UPHS – Marquette Heroes | Steph Stocking

I am the Marketing and Communications Coordinator for UP Health System – Marquette. 

Healthcare has always interested me, but it was never my intention to go into it specifically—it just sort of happened organically. I went to school for advertising/graphic design, and with that type of degree, you can really pursue any industry. However, my first job out of college was at an optometry office, and from there, my interest in healthcare only grew larger. I’ve had some awesome opportunities since then and finally feel like I’ve landed right where I need to be.

I think just like with any job here, there are no typical days—which is how I prefer it! We have the privilege of helping every department with their unique marketing and communications needs, and no two projects are alike. One day could consist of sending important internal communications to our staff, helping to onboard new providers with photos and marketing materials, and coordinating media interviews. Another day could be spent meeting patients and helping to share their incredible stories—those are the best days.

I have been here for just shy of one year, but have been doing healthcare marketing and communications for 10 years.

I haven’t been here long enough to experience too many changes, but I’d say the biggest difference in working here versus some of my previous jobs is the size of this organization, and understanding the depth and complexity of our operations and the services we offer. Something that’s also always changing is how people prefer to receive information, so our Marketing and Communications team is constantly learning new communications platforms and techniques to effectively reach our audiences.

My family and I love anything outdoors (although I’m still learning to love the long winters here). We enjoy beach days on Lake Superior, mountain biking, hiking and taking our boat out on the Dead River Basin. I also enjoy playing volleyball and softball in some local leagues here and cheering on the Michigan State Spartans. Go green!

Our people! Every day I am in awe of our talented and diverse workforce and the integral part each of them plays in caring for our patients, staff and community. They are all heroes.