Kelly Stepno
Kelly Stepno serves as Chair of Corporate Reputation and Midwest Managing Director at APCO, with more than 25 years of experience in reputation strategy and high-stakes communications. Throughout her career, she has guided organizations through complex challenges, including litigation, government investigations, cybersecurity incidents, and leadership transitions across industries such as education, healthcare, manufacturing, and consumer goods. She has also served as a lecturer at the University of Maryland and holds degrees from the University of Maryland and George Mason University (JD/MBA).
Reflecting on ACI’s mission, Stepno shared, “I believe that anyone who wants to go to college should be able to do so, not only financially, but with the support necessary to be successful in college and beyond.” She emphasized the importance of mentorship, noting her own experience mentoring students and her appreciation for ACI’s peer mentoring model. “Higher education is at a critical juncture, and ACI’s work is essential in ensuring that students, especially first-generation students, have both access and the tools to succeed.”
Lauren J. Groff, CPA
Lauren J. Groff, CPA, is a principal and leader of the not-for-profit audit services team at Sikich, where she brings 20 years of experience supporting mission-driven organizations.
Her expertise includes financial reporting, audit engagement planning, and compliance with federal funding requirements. She works closely with a wide range of organizations, including higher education institutions, healthcare entities, and community-based nonprofits, and leads the continued growth of Sikich’s not-for-profit audit practice.
As a first-generation college graduate, Groff brings both professional and personal perspectives to her role. “I know firsthand how challenging it can be to navigate the complexities of applying to college, financing an education, and balancing work and academics,” she shared. “In my professional work with ACI member institutions, I also see the impact of the support they provide, and how critical that support is to student success.”