Jodi is a third-generation Nevadan, born and raised in Hawthorne. After graduating from Mineral County High School she attended the University of Nevada where she earned her B.A. in Political Science and her Professional Degree in secondary education.
Jodi enjoyed the benefits of growing up in a tight-knit community and contributed regularly to her family's small businesses. During that time, Jodi learned the significant role hard work and dedication play in the success of a small business.
During college Jodi worked as a substitute teacher for the Washoe County School District. She completed her student teaching at Hug High, where she had the pleasure of working with some of the best and brightest students in Washoe County.
Upon completion of her education, Jodi joined Congressman Gibbons' Reno District Office, where she served as Rural Director. In this capacity she handled all rural and natural resource issues for Nevada's Second Congressional District. While working for the House of Representatives, Jodi had the opportunity and privilege to develop and maintain working relationships with federal, state and local officials, citizen groups and advisory boards in all 17 Nevada counties.
In January of 2007 Jodi went to work for the State of Nevada, Office of the Governor. As Legislative Director for Governor Gibbons, she assisted in the development of the executive budget and corresponding legislative agenda. In addition, she was the key policy advisor and liaison to the Department of Agriculture, Department of Education, Department of Energy, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Department of Wildlife, Colorado River System, Nevada System of Higher Education, P-16 Council, Emergency California-Nevada Tahoe Basin Fire Commission and the Spending and Government Efficiency (SAGE) Commission.
Jodi married Chad Stephens in 1998. They live in Sparks with their five-year-old daughter, Reagan. In their free time they spend time enjoying Nevada's great outdoors. This includes water sports, hiking, hunting, fishing, horseback riding and trips exploring our wild and historic state.
