Stefanie was born and raised in the Denver area. She began her piano training at age 5 with Bernard and Carolyn Shaak. By age 9 she began competing at the state level where she received several 1st place and runner-up placements over the years. She attended Cherry Creek High School where she participated in multiple choirs, both as a member of the choir and also as the principal accompanist. 

Stefanie received several scholarship offers for college from multiple Universities. She attended Utah State University, where she studied under Gary Amano and Ralph van der Beek. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Piano Performance and Piano Pedagogy. 

Stefanie is married to Dan Kiester, and they have 5 children. She teaches private piano lessons and works in different capacities in the community. She enjoys spending time with her family, baking, exploring new places, traveling, composing, and being outside.