Leading with Faith: Stephanie Shafer's Journey of Trust and Transformation at NorthStar Academy

Stephanie Shafer’s Unique Path to Leadership

Stephanie Shafer, CEO of NorthStar Academy, embodies a unique blend of business acumen and unwavering faith, navigating the complexities of leading a global online school with a Kingdom mindset. Her journey, marked by a marketing and MBA background, a stint in seminary, and a diverse career path, ultimately led her to NorthStar, where God continues to grow a Christ-centered school community that equips students around the world.

Shafer's career began early, driven by a competitive spirit and a desire to build. From babysitting businesses beginning at age 9, to sales, she consistently sought opportunities for growth and excellence. This drive found its ultimate purpose at NorthStar Academy, an online school serving missionary families and students worldwide. What started as a business administrator role quickly evolved into Chief Operations Officer and now CEO, fueled by a visionary approach to growth and a deep commitment to God's glory.

Growth and Impact at NorthStar Academy

NorthStar Academy, as the NorthStar team has faithfully served families, has experienced significant growth, including a 65% increase during COVID-19. While some students returned to traditional brick-and-mortar schools post-pandemic, NorthStar continues to thrive by offering a unique and rigorous educational experience.

With a staff of 15 and 65 teachers spread globally, NorthStar distinguishes itself by fostering genuine interaction between teachers and students, going beyond mere grading. Teachers at NorthStar view their roles as a ministry, actively discipling and nurturing students with a Kingdom impact in mind.

Leading with Faith and Prayer

Living out her faith intentionally is central to Shafer's leadership. For her, every decision begins with prayer, and she actively cultivates a prayer team to support NorthStar's mission. The school's global reach means daily encounters with challenging situations, from families serving in high-risk areas and students experiencing the effects of global unrest affecting missionary families to civil unrest impacting students.

In these moments, teachers and staff respond with prayer, demonstrating a profound reliance on God's sovereignty. The ultimate goal, Shafer emphasizes, is not just academic excellence but to equip students to know Jesus and live with a Kingdom mindset.

The Power of Unity and Biblical Principles

A key biblical principle guiding Shafer is Psalm 133, which speaks to the blessing of unity among God's people. In a world often characterized by division, Shafer believes that unity within the NorthStar team is a powerful testimony to the world and a catalyst for God's blessings.

She actively seeks unity, believing that a unified team, praying together, is essential for discerning God's blueprint for the school's future.

Faith in Transitions and the Strength to Lead

Shafer openly shares a recent, significant transition at NorthStar, the biggest in its 27-year history, as a testament to the critical role faith plays in leadership. This period was fraught with challenges and required immense faith, as many couldn't see the bigger picture.

In moments of doubt, Shafer found strength and comfort in Jesus, describing His presence as a rod of power, holding her up and guiding her. She learned the importance of confidently hearing and obeying the Holy Spirit, even when His instructions seemed unconventional. This experience taught her to ask God for faith when her own faltered and to surrender daily to His will.

Through this challenging transition, Shafer also learned the profound importance of kindness, a fruit of the Spirit she initially underestimated. While her natural inclination is to be a driven, 'go-getter,' God has been working in her heart, showing her that kindness is a powerful and essential way to lead, fostering trust and receptiveness in others.

Advice for Aspiring Faith-Filled Leaders

For aspiring leaders and those seeking to integrate faith into their work, Shafer offers several key encouragements:

• Immerse yourself in God's Word: Go beyond superficial readings; meditate on scripture and allow it to transform your life.
• Preach the Gospel to yourself daily: Combat the enemy's attempts to tear you down by reminding yourself of God's truth.
• Know your purpose and seek accountability: Surround yourself with prayer partners and mentors who will challenge and support your growth.
• Embrace trials: Run into suffering, for it produces perseverance, intimacy with Christ, and strength, ultimately leading to a powerful testimony.
• Rest in the Lord 24/7: True rest isn't just about napping; it's a constant state of abiding in God, trusting Him for everything, and allowing His peace to guard your heart and mind.

Shafer also emphasizes the importance of listening – to the Holy Spirit, to spouses, children, colleagues, and mentors. She advocates for continuous learning and humility, recognizing that no one 'knows it all.' Drawing on the Japanese concept of Kaizen, she encourages taking small, consistent steps rather than succumbing to the stress of needing to accomplish everything at once. God ordains our days, and success, for Him, often looks different than our own expectations. Prioritizing family and relationships, and being present in the 'now,' are crucial for avoiding burnout.

She also hosts a podcast called "The NorthStar Narrative". She features guest from around the world who share their stories of living out their faith.  For those interested, here is the link:  https://thenorthstarnarrative.northstar-academy.org/

Lasting Impact of Faith-Based Leadership

Stephanie Shafer's leadership at NorthStar Academy is a powerful example of how deep faith, coupled with strategic vision and a commitment to personal growth, can create a transformative environment. Her journey underscores that leading with Jesus at the center brings not only success but also profound joy and peace, even amidst the messiness and challenges of life and leadership.