CEO
Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield Missouri
Brandy Harris is a visionary leader, passionate educator, and devoted advocate for young people. As the first female and first person of color to serve as CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, she has transformed the organization through bold leadership, innovative
programming, and an unshakable belief in the potential of every child.
A graduate of Drury University (B.A. in Speech Communication) and Missouri State University(M.S. in Early Childhood Education and Family Development), Brandy began her career as a high school teacher before stepping into the world of youth development. Since 2011, she has held nearly every role within Boys & Girls Clubs—from frontline staff to executive leadership—leading with heart, humility, and purpose.
Under her leadership, BGCS has launched multiple Club locations, secured millions in grant and philanthropic funding, deepened community partnerships, and expanded services to reach more kids than ever before—including leading a $12 million capital campaign to build Springfield’s first-ever teen center. Her impact has been widely recognized: Brandy was named2023 Executive of the Year by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (TPA), 2024 CEO of the Year by Springfield Business Journal, and is a 2023 Springfield Public Schools Hall of Fame Inductee. She was also honored with the Springfield News-Leader’s Captain Springfield recognition in 2020,417 Magazine’s BIZ 100 since 2020, and Most Influential Women by Springfield Business Journal in 2022.
Brandy’s commitment to equity and opportunity has earned her leadership roles across the region, including service on the Mayor’s Commission for Children, where she helps shape youth policy for the city of Springfield. She also serves on numerous local boards and advisory committees focused on education, arts, and child well-being.
Brandy’s work is deeply personal. Raised in poverty and instability, she understands the life-changing power of safe spaces, caring mentors, and creative expression. In 2024, she made herdebut as a visual artist, presenting her first solo exhibition exploring themes of trauma, identity,and resilience. Through her art and advocacy, she reminds others—and herself—to "rememberwho and why you are."Whether speaking on stage, guiding a team, or mentoring a child, Brandy leads with radicalempathy and a fierce commitment to building a future where every young person can thrive.