10 Within 10 Recognition

2025 10 Within 10: Stephanie Ralls Steele

2016, College of the Arts and Media
Bachelor of Applied Arts, Integrative Public Relations

Stephanie is a strategist, consultant and changemaker who lives and leads with heart. She runs her own consulting firm while also serving as associate director of DEI client services and program strategy at Fred Hutch Cancer Center in Seattle.

A proud first-generation college graduate, Stephanie’s path since CMU has included earning a master’s degree, working across four states, and building a life full of what she calls “pinch me” moments. Her time at Central was shaped by service and justice, including memorable and meaningful time planning Alternative Breaks leadership retreats and trainings.

She credits mentors like Erica Johnson and the Voisin family for supporting her growth, and believes that success is about alignment, not approval. “Being a CMU Chippewa means living with intention and purpose,” she says. “And building a world where all beings can thrive.”

In addition to her undergraduate degree in public relations, public affairs and leadership from CMU, Stephanie holds a Master of Social Work in social policy and evaluation as well as a certificate in management of human services from the University of Michigan, and a DEI certificate from Cornell University. 

We asked our 10 Within 10 honorees to reflect on their time at Central, share some wisdom with current students, and talk about what it means to them to be a CMU Chippewa.

What has been your coolest moment since graduation? Graduating as a first-generation student was a lifelong dream but since CMU, I’ve created a life full of “pinch me” moments. I earned my master’s degree, traveled, married the love of my life, Chase, and together we’ve followed our dreams living in four states, most recently moving to the Pacific Northwest. Each milestone reminds me what’s possible when you give yourself permission to dream beyond what you’ve known and embrace the future with heart and courage.

What is your fondest memory of CMU? I spent many late nights closing down the UC while serving on the Alternative Breaks Board, planning Site Leader Retreats and justice-based service experiences with people who believed in community and laughter. Those nights and leading an international AB to Peru focused on education and Indigenous knowledge were transformative in growing my leadership. Lastly, secret ice cream runs with the Leadership Camp team on warm summer nights between sessions — pure joy!

Do you have any advice for students coming to CMU? Life at CMU is rich with opportunity and there’s a place here where you belong. As an incoming student, I hoped to build a meaningful life in and beyond the classroom. I found success by getting involved in spaces aligned with my values and passions. Challenge yourself, be open to change, seek purpose and try something new. Transformation happens when you get involved and, I promise, a supportive community is here, ready to welcome you.

What advice would you give to new graduates? When I graduated, I wanted my path clearly laid out, but I’ve learned success isn’t a checklist, it's living in alignment with your values. Embrace the unknown and trust yourself. Allow your values to guide choices in work, relationships, hobbies, etc. Life is a continuous learning journey, and clarity comes from honoring what matters most. Follow what brings you joy, and you’ll discover purpose, supportive people and opportunities. You decide what success means to you.

What has your work life taught you? My work life has taught me that while work can bring community, impact and accomplishment, it’s only one part of a full life. Organizational priorities shift with politics and the economy, so knowing what matters to you and maintaining balance is key. I’m learning to build an identity beyond work by investing in my passions, values and local community. Also, people are just people, regardless of title, learning this helps me overcome imposter syndrome when it arises. 

Why should CMU Chippewas dedicate their time and give back to the university? CMU Chippewas should give back because our diverse lived experiences, resources and knowledge strengthen the community through stewardship. By dedicating time, alumni support the next generation of leaders receiving a robust education that impacts society. Giving back helps CMU remain a steady institutional source of learning, growth and positive change. Together, we ensure CMU continues to be a leader in equity, opportunity and lasting impact.

What has being involved with CMU after graduation meant to you? It feels like a warm hug from a place that shaped me. It’s a reminder of the people, programs and experiences that helped me grow. Staying connected allows me to live out my values of service, justice and gratitude while helping ensure CMU remains an inclusive, accessible and purpose-driven institution. It’s a way to give back and support the university’s continued impact for future students and the broader Michigan community.

What connections have you made through CMU? CMU gave me lifelong friends, mentors and a network that continues to shape me. I met some of my best friends here — people who remind me of who I am and who push me to keep growing. These relationships have encouraged me post-graduation, opened doors to new opportunities and given me ways to give back. The community I found at CMU is one of the most valuable gifts of my college experience and continues to grow.

What people or experiences at CMU helped you succeed? CMU is full of inspiring people committed to meaningful change. Leading in the Volunteer Center, Leadership Camp, Leadership Safari, Greek Life along with LI programs, built my confidence and skills. Faculty and staff like the Voisin family, Erica Johnson and Dr. Will Anderson supported my growth in unforgettable ways. Every person I learned, grew, led and changed with shaped my success and character. I carry their impact with me always: I am because we are.

What does being a CMU Chippewa mean to you? Being a CMU Chippewa means living with intention, purpose and a commitment to justice and community. It’s being part of a diverse, interconnected network striving to create a world where all beings can thrive. I hold deep respect for the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and carry that name with respect and humility. I honor the original people, land and wisdom that continue to shape CMU’s legacy, our name and our future impact.