Kristin Stephens and Anne Chavez from Christendom College’s Career and Professional Development Office were formally recognized at the Annual Virginia Association of Colleges and Employers (VACE) Conference last week in Staunton, Virginia.
VACE is a membership organization that facilitates connections, communication, and networking between employers who hire college students and alumni, the career services staff who serve those students, and the associate members who serve the profession.
Kristin Stephens, Christendom’s Director of Career & Professional Development, was presented with the A. Isabel Gordon Distinguished Service Award, which honors those who have rendered a superior level of service and leadership to the Association. Notably, this is her second consecutive year receiving this award.
Stephens has been an active member of VACE for nearly a decade, serving on numerous committees and in various leadership roles on the board. Her ongoing involvement reflects a deep commitment to advancing both the organization and the broader field of career development.
“I am honored to be recognized by fellow career services professionals across the Commonwealth. Even though I am not currently serving on VACE’s Board, I thoroughly enjoy giving back to an organization that has done so much for me personally and professionally,” says Stephens. “I am also grateful to be contributing to the profession and broader scope of career development in higher education at Christendom College.”
Chavez (left) and Stephens (right) both received awards at the conference.
Stephens was also selected as a presenter at the conference, highlighting the impact of her work at Christendom. She led a breakout session on the college’s unique career development course, Education for a Lifetime (EFL).
Her presentation, titled “Mandatory Career Prep Classes: The Why & How-To,” drew strong interest from institutions across Virginia, with attendees eager to learn more about Christendom’s approach to preparing students for life after graduation.
Stephens has served as Director of Career & Professional Development since 2018. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Roanoke College, an M.S. in Counseling and Student Affairs from Radford University, and is a Certified Career Counselor through the National Career Development Association.
Anne Chavez, Employer Relations Coordinator, was also recognized at the conference, receiving the 2026 VACE Professional Development Scholarship. This award is given to emerging professionals who demonstrate a strong commitment to growth in the field and to advancing student success in higher education. The scholarship supported her attendance at the conference.
“VACE has helped many career services staff meet students where they are by adapting to their needs while accommodating the needs of employers,” says Chavez. “As someone with less than two years of experience in the field, I value the advice that seasoned career services professionals were willing to share at VACE. I am excited to continue my membership with the organization and continue growing in my profession, so that I am best equipped to serve the students at Christendom College.”
Christendom’s Career & Professional Development Office remains dedicated to helping students discern their vocational paths and prepare for meaningful careers after graduation. Through its ongoing involvement with VACE, the office continues to strengthen connections between students, employers, and the broader professional community, resulting in better offerings and better career opportunities for Christendom’s student body.