One word sums up Tuesday’s site visit: COMMUNITY.

Merriam-Webster defines community as “a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.”

We saw that definition come alive—not in a textbook, but in the streets of downtown O’Fallon.

Thanks to the leadership of Debbie Arrel-Martinez and the O’Fallon-Shiloh Area Chamber of Commerce, several downtown business owners opened their doors for a walking tour that left a lasting mark on our class.

We didn’t just hear stories—we felt the passion:

• Jon Greenstreet from Bike Surgeon showed us what it means to build a lifestyle brand centered around community, energy, health, and adventure.

• Crissy Nordin from The Upright inspired us with the power of music to bring people together.

• At Furchild, Julie Hughes walked us through what happens when love for animals becomes a thriving business.

•Maureen Moore from Saddelback Chocolates taught us how global challenges like weather in South Africa affects the cacoa plant and causes a ripple into the daily grind of a small business right here in O’Fallon.

•Patrick Thirion and Drew Krausz of Peel Wood Fired Pizza reminded us how consistency and quality can turn a simple meal into an experience.

•Three Sisters owner April Barnes inspired us with the joy of supporting customers and community, and the Importnace of keeping overhead costs manageable.

•Jennifer Adank of Courage & Grace showed us how imagination and artistry can spark a business that spreads joy.

We wrapped it all up when Mel Moreland from First Street Bar & Grill, opened the restaurant for all of us to gather together. The panel of business owners answered our questions, we shared donuts, and even received special gift bags—because nothing says community quite like ending the day side by side!

Along the way, most shared how the challenges of COVID forced them to pivot and adapt. Hearing those stories of resilience and reinvention gave our students an even deeper understanding of what it takes to sustain a dream when times get tough.

Each stop was a spark of inspiration. Students walked away with eyes wide open—seeing that a business is more than a storefront. It’s a dream, a risk, a passion, and a commitment to others.

And just like these entrepreneurs work together to strengthen downtown O’Fallon, our CEO class realized that 20 students from 4 different schools must also come together, lean on each other, and collaborate to succeed.

Today wasn’t just a site visit. It was a reminder that community is both the foundation and the future. We are so grateful for the lessons, the conversations, the laughter, and the inspiration.