Beth Cunningham on Leadership, Legacy, and the Power of Being Yourself

At the April 23 session of The Network’s Local Leadership Series, young professionals had the opportunity to hear firsthand from Beth Cunningham, head coach of the Missouri State Lady Bears. With a candid blend of experience and humility, Cunningham shared leadership lessons from a career that spans championship wins, mentoring young athletes, and balancing life as a working mother of four.

Raised in a coaching family in Bloomington, Indiana, Cunningham said she never expected to follow in her father’s footsteps. But after standout college and professional playing careers, a natural shift into coaching emerged. “Opportunities presented themselves,” she said. “I view myself as a leader of young women. Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned came through sports.”

Now in her third year at MSU, Cunningham reflected on her leadership journey, from her early days as one of the youngest Division I head coaches to her championship-winning run as associate head coach at Notre Dame. “Being a good leader comes down to having trust and communication,” she told the audience. “You don’t need to have all the answers, but you do need to have a feel for the people around you.”

Her coaching philosophy is grounded in authenticity, adaptability and consistency—lessons she emphasized as applicable far beyond the court. “Everyone on the team is just as important as the next person. That applies in business, too,” she noted. “Build relationships. Earn trust. Communicate openly.”

Cunningham also spoke to the realities of work-life integration. As a mother and coach, she’s intentional about involving her family in the program. Her players have embraced this dynamic. “It’s important for them to see women in leadership roles who are also moms,” she said. “Hopefully I’m showing my own kids—and my players—that you really can do both.”

For attendees looking to grow as leaders, Cunningham advised them to trust their instincts and stop overthinking. “Just go for it,” she said. “Don’t waste time second-guessing yourself. Make decisions based on your core values and surround yourself with great people.”

As for what’s ahead, Cunningham’s goals for 2025 include building on MSU’s legacy of success—both on and off the court. With MSU transitioning into a new conference and continuing to attract top talent, she remains focused on developing players as both athletes and leaders.

The event left attendees inspired to take action in their own careers and reminded them that leadership begins with knowing who you are—and having the courage to live it out fully.

The Network’s Local Leadership Series continues to provide valuable opportunities for Springfield’s young professionals to connect with established leaders, gain insight, and grow their careers. Stay tuned for future events that foster leadership development and strengthen our community.

Thank you to our 2025 Presenting Program Sponsor, OMB Bank, and our 2025 Local Leadership Series Presenting Sponsor: