Meet Your Ambassador: Stacey Phelps, Baxter YMCA
- When did you become an Ambassador?
I became an Aspire Ambassador in 2024. - How has being an Ambassador been beneficial to you and/or your company?
Serving as an Ambassador has strengthened both my community impact and my professional network. This role has allowed me to build relationships with business owners, nonprofit leaders and other professionals.
It has also amplified my volunteer work on the Baxter YMCA Advisory Board by providing opportunities to increase community awareness of Baxter. This has opened doors for collaboration and impact through the connections I’ve made. - Why did you want to become an Ambassador?
I’ve always valued building relationships and supporting local businesses. Becoming an Ambassador has allowed me to connect with professionals across industries, to share helpful resources and help raise awareness for organizations that serve our community.
I enjoy meeting other professionals and helping create connections that strengthen the local business community. It’s rewarding to play even a small role in bringing people together and helping others feel connected and supported. - Do you have a favorite memory as an Ambassador?
Some of my favorite moments are seeing connections happen in real time at networking events – when I’ve introduced two people and quickly realize they share a common interest or opportunity. Watching those relationships begin is a great reminder of how valuable professional networks can be. - What advice do you have for professionals trying to connect with other professionals?
Focus on building genuine relationships. Strong connections take time and are built on curiosity, consistency and trust. - What is your favorite networking tip?
Be kind, approachable and genuinely interested in others. Ask questions and be curious about people’s stories – everyone has a story worth hearing.
I’ve found that the best networking doesn’t feel like “networking”. It’s about building relationships and looking for ways to support others along the way. - What was your first job?
My first professional role was Area Sales Manager with John Deere Financial. In that role, I worked with agricultural equipment dealers, agribusiness merchants and customers across Indiana to support financing programs and help drive growth.
It was a great foundation for learning the importance of building relationships and supporting local businesses.
| - Do you have any hobbies or something you like to do outside the business setting?
I enjoy walking, yoga, dancing and traveling. Staying active and exploring new places helps me recharge and brings a healthy balance to my life. - What is your favorite vacation and why?
Anywhere with sunshine, sand and the ocean. Being near the water is one of my favorite ways to relax, reflect and reset. - What makes you a raving fan of Aspire?
Strong communities are built through relationships, and I especially appreciate that Aspire creates the environment where those connections can grow.
From the supportive staff to the variety of networking and professional development opportunities, there are many ways for business and professionals to connect and stay engaged.
Aspire also provides a variety of resources focused on business growth, leadership development and legislative issues. It’s an organization that truly helps businesses in our community succeed.
https://web.aspirejohnsoncounty.com/Fitness-Centers/Baxter-YMCA-17
