Firestarter Spotlight - Stephanie Castro

Stephanie Castro is the ultimate HR rockstar! Whether she’s helping staff, welcoming students, or making sure everyone feels supported, she does it all with a smile.

Her friendly energy makes students feel right at home during their clinical rotations, and she’s always ready to jump in and translate to keep communication smooth. With a heart for problem-solving and a knack for making people feel heard, Stephanie truly makes CBHA a better place.

We appreciate you, Stephanie—keep being amazing!

Learn more about Stephanie:

When did you start at CBHA?

In November of 2022

What is your job title and day-to-day responsibilities?

I’m an HR Generalist. My daily tasks vary, but my main responsibilities are student rotations and benefits enrollment. I work directly with Colleges/Universities throughout WA State and out of state to coordinate student placements at CBHA. I ensure all students are cleared and onboarding documents are completed before their first day. For many students, this is the first time they complete a rural clinical rotation, and I enjoy welcoming them and showing them what services are offered at CBHA. I also complete benefit enrollment for our newest employees, process life event changes, and process auto enrollments. Everyday can be different and I work with my team to complete any projects and answer and assist our staff with any questions.

What is your favorite thing about working at CBHA?

The opportunity for growth. CBHA supports those seeking to continue their education by offering Ed Bucks and having partnerships with online universities that offer a tuition discount to employees. In addition, CBHA offers assistance with student loan repayment through BenefitEd and the opportunity to open a 529 plan. There are great resources available for those wanting to grow their careers.

How has CBHA helped you grow in your career?

I started as an HR Assistant at CBHA. After being in that role for 6 months, there was an opening for HR Generalist and I had the opportunity to apply and be promoted to my current role. This has allowed me to further my knowledge about HR and more specifically a better understanding of benefits. I’ve also learned how to assist our staff regarding benefit changes and provide them with the appropriate resources.

What has been your favorite project at work so far?

My favorite project was the Student Housing transfer from condos to houses. I assisted with making sure all students transferred from the condos to the new CBHA homes. Students are very appreciative of having housing available during their rotations and it is a big assistance to many of them. I enjoy being able to help them navigate that part of their rotation.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation, I enjoy traveling and learning about new cultures and would love to be able to travel to different countries anytime I wanted.

How do you turn a bad day into a good one?

By having a mindset shift. I focus on self-care to feel better- going on walks or being in nature to help me recharge.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid?

I wanted to be a nurse. I love science!

Where is your favorite place to travel?

Oh, this is a tough one! I love traveling, some of my favorite places have been Spain, Portugal, Cuba, and Mexico. Exploring new cities and their cultures is always an exciting adventure!

If you could be any Disney Character which one would you be?

I would be Belle for her compassion and free-thinking spirit.

Anyone you would like to thank or final words?

I’d like to thank my manager for nominating me, I truly enjoy working with our students and supporting our employees in any way I can. I would also like to thank the HR team and Administrative Assistants, I am thankful to have supportive and friendly coworkers to work alongside.