Stephanie Hein

Stephanie Hein was born in Missouri. She earned a high school diploma from Hartville High School, a bachelor's degree from Missouri State University in 1995, a graduate degree from Missouri State University in 2005, and a Ph.D. from the University of Missouri, Columbia in 2010. Hein's career experience includes working in higher education.[1][2]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Stephanie Hein, State Representative for Missouri’s District 136, represents the southeast portion of Springfield. She was elected to her first two-year term in November 2022.

In addition to her service with the legislature, Stephanie is a professor emerita at Missouri State University. Previously, she served as the head of Missouri State University’s Department of Hospitality Leadership.

With a diverse educational background, including a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Restaurant Administration, a Master of Business Administration, and an EdD in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, Stephanie brings extensive knowledge to her legislative work.

Known for her strong work ethic, collaborative mindset and empathetic approach, Stephanie’s passion for service extends beyond politics as she works towards a more equitable and sustainable future for all Missourians.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I’m committed to economic policies that ensure you can earn a good living and retire with dignity after years of hard work. My legislative efforts prioritize investments in infrastructure, childcare, and workforce development, while also addressing inflationary pressures. By increasing household incomes and reducing poverty, we can tackle some of the most pressing challenges in our community.I advocate for policies that foster a safe and healthy community where we care for each other, live free from violence, and respect the personal decisions made between individuals and their healthcare providers.I’m dedicated to strengthening our public education system, ensuring our children are equipped for success and honoring the dedication of our teachers and staff. With a background deeply rooted in education, I understand the critical importance of investing in our future.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

My public policy priorities focus on investing in Missourians by strengthening public education, enhancing infrastructure, upskilling our workforce, and expanding access to healthcare and mental health services.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Throughout my career, I have developed strong problem-solving and collaboration skills that consistently deliver results. My varied professional background has given me the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, enriching my understanding of different perspectives. I have collaborated closely with educators and businesses, gaining insight into the challenges our community faces. I know when to step up and lead, and when to listen and learn. Above all, I am committed to working together with others, including those with differing viewpoints, to achieve the best outcomes for everyone.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Teamsters Locals 6, 245, 6, 600, 688, 838

Sheet Metal Workers (SMART) Local No. 36

LiUNA! Missouri & Kansas Laborers District Council

International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 9

Springfield Building & Construction Trades

Springfield Central Labor Council

Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 178

IBEW Statewide Missouri

​​United Steel Workers Local 11-6 Gasworkers

IAFF 152 Southern Missouri Professional Fire Fighters

MO AFL-CIO

Missouri National Education Association

Missouri State Teachers Association

Better Schools for Missouri

Missouri Association of School Administrators

Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

As a member of the House of Representatives Budget Committee, I am committed to ensuring that every tax dollar is spent wisely and transparently. Financial transparency and government accountability are essential to fostering trust between our elected officials and the people we serve. By advocating for responsible budgeting and rigorous oversight, I aim to build a more efficient government that meets the needs of Missourians while maintaining the public's confidence in how their resources are managed.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Stephanie Hein is proud to call Missouri home. She grew up in the southwest region of the state where she learned the importance of hard work and commitment to the community.

A true product of Missouri’s public education system, she grew up in a family of public educators. Stephanie launched her professional career in the multi-billion-dollar food and beverage industry where she honed her skills in business and finance.

Following in her family’s education footsteps, Stephanie transitioned her career into higher education. As an experienced educator, she advocates for providing students a high return on their education investment. She frequently serves as a bridge between education and industry so that her students can have the best employment opportunities possible.

Both professionally and personally, Stephanie loves working alongside others to achieve the highest-value results for all. In this, our common challenge, she brings the know-how, compassion and common sense needed to reach the goals of providing economic security, educational opportunity, and quality healthcare access to all Missourians.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I believe in the saying “show me your budget, and I’ll show you your values.” Our state’s budget serves as a moral contract with our citizens. Every year, it is up to the state government to allocate the tax dollars you pay to maintain and improve our quality of living. As your state representative, I will be a careful steward of your tax dollars in Jefferson City. I believe you and your family are the economic drivers of our state. Our budget should reflect that by investing in the things that will improve you and your family’s life, rather than lining the pockets of big businesses.A strong economy is one that works for everyone. All Missourians deserve the peace of mind that comes with having a roof over your head, food on the table, and resources to pay bills. As your state rep, I’ll fight for those who truly build up our economy—our workers—for the wages, benefits, and protections they deserve. I’ll support investments in educational opportunities to support a 21st century workforce. I’ll work for policies that support local businesses who provide good jobs in our state and keep our economy growing. And, I’ll work to bring new businesses here that want to capitalize on our skilled Missouri workforce and quality of life. But, I’ll always put workers’ interests before the special interests of large corporations.Quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare is every Missourian’s right. But every year Missouri families must make increasingly difficult decisions for how they prioritize spending on prescription drugs and medical bills over the basic costs of living. At the same time, Missouri has left millions of federal dollars on the table meant for expanding healthcare access to our neighbors who need it the most. This inaction means less healthy communities, higher premiums for those with coverage, and the loss of hospitals, especially in rural areas. As your state representative, I’ll support common sense measures like expanding Medicaid, so no Missourian is forced to choose between a decent job and keeping their healthcare.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

As your state representative, I will advocate for policy that provides all families with: 1) An economy that allows you to earn a good living, 2) A safe and healthy community, 3) Public education that sets our kids up for success.