Patch Candidate Profile: Stacey Hepburn-James For Trumbull Board Of Education

TRUMBULL, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.

Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.

Candidate's Name:

Stacey Hepburn-James

What office are you seeking?

Board of Education

What town do you live in?

Trumbull, CT

Party Affiliation:

Democrat

Occupation:

Senior Director, College & Universities; 20+ years in my field

Family:

Husband and two boys, 9 and 15

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

No.

Why are you seeking this office?

I am running for office to play a role in establishing a school system that’s safe, inclusive and supportive of the whole child, academically, socially and emotionally. I believe that schools should be strong and student-focused, with equity in education where a child should feel inspired, confident and proud of their work.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:

Trumbull families deserve a Board that listens and leads with transparency. I understand the real pressures around budgets, aging infrastructures and transportation — and I’ll work to ensure every dollar is used wisely and every decision reflects responsible stewardship of taxpayer funds.

I’m committed to responsive communication — hosting regular listening sessions to hear directly from parents, educators, and residents — and bringing those voices back to the boardroom to shape thoughtful, long-term planning for our schools.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I bring a combination of strategic, financial, and community leadership that is unique among candidates. With more than twenty years managing budgets, operations, and people, I understand how to balance fiscal discipline with educational strategy.

I’m deeply committed to responsiveness, fiscal stewardship, equity in education, and transparency — making sure families feel heard, and every dollar spent connects directly to improving our students’ wellbeing and experience. I approach this role not as a politician, but as a collaborator and problem-solver for our town.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Great schools rely on strong partnerships between parents, teachers, and town leadership.
Trust starts with clarity. I’ll make sure the community understands not just what we decide, but why.

From budget priorities to planning, I’m committed to explaining decisions clearly, sharing the reasoning behind them, and inviting open dialogue.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Throughout my career, I’ve managed large, complex operations where every decision impacts people, budgets, and long-term outcomes — just like the work of a Board of Education.

I’ve led major initiatives to improve efficiency, control costs, and enhance the student experience — all while ensuring financial transparency and accountability.

I’ve successfully guided multi-year budget planning, labor efficiencies, and sustainability projects — balancing fiscal realities with the needs of students, staff, and the broader community. I’m proud that these efforts have reduced waste, increased efficiency, and built stronger partnerships between operations teams and campus leadership.

Beyond my professional work, I’ve been deeply engaged in leadership development and education — mentoring young professionals, supporting diversity and inclusion initiatives, and serving on national boards focused on hospitality and higher education excellence.

These experiences have taught me how to listen carefully, make data-driven decisions, and lead with both empathy and accountability — exactly what’s required to serve effectively on the Trumbull Board of Education.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

The best advice I’ve ever received was to “listen first, then lead.”

It reminds me that clarity and trust begin with listening — really listening — before making decisions.

I’ve learned that when people feel heard, they’re more open to understanding the “why” behind a decision.