Stephanne LHommedieu has transitioned from working behind the scenes to becoming the new president of Northern Arizona University’s (NAU) Staff Advisory Council (SAC). Her journey from being a student to managing theater and public events at NAU is a testament to her passion for creating community spaces and experiences.
NAU: A Homecoming
Stephanne first joined NAU in 2001 as a music scholarship student. The allure of Flagstaff’s unique seasons and a desire for independence drew her from Tucson. Although her initial college experience was brief, the time spent working backstage at NAU’s Auditoria left a lasting impression. In 2021, seeking a career change, she discovered a job opening at NAU that seemed tailor-made for her talents and aspirations, leading her to eagerly accept the position.
A Diverse Role in Event Management
Stephanne’s role is varied, with no two days being alike. While non-event days involve remote work, involving emails, project coordination, and meetings, event days are bustling with activity. She manages everything from overseeing large crowds to coordinating livestreams and troubleshooting technology. Her work fosters connections through concerts, lectures, and community events, creating essential gathering spaces that enrich the community.
Engagement with the Staff Advisory Council
Upon joining NAU, Stephanne was immediately drawn to the SAC, reminiscent of a problem-resolution committee she had been part of in a previous role. Her involvement in SAC began with attending public meetings and joining the Events & Community Building Committee, where she initiated projects like the “AV Club” to foster connections among colleagues from various departments.
Vision as SAC President
Transitioning from vice president to president, Stephanne embraces her role as a figurehead for staff. Her primary goal is to increase awareness of SAC’s work and promote staff engagement. She aims to address concerns with a customer service mindset, focusing on understanding root causes and developing solutions with leadership. “I hope we can fully embrace a customer service mindset by listening carefully, identifying the root causes of challenges, discussing them collaboratively through groups such as our Advocacy Committee and working together to develop meaningful solutions to elevate to leadership,” she emphasizes.
A Lifelong Passion for Community and Music
Stephanne’s career path has been influenced by her early exposure to concerts and community events, as well as her participation in music ensembles. While she once considered becoming a band director, her true passion lies in fostering opportunities for community connection through music and events.
Bucket List Aspirations
- Experience being Louie the Lumberjack, NAU’s mascot, even if only for a brief moment.
- See the renovation of Ardrey Auditorium, a venue central to her personal and professional life.
- Create something lasting, whether through music, writing, or art.
The Role of SAC at NAU
The SAC serves as a crucial bridge between staff and leadership at NAU, particularly during times of institutional change. While employees are encouraged to address concerns through established channels, SAC can help elevate issues when necessary. “At our best, SAC serves as a bridge between staff and leadership, helping ensure that staff perspectives are included in the conversations that shape the future of NAU,” Stephanne notes. She encourages staff to share ideas, as often the solutions to challenges lie within the community itself. For more information about the SAC, visit https://in.nau.edu/sac/.
To learn more about NAU Auditoria and upcoming events, or to donate, visit https://in.nau.edu/auditoria/.
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