Today we’re featuring a story from our President, Lindsey Stapel.
As part of Futura’s 25th anniversary celebration, I’m honored to share a little of my own journey with the company and the mission that continues to inspire me every day.
I joined Futura in 2005 as an after-school Spanish teacher in the Madison area. At the time, I quickly discovered something that would shape my career: the powerful connection between language learning, education, and cultural understanding. I loved creating games and interactive activities that made Spanish exciting and meaningful for students.
My own passion for the Spanish language had already been growing through my university studies, where I focused not only on language but also on the history and cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. During college, I had the opportunity to spend a summer in Mexico living with a host family and volunteering at a local bilingual school—an experience that deepened my appreciation for the transformative power of language and cultural immersion.
After graduating, I transitioned into the role of Area Manager in Milwaukee, where I recruited, trained, and supported teachers while also contributing to curriculum development and lesson planning resources for our instructors.
In 2013, I stepped into a leadership role as Director of Futura, working closely with the founder and President to help guide the company’s goals, vision, and growth. During this time, I realized that my passion extended beyond teaching students—I found fulfillment in mentoring and supporting educators as well.
Like many organizations, Futura faced tremendous challenges during the pandemic in 2020. During that uncertain time, I made the life-changing decision to purchase the company and become President and owner. With two young children and so much uncertainty in the world, it was certainly a leap of faith. But I deeply believed in Futura’s mission and the importance of continuing this work for future generations of students.
Today, as I prepare to enter my sixth school year as President and owner, I feel prouder than ever of what our team has built together. We are fortunate to have an incredibly dedicated leadership team and passionate teachers who continue to inspire students every day through language and cultural learning.
Futura’s mission ~ to spark a love of language learning while fostering cultural awareness and connection – feels more meaningful now than ever before. It’s what continues to ground and motivate me in this work.
I also continue to be a lifelong language learner myself. Throughout my years with Futura, I’ve continued traveling and exploring the Spanish-speaking world, always seeking new opportunities to learn, grow, and broaden my perspective.
As we celebrate “25 Years, 25 Stories,” I’m reminded that Futura’s story has always been about people—students, educators, families, and communities—and the meaningful connections that grow through language learning. I’m grateful to be part of that story and excited for all that is still to come.
