2023 40 Under 40: Colin Shea Denniston

A  professional actor in New York City for nearly a decade, Colin Shea Denniston returned to his hometown of Springfield in 2019 and ultimately became 417 Magazine’s engagement and style editor.

Denniston, 35, is the social media face of the magazine, and he writes about local businesses and events in an e-newsletter that he considers a unifying tool.

“The more connected we feel to each other and to our city, the better the chances are that people will stay here and make contributions of their own,” he says.

Denniston crafted 417 Magazine’s approach to social media and worked to educate the publication’s team on the ways in which it could advance their brand. He says he sees it as promoting the southwest Missouri region to an audience far beyond its footprint.

Your first job? Lifeguard at Southern Hills. I did this for six consecutive summers, and honestly, out of all my past jobs, this is probably the one that describes me best.

Your most treasured possession? My dad gave me a St. Genesius pendant when I graduated high school. It is an exact replica of one my dad wore every day that he got from his dad.

Favorite podcast? I listen to NPR’s Up First in the shower every morning, The Bulwark Podcast when I lift and Pantsuit Politics when I go on long runs.

Favorite hobby or creative outlet? Yoga. It makes me a better person, friend and co-worker.