Cheers to Stephanie Johnson: A True Community Champion

Photo Credit: Karen Presecan Photography

Stephanie Johnson's life in Stafford County is a testament to the power of giving back, embracing your community, and making a difference in that community. For 22 years, alongside her husband, Stan, and their children Simon and Sydney, she has woven herself into the fabric of the community, leaving her own mark of service and dedication.

Her journey into community service began with volunteer roles at the Aquia Harbour Preschool, where her passion for nurturing young minds ignited. This flame led her to further engage with education through roles in the Anne E. Moncure Elementary PTO and, later, the Stafford County School Board. As a substitute teacher and founding member of the Stafford Education Foundation (SEF), Stephanie tirelessly worked to bridge the gap between available resources and the needs of Stafford's children and educators.

Stephanie has been passionate about the organization for years, and she was recently named the Interim Executive Director. Seeing the difference and "realizing the gap between what was funded for Stafford County Public Schools and what was actually needed" catalyzed the creation of SEF. 

"It is very difficult to change what the federal, state, and county boards of supervisors fund, but we could, as a group of concerned citizens, provide for our teachers and kids the extras that could not be in the budget," she explained. 

"We can’t provide things like teacher, paraprofessionals, cafeteria staff, and other staff members raises, but we can ask the community to support other efforts-- like innovative teaching grants, supplies, future educator scholarships, funds to help those interested in gaining teacher licensure, and special projects like Model UN. And we have done just that. Through the generous support of many folks, businesses, and corporations in our area, we have provided that little extra." Providing extra is Stephanie's mantra and guiding motivation, and her unyielding passion is amazing and inspiring. 

"Every child deserves access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances," Stephanie said. "As a community, it's our responsibility to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive."

Her belief in their inherent potential fuels Stephanie's advocacy for children. "Children are not just the future; they are our present," she affirmed. "Investing in their education and well-being is an investment in the future of our community."

In 2013, Stephanie pivoted her focus from education to health, assuming the role of Director of Operations at Stafford Soccer. Here, she channels her boundless energy into fostering healthy activity and imparting life lessons to the county's youth. Stephanie's advocacy for children is fueled by her belief in their inherent potential and her passion for servant leadership service is rooted in her deep connection to Stafford County. 

"This community has given so much to my family," she said. "It's only natural to give back and ensure that future generations have the same opportunities we've enjoyed."

Beyond her commitment to the county's children, Stephanie has also created an outlet for residents to relax and connect. She was a founder and remains an integral part of Adventure Brewing Company, Stafford's first brewery. 

“That was, in the truest sense, a DIY project,” Stephanie explained. “The boys (as I will always call them) spent every night after their 9-5s creating their business plan, working with the county on changing ordinances– at this time, there were no breweries in Stafford– finding a location, learning about payroll, and accounting, and everything that goes into starting a business.” After the location was decided, the “real” work began, Stephanie recalled. With the exception of a plumber and an electrician, “the boys” did it all. 
“It was so much work that the wives and significant others called ourselves the ‘brewery widows,’” she said. 

Stephanie and Stan have played pivotal roles in its establishment and growth. 

“Fast forward to ten years later, Stan and I are the Finance Team, and I book the bands and coordinate events, find new and fun things to do for our customers, like the recent Lake Authors showcase where three local authors did readings from their books and talked about their inspiration,” Stephanie said.  “It’s lots of work, LOTS of fun and a great pleasure to meet new folks in our community.” Their journey from conceptualization to fruition exemplifies their determination and collaborative spirit.

"I am so proud of what we've accomplished with Adventure Brewing Company," Stephanie beams. "It's not just a business; it's a hub for community connection and camaraderie."

Somehow, Stephanie manages to wear another hat, as well, as she reignites her passion for the arts whenever possible, and recently returned to the stage after a 19-year hiatus. Her involvement in theater and voice-over work, through her business StephJoVO, fulfills her creative aspirations and contributes to the region's cultural vibrancy.

"Being on stage is like coming home," Stephanie said. "Theater has always been my sanctuary, a place where I can express myself fully and connect with others on a deeper level." Stephanie's journey into voice-over work was a serendipitous discovery, as she’s always loved audio books. 

"Voice-over opened up a whole new world of creative possibilities for me," she explained. "It allows me to lend my voice to meaningful projects and make a difference in the lives of others." Stephanie's involvement in the arts also led her to a meaningful role as a resident describer at Ford's Theatre in DC and audio description team at the Kennedy Center. 

"Being part of the audio description team allows me to make theater more accessible to individuals with visual impairments," she shared. "It's incredibly rewarding to know that I'm helping to break down barriers and create inclusive spaces." Stephanie's dedication to the arts extends to her advocacy for arts education in schools. 

"Arts education is not a luxury; it's a necessity," she emphasized. "Through the arts, children learn to think critically, communicate effectively, and embrace diversity."

With as much time as she spends in her various roles being a champion for children in Stafford County and fostering inclusivity in D.C., Stephanie doesn't often enjoy a vacation in the traditional sense. Lucky for her, she believes her dream house in Aquia Harbor that “just spoke” to her all of those years ago is also her ideal vacation home. 

"This sounds a little trite, but our home has become our vacation spot," she explained. "We live on Aquia Creek, have a nice big yard and great neighbors, and I'm fortunate to live next door to my bestie! When we do get the time to leave, we go to the beach with friends." She can also be found taking advantage of the camping and hiking at Prince William Forest or taking in a show in Stafford or Fredericksburg. 

In addition to her bustling household, Stephanie shares her space with furry companions—a chihuahua named Foxy, her mother's beloved pet, and two feline friends, Todd and Loucious. Stephanie is also the main caretaker for her 89-year-old mother, Jackie. It's not hard to surmise that knowing Stephanie means loving her, and her love for this community is evident to anyone blessed enough to cross her path. 

Through her relentless dedication to education, health, and cultural enrichment, she embodies the essence of a true community champion, leaving an incredible legacy and lasting impact for future generations. Stephanie also wanted to express her gratitude to her husband, Stan, Russ and Jacinda Patishnock (their Adventure Brewing Co-Owners), her SEF board, and the entire voice over community who “help get it done!”

“No one lives in a vacuum– I know so many people that serve this community and have been friends, mentors, volunteers, and idea backboards,”  Stephanie said. “Working together with like minded people who have a dedication to community is how we make Stafford a great place to live.”