2023 40 Under 40: Kelsea Suarez

In May 2022, Kelsea Suarez graduated from Missouri State University with a bachelor’s degree in business. Because it was a 10-year effort, she says she felt like she was dreaming when she became one of the first classes to walk across the stage at the newly renamed Great Southern Bank Arena. The financial institution had helped carve her career path.

Starting in banking services, Suarez, 32, quickly worked her way through the retail side before moving into the role of marketing project coordinator. She’s helped streamline workflow and establish project management practices, including designing and implementing the system that was adopted as an enterprise solution by multiple teams across the bank.

Best productivity hack? I was recently diagnosed with ADHD, so my go-to routine consists of taking my medicine, caffeinating, listening to an energizing playlist and using an Erin Condren LifePlanner. However, my husband would argue all of this is useless if I don’t lay my clothes out the night before.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received? My best friend, Jennifer, once shared with me not to worry about something before it happens because it means that I’m living through it twice.

What historical figure do you identify with most? Either Carrie Fisher or Bea Arthur.

Favorite food item or drink to order in the Springfield area? Anything from Leong’s Asian Diner is amazing!