Volunteer Spotlight: Cindy Stier

Author: Cathy Essick
Community Involvement
Published: Wednesday, 14 Jan 2026

Sharing

Image of a woman wearing a white jacket teaching a class

Image caption: Learning about money, careers, and community—one smile at a time! Thank you, Cindy Stier, for inspiring students through Junior Achievement.

For more than a decade, Cindy Stier has been making a lasting impact on students across Eastern Iowa through her dedication to Junior Achievement (JA). A mom of two, board chair with ImpactCR, and a Bank Manager with over 21 years of experience in the financial industry, Cindy brings both heart and expertise into every classroom she enters.

Cindy’s journey with Junior Achievement began when she moved to Cedar Rapids. Her manager at the time, Dan Perez, introduced her to JA—and she’s been volunteering ever since.

“I’ve always believed in being involved in your community and helping however you can,” Cindy shares. “JA was the first organization I got involved with when I moved here, and it immediately aligned with my passion for helping people understand finances—especially kids, so they’re better prepared as they step into adulthood.”

Over the past 12 years, Cindy has taught a wide variety of JA programs, and every year she continues to be amazed by how much students absorb.

“It’s so rewarding when you see the look on their face when it all starts to make sense,” she says. “And when a teacher asks you back the following year, that connection means everything. Teachers are true superheroes.”

One of Cindy’s favorite programs to teach is second grade, where students learn how money moves through a community. After quizzing her students to make sure they’ve mastered the lesson, she celebrates by letting them toss their play money into the air and try to catch it.

“I don’t know if the teachers love it,” she laughs, “but the kids absolutely do.”

While stepping into a classroom can still feel a little intimidating, Cindy says the experience is always worth it.

“These kids are our future, so you want to leave a lasting impression. Once you get started, it’s the best feeling. They’re engaged, asking questions, and genuinely excited to learn. The games and activities make everything fun and interactive.”

For Cindy, the most rewarding moments come when students are excited to see her return and make sure to say goodbye before she leaves.

“When their faces light up when you walk in, that’s a feeling you never forget.”

She’s especially touched when teachers have students write thank-you cards after her visits.

“I love when they write about what they learned and what stood out to them. Knowing a teaching moment stuck with them enough to write it down is incredibly meaningful.”

Cindy believes financial education is one of the most important gifts we can give students.

“Understanding money, careers, entrepreneurship, taxes, and how a community functions builds a foundation they’ll carry for life. These are lessons every kid should be learning at every grade level.”

When asked what advice she’d give to someone considering volunteering, Cindy’s answer is simple:

“It’s such a fun and rewarding experience. The kids are welcoming and love having visitors in their classroom. And you don’t have to be an expert—JA does an amazing job of providing everything you need. It’s so easy to get involved.”

Thank you, Cindy, for 12 years of service, leadership, and passion for empowering the next generation. Your impact is felt far beyond the classroom walls.