our founder
Stephenie Stevenson is a passionate advocate for education, personal growth, and community empowerment. She is the proud mother of three adult children and was raised by a resilient single mother who instilled in her the value of perseverance and determination. Throughout her life, Stephenie has faced and overcome significant challenges, emerging as a beacon of hope, strength, and inspiration to others.
The youngest of eight children, Stephenie became the first in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree in social science. Defying the odds and societal expectations, she returned to college in her forties to pursue and attain a master’s degree in social work. Her journey is a living testament to the belief that it’s never too late to chase your dreams—and succeed. She is a powerful role model to her children and countless others navigating their own paths.
In her current role as a School Aide Supervisor for the Department of Education, Stephenie is dedicated to shaping and supporting the academic and emotional development of students. But her impact extends far beyond the classroom.
She is the founder of Samory’s Way, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization named in honor of a personal loss, created to provide a safe haven for families and individuals coping with the profound grief of losing a loved one. Samory’s Way is rooted in compassion and healing, offering vital support for those struggling with depression, low self-esteem, abandonment, sexual violence, domestic abuse, and other life-altering challenges.
Stephenie’s lived experiences—both personal and professional—fuel her unwavering dedication to service. Her leadership, resilience, and deep empathy make her a powerful force for change. Her mission is clear: to uplift others, help them heal, and guide them toward a life of purpose and strength.
Stephenie is not only a changemaker—she is living proof that pain can be transformed into purpose. Her journey demonstrates that it’s possible to rise from adversity and move from the shadows of yesterday into the promise of tomorrow. Through her resilience, she shows us that incredible triumph can emerge from life’s greatest challenges, carrying the power to transform not just her own life, but the lives of others.