be able to make a difference for others while doing it. Plus, you will connect with people that are supportive and uplifting.”
Laurie also offers this quote for inspiration: “Our generation has the ability and the responsibility to make our ever-more connected world a more hopeful, stable, and peaceful place.” – Natalie Portman
Lauren Southern, Rosie Vice Chair
About Lauren
Lauren Southern is Assistant Vice President and Private Banker at Simmons Bank in Springfield, where she blends financial expertise with a commitment to excellence and service.
A Drury University graduate, Lauren’s background includes wealth management, coaching, and leadership development. She is deeply involved in the community, serving on the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s Voice of Business Committee, the City of Springfield’s Public Building Corporation board, and co-chairing Leadership Springfield’s Rosie Network. Currently pursuing her MBA at Georgetown University, Lauren also helps organize area-wide faith-based women’s conferences.
Outside of work, Lauren thrives on family life, cheering on her children at sporting events, and enjoying coffee with friends. She loves volleyball—whether watching, coaching, or playing—and values lifelong learning, active living, and meaningful connections.
Why Rosie?
“If I can empower one other woman with the tools to navigate this complex world of work, family, and ambition, I will eagerly do so. Rosie is an incredible vehicle for meeting other women in similar situations, or who have done the things that you strive to do. When women lift each other up, the world wins. I want to help us all win!”
Looking Ahead
Lauren is excited about expanding Rosie’s event offerings this year, particularly the new monthly coffee chats. “We are going to open up a point of connection that I think will become an important part of Rosie. Women will be able to come together in a less structured way to make genuine connections on an ongoing basis. Building those relationships is important for all of us, and it definitely fills my cup!”
Her Advice for Rosies
“I truly believe that we find our fulfillment through service. Volunteering with Rosie with its elevating and encouraging feel builds me up while I’m building up others. If you want to volunteer in a space that feels uplifting, come be a part of the Rosie team! Or find that organization that lights your fire and plug in. You will never regret meaningful service.”
2025-2026 Rosie Committee
Meet the rest of the robust and dedicated Rosie Committee below. The events, resources, and connections Rosie offers wouldn’t be possible with these women. We are excited to bring another year of dynamic programming to the community! Rosie Committee Members are both Leadership Springfield program alumni and non-alumni community members.
- Jessica Atchison
- Kami Bailey
- Andrea Battaglia
- Hayley Cobb
- Stacey Connell
- Jamie Dame
- Chelsey Dollarhide
- Ashley Fleming
- Dr. Kayette Glass
- Dori Grinder
- Fatima Grover
- Pamela Hernandez
- Jessie Hughey
- Racheal Hunt
- Marybeth Kleinsasser
- Natosha Lancaster
- Veronica McKinney
- Cindy Mergen
- Angie Mullings
- Sarah Nenninger
- Katy Pattison
- Courtney Pinkham
- Erin Plisco
- Meredith Roberts
- Ashley Silva
- Tylinia Smith
- Stephanie Wan
- Jhasmine Watson
