Springfieldian honor an ‘out-of-body experience,’ says latest recipient

Richard Ollis: Ausburn helped build powerhouse and also steps up to serve.

Kevin Ausburn of SMC Packaging Group appreciates the big reveal at the conclusion of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual meetings each year, when the Springfieldian Award recipient is announced. When it came his turn, he wasn’t expecting it.

“It’s kind of an out-of-body experience. I was shocked, I was surprised, I was humbled, I was honored,” Ausburn said. “It’s an incredible honor that I’m just really humbled by.”

Ausburn, 69, spoke to Springfield Business Journal after he was recognized Jan. 31 with the 2025 Springfieldian Award at Oasis Hotel & Convention Center. The Springfieldian Award – chosen by a selection committee at the chamber after nominations are submitted – is the chamber’s top honor and is given annually to an individual with strong community service, excellence in their field and dedication to improving quality of life for Springfield residents.

Ausburn, the son of late SMC Packaging Group co-founder Ross Ausburn, served as the longtime CEO of SMC Packaging Group, a Springfield corrugated packaging manufacturer. Last year, the 550-employee company sold to Green Bay, Wisconsin-based Green Bay Packaging Inc., with SMC Packaging Group keeping its name through the deal.

Civically, Ausburn has been involved with organizations such as the Springfield chamber, Scouting America and Great Southern Bank. He was a Distinguished Eagle Scout Award recipient in 2017.

Ausburn said he learned about the importance of leading by example from his parents. Growing up, he saw how their work benefited the business and the community.

“To those who have received much, much is expected,” Ausburn said.

That focus on community is ingrained into the operations of SMC Packaging Group, as well, he said.

“The health and vitality of the communities that we operate in is critical to the success of our business,” he said. “We think it’s vitally important to give back to our communities.”

Following the sale of the company, Ausburn now serves as chair emeritus, a role through which he is serving as a consultant for the first six months of 2025. He said the interim role also gives him the opportunity to smoothly transition into retirement.

“I couldn’t go cold turkey. I’ve been doing this for too long,” he said. “It’s going to take me a while to figure out what that new routine is in retirement.”

Once he fully steps into retirement, Ausburn said he’s looking forward to having more time for civic work and to spend time with family.

Business leaders applauded Ausburn’s recognition as the 2025 Springfieldian.

“Kevin has been instrumental, along with others in his business, in building a powerhouse of a business that drives our local economy while consistently stepping up to serve on committees that improve our community,” said Richard Ollis, CEO of Ollis/Akers/Arney and the 2024 Springfieldian recipient, in a news release announcing the honoree.

Mark McNay, a longtime SMC Packaging Group staffer who was named president of the Springfield-based operation as part of the deal last year with Green Bay Packaging, said in a video at the chamber event that many in the community have sought Ausburn’s counsel over the years.

“He’s always been calm, confident and committed to not only his business but the community,” McNay said. “It’s that reason that so many people seek his guidance and his direction. He’s a great board member, whether that’s civic, social, business or not-for-profit.”