Missouri Times 2026 30 Under 30 Honorees

The Missouri Times is proud to present the 2026 class of 30 Under 30, recognizing the young leaders helping shape the future of Missouri. From lobbyists and Capitol staffers to campaign professionals, advocates, and more, this year’s honorees are making their mark across the state through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to making Missouri a better place.

Congratulations to the 2026 Missouri Times 30 Under 30 class!

Amanda Wiley

“Amanda Wiley is a true believer in every sense of the word, and she really needed to be to move down to Springfield, Missouri to run the ground for Lori Rook’s State Senate bid. 

Amanda has always been passionate about the conservative cause, starting her first Turning Point USA Chapter in High School before going on to work for them as their High School Coordinator for the Kansas City Area. In 2024, Amanda came to work as a Field Representative on Bill Eigel’s Campaign for Governor during the primary election and State Senator Joe Nicola’s Campaign in the general. Amanda then went to work as a Staff Assistant to Secretary of State Denny Hoskins before moving down to SD-20 this summer.

Amanda has always had raw, instinctive leadership talent in the field. In tough races, you have to have that. You have to have people that can actually lead other people and get them to buy in despite overwhelming odds. I witnessed her hone that leadership this summer, and she’s just scratching the surface. At only 21, her future is incredibly bright. I am very proud to nominate her.”

Amanda was nominated by Sophia Shore, Principal of Missouri Maverick Strategies

Anna AuBuchon

“Anna AuBuchon currently serves as a legislative assistant to Missouri State Senator Curtis Trent. Additionally, she has assisted HRCC for two years both interning and canvassing across the state of Missouri. Her professional interests include constituent engagement, fiscal responsibility, and rural community development. 

Anna is completing a bachelor’s degrees in political science and public policy at the University of Missouri and plans to continue in the Master of Public Affairs program.”

Anna was nominated by Hannah Beers-Sutton, Executive Director of HRCC

Anna Littrell

“Anna Littrell has expanded the program’s reach and strengthened its impact across the state. She has built and maintained strong relationships with business owners in every corner of Missouri, elevated the program’s visibility within the Capitol, and played a direct role in helping Missouri-made products secure shelf space and market opportunities in store across the state. 

Her work has made a tangible difference for small businesses, and her leadership reflects the very best of the next generation of Missouri professionals.”

Anna was nominated by the Lt. Governor’s Office

Bennett Lyday

“Bennett Lyday serves as Legislative Aide and lead advisor to United States Senator Eric Schmitt on agriculture, nutrition, energy, natural resources, environment, public works, and emergency management. He also manages the Senator’s policy priorities within his portfolio throughout the drafting, introduction, and committee processes across both chambers of Congress. Prior to joining Senator Schmitt’s office, Bennett served as Policy and Operations Specialist for Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey.

Bennett is a proud graduate of the University of Missouri, where he was a member of Delta Chi Fraternity and served as By-Law Chairman and an Interfraternity Council Judicial Board Hearing Officer. He was honored for his leadership by the Delta Chi International Fraternity with the Outstanding Officer Award. Originally from Eureka, Bennett volunteered as a Junior Firefighter with the Eureka Fire Protection District.”

Bennett was nominated by Sen. Eric Schmitt’s Office

Braden Havlik 

“Braden Havlik is a Missouri native from Silex, currently based in Columbia, MO, where he attends the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources. A graduate of Silex High School, Braden has been deeply involved in Missouri FFA, serving as the state’s National Officer Candidate this past year. He has also gained experience in state government, having interned in Representative Chad Perkins’ office and now working in Governor Mike Kehoe’s office. 

Guided by his values of faith, family, friends, and agriculture, Braden lives by the motto “Leadership is an action, not a position” a philosophy reflected in his continued commitment to public service and the agricultural community.”

Braden was nominated by Aaron Baker of Axiom Strategies

Cade Tremain

“Cade Tremain exemplifies the best of Missouri politics. No matter your organization or party affiliation, Cade is a friendly face to all, and a force of positivity and kindness on even the longest days of the legislative session. Now serving as the Director of Legislative Affairs and Governmental Policy for the Department of Health and Senior Services, Cade directs a legislative agenda that includes the agency’s $2 billion budget and numerous health initiatives, while also providing constituent services.

Cade’s success is a testament to his work ethic. After graduating at the top of his class from the University of Central Missouri, he initially served the state in higher education before moving to the private sector, and has now returned to public service. At each stage of his promising career, he has been committed to excellent public policy work and continues to deliver in his current role. 

Outside of politics, Cade is an avid hiker and enjoys spending time outdoors discovering Missouri’s hidden gems.”

Cade was nominated by Justin Cobb, Assistant Director of Regulatory Affairs, Kansas Farm Bureau 

Carolyn Niswonger

“Carolyn Niswonger’s career in Missouri politics started in 2018, when she was a junior at the University of Missouri, Columbia and joined Claire McCaskill’s reelection campaign as an intern.  What started as an internship quickly turned into a passion for politics and public service.  After graduating in 2020, she worked for the Missouri Democratic Party, local central committees, and campaigns around the state, gaining experience in everything from grassroots organizing to campaign strategy.

She eventually returned to Mid-MO as a legislative staffer in the Missouri Senate for Senator Mosley.  She then headed back to the campaign trail in 2024, serving as Field Director for Senator Patty Lewis and later for Lucas Kunce’s U.S. Senate campaign.

Today, she directs the state policy initiatives for the Sierra Club Missouri Chapter, where she advocates for environmental protections and sustainable energy policy.  With now 3 sessions under her belt, she has proven to be a rising star and a valuable asset in the environmental policy space.”

Carolyn was nominated by by Dawn Nicklas

Cole Christensen

“Cole Christensen has built a career rooted in public service, hard work, and a commitment to strengthening families and communities.

 Cole served four years in the North Dakota House of Representatives, where he was among the youngest elected officials in state history and one of the youngest legislators in the country.  During his tenure, he became the first state legislator in the nation to establish a legal distinction between human personhood and artificial intelligence.  He also successfully authored and passed legislation affirming parents as the primary stakeholders in their children’s upbringing and education.

While serving in the Legislature, Cole continued working as a welder in the Bakken oil fields and contracting alongside his family, bringing firsthand experience from the trades and small business to public service.

Cole met his wife, Mazzie Christensen, during his time in the Legislature.  They married in November 2023 and made their home in Missouri.

For the past year and a half, Cole has served as Manager of Agency Outreach for the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, helping county officials, businesses, and citizens navigate state government and connect with the resources they need.  His work has taken him to nearly every county in Missouri.

Throughout his career, Cole has remained committed to serving others and ensuring government works for the people it represents.  This October, Cole and Mazzie will begin their most exciting chapter yet as they welcome their first child.”

Cole was nominated by the Secretary of State’s Office

Colbey Stosberg

“Colbey Stosberg is a high-impact team player who began his career in state government at just 20 years old. In less than two years with the AGO, he has quickly distinguished himself through his policy analysis, strategic guidance and ability to support the work of Attorneys General Bailey and Hanaway and their senior staff.

As a member of both the AGO’s communications and policy teams, Colbey plays an important role in developing and delivering messaging to the media and key stakeholder groups, while ensuring external engagement is aligned with broader policy and communications strategies. He brings a level of thoughtfulness, initiative and professionalism that belies his years of experience.

Colbey has already made a significant impact in a relatively short time, and it will be exciting to watch his continued growth and upward trajectory in the years ahead.”

Colbey was nominated by the Attorney General’s Office

Emily Beers

“Emily Beers is passionate about serving others and making a meaningful impact in the community. Now based in Jefferson City, Emily serves as the Communications & Outreach Manager for ServMO and works across community relations, event management, and helping translate ideas into engaging experiences and effective public-facing initiatives. Working with partners such as AmeriCorps, the 9/11 Day Organization, and the America 250 Missouri Commission to create and advertise accessible service opportunities for all Missourians has forged new pathways to giving back in an increasingly isolated age. 

Emily is committed to mobilizing Missourians to serve, creating a stronger community and positioning Missouri as a national leader in service. Emily is a 2021 graduate of Evangel University.”

Emily was nominated by Pat Thomas

Isabelle Bryson

“Isabelle Bryson currently serves as deputy communications director, and she has served the Missouri Attorney General’s Office since June 2022 when she started as a Communications and Constituent Services Intern while pursuing her undergraduate degree. Bryson continued with the Office on the Communications team through the transition of two Missouri Attorneys General.

Bryson, a native of El Dorado Springs, Missouri, has been responsible for formulating content and strategies for social media, composing press releases, coordinating media events and conferences.  She earned an Associate of Arts in Communication from Crowder College, graduating with honors. Bryson also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a political communication emphasis and a multi-cultural studies certificate from the University of Missouri–Columbia, and completed course work at the University of Alicante, in Alicante, Spain, graduating with honors.”

Isabelle was nominated by the Attorney General’s Office

Jacob Brown

“Jacob Brown is originally from Southeast Missouri, where he was born and raised near Cape Girardeau. He then attended Truman State University, where he graduated with a BA in Political Science and Economics. 

He served his last semester at Truman as a Legislative Intern for Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft. After serving with his office for the 2024 Legislative Session, Jacob then joined the House Republican Campaign Committee, where he works today.

After the 2024 election, Jacob then joined the Missouri House of Representatives as a Legislative Assistant to Rep. Bennie Cook and Rep. Tara Peters, where he also currently serves.

Jacob is married to his wife of two years, Mercie. They both enjoy seeing movies, reading, going to antique shops, and spending time with their two Boston Terriers, Archie and Rudy. Jacob is also an active member of his church community at the Open Door Baptist Church in Columbia. Jacob also serves on the University of Missouri’s Civic Leadership Internship Program (CLIP) Advisory Board as a board member.”

Jacob was nominated by Hannah Beers-Sutton, Executive Director of HRCC

Jared Hankinson

“Jared Hankinson is exactly the kind of leader who deserves to be recognized as a 30 Under 30. As the Vice President of Government Affairs, Jared leads the Missouri Chamber’s legislative and political work and has quickly become a trusted and effective advocate for Missouri’s business community. He understands that success in this work is about more than knowing policy, it is also about building relationships, bringing people together and having the courage to take bold stances . 

A great example of this is his leadership in the Capitol to advocate for legislation sponsored by Sen. Brad Hudson and Rep. Brian Seitz to protect Missouri businesses from predatory lawsuits. Jared helped lead that effort from beginning to end, navigating a complicated issue and building the bipartisan support needed to get it across the finish line. He is smart, driven and deeply committed to making Missouri the best place to do business.”

Jared was nominated by Kara Corches, President and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Jordan Roling

“Jordan Roling currently serves as deputy general counsel in the Office of Governor Mike Kehoe. In this role, he provides legal guidance to the Governor and his team on a variety of issues, most notably including the administration’s efforts on implementing artificial intelligence for government efficiency.

Roling is a Jefferson City native, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Truman State University and his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law.”

Jordan was nominated by the Governor’s Office

Justin Adams

“Justin Adams serves as Legislative Aide for United States Senator Eric Schmitt, covering the Senator’s Commerce Committee portfolio. In this role, he serves as the lead on all sports-related issues, including Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), college sports, and the World Cup. He also advises on key technology issues, ranging from semiconductors to the deployment of artificial intelligence. Prior to joining Senator Schmitt’s office, Justin served as Legislative Assistant for Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer, covering healthcare, veterans’ affairs, natural resources, education, and labor issues.

Justin is a graduate of Truman State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. During his time at Truman, Justin served as Activities Director for the Delta Chi Fraternity. Justin is originally from Fulton.”

Justin was nominated by Sen. Eric Schmitt’s Office

Kali Michael

“A Waverly, Missouri native, Kali Michael has spent the last several years building a career defined by her commitment to her home state. As a senior in high school, Kali received the Freedom Fighter Award, Turning Point USA’s Campus Warrior Award at Mar-a-Lago, and the Breckinridge Scholarship Award at the Missouri State Capitol, early recognition that set the tone for what would become an unconventional and accomplished career.

Immediately after high school, Kali attended the University of Michigan, earning her bachelor’s degree in just 2.5 years. She went on to work in Washington, D.C., first interning for Senator Josh Hawley before spending a year on Capitol Hill as a Legislative Correspondent for Congressman Eric Burlison.

Now back in Missouri, Kali works with the House Republican Campaign Committee, supporting Hannah Beers-Sutton and Dallas Ernst and working under Casey Burns on fundraising efforts. She is also halfway through her Master of Public Administration at the University of Missouri, continuing to prepare for a future in public service.

Along the way, Kali has also competed on the national stage as Miss Missouri Strong 2023, using the platform to advocate for foster care and adoption reform.

Now living in Lee’s Summit and engaged to her fiancé, Ethan Methner, Kali has already packed a remarkable amount into her career, from a small-town Missouri upbringing to the State Capitol, Mar-a-Lago, a national stage, Capitol Hill, and back home again. At an age when many are just beginning to find their direction, Kali is already building the foundation for a lifelong career serving Missouri.”

Kali was nominated by Casey Burns, Principal of Leadbelt Strategies

Marcie Michel

“You don’t find many people in politics or in life as good as Marcie Michel. 

Marcie is a Jefferson City native who began her career as a legislative intern at only seventeen years old. She left her Legislative Assistant position in State Senator Joe Nicola’s office to come help me build Missouri Maverick Strategies, and build she has. Marcie served as our Operations Director, keeping a lot of trains rolling at all times— whether it was ground, fundraising, material delivery— Marcie helped build every bit of it with a smile.

More than even her professional talents, Marcie is everything you would want in a daughter, sister, and friend. She loves her family, is committed to The Lord, loyal to her friends, and deeply loves Missouri. It is my honor to nominate her and witness her career and life unfold.”

Marcie was nominated by Sophia Shore, Principal of Missouri Maverick Strategies

Matilyn Pinkston

“Hailing from Atlanta, Missouri, Matilyn Pinkston began her career in the Missouri Senate as an intern for her hometown senator, Cindy O’Laughlin. She has since continued her work in the Capitol and now serves in the office of Senator Brad Hudson, where she supports his legislative efforts and works on conservative campaigns and causes.

A Mizzou graduate with a background in agriculture, Mati brings a strong understanding of rural Missouri to her work in the Capitol. In addition to her legislative experience, she has gained real world experience working on political campaigns and continues to excel her professional career while pursuing a Masters in Business Administration.

From starting as a Senate intern to establishing a career in Missouri politics, Mati has quickly presented herself as a steady and trusted presence in the Capitol, with a commitment to public service and the communities that shaped her.”

Matilyn was nominated by Aaron Baker of Axiom Strategies

Matt Griese

“It is a pleasure to nominate Matthew Griese for the Missouri Times 30 Under 30. I have had the opportunity to get to know Matthew over the past several years through his service to the Missouri House of Representatives and the people of Missouri.

Matthew began his career in the House as a Legislative Assistant before joining the Majority Floor Leader’s team, where he quickly established himself as a trusted resource for both the Floor Leader and the Republican Caucus. In a fast-paced and constantly changing legislative environment, Matthew demonstrated the judgment and political awareness necessary to evaluate both the policy and political implications of legislation.

Matthew carried that experience with him into the Speaker’s Office, where he continued to earn the trust of House leadership and played pivotal roles in advancing some of the chamber’s priority issues. His ability to understand complex policy, navigate the legislative process, and anticipate political challenges has made him an invaluable resource to members and staff alike.

Throughout his time in the Missouri House, Matthew has distinguished himself through his judgment, work ethic, and commitment to public service. I can think of few young professionals more deserving of recognition as one of the Missouri Times 30 Under 30.”

Matt was nominated by Ryan Clearwater, Chief of Staff of House Speaker Jon Patterson

Mitchell Terbrock

“Combining his interest in politics with a lifelong commitment to service, Mitch Terbrock understands the importance of relationships, preparation and hard work. Family and faith have shaped the integrity and principles that guide his approach to public service.

Mitch began his career in Jefferson City as a University of Missouri sophomore intern with Gamble and Schlemeier Lobbying Firm, where he developed an early interest in policymaking and the legislative process. In 2023, he joined then-Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe’s gubernatorial campaign, balancing his studies with campaign responsibilities before transitioning full time in 2024 to help lead candidate logistics.

After graduating in 2025, Mitch joined the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations as legislative liaison. During the 2026 session, he built strong relationships with lawmakers, advanced key administration and department priorities, and helped legislators navigate issues involving the department.

Mitch’s ability to understand complex issues, build relationships and turn policy goals into results makes him an invaluable asset to the department and the state. He exemplifies Missouri’s next generation of public servants and leaders, and his dedication, work ethic and commitment to solving problems will serve Missourians well for years to come.”

Mitchell was nominated by Anna Hui, Director of Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations

Nate Coatney

“I am pleased to recommend Nathan Coatney for the Missouri Times’ 30 Under 30. I had the opportunity to work closely with Nathan for two legislative sessions while he served on my staff in the Missouri House Majority Leader’s Office. During that time, I came to appreciate his political instincts, professionalism, communication skills, and ability to navigate the legislative process. Nathan has a natural understanding of politics and government, and he was someone I could rely on to handle important assignments and build strong working relationships with legislators, staff, and stakeholders.

Nathan has continued to grow in Missouri public service, taking on the role of Legislative Director for the Missouri State Treasurer. His experience also includes serving with State Senator Curtis Trent, the Missouri Republican Party, and campaigns across the state. He has developed a well-rounded understanding of Missouri politics and government and has already established himself as a young professional with a promising future in public service. I believe Nathan is deserving of this recognition and I look forward to seeing the contributions he will continue to make to Missouri.”

Nate was nominated by Alex Riley, House Majority Floor Leader and Speaker Designee

 

Nate Vass

“Nate Vass in two words: high energy.

Nate is a student at Mizzou’s Journalism School studying Strategic Communications and the Mizzou Turning Point President, where he is constantly working to reach young people on campus and beyond for the conservative cause. 

In the Spring of 2026 semester, he interned for Lt. Governor David Wassinger’s office before moving down to Lake of the Ozarks this summer to work for me at Missouri Maverick Strategies where he served overall as the Communications Director as well as the Account Manager for the State Senate campaigns of Sam Alexander, Lori Rook, and Ike Skelton.

Campaigns are full of long days. One of my favorite things about Nate is when I felt like our ground teams needed some encouragement, Nate was always the first to volunteer his Saturdays for check ins across the state. Nate is bright, gutsy, and perhaps most important, he is a fundamentally decent person, which is a rare quality in this business. I’m very proud to nominate him.”

Nate was nominated by Sophia Shore, Principal of Missouri Maverick Strategies

Quin Roney

“It is an honor to nominate Quin Roney for the Missouri Times 30 Under 30. I have had the opportunity to watch Quin grow professionally through his service to the Missouri House of Representatives and the people of Missouri.

Quin began his time in the House as an intern in the Majority Floor Leader’s Office, where he quickly developed a strong understanding of administrative tasks, the legislative process and the fast-paced environment of the House floor. His ability to learn quickly, take initiative, and understand the many moving pieces of the legislative process distinguished him early in his career.

That experience ultimately led Quin to the Speaker’s Office, where he became a Legislative Assistant and continued to expand his responsibilities and influence. What began as a strong understanding of the legislative process grew into a broader role as a trusted advisor to legislators, staff, and the Speaker. Quin has developed a reputation as someone who understands not only how the House operates, but also the relationships, judgment, and communication necessary to help move priorities forward.

Quin’s progression from intern to a trusted member of the Speaker’s team is a testament to his work ethic, judgment, and commitment to public service. He has earned the confidence of those around him through his professionalism and willingness to take on greater responsibility, and I believe he is highly deserving of recognition as one of the Missouri Times 30 Under 30.”

Quin was nominated by Ryan Clearwater, Chief of Staff of House Speaker Jon Patterson

Riley Clinton

“Riley Clinton is a Kirkwood native who is currently serving as the Campaign Coordinator on Fred Wellman’s campaign for Congress in Missouri’s 2nd Congressional District, where his work spans communications and digital strategy, assisting campaign operations, and outreach across the district. Riley’s  great-uncle, Congressman Bob Young, represented MO-02 years ago, and Riley is honored to be working to help elect its first Democratic representative in decades.

Before joining Team Wellman, Riley worked on campaigns and organizing efforts across Missouri, gaining experience in grassroots field work, knocking doors, and talking directly with voters.  Riley graduated from Tulane University in New Orleans in 2025, with a degree in Political Economy and minors in Philosophy and Religious Studies. After college, Riley chose to return home in part because he believes St. Louis and Missouri are too often underestimated. He believes the region can thrive again while continuing to move forward, and he hopes to spend his career helping make that vision a reality.

Outside of work, Riley can usually be found watching a Cardinals game or spending time at the lake in Warren County.”

Riley was nominated by Chelsea Rodriguez, Principal of Bluebird Strategies

 

Steven Marion

“Steven Marion serves as the Legislative Director for the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI), steering the department’s legislative strategy and acting as the primary bridge between DCI and the Missouri General Assembly.

Before joining DCI, Steven built a strong foundation across state government, serving as Legislative Liaison for the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DOLIR) and as a Legislative Assistant in the Missouri State Senate. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Columbia College.

Whether he is analyzing complex regulatory policy, advising leadership, or collaborating with lawmakers and industry leaders, Steven brings a steady, collaborative approach to advancing Missouri’s regulatory and consumer protection goals. 

Steven has a level of maturity and insight that is well beyond his years. He acclimated quickly to a state agency that regulates highly complex and intricate insurance and financial industries.  He brings a tireless work ethic, remarkable graciousness, and an easy-going demeanor that makes him an absolute pleasure for everyone to work with.”

Steven was nominated by Angela Nelson, Director, Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance

Sydni Jackson

Sydni Jackson is a lifelong Missourian and the founder and owner of TJV Consulting, a St. Louis-based political consulting firm working with progressive candidates and values-driven leaders across the region.

Sydni has worked on campaigns in nearly every capacity, from communications and field organizing to campaign management and serving as a candidate herself. Her experience spans races at the local, county and state levels, giving her a broad understanding of campaign strategy and grassroots organizing.

Her involvement in politics began at an early age and grew into grassroots activism in 2016. In 2020, she was selected as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention while running for Creve Coeur Township Democratic Committeewoman. She later served as West County Field Director for the St. Louis County Democratic Party and now serves as Senate District 24 Democratic Committeewoman.

Through TJV Consulting, Sydni brings her grassroots and campaign experience to helping clients build effective campaigns and engage their communities. In 2025, she helped elect the first Black woman to the Ballwin Board of Aldermen, adding another milestone to her growing career in Missouri politics. 

Sydni was nominated by Chelsea Rodriguez, Principal of Bluebird Strategies

Taylee Soukup

“Taylee Soukup serves as Chief of Staff to Senator Maggie Nurrenbern, where she has established herself as a strong and confident leader, earning the respect of her colleagues and demonstrating a deep commitment to public service. After earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri, Taylee served as then-Representative Nurrenbern’s Legislative Assistant before joining Governor Parson’s administration as a legal assistant. Most recently, she served as the Legislative Liaison for the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development.

Taylee made an immediate impact upon arriving in the Senate, working across the aisle to refine legislation that provides college tuition awards to public safety personnel and their dependents. She has spearheaded Senator Nurrenbern’s policy agenda, helping advance legislation that honors fallen firefighters, allows women to obtain divorces while pregnant, and secures appropriations for organizations providing critical services to Missourians.

Since entering the Capitol, Taylee has brought a thoughtful, hardworking, and collaborative approach to her work. Through her leadership and dedication, she continues to make a meaningful impact on behalf of the constituents of District 17 and families across the state.”

Taylee was nominated by State Senator Maggie Nurrenbern, SD 17

Tommy Gilmore

Tommy Gilmore graduated from the University of Missouri in 2025 and began his career in Missouri politics working for Senator Burger in the Missouri Senate. During the 2026 legislative session, Tommy gained firsthand experience in the legislative process while working on constituent services and assisting with the day-to-day operations of the Senator’s office.

Following the conclusion of session, Tommy joined the House Republican Campaign Committee, where he has gained valuable grassroots experience engaging directly with voters across Missouri. His experience in both the Capitol and on the campaign trail has given him a strong foundation in Missouri politics and public service at a young age.

Tommy was nominated by Hannah Beers-Sutton, Executive Director of HRCC

Trinity Crouch

“Trinity Crouch serves as Legislative Liaison for the Missouri Department of Agriculture, helping to protect Missouri farmers and ranchers like her father and brother. Trinity was raised with a strong work ethic on a diversified livestock farm in central Missouri and understands the challenges farmers can face with burdensome regulations and high costs of production. Her solid foundation in FFA and with public speaking led to a degree in Agribusiness Management, with an emphasis in Public Policy, from the University of Missouri. 

Following a stint in Washington D.C., Trinity returned to her central Missouri roots to join the Missouri Department of Agriculture and complete her Masters in Agricultural and Applied Economics. In the state Capitol, Trinity excels in making connections with legislators from both sides of the aisle while she carries the priorities of MDA and Missouri’s farmers and ranchers. Her rural background and agriculture foundation, combined with her outstanding education, serve her well in the halls of the Capitol.

This is just the beginning for Trinity, and I am excited for her future.”

Trinity was nominated by Chris Chinn, Director, Missouri Department of Agriculture

Tyler Wilson

“An Owensville native, Tyler has been involved in local politics since he was 10 years old volunteering for the Prop A campaign in 2018, which blocked right-to-work. In 2024, he helped his local state representative and family friend, Bruce Sassmann, win re-election despite Sassmann being targeted by anti-public school interest groups for voting against a bill that expanded school vouchers and charter schools into Boone County. 

Tyler has been involved in over 30 winning local campaigns for state legislature and municipal offices. Tyler is currently serving as the campaign manager for Matt Vitale, who is running to flip the 96th House District.

Growing up in a union family, Tyler knows what Democrats need to win back working-class voters in Missouri and is committed to building power for Democrats across the state.”

Tyler was nominated by Chelsea Rodriguez, Principal of Bluebird Strategies

As Missouri’s political, business, and civic landscape continues to evolve, so too does the next generation of leaders shaping it. Congratulations to the 2026 class of Missouri Times 30 Under 30 honorees, and thank you for the work you’re already doing to make an impact across the Show-Me State. We look forward to seeing where you go next.