After several months of working closely with staff, meeting community members and getting to know students, she has begun to settle into her role as Simpson College’s 26th president. As Simpson’s campus continues to evolve, so does the understanding of her leadership style, priorities and presence.
During her first semester, Stuebner respected President Jay Byers’ legacy while also advancing the campus.
“I’ve really tried to balance, you know, honoring President Byer’s legacy and all the great momentum that he got started, and hopefully helping the campus heal somewhat. And at the same time, help us roll up our sleeves and keep moving forward,” she said.
Stuebner came into her position understanding the depth of the situation and the community’s vast emotions. According to her close colleague, Academic Dean and Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs CoryAnne Harrigan, Stuebner has handled the situation with delicacy and sensitivity.
While the transition in leadership presented both surprises and challenges for the community, Stuebner has developed a reputation for transparency, honesty and effective communication. Her previous work experience prepared her for Simpson’s small-campus environment, though she continues to learn the unique demands of the school.
Stuebner is approachable and kind in meetings and other professional interactions.
“I value being a transparent and open communicator,” Stuebner said. “It’s important to me to have authenticity and be straight up in terms of conversation.”
Faculty and students have noticed her approach, allowing feedback and suggestions to flow freely. Harrigan said Stuebner brings leadership and vision without overshadowing the people who have helped mold Simpson over time.
“She knows that she comes into a school that has a lot of history, that the cabinet members have worked with each other for several years now, the faculty are well established, and the staff have been here for a long time,” Harrigan said. “She respects all of that, but she is able to thread the needle by bringing a vision and leadership without making anyone who’s already here feel like they’re not valuable. In fact, she’s done a really good job of making everyone feel very valued.”
Student engagement has been a large part of Stuebner’s first semester. Though she’s been busy, she has tried to attend athletic events, music performances, theater productions and major lectures. She often works the room, making a point of meeting and talking with students.
“I’ve just been running since I’ve gotten here, and I look forward to settling in and getting to more events; just getting over to Kent more and being accessible and getting to know more students,” she said. “You all make my day when I have a chance to see you.”
Stuebner is also open to feedback and new ideas. Harrigan described her as someone who genuinely wants to hear her new thoughts, opinions and concerns. Her relationship with the student government and with faculty meetings began on a positive note.
“I know with the student government last semester, it was wonderful for them to just bring ideas and issues to me, and I hope other students will continue to do the same,” Stuebner said.
As she moves into her second semester, Stuebner is building on her foundation by collaborating with colleagues on enrollment strategies, supporting financial aid accessibility and continuing to strengthen scholarship opportunities through fundraisers. She intends to build Simpson’s environment through various financial challenges small colleges often face, and also hopes to meet more students.
While Stuebner may still be unpacking her skills, her presence is noticeable, engaged and committed to leading with transparency, empathy and respect.
