The Challenges of Concluding
Concluding something is often a challenge.
Let’s be honest—how many of us have started something only to let it slip away after a few days or weeks? A new habit, a workout routine, a big goal. We begin with enthusiasm, but somewhere along the way, life gets in the way, and we never quite finish.
It’s frustrating—but it’s also very human.
But here’s the thing: every time we do finish something—when we commit to a goal and see it through—we feel a deep sense of accomplishment. That moment is powerful. We feel proud, confident, and maybe even surprised by what we’re capable of. And that deserves to be celebrated.
The Emotions of Concluding
Can you imagine what our students felt during their final leadership class of the semester? There was a bittersweet atmosphere—a blend of joy and sadness.
- Joy, because they had achieved something significant. They had grown, stretched, and become stronger versions of themselves.
- Sadness, because the semester was ending, and with it, the unique daily rhythm of campus life.
But even as emotions ran high, Kelly and Stacey Shepherd made sure this final class was memorable. Their energy, encouragement, and love for the students turned this ending into a meaningful milestone.
Meet the Shepherds: A Pillar of Strength and Support
The Shepherds are more than mentors—they are family.
They first arrived at Cumorah Academy in the Fall of 2022 and quickly became a beloved part of our community. Students from every semester have expressed how much they appreciate Kelly and Stacey’s presence, wisdom, and warmth.
For a full year, they served as Student Life Directors, living on campus in the Czech Republic. Their role extended far beyond classes—they worked closely with students, interns, and staff, helping to strengthen the entire campus experience.
They are parents of five children and grandparents of twelve grandchildren, which perhaps explains their natural nurturing spirit. Stacey says it best:
“I worked in an art gallery for a little while and also spent time caring for other children, but I was fortunate to be able to stay home with my own. I love being a mom.”
As for Kelly, his professional background deeply aligns with Cumorah’s mission. He spent 37 years teaching in Seminaries and Institutes for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, preparing him spiritually and emotionally for this role.
Together, the Shepherds bring heart, faith, and experience that uplift everyone around them.
A Look Back: Reviewing the Semester
Leadership is not a destination—it’s a journey.
This semester at Cumorah Academy, students embarked on a leadership journey filled with lessons in:
- Emotional resilience
- Networking
- Motivation
- Effective communication
- And much more
With their natural charisma and deep care for each student, Kelly and Stacey led a reflective final session, asking powerful questions like:
- What have you learned about leadership that deeply resonates with you?
- How can you apply this in your current circumstances?
These questions didn’t just prompt answers—they sparked introspection. They encouraged students to take ownership of their learning and realize how far they’ve come.
Being proactive in the learning process is key, and the Shepherds modeled that beautifully.
What Makes a Great Leader?
Kelly shared his personal belief:
“A leader must always be learning. The world is constantly changing, and leaders need to be open to learning from those they lead as well. At Cumorah Academy, I’ve seen young leaders take responsibility and excel because they’ve been empowered and trusted.”
This is our culture. This is our legacy.
At Cumorah, we believe that learning never stops—and neither should leadership growth.
Reflections on Finishing Strong
“Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do.”
That’s one of the Shepherds’ key messages to students—and it applies to all of us.
Too often, we let self-doubt or fear of failure hold us back. But it’s rarely a matter of knowledge—it’s usually just emotion. The courage to push forward comes from recognizing that we’re more capable than we think.
Let’s not forget: this young generation is navigating challenges no other generation has faced. And yet:
- They are more connected than ever.
- They are more creative than ever.
- And they are more eager to make a difference.
Concluding this semester is more than just an academic checkpoint—it’s a lifetime achievement.
Celebrating a New Chapter
One of the most beautiful things about the end of the semester is that it’s not only concluding—it’s a new beginning.
And with Kelly and Stacey Shepherd by our side, we had the chance to celebrate both the past and the future.
Antonella, one of our students from Italy, shared her thoughts:
“Having the Shepherds with us at Cumorah has been great! They have brought a nice spirit and helped us to remember what we have been taught by previous mentors! I am so grateful for their dedication and great personality, that make us feel like family.”
That sense of family, of belonging, and of being seen—that’s what makes a place like Cumorah so special.
During this final week, we didn’t just look back. We looked ahead with excitement, purpose, and faith.
Final Words of Wisdom
Before the last class wrapped up, we asked Kelly and Stacey if they had any final counsel for the students. Their response was simple, but profound:
“Take what you’ve learned and go home and change your world.”
It’s a call to action. A challenge to lead with courage, compassion, and vision—wherever you are.
Want to Experience This for Yourself?
If you’re ready to grow, lead, and be part of a life-changing community, Cumorah Academy is waiting for you.
- Join young adults from around the world
- Discover your potential through courses in leadership, business, and spiritual growth
- Learn from experienced mentors like Kelly and Stacey Shepherd
- Live in the heart of Europe at our beautiful campus in the Czech Republic
Your next chapter starts here.
Apply now or learn more at www.cumorahacademy.org
Let’s finish strong—and begin even stronger.
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Photos by Felipe Carrillo
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
