In 1873, Drury College welcomed its first students — two sisters, Anna and Emma Grigg. Two years later, they led the first graduating class, a cohort composed entirely of women. In his commencement address, Drury’s first president, Nathan J. Morrison, proclaimed that women would “lead the van in the long procession of cultivated students who will in the revolving years go forth from Drury College.” His words were not just a reflection of that moment in time but a prophecy of the university’s enduring commitment to fostering women leaders.
Over 150 years later, that legacy thrives in the remarkable careers of Drury alumnae like Carrie DeLaquil Richardson ’03 MNCL ’20, Cora Durbin Scott ’90, and Beth Pile ’80 — women who have not only shaped their professional fields but have profoundly impacted their communities. Their stories serve as a testament to the power of mentorship, resilience, and the belief that leadership is about lifting others while forging one’s own path.
Throughout her career up until starting at Leadership Springfield, Carrie has often been the youngest person in the room, navigating male-dominated spaces while balancing her role as a mother. The challenge of excelling professionally while managing family responsibilities has been a journey of self-discovery. She has learned to lean into her strengths, embrace her identity, and push back against stereotypes.
“Women don’t need to wait to be invited to lead — we are ready,” she says. “The most effective leaders are the ones who lead from a place of clarity and confidence in who they are.”
For Carrie, Leadership Springfield is more than just an organization — it’s a catalyst for long-term community transformation. She believes in the power of today’s work to shape a better tomorrow. Whether encouraging individuals to run for office, serve on boards, or lead companies, she knows that every connection forged through Leadership Springfield has the potential to create ripples of positive change.
Her mantra — “Know yourself and chart your path forward to be the best version of you” — echoes the very ethos of the university’s mission.
Cora’s foundation in leadership was laid at Drury, where she learned the importance of viewing issues from multiple perspectives. A liberal arts education steeped in critical thinking prepared her for a career in journalism before she transitioned into public relations and, ultimately, local government. She credits Drury with instilling in her a sense of public commitment — an understanding that decisions made at the individual level reverberate throughout a community.
“Drury gave me the lens to see how interconnected our actions are,” Cora says. “Leadership means thinking beyond yourself — and acting in service to the greater good.”
Throughout her career, Cora has often found herself as the only woman in the room. Rather than letting this be a limitation, she has used her position to amplify the voices of other women and underrepresented individuals. She has mentored countless interns, believing that leadership is not about authority but about helping others find their own strengths. Her leadership philosophy centers on adapting to individuals’ needs and ensuring that diverse voices are heard.
Cora’s impact extends beyond City Hall. She played a pivotal role in launching public initiatives such as the Route 66 Festival Centennial Commission and the Zone 1 Blitz, a project aimed at addressing poverty in Springfield. Her latest endeavor, the SGF Ambassadors program, is designed to deepen community engagement and foster a greater sense of ownership among Springfield’s residents. Recognized for her contributions, she was honored with the Missouri Women of Achievement Award in 2023.
“Community engagement isn’t just a job for me — it’s a calling. When we bring people to the table, we find better solutions and a stronger sense of unity.”
“I realized early on that if I wanted to be heard, I had to speak with clarity and purpose,” Beth says. “Respect isn’t given — it’s earned by showing up, doing the work, and lifting others as you rise.”
Whether advising young professionals on workplace dynamics or ensuring that immigrants find stable housing through her volunteer work with New Start Ministry, she leads with kindness and wisdom.
Beth’s legacy is one of connection — of seeing people for who they are and helping them realize their full potential. Her advice is simple yet profound: “Be willing to take a risk — even if it means moving to a new city. It’s a great opportunity to grow, expand your knowledge, and learn more about people.”
photos courtesy Beth Pile
From Drury’s first graduates to the trailblazing leaders of today, the university has long been a launchpad for women who shape their communities. Carrie Richardson, Cora Scott, and Beth Pile exemplify the spirit of leadership that Drury fosters — leadership that is deeply personal, unapologetically authentic, and rooted in service to others.
As these women continue to lead, mentor, and inspire, they reinforce a powerful truth: leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room, but about lifting others so that everyone has a seat at the table. Drury University’s legacy of empowering women continues to shape communities, one leader at a time.
PUBLISHER
Drury University
Dr. Jeff Frederick, President
MANAGING EDITOR
Janet Rock
DIGITAL EDITOR
Max Prater
WRITER / EDITOR
Rex Ybañez
DESIGNER
Janet Rock
PANTHER TRACKS EDITOR
Charles Taylor
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Cris Belvin
Drury Magazine, a publication for alumni and friends of Drury University, is published twice each year. The mission of Drury Magazine is to engage readers in the life of the university, reflect the university’s values and capture the intellectual curiosity and distinct community that is Drury.
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