2022 40 Under 40: Melanie Stinnett

In 2013, Melanie Stinnett recognized a need in Springfield for more options for children’s outpatient therapy. A year later, Stinnett left a position as a speech-language pathologist and opened TheraCare Outpatient Services.

In addition, Stinnett started Include Ozarks, a nonprofit organization that serves families of children with special needs. She also was involved with Missouri Disability Empowerment to help pass legislation to improve insurance coverage of therapy services.

She is on the board of several organizations, including the Cox College Advisory Board and the Children’s Smile Center.

Next up? She’s running for a Missouri House of Representative seat to continue advocating for equity and inclusion.

“I found a passion for advocacy and realized that my voice can make a difference,” Stinnett says.

Best productivity hack? Create white space in your day to give your mind time to be still and quiet. The best productivity comes when your mind does not feel hectic.

Most treasured possession? I have several quilts made by my grandmother and great-grandmother. They are very precious to me as I know the work they put into making them special for our family.

Favorite hobby or creative outlet? I have always loved to read and write. It is a strange day if you don’t find me with my nose in a book at some point.