August's Employees of the Month
Published: September 16, 2025
Updated: September 16, 2025
Every month, the employees at Strategic Communications are given the opportunity to acknowledge exemplary colleagues within or outside their department. Three individuals were chosen by their coworkers for their commitment to customer service, perseverance in the face of challenges, and can-do attitudes!
Madeline Klass
Marketing Team Lead
- When did you start working for Strategic Communications?
I started working here in May of 2024. - What is your favorite project that you’ve worked on at Strategic?
My favorite project so far... Oh that's a good one! I would have to say SKO. Getting everyone together in Louisville face-to-face was really special — and I think most everyone had a blast!
- What does your dream vacation look like?
My dream vacation would involve a remote cabin, the forest, and lots of firewood for some campfire s'mores.
- Who is your favorite musical artist, and what was the first concert you attended?
My favorite musical artist changes all the time depending on the vibe!
- How would your family, friends, or coworkers describe you in three words?
In 3 words, I'd be described as strong willed, chaotic, and enthusiastic.
- What is your current favorite TV Show, Podcast, or Book that you’d like to share with the world?
None currently!
Stephanie Hoth
Justice & Public Safety - Sales Director
- When did you start working for Strategic Communications?
This October it will be one full year at Strategic Communications. - What was your background prior to working for Strategic Communications?
I have spent the majority of my career in government sales, with extensive experience spanning both SLED and federal markets. Before joining Strategic Communications, I served as Vice President of Business Development at Battle Road Digital, an AI-driven modeling and simulation company, where I focused on strategic growth and market expansion. Earlier in my career, I built and led the Public Safety Division for Carhartt Footwear, Black Diamond Footwear, and BDx Footwear, driving nationwide adoption among law enforcement and first responder agencies.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Criminology with a minor in Mathematics from the University of Missouri and a Master of Business Administration from Bethel University.
- What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding or fulfilling?
I remain committed to strengthening partnerships with public sector agencies and leveraging technology-driven solutions to enhance mission readiness, security, and community impact. Above all, I value building trusted professional relationships that create lasting impact and drive meaningful results.
- What is the best career lesson you've learned so far?
Early in my career, I often heard people say they were giving “110%.” It sounded motivating at the time, but I’ve since learned that in business, leadership, and life, you can never actually give more than 100%. What you can do is be intentional about where that 100% goes. Success isn’t about pouring yourself endlessly into everything, it’s about focus, consistency, and discipline.
When you decide where your full effort matters most, whether that’s building relationships, pursuing growth opportunities, or solving critical problems - you maximize your impact. The lesson is simple: you only get 100% to give, so make sure you’re investing it where it truly counts. - Outside of work, what are you passionate about/enjoy doing?
I love working outside and on my lawn, woodworking, and volunteering in my community. - What is your current favorite TV Show, Podcast, or Book that you’d like to share with the world?
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert Pirsig - What is something that people may not know about you
I’ve played the drums for a little over 30 years.
Sam Deckel
Marketing Coordinator
- When did you start working for Strategic Communications?
As of last month it's been four years at Strategic. - What is your favorite project that you’ve worked on at Strategic?
It's hard to pick a favorite, but it'd have to be one of our inperson hosted events. Madeline already mentioned SKO so I'll shoutout the bourbon tasting event we hosted at Louisville Highbred Society last year. It was great to see Louisville IT professionals learning, networking, and just having a great time!
- What does your dream vacation look like?
When I was in college I studied abroad in Japan for a summer, it would be a dream to be able to go back one day.
- Who is your favorite musical artist, and what was the first concert you attended?
IDK if they are my all time favorite but I have really been enjoying this band called Wet Leg. My first concert was Forecastle 2012 (R.I.P.) I think that was the year Wilco was headlining.
- How would your family, friends, or coworkers describe you in three words?
Adaptable, relaxed, creative
- What is your current favorite TV Show, Podcast, or Book that you’d like to share with the world?
I recently started listening to a podcast called Lemonade Stand, pretty solid so far
