Standing before the Florida Court Reporters Association as its new president at StenoCon 2026 during the annual business meeting was one of the greatest honors of my professional career. As we celebrated FCRA’s 65th Anniversary and the 150th year of stenography, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey that brought me here. Like many court reporters, my path began with determination, countless hours of practice, and the hope that one day I would successfully reach those elusive speed tests. There were moments of doubt, moments of perseverance, and moments when mentors stepped in with encouragement exactly when it was needed.

Looking back after 24 years in this profession, I’ve come to realize something profound: court reporting isn’t simply what we do, it becomes part of who we are. Court reporters share a unique mindset. We listen differently. We focus differently. We understand that every word matters because every record matters. Without an accurate record, history can be lost. Justice depends on preserving the truth exactly as it happened. That responsibility is both our privilege and our calling. Throughout my career, I’ve been blessed by people who believed in me long before I believed in myself. From the teachers who encouraged me in court reporting school, to seasoned reporters who generously shared their knowledge, to association leaders who dedicated countless hours to protecting our profession, they all helped shape the person and professional I am today.

My own journey into court reporting began with a simple conversation more than 25 years ago. My sister-in-law, Sandi Nargiz, visited us and spoke passionately about how much she loved being a court reporter. Her enthusiasm was contagious. One conversation led me to visit a court reporting school, and that single decision changed the course of my life. That experience, among others, reminds me that sometimes the smallest acts of encouragement can have the greatest impact. That is why mentorship is so important. One of my greatest hopes for this year is that every member will look for opportunities to encourage a student, mentor a new reporter, or simply remind someone that they belong in this profession.

This year’s StenoCon theme “Our Hat Trick: Reliable. Responsive. Respectful” beautifully captures who we are as court reporters. We are reliable in our commitment to producing an accurate, defensible record. We are responsive to the ever-changing needs of our clients, courts, and technology. We are respectful of the legal process, our colleagues, and every voice entrusted to us. Those qualities have sustained this profession for generations and will continue to guide us into the future.

As president, my vision centers on three priorities. The first is advocacy. We must continue educating attorneys, judges, legislators, and the public about the indispensable role professional stenographic court reporters play in preserving the record and protecting the integrity of our justice system. The second is mentorship and recruitment. Our profession needs the next generation. By sharing our passion and opening doors for students, we can ensure that stenography continues to thrive for decades to come. The third is community. The strength of FCRA has always been its members. Whether volunteering on a committee, sharing knowledge with a colleague, or supporting one another through challenges, we are stronger when we work together. One of the most inspiring aspects of this profession has always been watching court reporters help other court reporters. That spirit of generosity is what makes this association so special.

As we begin this new year together, I truly believe we are set up for the win. Not because challenges won’t come, not because change isn’t happening, but because this profession has always been built upon dedicated professionals who are reliable, responsive, and respectful. Most importantly, I leave this message with overwhelming gratitude. First, by grace that has been given to me. To my husband, family, friends, all of those at the Vallaro Group, mentors, fellow board members, my team at North Florida Court Reporters, and every person who has encouraged me along this journey, thank you. Looking back, I realize that so many of life’s most meaningful moments began because someone believed in me and simply said, “You can do this.” Now it is our turn to do the same for someone else.

I am honored to serve as your president, and I look forward to working alongside each of you as we continue strengthening our association, protecting our profession, and preserving the record for generations to come. Thank you for your trust, your friendship, and your commitment to excellence. Here’s to a wonderful year ahead.

Leading with Gratitude, Purpose, and a Vision for the Future,

FCRA President Stephanie Nargiz