Niomi Ndirangu
President and Founder
Niomi is the President and Founder of Seize Your Future, a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities, particularly those living with epilepsy. Diagnosed with epilepsy at a young age, Niomi encountered significant challenges in her education, from unprepared teachers to academic struggles. These early experiences sparked her determination to make a lasting difference for others facing similar obstacles. She is currently pursuing a degree in Special Education, with a focus on empowering students with epilepsy. She is committed to ensuring that no child with epilepsy fears their condition will limit their educational opportunities. Driven by her mission to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all, Niomi is excited to offer scholarships to students living with epilepsy across the United States. Through her advocacy and education, she aims to ensure that every student with epilepsy has the tools and support needed to thrive academically and beyond.
Stephanie Steffen
Vice President
Stephanie, the mother of Niomi, has firsthand experience with the challenges of caring for someone with Epilepsy. Witnessing her daughter’s struggles inspired her to become a passionate advocate and join the SYF team. With over 18 years of experience at Flinthills Services, she currently serves as the Director of Targeted Case Management and Quality Assurance. Stephanie is eager to help grow Seize Your Future on a national scale, bringing her wealth of knowledge and dedication to making a difference.
Lynne Benson
Treasurer
Lynne Benson is excited to be a part of Seize Your Future. Lynne has an adult daughter who is intellectually disabled, autistic, legally blind, and was recently diagnosed with epilepsy. Lynne was introduced to Niomi through her daughter, as Niomi has been a wonderful part of her daughter’s caretaking team. Lynne has been a paralegal with Cargill, Incorporated for more than 25 years and is thrilled to share her skills with this foundation and help make the future brighter for students living with epilepsy.
Faith Noonan
Secretary
Faith Noonan serves as the Secretary for Seize Your Future where she is able to use her organization skills for an incredible purpose helping the nonprofit and spreading awareness about epilepsy. She is passionate about making a positive difference in the community. In addition to her role with Seize Your Future, Faith is currently working towards her associates in business administration at Butler Community College. She is excited for this new role and what it will bring to her life!
Annabelle Wise
Grant/Website Coordinator
Annabelle Wise serves as the Grant and Website Coordinator for SYF. Currently working at an elementary school, Annabelle also thrives outside of her professional role as an Assistant Director and set designer. With a strong passion for helping others, she is dedicated to making a positive impact in the community. Annabelle holds a liberal arts degree from Butler Community College and is always seeking new opportunities for personal and professional growth. She’s excited to work alongside her best friend to help expand SYF across the US.
Tim Steffen
Board Member
Timothy is the owner of @steffenandsons working to provide homes for people of all backgrounds. His position in his company has lead him to be an outstanding leader and play an exceptional role in Seize Your Future. Aside from work he fills majority of his time with being the father of two children Caleb and Grace Steffen.
He is also the husband of Erin Steffen. He has done an exceptional job as the leader of his family and teaching his children to love everyone no matter what! As the Uncle to Niomi (Founder) he has gained more passion for caring about those with Epilepsy. He saw the challenges as well as Niomi’s perseverance throughout her journey with Epilepsy, and is excited to help inspire those facing the same challenges.
Angela Keeten
Fundraising Committee
Angela comes from a strong accounting and management background, holding several positions with two different companies over the last 12 years. 7 of those years were with a non-profit providing supports and services to individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, where she played a pivotal role in the fundraising efforts of that organization. Angela’s dedication and commitment to helping those around her, and within her community is inspiring! The skills she brings to SYF will truly help this program reach new heights!
Rachel Bruner
Scholarship Committee
Rachel Bruner has devoted the past eight years of her career to serving and supporting individuals with additional needs, striving to create a positive impact in their lives. Her experience has fueled a deep passion for advocacy and education, especially for communities often overlooked. Rachel is honored to join “Seize Your Future,” where she can help bring awareness and resources to a cause that holds a special place in her heart. She is excited to work alongside others who share the vision of empowering and uplifting those in need.
Amy Peterson
Scholarship Committee
Amy Peterson has spent the last 30 years dedicating her life to improving the lives of others from working with individuals with developmental disabilities, to supporting pediatric residents and physicians as they navigate the health needs of Kansas children and families. Amy has been a big part of Niomi’s life for over a decade, and they have had the opportunity to work together on several volunteer projects in the community over the years. Amy’s commitment and dedication to empowering others will no doubt make her an integral member of our team.
Seize Your Future 