Stella obtained her Bachelor's degree in accounting from Missouri State University. Ever since Stella was charged with opening the paint store every morning in her hometown, she has loved working in a small business. Eventually, that path led her to work in the accounting department of a wide variety of industries from banking, to contractors, to travel (her personal favorite). In a previous role as the CEO/CFO of a small company, Stella built up the company to be named as one of KC’s top 25 companies with under 25 employees. She has a passion for helping entrepreneurs succeed.

She has a passion to be involved in the community and organizations that help marginalized groups. She is on the board of NAWBO, was on the advisory committee for Habitat for Humanity for 2 years, was an ambassador for Mid America LGBT Chamber of Commerce, and was recently the president of the South KC Chamber of Commerce.

Stella and her husband love to travel and camp in their remodeled 1970 Star-Craft Popup Camper. When she is at home, she has a major green thumb keeping up with her flourishing garden. Her husband is a musician in his spare time, and they enjoy going to Classic Rock concerts in and around the city!