Stephanie L. Pratt
Stephanie Manning Pratt is a Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, where she has dedicated over a decade to serving individuals who are deaf, blind, or have other disabilities. Based in Clanton, Alabama, she specializes in helping clients achieve independence, develop workplace skills, and access the resources they need to thrive.
Her journey into the field began early—at just eight years old—when she was inspired by Helen Keller’s autobiography. That childhood spark led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Deaf Education from the University of Montevallo and later a master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling from Auburn University. Over the years, her professional path has included teaching students who are deaf or hard of hearing, working as a case manager at the Janice Capilouto Center for the Deaf, and ultimately stepping into her long-term role as a counselor with ADRS.
Fluent in American Sign Language and skilled in creating individualized education and rehabilitation plans, Pratt has worked with clients across Alabama to provide not only education but also empowerment. She has been actively involved with programs like College Quest, which helps students with vision loss prepare for higher education and independent living. She also embraces new assistive technologies, such as AI-based tools like SeeingAI, to help clients gain greater confidence and autonomy in their daily lives.
Passionate about her work, Stephanie describes the most rewarding part of her career as witnessing clients achieve breakthroughs—whether mastering a new skill, pursuing higher education, or securing meaningful employment. With more than 20 years of combined experience in education and rehabilitation counseling, she continues to dedicate her career to fostering inclusion, accessibility, and opportunity for individuals with disabilities.
• University of Tennessee, Knoxville - Basic Interpreting Program
• University of Montevallo - Bachelors
• Auburn University - MS
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
One piece of advice I share with young women entering this industry is to stay out of the teacher’s lounge. It’s easy to get caught up in negativity or discouragement, but it’s better to stay focused on your students and your goals. I also encourage them to observe and learn from others—there’s so much wisdom in watching how experienced professionals work through challenges.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
When it comes to challenges in this industry, I find myself both concerned and optimistic about the rise of artificial intelligence in assistive technology for people with vision loss. On one hand, there are questions about accuracy, privacy, and accessibility; on the other, I see the incredible potential for AI tools to provide independence and open doors that were once closed.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Personally and professionally, I value balance and fulfillment beyond my career. In the spring, I love spending time in the garden, and I also enjoy cooking for family and friends. Giving back is also important to me, so I volunteer and give financially to Surrendering the Secret, a Bible study program dedicated to helping women who have experienced abortion find healing and hope.