Stephanie Parker

I attribute my success to my parents. They were very determined, disciplined, and they always had a hardworking persona about themselves. My mom would always remind me to put God first and everything else will fall in place. I am reminded of the words from my dad when I joined the Army. He said, " You can go where you want to go and do everything you put your mind to do, go do it."

It was their words that helped me to see that my destination is in the palm of my hand, putting determination with it and I'm bound to succeed.

I've received quite a bit. So, I'd say the best career advice I've received is to work hard, reach the top and pull those that work for you to be beside you cause you can never make it to the top by yourself. The top is the loneliest place to be, so never look down on anyone, and take care of your employees.

1. Build personal and professional resilience

2. Practice active self-care

3. Normalize Challenges

4. Develop Emotional Intelligence

5. Empathize without taking it home

While my desire to help is driven by compassion, success is often hindered by a complex cycle of "invisible wounds" (trauma/mental illness) that I noticed in the youth I've taught and the veterans Im charged to help. So, my biggest challenges has been accepting the "Nos" from those who does not understand the heart of youth or the determination of the veterans who seeking opportunities.

The values most important to me are God, family, and community. My motto to everybody is to treat others the way you want to be treated. These values guide everything I do, both in my professional and personal life.