Judy Stephenson, MS. PPS — Program Counselor & Instructor

After graduating from Loyola Marymount University with a bachelor's degree in history, Judy built a successful 20-year career in the banking industry. Throughout this time, her commitment to community service led her to volunteer with various organizations, eventually bringing her to the William S. Hart School District. What began as volunteer work at the district evolved into a fulfilling 15-year career across various positions, where she discovered her true passion: helping young people develop their careers.

Pursuing this newfound calling, Judy returned to academia and earned her Master's Degree in Educational Psychology along with her PPS credential from the University of La Verne in 2015. During her studies, she formed a lasting professional alliance with Kirsten Fitzpatrick, who would later become Deputy Director of Yes I Can Unity Through Music & Education, Inc. As one of Yes I Can's first employees, Judy plays a vital role in the organization's mission to help young people with disabilities secure employment in the entertainment industry. She is deeply passionate about guiding students toward careers that fulfill both their professional aspirations and financial needs.

Outside of her professional life, Judy is the proud mother of her daughter Samantha, who currently lives and works in Florida. She finds joy in reading, photography, and spending quiet time in the mountains.