As the owner of Growing Roots Partners, Christy Campli has dedicated her career to creating spaces where local farmers, small businesses, and food lovers come together.
Born and raised in Chester County, Campli grew up in West Chester, where her parents still reside. After earning a double major in Business Administration and Hospitality & Tourism Management from the College of Charleston, Campli returned home and took over Growing Roots Partners in 2021. The company, founded by Lisa O’Neill, was already well-known for its farmers markets and community events, but under Campli’s leadership, it has expanded into a powerhouse of local food advocacy and economic impact.
Campli’s first job at 14 was running the snack bar at Waterview Swim Club, a stepping stone to her “dream job” as a lifeguard. However, her true passion for local food and farming emerged years later while working at Wyebrook Farm after college. That experience transformed her career path, leading her to hospitality, event planning, and ultimately, the helm of Growing Roots Partners.
“Wyebrook Farm opened my eyes to a completely different way of life,” Campli said. “That passion has shaped my career ever since.”
Today, Growing Roots operates three weekly farmers markets; seven monthly night markets; and five large-scale annual events. Her proudest accomplishment is the Good Food Fest (GFF). Since its inception, she has grown it from a 2,500-person event to 4,500 attendees, generating over $170,000 in local vendor sales in just six hours. The festival has evolved with a VIP experience, live culinary demos, and expanded vendor participation, solidifying its place as a premier local food event in the region.
“GFF embodies everything we stand for at Growing Roots — supporting small businesses, celebrating local food, and fostering real community connections,” she said.
While Campli’s professional journey is rooted in Chester County, her aspirations are global. “One thing on my bucket list is to live in Italy at some point in my life,” she stated.
Until then, you’ll find her supporting local food businesses like Station Taproom/Bottle Room in Downingtown (where her go-to order is a Smashburger made with Wyebrook Farm beef) or Good Girls Bakery in Eagleview, famous for their legendary sourdough English muffins.
Campli and the rest of the 2025 Class of VISTA NextGen Superstars will be honored at the Awards Reception & Celebration on Thursday, May 8 at the Penn State Great Valley Conference Center.
Sponsors are still being sought for the VNS Awards Reception & Celebration. A sponsorship offers unparalleled networking opportunities, enhances your organization’s visibility, and aligns you with a celebration of excellence and innovation. Learn more about the various opportunities available to partner with VISTA Today as it honors Chester County’s next generation of leaders, or contact Steve Knickerbocker at [email protected] or 484-437-2826.
