After twenty-five years in federal law enforcement, Stephanie Schafer ’97 founded Grateful Cats/Canines Allies & Supporters, a nonprofit that supports the animal shelter in Glynn County, Georgia. The nonprofit advocates for shelter animals and has fundraised over $60,000.
“I had to drive by a puppy tied to a tree 24/7 in all weather conditions and with little to no food or clean water— I just couldn’t bear it any longer,” reflects Schafer. “It became clear to me that our county shelter needed help, and there were lots of animal lovers so I took the leap and started the nonprofit.”
As a student studying political science and German, Schafer took every opportunity to be an active community member as a resident advisor, a sorority sister in Alpha Delta Phi, a club soccer player, and a Honor Committee member during her time at Allegheny College. She also says that her time spent studying away in Cologne, Germany helped her step out of her comfort zone.
Although, she notes that it was the professors that transformed her life as a student.
“Allegheny professors had a way of bringing out the best in us, without being overbearing. They required that we learn to think critically and outside the box, and that has served me well,” says Schafer. “I’m proud to call Allegheny my alma mater and I take every opportunity I can to make it back to campus!”
After graduation, Schafer earned a master’s in criminal justice from Northeastern University. From 1999 to 2024, she served as a special agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.
Throughout her career, Schafer investigated violent crimes that involved gangs, murder for hire schemes, and drugs. Her roles have ranged from being a Special Agent K9 Handler, sweeping significant events like the Super Bowl, to training new agents as an instructor. Schafer retired as a senior special agent but continues to teach part-time at the academy.
Schafer tells current students, “You don’t have to study criminal justice to get into federal law enforcement – study what interests you – there are so many different federal agencies.”
Whether it’s protecting citizens or animals, Schafer is dedicated to protecting and serving.
