By Brooke Foster

Giving back to the community is part of Stephanie Graham’s identity. 

In addition to serving Alfa Insurance customers and members across Lee County since 2022, Graham displays her commitment to east Alabama’s Railroad Town through impassioned involvement as an ambassador with the Opelika Chamber of Commerce — a position she’s held since 2021. 

From ribbon cuttings and promoting Chamber events — like the recent Tunnel to Towers 9/11 mobile exhibit — to connecting with fellow members over coffee, it’s safe to say the ever-busy Graham keeps a full calendar.  

“This community is an amazing place to live, work and be part of,” boasted Graham, a lifelong Opelika resident community members affectionately call “Shug.” “Becoming an Alfa agent three years ago was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Working for a company that has ‘community’ as one of its core values speaks volumes to me — and to our customers. I love getting to know people, talking to them and building friendships. Alfa’s values reinforce that passion.”

Opelika Chamber Member Services Coordinator Mary Morgan Sholter confirmed Graham lives out her word.

“Stephanie isn’t just my insurance agent; she’s a wonderful friend who truly cares about the people she serves,” said Sholter. “When I got my new car, she helped me switch to Alfa and saved me about $150 a month on car insurance. Beyond the savings, she’s always been honest, patient and quick to help whenever I have a question, which gave me so much confidence in moving all my coverage to her. She is the best!”

The hashtag #InsureWithShug is layered into Graham’s social media marketing messages. The life-of-its-own brand is also something her customers proudly share on their personal social accounts — proof of a job well done. 

 “When people hear or see ‘#InsureWithShug,’ I want them to connect that to great service,” said Graham. “I want to make sure every customer knows they can call or text me directly, day or night. Great personal service is what I’d expect as a consumer, and I always want to provide what I would expect of others.”

Quality personal service is something Graham witnesses firsthand at quite a few of the businesses she insures (and frequents). She said she’s proud to take care of those who take care of others.

“The Chamber helps me stay connected to the community and new businesses that pop up, but it’s important to me to get out, shop small and really stay invested in building relationships with our small-business owners,” said Graham, a former 20 Under 40 Chamber honoree. “If the local coffee shop trusts me (and Alfa) to protect their business, that’s always such an honor! Either way, that’s where I’m going to get my coffee.”   

Graham’s commitment to seeing Opelika’s business community flourish is also highlighted by her involvement in the local Business Network International (BNI) chapter. 

“BNI offers a great platform for insurance professionals and local businesses to come together and support one another,” she said. “Each of us can learn something from one another. We just have to listen and care about how others are doing, and our BNI group genuinely does. It’s a blessing I’d encourage anyone in the business world to check out.”