Chris Thompson, CEO of West Central Missouri Community Action Agency, announced recently that he has accepted a leadership opportunity with Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise, a non-profit organization dedicated to revitalizing Chattanooga, Tennessee neighborhoods by providing affordable housing, empowering residents, and promoting financial stability. His last day with West Central will be February 13. Mary Lou Schussler, West Central’s President, will assume the role of Interim CEO.
West Central, which celebrates 60 years of service this year to its nine-county region in west-central Missouri, has flourished under Chris’ leadership since his appointment in 2014. During his tenure, the organization has expanded significantly, pursuing innovative initiatives that address regional needs and foster community development.
Board Chair Fred Bunch commented, “Chris Thompson has served as CEO of West Central Missouri Community Action Agency for 10 years, leading the organization to thrive and earning nationwide recognition. His commitment, innovation, and persistence have been contagious, and from the start, it was clear to the Board that he was the right leader to build on West Central’s legacy. His contributions will leave a lasting impact. The transition to Mary Lou Schussler as interim CEO will be seamless, supported by a strong leadership team. As West Central celebrates 60 years of excellence, it will continue to lead and innovate as we assist and advance families and rural communities in west central Missouri.”
Some of Chris’ notable achievements include:
- Formation of New Growth Community Development Corporation which in turn has established the Start Here Business Accelerator Network, the New Growth Women’s Business Center (one of only five (5) rural and remote WBCs in the country) and New Growth Capital to support small businesses and entrepreneurship.
- New Growth Transit, which provided over a million miles of rides across southwest Missouri last year.
- Leadership in Rural Development: An innovative Food Systems program led to supportive programs and marketing opportunities for new and beginning farmers, the Farm to Fork Food Summit, and the creation of the Heartland Regional Food Development Center which serves farm and food enterprises across five (5) states.
- Assumption of administration of the state-wide Missouri Rural Development Partners organization (MRDP).
- Regional Expansion: Adding hub offices in Raymore and El Dorado Springs, managing the Technical and Training Center of Cass County, and maintaining the Central Office in Appleton City.
- Innovative Housing: Construction of Grant Park Villas, a workforce housing community in Raymore.
- Workforce YOU Initiative: Collaborating with local partners to address barriers like childcare, transportation, housing, and workforce-related education and training.
The organization has earned prestigious recognition during Chris’ tenure, including the Mid-America Regional Council’s Regional Leadership Award in 2017 and Gold Tier recognition (as one of only a handful of community action agencies in the U.S.) through the National Community Action Partnership’s Pathways to Excellence program in 2024.
Chris shared, “Serving West Central and New Growth as CEO for the past 10+ years has been the greatest honor, privilege, and joy of my professional career. Due to its excellent staff, Board, and leadership, the organization is well-positioned to continue expanding and enhancing its services to and for the people of the west-central region and state. I am grateful for the opportunity I’ve had to serve this wonderful organization and look forward to its celebration this summer of 60 years of service to the region.”
Mary Lou Schussler, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience at West Central, will lead the organization as Interim CEO. Her previous roles include Human Resources Officer, Chief Operations Officer, and President. With extensive knowledge of the organization, expertise in budgeting and personnel management, and a deep commitment to West Central’s mission, she is well-equipped to guide the agency through this transition.
“While we are sorry to see Chris leave West Central, we are deeply appreciative of his contributions and wish him great success in his future endeavors,” Mary Lou said.
Under her leadership, West Central remains committed to its mission of empowering individuals and communities, ensuring continued growth and impact for the region.