Quen Agnew lives by a simple but powerful principle: meet people where they are. As the community outreach liaison for the Clayton-based St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, Agnew sees her work as more than coordinating events. It’s about listening, showing up, and building trust across neighborhoods.
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Organization: St. Louis Economic Development Partnership
Title: Community Outreach Liaison
Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia
Education: Master’s degree from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri and undergraduate degree from Tennessee State University, Nashville, Tennessee
Interests/Hobbies: I love exploring local libraries and parks. Libraries give me space to learn, wander and discover new ideas, while parks let me slow down, reconnect with nature and observe the rhythm of the community. Both places recharge me in different ways.
What motivated you to get involved in this work/community/activity? I’m motivated by the belief that communities thrive when people feel seen, heard and supported. Growing up, I saw firsthand how access, opportunity and connection can change a family’s trajectory. That stayed with me. My work in community outreach gives me the chance to bridge gaps, elevate overlooked voices and help neighborhoods experience tangible progress. Its purpose works for me.
What values or principles guide how you show up in this role/community? I show up with integrity, empathy and a deep respect for the people I serve. I believe in listening first, leading with humility and building trust through consistent action. My guiding principle is simple: honor the community’s voice and make sure the work reflects their needs—not just decisions made in a meeting room.
What’s the most enjoyable aspect? The most enjoyable part is seeing people feel supported, connected and proud of their community. Whether it’s a neighborhood event, a conversation with a resident or helping a local business find resources, I appreciate being part of moments that strengthen relationships and bring people together.
Can you briefly share a few standout memories? Some of my most meaningful memories come from simply being present in the community and building trust over time. I think about conversations on front porches, kids stepping in to help during Clean Up, Build Up days and elders sharing stories once they realized I was there to truly listen. I also won’t forget the tornado relief efforts—walking through neighborhoods, checking on families and supporting residents in moments of real vulnerability. Being trusted during both everyday moments and difficult times has shown me the strength and resilience of the people I serve.
Can you share an insight about this role that most people don’t know? Most people don’t realize how much behind-the-scenes listening, relationship-building and coordination it takes. Community outreach isn’t just events. It’s trust, patience and a lot of driving from one neighborhood conversation to the next. The impact begins long before the public ever sees it.
What’s one piece of advice you’ve embraced? “Meet people where they are.” It’s simple but powerful. It reminds me to honor lived experiences, adapt
my approach and stay rooted in empathy.
What’s the greatest challenge? The greatest challenge is that building trust takes time, patience and consistency. Communities want to know you’re not just showing up for a moment—you’re committed for the long haul. Earning that trust means listening more than talking, following through on promises and proving that you’re there to support them, not just check a box. It’s a challenge, but it’s also the most important part of the work.
Where do you find inspiration? I’m inspired by everyday people—parents advocating for better opportunities, local entrepreneurs building from scratch and elders who’ve held neighborhoods together through generations. Their resilience is my fuel.
What are your future plans or ambitions? I plan to move into real estate development and bring my community- centered lens into the field. My goal is to help create developments that reflect the needs, voices and pride of the neighborhoods I serve—spaces that support families, small businesses and long-term growth.
