Stephanie Loman, of the Southeastern Louisiana University chapter, combines dedication, curiosity, and compassion in her academic and professional journey Always enchanted by the arts, Loman’s high school art teacher encouraged her to pursue her passions and submit works in local competitions.

Loman completed her undergraduate studies at SELU, earning a bachelor’s degree in cultural resources management with a triple minor in art, history, and business. She spent the next 30 years working in the arts and cultural field, holding positions with organizations including Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans, National World War II Museum, and French Quarter Festivals, Inc. During this time, she also earned a master’s degree in arts administration from the University of New Orleans in 2001, married the love of her life, and traveled extensively.

In 2024, after much reflection, Loman returned to SELU to pursue a master’s degree in counseling, officially beginning the program in Jan. 2025. She describes her earlier education and career as preparing her for a winding and adventurous path in the arts and cultural scene of New Orleans, from selling paintings at a European gallery on Bourbon Street to producing large-scale music festivals in the French Quarter. These experiences shaped her commitment, perseverance, and relationship-building skills, which continue to guide her academic journey.

Returning to the classroom as a non-traditional student has been exciting and rewarding For Loman. She finds the classroom environment engaging and empowering, enjoying the opportunity to learn alongside younger classmates while expanding her knowledge. At the same time, she balances her academic goals with important priorities like caring for her family and making time for herself.

“I am so greatly honored to have been invited to join Phi Kappa Phi,” Loman says. “Receiving an invitation to join the oldest, most prestigious honor society in the country means so much to me, and I feel incredibly proud of this honor.”

Loman hopes her story inspires other non-traditional students to embrace new paths. She shares a quote by author Jason Pargin, saying, “The one thing I wish every kid knew is that you absolutely are going to have to totally start over in life, probably a couple of times. Your career, your marriage, your social circle, your sense of identity, at least one of them is going to be like a sandcastle hit by a wave.” Her journey demonstrates that it is possible to pursue new goals and opportunities at any stage of life.

Once Loman graduates in 2027, she plans to work as a Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor under supervision, with the eventual goal of opening a private practice in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana. She hopes to incorporate her passions for expressive arts, mindfulness, and somatic therapy into her counseling work.

Loman’s journey underscores the value of lifelong learning, showing that it is never too late to pursue a new degree, career path, or academic interest.

To learn more about Loman and connect, visit her profile within our online member community here.

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