Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Schrage.
Hi Stephanie, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
In the midst of profound grief stemming from the abrupt loss of my father, a pivotal juncture compelled me to reflect upon the past decade of my life. Despite my unwavering dedication and diligent efforts within a field I hold dear, I found myself facing a career plateau. Balancing multiple roles, I recognized the imperative need for assistance in advancing my trajectory. The turning point manifested when I chose to return to academia and complete my college education—an endeavor I had initiated years prior. Commencing this transformative journey in 2008, I volunteered for animal advocacy and community development organizations, where I discerned untapped potential for technological innovation in service delivery. The rapidly advancing landscape of social media and communication germinated an idea: a purpose. My vision was to harness technology to empower non-profits and public organizations in expanding their support and missions through pioneering storytelling efforts through PR, messaging, and community engagement.
Although my initial academic pursuit centered on marketing at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), my passion for the public and non-profit sectors prompted a paradigm shift toward Interdisciplinary Studies, and the integration of philosophy with marketing. This strategic shift was fueled by a foresight into the imminent need for elevated promotion and marketing strategies within these sectors. Upon graduation, my role as Chair on the Board of Directors for Alton Main Street and as Marketing Coordinator for conservation programs at OpenSpace STL solidified my commitment to the cause. Acknowledging the escalating requirements of non-profits, I embarked on a master’s in public administration and policy analysis at SIUE. A significant juncture emerged in 2022 when I assumed the role of Marketing Manager at Challenge Unlimited (CU).
With a rich 60-year legacy of creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities, CU’s mission resonated deeply with me, as it originated in my hometown of Alton, Illinois. Returning to my roots, I embraced the opportunity to contribute to a remarkable cause. Over my 15-month tenure at CU, I have found profound fulfillment in narrating inspiring stories of individuals with disabilities and raising awareness for a cause dear to my heart. Collaborating with exceptional colleagues, who have become cherished friends, has amplified my love for my vocation. Beyond my professional pursuits, I continue to serve as the Marketing Committee Chair on the Board of Directors for OpenSpace STL and chair the Alton Main Street Board. Along this journey, I have encountered numerous unique and inspirational women, each leaving an indelible mark on my heart. Reflecting on the path traversed, I recognize the blessings inherent in spending my time engaged in pursuits I am genuinely passionate about. In moments of respite from work, you are likely to find me outdoors, accompanied by my fur companions, or embarking on journeys to explore new places and meet new people.
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Undoubtedly, the journey has not been a seamless one. Balancing a full-time job with the rigors of full-time schooling presented formidable challenges. Many nights were marked by falling asleep on my laptop, missing deadlines, or having to withdraw from a class. The timeline for achieving certain milestones extended beyond my initial aspirations. However, I am steadfast in my conviction that I would not alter a single aspect. Each obstacle presented an invaluable lesson, affirming the enduring truth that every challenge serves as an opportunity for personal growth.
I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My professional ardor is dedicated to aiding non-profit organizations in enhancing their public relations and brand awareness. What distinguishes my approach is an unwavering commitment to authentic and transparent marketing. I place profound belief in the potency of narratives that genuinely matter and have consistently strived to be as authentic as possible. My commitment to adapting narratives while staying true to the mission, even when it demands additional time and effort, is the foundation of my work. The vibrant tapestry of St. Louis, where numerous outstanding non-profits flourish, serves as my wellspring of inspiration. Being part of the largest small town in America affords a unique opportunity for collaboration. Through concerted efforts, these organizations can collectively contribute to the community’s well-being. By fostering collaboration among non-profits, engaging with the government, and partnering with the public sector, we have the potential to bridge service gaps and initiate a positive ripple effect for the entire community.
How do you define success?
To me the conceptualization of success parallels the intricate exploration of philosophical landscapes. Success, in its essence, defies a singular definition; but I believe it manifests as a multifaceted gem refracting light in myriad ways. For me, the pursuit of success transcends conventional metrics and external validations. Informed by my philosophical background, I assert that success is rooted in the discovery of intrinsic motivation—the elusive “why” that propels us forward. This conviction materialized tangibly in my undergraduate thesis, a venture kindled by Simon Sinek’s enlightening work, “Start with Why,” in 2015. The crux of my perspective rests on the belief that genuine success is intertwined with engaging in what one loves every day, even amidst life’s inevitable challenges. It entails embracing a purpose that transcends the daily ebb and flow of emotions. While each day may not unfold seamlessly, anchoring oneself in the understanding of one’s “why” engenders a profound sense of success. This outlook does not promise a utopian existence; rather, it serves as a compass guiding through life’s complexities. Regardless of the twists and turns encountered, success is found in the unwavering connection to the core motivation propelling us forward. This mindful alignment with our “why” transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, rendering each step on our path a testament to a truly successful journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cuinc.org
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-schrage-she-her/
