JILL SHEPHERD
ONCE UPON A TIME.
IT’S YOUR STORY TO WRITE

Jill (Stevens) Shepherd’s decision to sign up for a six-year stretch with the Utah National Guard soon after accepting her high school diploma probably surprised few people. She was always the adventurous type, even as a kid growing up in Utah, preferring to ride a bike than skip a rope.

So, don’t be surprised when Shepherd brings that same action-oriented attitude to the stage of Navigator 2010 as the keynote speaker or, in this case, a princess in combat boots. The noted motivational speaker will share the military experience and her resolve to make a difference in the world and help others to do the same.

Shepherd was part of a battalion deployed to Afghanistan in November 2003. Rising to the rank of sergeant, she served nearly 18 months, returning home in April 2005. As a combat nurse, she tended to wounded soldiers and local civilians, including children. She earned five medals for her outstanding service.

But signing up for the military was only one of her adventures. As many might recall, “GI Jill Stevens” was chosen Miss Utah 2007 and won the America’s Choice vote in the annual Miss America pageant. She runs long distance, plans to pursue an advanced degree, and works full time as a trauma nurse at Salt Lake City’s Primary Children’s Hospital. She coaxed her husband Kerry into entering his first marathon.

Shepherd’s personal Once Upon a Time tale continues to add chapters, much the same as for those working “in the trenches” at communications centers worldwide. Maybe it’s a tough stretch comparing combat boots to protocol, but the journey to reach new highs holds true for any earnest adventure. “It’s all about trying new things,” Shepherd said. “Helping others at the same time is the icing on the cake.”

ACE Recipients
CCM Graduates

Thursday, April 29
8:30am-10:30am

KEYNOTE
PROTOCOL IN ACTION
WITH A TWIST