Kirsten Stephens, MPA

I attribute my success to a combination of experience, resilience, and strong support. As an executive assistant, I bring over seven years of experience in administration, project management, and event planning across diverse sectors and industries. From a young age, I developed a strong self-belief, which was further strengthened by a pivotal moment in 2019, when I was involved in a serious car accident, in which my vehicle flipped three to four times on the expressway and I walked away alive. That experience deeply reinforced my sense of purpose, strengthened my faith, and gave me a renewed sense of urgency about life. I have also been blessed with meaningful mentorship from my parents, supervisors, family members, and other leaders in my life, along with a strong foundation of faith and a deep drive to support and resource others.

The best career advice I’ve ever received was to stay true to my values and never compromise my integrity for an opportunity. I was reminded that success isn’t just about titles or recognition, but about the impact you make and the character you maintain along the way. I’ve also learned not to settle, to stay humble, and to listen more than I speak so I can truly understand others’ perspectives. It’s okay to ask for help, to learn from mistakes, and to take accountability. I’ve been encouraged not to burn bridges, to keep building meaningful connections, and to continue investing in both my professional and personal growth. Most importantly, I’ve learned to know my worth and move with confidence and integrity.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to be passionate, patient, and professional in everything you do. Challenges will come, but maintaining a positive attitude and confidence in your abilities will set you apart. Commit to continuous growth by always seeking opportunities to learn, stretch yourself, and invest in your development, both professionally and personally. Surround yourself with mentors who inspire and guide you, and never hesitate to ask for help along the way. Most importantly, believe in your value, stay focused on your purpose, and allow your integrity and work ethic to speak for you.

One of the biggest challenges in my field is managing multiple responsibilities while maintaining balance and avoiding burnout. It takes strong prioritization, clear boundaries, and a disciplined commitment to self-care. At the same time, there are incredible growth opportunities. There is significant room to develop as a leader through networking, shadowing experienced professionals, and mentoring others. There is also the opportunity to create programs and initiatives that align your professional skills with your personal passions, allowing you to do work that is not only impactful, but truly meaningful.

The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life include professionalism, maintaining a positive attitude, and a genuine commitment to serving others. I believe in leading with integrity and purpose in everything I do. I also prioritize independence, financial literacy, strong character, faith, and a family-centered approach to life. These principles guide my decisions and shape the way I engage with others each day.