Behind the Scenes:
Crystal Costello

Q:As our first Vice President of Talent and Culture, you are charged with finding and retaining talent. What are your biggest opportunities in this role?

In today’s evolving job market, where changes in job tenure and phenomena like the Great Resignation are reshaping how we think about work, my focus is on setting up our organization for success. This involves more than just offering competitive benefits and compensation; it’s about creating an infrastructure where people can thrive for decades. I aim to enhance our onboarding processes and work environment so we can attract and keep the best talent in Missouri. 

Q:It’s estimated that workers spend a third of their lives at work. What do you think is the key factor in building a great work culture? 

Creating a great work culture starts with safety – employees need to feel safe enough to bring their true selves to work. This sense of belonging fosters creativity, dialogue, and open discussion. I also believe having a strong sense of purpose and vision is important; it gives employees something meaningful to work toward. Lastly, creating an environment where it’s okay to fail and make mistakes, as long as we’re all committed to learning and growing together.

Q:You’ve worked with many nonprofits, including Lambda Legal and The AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Can you share some insights about your professional journey?

Throughout my career, I've been drawn to organizations that are committed to doing good in the world. Working with nonprofits has brought me immense fulfillment and joy. These roles have allowed me to uplift meaningful causes every time I came to work.

Q:What specifically attracted you to MFH?

As someone who is relatively new to Missouri, I'm excited about the opportunities here to make a difference. Living in the city, I see firsthand the potential – we must support the health and well-being of the communities around us. The chance to be a catalyst for change in organizations that are transforming lives in Missouri was incredibly attractive to me – it was "super shiny," as I like to say.

Q:You’re a native of Wisconsin and a lifelong Midwesterner. What lessons were instilled in you?

The Midwest is characterized by kindness and a strong sense of community, values that have deeply influenced me. There’s a real emphasis on neighborliness here, the opposite of selfishness, and that’s something I carry with me in both my personal and professional life.

Q:What’s your favorite way to unwind?

I’m an avid fan of spin classes and love spending time in nature, whether that’s hiking or embarking on an adventure (currently aiming to visit every National Park!). Reading is another favorite pastime, and I find peace relaxing by the koi pond in the back of my house.