Stephany Hancock

Stephany was a preschool teacher in northeastern Indiana for about 10 years. In 2018, she started at a Montessori school and fell in love. The Montessori philosophy utilizes nature in a way that resonates with Stephany. As she gained more experience, and a credential for Montessori early childhood, she found herself seeking more education for the world around her. That led her to the master’s program at Goshen College. The Environmental Education program allowed Stephany to use her teaching skills and apply them to teaching in the natural environment, perfectly integrating two of her passions.

After graduating, Stephany worked with an early education facility for a year to help their staff gain knowledge and appreciation of the outdoors. She came back to Merry Lea in 2024 as an Environmental Educator and Residence Life Coordinator. Now she is fulfilling the role of Public Programs Coordinator.

Outside of work, Stephany enjoys a variety of hobbies including knitting, reading, and spending time outdoors. She enjoys exploring the things Fort Wayne (her current home) has to offer like trails, historic sites, and food with her partner & fur babies. Her favorite Merry Lea program is Enchanted Forest.