Emily Edger
Master of Education in Counseling

Emily balances her pursuit of her master’s degree with working full time in the Jefferson City Public Schools as a 7th grade language arts and reading teacher. She credits her Stephens professors for helping her challenge herself in many different ways, and is thankful for two amazing, lifelong friends whom she met while pursuing her counseling degree at Stephens.

When she’s not working or studying, Emily loves traveling (she even became engaged at a castle in Germany!). She also has a twin sister and loves the food network.

Christi Wolverton
Master in Strategic Leadership

A licensed realtor, Christi finds that she applies what she learns in her MSL program to real-life business situations. She says she feels very prepared to take on a leadership role at work and in the community after completing her courses, because she’s been prompted to use and understand the information she’s learned. Christi enjoys Stephens’ small classes (and the “family atmosphere of a smaller campus”) and challenging coursework. And she likes the fact that her professors know her name and that she has the opportunity to learn alongside students of various ages, backgrounds and life experiences.

When she’s not working or studying, Christi enjoys biking on the Katy trail, hosting special events at her house and is a self-proclaimed HGTV addict.

Krista Romanetto
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Administration

As a new mother juggling two jobs, Krista really wanted an on online-based program that fit her needs. Stephens’ HIA program was perfect, because it allows her to take courses at her own pace. She calls herself living proof that accomplishing a dream can be done (despite lack of time, money or energy) if you set your mind to it! With smaller class sizes and access to her professors, Stephens made her feel that everyone cared about her success. Krista also knew that because Stephens has a proven track record in preparing graduates to successfully complete the RHIA exam, she would be well on her way to obtaining her RHIA credential.

When she’s not working or studying, Krista coaches youth basketball, and loves to scrapbook and to be outdoors.

Heather Slate
Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction
A kindergarten teacher, Heather really likes being able to work full time and also complete her master’s in 13 months. Her professors made sure to make what students were learning relevant to each individual in class. Because of that, Heather says she’s been able to bring almost everything she’s learned into her classroom and try new things right away.

When she’s not teaching or studying, Heather loves to travel, hike and do photography.

Rachel Johnson
Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction
Rachel chose Stephens because of the Education department's organic and holistic approach to teaching, as well as the close community. She calls the online classes convenient and interactive, and really enjoys deepening her knowledge and meeting new people from all over the country through the program. She’s made lifelong friends in the process, and says she has grown professionally in ways she never imagined.

When she’s not teaching elementary students or studying, Rachel runs on the Katy Trail and is a science fiction fan (her new fav is Battlestar Galactica).

Sarah Perry
Master of Strategic Leadership

Sarah went back to school because she knew that earning an advanced degree has become more important than ever. She specifically likes that the MSL degree allows her to learn both the technical aspect of business as well as leadership and how to make things happen. Stephens’ online schedule allows her to balance her work in city government with her personal and school life. 

When she’s not working or studying, Sarah enjoys traveling, reading and learning – maybe it’s because she was a “military brat” and lived in places like Libya. Sarah says she also likes reptiles, especially snakes!