By Idin Pirasteh '97
Editor’s Note: Wellington alumni continue to amaze us with the many ways they shape their communities and industries. From entrepreneurs and innovators to educators and artists, they are charting bold paths forward while staying rooted in the values that connect them back to Wellington. Jags on the Roam celebrates these stories, offering a window into the impact our graduates are making in the world.
For Stephanie Sellers ’94, some of life’s most defining moments began with saying yes to the unexpected. From early opportunities at Wellington that let her move at her own pace and take college courses ahead of schedule, she built confidence in charting her own path. That independence carried her into aerospace engineering, where she began her career designing and testing missile systems for the Navy before 9/11 shifted her focus toward national service. Joining the Central Intelligence Agency, she found a calling in intelligence work that combined technical rigor, curiosity, and purpose.
“From aerospace engineer to national intelligence leader, every turn started with a simple yes.”
Over her 25-year career, Stephanie has served in a range of leadership roles—including as one of the intelligence community’s briefers for senior U.S. officials, helping shape daily national security conversations at the highest level. Today, she serves as the CIA Representative to the U.S. Army War College, continuing her lifelong commitment to service and leadership.
“Wellington encouraged individuality—it let us be curious and confident.”
She credits Wellington’s flexibility, supportive teachers, and sense of community for shaping that mindset. Her advice to current students and young alumni captures the heart of her journey:
“Never say no to an opportunity. The most meaningful paths are often the ones you don’t see coming.”