A Life of Purpose
Amy Stenger-Sullivan
Spotlight: Union Alumna Amy Stenger-Sullivan M.A., L.P.C.
Title/Profession: Affiliated Faculty, Union Institute & University, Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice at Restoring Hope Counseling and Coaching, Inc.
Welcome to the “Alumni Spotlight” monthly series. Amy Stenger-Sullivan is living the UI&U mission of engagement, enlightenment, and empowerment through her commitment to help individuals recover and sustain the recovery of persons with mental and substance use disorders. September is also National Recovery Month and offers the opportunity to highlight the passion and purpose of the students, alumni and faculty in the M.A. with a major in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counseling – Graduate Certificate.
Learn why Amy says her job fills her heart in the Q & A below.
Q. What has your degree meant to you personally and professionally?
A. Earning my master’s degree at this stage of my life while working full time in a job, which required travel, was a big feat for me! I feel a great sense of accomplishment. Professionally, I am grateful to be working at a job that fills my heart and contributes to the well-being of others. My advisor and professors at Union supported and encouraged me, which has led to an increase in my confidence. I am forever grateful for that.
Q. What quality do you admire most about your alma mater?
A. I admire the commitment of my professors and Union’s support of the nontraditional learner.
Q. If you could give advice to a Union student, what would it be?
A. Take advantage of everything Union has to offer. Union gathers wonderful people together, both educators and learners, to advance all.
Q. What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment?
A. I am grateful I get to live what I feel is my life’s purpose: to listen to another with deep compassion. This seems to open up a space for them to begin their healing journey in earnest. I’m glad I listened to that little nudge to make a career shift in the half time of my life.
Q. What is your passion away from work?
A. Spending time with my family, kayaking, cooking and reading.