Thelma Steward is a respected nurse, philanthropist, and community leader based in St. Louis, Missouri. Her work spans healthcare, education, and long-term community support, with a strong focus on creating opportunities for others.
She is notable not only for her years in nursing, but for how she turned that experience into meaningful, structured philanthropy. Through education programs, healthcare support, and leadership roles, she has helped improve lives in practical and lasting ways.
At the center of her impact is a clear mission: serve with purpose, invest in people, and build systems that continue to help communities long after individual efforts end.
Who Is Thelma Steward?
Thelma Steward began her professional life as a registered nurse. Over time, she became known for her work in community-focused philanthropy, especially in healthcare and education.
Her influence centers on three areas:
- Healthcare access and quality
- Education and workforce development
- Long-term community investment
While she often works alongside her husband, David L. Steward, her role is not symbolic. She is actively involved in shaping initiatives, guiding funding decisions, and defining the values behind the work. Her background in nursing gives her a practical understanding of real community needs.
Early Life and Nursing Career
Thelma Steward was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. She trained as a nurse at the St. Louis Municipal School of Nursing, where she developed both technical skills and a strong sense of responsibility toward patient care.
She worked as a registered nurse in the newborn and premature nursery at Homer G. Phillips Hospital. This role placed her on the front lines of care for vulnerable patients and families.
Those early years shaped her long-term mission. Seeing gaps in care, support, and opportunity helped her understand that lasting change requires more than individual effort. It requires systems, education, and sustained support.
Transition From Healthcare to Philanthropy
As her career progressed, Thelma’s focus expanded beyond bedside care. She recognized broader challenges, such as limited access to education, underrepresentation in healthcare careers, and uneven community resources.
Rather than stepping away from service, she shifted how she served. Her role evolved from direct care to leadership and advocacy.
This transition allowed her to address root problems, not just symptoms. By supporting education, training, and institutions, she could help shape the future of healthcare and community well-being.
Steward Family Foundation and Key Initiatives
In 2013, Thelma Steward and her husband established the Steward Family Foundation. The foundation was created to support education, health, the arts, and community development.
Thelma plays an active role in guiding its direction. She helps evaluate programs, prioritize long-term impact, and ensure that giving aligns with real community needs.
Rather than short-term donations, the foundation focuses on sustained support. Its goal is to fund programs that continue to create value year after year.
Thelma Steward Future Nurse of Excellence Scholarship
One of Thelma Steward’s most meaningful contributions is the Future Nurse of Excellence Scholarship.
The scholarship was created to support African American students pursuing careers in nursing. It covers full tuition and reduces financial barriers that often limit access to healthcare education.
Beyond financial help, the program aims to strengthen the nursing workforce and improve diversity in patient care. Over time, this investment helps communities receive better, more culturally informed healthcare.
Leadership Roles and Board Involvement
Thelma Steward has served on several boards and advisory groups, including cultural and community organizations in St. Louis.
Her leadership style is hands-on and thoughtful. She focuses on governance, long-term planning, and expanding access rather than visibility or titles.
Through this work, she supports programs that improve education, arts access, and community stability. These roles allow her to influence policy, funding priorities, and institutional direction.
Awards, Honors, and Recognition
Thelma Steward’s work has earned formal recognition over the years.
In 2008, she and her husband received the Jane and Whitney Harris St. Louis Community Service Award for sustained regional impact.
In 2012, she was named a Woman of Achievement for her leadership and social contributions.
In 2014, Saint Louis University awarded her an honorary degree in recognition of her service to healthcare and education.
These honors reflect consistent effort, not one-time contributions.
Personal Life and Family
Thelma Steward is married to David L. Steward, founder and chairman of World Wide Technology. They have been partners since the mid-1970s, sharing a commitment to service and philanthropy.
They have two children. David Steward II is the CEO of Polarity, LLC. Kimberly Steward is a film producer and the CEO of K Period Media.
Family values play a strong role in their work. Service, responsibility, and giving back are treated as shared commitments across generations.
Values, Faith, and Giving Philosophy
Thelma Steward’s approach to giving is guided by faith, compassion, and long-term thinking.
She believes generosity should create lasting change, not temporary relief. This belief influences how programs are chosen and supported.
In practice, this means investing in education, strengthening institutions, and supporting underserved communities. Her decisions reflect a balance between heart and planning.
Lasting Legacy and Ongoing Influence
Thelma Steward’s work continues through the programs and institutions she supports. Scholarships are still opening doors. Foundations continue funding essential services.
Students, patients, families, and community organizations benefit from these efforts today.
Her legacy is not defined by a single project, but by a pattern of thoughtful, consistent action that strengthens communities over time.
Conclusion
Thelma Steward’s story shows how professional experience, values, and leadership can come together to create real change.
Her journey from nursing to philanthropy highlights the power of service guided by purpose and planning. It also reminds readers that meaningful impact often comes from steady, long-term commitment.
Her work remains relevant because the needs she addresses, education, healthcare, and opportunity, continue to shape communities today.
FAQs
Who is Thelma Steward?
Thelma Steward is a nurse, philanthropist, and community leader from St. Louis, Missouri, known for her work in healthcare, education, and charitable initiatives.
Why is she known in healthcare and philanthropy?
She is recognized for her nursing background and for supporting long-term programs that improve education, healthcare access, and workforce development.
What is her role in the Steward Family Foundation?
She helps guide the foundation’s mission, funding priorities, and long-term strategy, with a focus on sustainable community impact.
What is the Future Nurse of Excellence Scholarship?
It is a full-tuition scholarship that supports African American students pursuing nursing careers, helping strengthen diversity in healthcare.
How has she influenced the St. Louis community?
Through education programs, healthcare support, board leadership, and philanthropy, she has helped improve opportunities and outcomes across the region.
