Thorndale ISD

Thorndale ISD is proud to recognize Stephanie Branham (Dickens), Class of 1999, as our February Alumni Spotlight. A Valedictorian, state competitor, author, and distinguished Human Resources leader, Stephanie’s journey reflects the power of lifelong learning, leadership, and the strong foundation built at Thorndale High School.

As a student at Thorndale High School, Stephanie graduated as Valedictorian in 1999 and earned numerous honors, including Who’s Who Among American High School Students, All American Scholar, National Honor Roll, National Honor Society, FBLA, and Student Council. She competed at the UIL State level in Parliamentary Procedure and Spelling/Vocabulary and was named an All-Star Mascot. During her senior year, she was selected as a National Young Leader and represented Texas in Washington, D.C., an early sign of the leadership path ahead.

After graduation, Stephanie attended the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology. She began her professional career at Allumed, Inc. in Temple, Texas, spending nearly 20 years in Human Resources and Accounts Receivable.

Her commitment to professional excellence led her to become one of the first individuals worldwide to earn the senior-level SHRM-SCP certification during its inaugural round of testing through the Society for Human Resource Management. Following this achievement, she was invited to Washington, D.C. to contribute to written and thought leadership initiatives supporting the advancement of the HR profession.

After relocating to the Dallas–Fort Worth area, Stephanie transitioned into Human Resources within the construction industry. Over the past five years, she has continued to pursue advanced education and professional development, earning a Master’s degree in Human Resources and Organization Development, completing a 300-hour OSHA program to become a Certified Safety and Health Official (CSHO), and obtaining a degree in Occupational Safety and Health. She is currently completing a Master of Jurisprudence in Labor and Employment Law through Tulane Law School and plans to begin her Juris Doctor program next year.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Stephanie published a children’s grammar book, Don’t Bite Comma Llama!, and founded SOHR Into Compliance (Safety, Organization, and HR). Her service extends beyond her career through decades of volunteer leadership advocating for children, military members and families, and equal and second-chance employees. She has served as President of local SHRM chapters in Central Texas and the DFW Mid-Cities, currently serves on the Texas SHRM Board, and was honored as the 2025 Distinguished HR Volunteer of the Year for the state of Texas.

Reflecting on her journey, Stephanie offers this advice to current students:

“Success is not a straight line. You are not defined by your high school years. During times of doubt and setbacks, remember lessons you learned in your youth. Don’t be afraid to reinvent yourself. Lifelong learning will open doors you cannot yet see. Be willing to learn from people who think differently than you. The more open and inclusive you become, the more clearly you begin to understand your own purpose.”

She also reminds students that attending a small school is not a limitation, but an opportunity. In a smaller district like Thorndale ISD, students can participate in a wide range of activities, develop leadership skills early, and discover strengths they may not yet realize they possess. The size of a school does not determine the size of its impact.

Thorndale ISD is proud to celebrate Stephanie Branham’s accomplishments and the meaningful difference she continues to make in her profession and community. Her story is a powerful reminder that Bulldog graduates are prepared to lead, serve, and make an impact far beyond our halls.