Leadership Spotlight: Quiana Stone

Each month WISA will showcase individuals on the WISA Leadership Team to allow members to get to know the women in executive positions in both a personal and professional capacity. 

This spotlight will focus on Quiana Stone, the Membership Engagement Co-Chair. Quiana works full time as the Associate Director for Selection and Training within the Department of Residence Education at DePaul University.

Who has been the most influential in the development of your career? Why? (this can be a mentor, colleague or someone in your personal life)

The most influential person in the development of my career was my graduate supervisor and postgraduate mentor Danyale A. Ellis. She was a real servant leader that had compassion for people, understood what it meant to be a sister to other women, a scholar, and leader. She demonstrated humility and always concerned herself with making her community better and building a legacy for those to come after her.

When you wake up in the morning, and you're mentally preparing yourself for another day at work, what excites you the most?

The opportunity to make a change and interact with students. We are a part of their experience, and one little act can be all the change they need for a worthwhile experience.

What is your long-term career goal? At what point will you feel like you've "made it," so-to-speak?

I'm not sure if I will ever feel that as I believe we should continue to always grow on our various journeys. As long as I can make a difference through challenging and supporting others, continue to be financially comfortable with the ability to support my family, and laugh often, I guess that is when I feel I will have made it.

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to move into a position similar to yours?

Bloom where you are planted and know your role. Take on tasks that aren't always popular as there is still something to be learned. 

Why did you choose to enter the world of Student Affairs?

I chose Student Affairs because I enjoy being a part of others’ journeys. I enjoy having the opportunity to help develop others as they prepare for what will soon be their world. By doing this work, we become a part of others' history and the work we do, or advice we give becomes someone's foundation. I want that to be right and to matter.

What are your thoughts on work/life balance? Is there such a thing? If so, how do you achieve it?

Only you can know your limits and when you need to say no. Don't feel shame in needing to take time for yourself. When you love what you do, it doesn't feel like work, but be sure to recognize when you need to "tap out."

What experience has made the largest impact on you as a professional?

The experience that has made the largest impact on me has been when I have experienced loss or tragedy in my career. Losing my mentor Danyale was the hardest thing that I have ever experienced. Luckily, I keep her lessons, notes of encouragement and memories with me every day. I think that by continuing this work (working with students and developing young professionals) and defining my identity, I carry on her legacy every day.

If you were to do something other than work in Student Affairs, what would it be?

My educational background is in the area of healthcare and management. I think I would be working in either long-term healthcare or for a nonprofit.

We hope you've enjoyed getting to know more about Quiana Stone! If you have a question for Quiana regarding anything she mentioned above or her role on the WISA Leadership Team, please contact her directly at [email protected].