LSMSA honors Jeni Stephens as 2025 Outstanding School Support Employee

When Jeni and her family first moved to Natchitoches in 2015, her first reaction was, “Naka-what?” after her husband, now LSMSA Lecturer of History Dr. Stephens, read a job listing aloud. Just a year later, she found her own home on campus, quickly becoming known as “Mrs. Jeni” — the friendly face in Enrollment Services who always has time to listen, encourage, and help students find their footing.

“This little campus is a treasure-trove, an embarrassment of riches,” Stephens shared. “I’ve been blessed and changed by the people and the opportunities this school has afforded me.”

Her warmth and willingness to go above and beyond have touched countless lives.

Director of Enrollment Management and Outreach, Emily Shumate, described her as “consistently going above and beyond in all that she does,” adding that “her love of LSMSA and our students always shines through, whether she’s helping a student organize a club event, hand-crafting decorations for graduation, or lending an ear to a homesick new student.”

Students, too, speak with deep affection and gratitude for her care.

Kaylee Gauthreaux (’26) of Sunshine, Louisiana, recalled how Mrs. Jeni helped her through a difficult start at LSMSA: 

"When I first arrived, I was homesick, overwhelmed, and unsure if I even belonged here. But from the very beginning, Ms. Jeni welcomed me with open arms. She listened, comforted me, and connected me with others. She became a second mother to me and I still stop by her office just to talk about life. Because of her kindness and belief in me, I truly credit her with helping shape me into the person I am today.”

Recent graduate Addy Landry (’25) shared similar sentiments: 

“She is truly one of a kind. Every kid that walked into Enrollment Services knew they could find support with her. LSMSA is truly a better place with Mrs. Jeni there.”

In true Natchitoches fashion, she once sewed an army of meat pie plushies as admission swag to celebrate the city’s title as the Meat Pie Capital of Louisiana.

She’s also become the sponsor of the Speech and Debate Club.

To students, colleagues, and parents alike, Jeni Stephens is more than just an employee—she’s a cornerstone of the LSMSA community. Her compassion, creativity, and unwavering support embody the spirit of the school she loves so deeply.