Staff Spotlight: Meet ADD of Finance Steph Spera

Get to know the men and women at the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services who serve those who sacrificed for our freedoms.

The ADVS Staff Spotlight will be published every second and fourth Friday of the month on the ADVS social media pages and website with tidbits and fun facts about our employees.

The Staff Spotlight will highlight staff from all of our departments within ADVS including our Executive staff, Veterans Services Division, Arizona Veterans’ Memorial Cemeteries, Arizona State Veteran Homes and more!

This week’s Staff Spotlight features our ADD of Finance, Steph Spera!

 Name: Steph Spera

Role at ADVS: Assistant Deputy Director for Finance

When did you start at ADVS: September 16, 2024

Did you serve in the military: No I did not

Did anyone in your family serve: My grandfather served in the Army and I have several cousins who are in the Navy, Army, Marines and National Guard

What do you do at ADVS: I manage all things finance, including grants, accounting, budget, and procurement. This includes working closely with each of our divisions and vendors to ensure everyone's needs are met and we can effectively manage our finances in a way that most supports our Veterans.

Why did you decide to join ADVS: Although I never served myself, I have had so many friends and family members serve our country. I wanted to use my skills to give back to the Veteran community in what small way I can. I am so thankful for the work veterans do each and every day and I am passionate about helping to address the various challenges they may face.

Why is your job important to helping Arizona Veterans: Without a healthy financial structure, our operations at the Department would come to a standstill. Keeping on top of our financial needs as an agency allows us to better serve our Veterans and ensure we are using our resources responsibly and effectively to keep our programs up and running.

What do you enjoy about working at ADVS: Our team! It is refreshing and inspiring that everyone I work with is excited about the mission of this agency and is working every day toward improving

Outside of ADVS, what do you enjoy doing: I enjoy Cooking / baking, camping, art projects, hanging out with my dogs, and staying active through rock climbing, yoga, and kickboxing

If you could have any superpower, what would it be: Teleportation

Thank you for the work you do for our Arizona Veterans!