Cindy Mergen Email and Phone Number

I’ve served as the Program Director at Leadership Springfield since September 2022, and I also teach as an adjunct instructor in Drury University’s Master of Nonprofit and Civic Leadership program. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on building connections across cultures—whether through teaching foreign languages, coordinating study abroad programs, or leading nonprofit advocacy efforts.I hold a bachelor's degree in K-12 Spanish Education and English as a Second Language from Missouri State University and completed my Master of Nonprofit and Civic Leadership at Drury University. I’ve also studied global citizenship education through the Harvard Graduate School of Education. As a dual citizen of the United States and Luxembourg, I’m bilingual in Spanish and English and am currently learning French.I’m deeply involved in my hometown community of Springfield, where I serve as the Board Vice President for PFLAG Springfield/SWMO. I’m a proud graduate of Leadership Springfield’s Signature Class 37 and was honored as one of Springfield Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 in 2021. My passion for service can be seen through various initiatives, including founding Yoga in the Park in 2010, a program that’s still thriving today in Phelps Grove Park, and Springfield Spanish, a group I created to bring together native speakers and language learners. I’ve also contributed to the CPO Equity and Prosperity Commission, the Network for Young Professionals, Springfield NAACP, the Multicultural Business Association, CASA of Southwest Missouri, HavaHeart dog rescue, and various local political campaigns.An avid traveler, I’ve visited 26 countries across five continents. When I’m not exploring new destinations, you’ll find me cooking meals inspired by global cuisines, listening to audiobooks or podcasts, or enjoying the natural beauty of the Ozarks through hiking and canoeing.