Stephanie Sarkisian: Life, Career, and the Story Behind Steve Sarkisian’s Ex-Wife

Stephanie Sarkisian is often recognized as the former wife of college football coach Steve Sarkisian, but her life goes far beyond that connection. She is a devoted mother, a committed educator, and a woman who has built her own identity with resilience and grace. While she has chosen to live away from the spotlight, Stephanie’s story is one of strength, family dedication, and professional achievement. From her early days in California to her career in education and her journey as a mother of three, Stephanie represents quiet determination and balance. This article takes an in-depth look at Stephanie Sarkisian’s life, career, family, and values, while also shedding light on the story behind her marriage to Steve Sarkisian.

Quick Bio Information

Full Name: Stephanie Sarkisian
Date Of Birth: 1975
Age (As Of 2025): 50 Years Old
Place Of Birth: Los Angeles, California, USA (Some sources mention Japan)
Heritage: Japanese-American
Education: University Of Southern California (USC), University Of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Profession: Educator And School Administrator
Ex-Spouse: Steve Sarkisian (Married 1997, Divorced 2016)
Children: Three – Ashley, Taylor, And Brady
Net Worth: Around $1 Million
Social Media: Private, Not Publicly Active

Early Life And Background

Stephanie Sarkisian was born in 1975 into a Japanese-American family that valued hard work, kindness, and education. She spent her early years in Los Angeles, though some sources suggest that she may have also lived in Japan during her childhood. What shaped her most was the strong sense of responsibility that her family instilled in her. Growing up, she learned to appreciate both cultural traditions and modern American life, which gave her a unique identity. She attended West High School in Torrance, California, where her interest in learning and teaching began to take root. Those who knew her in school often describe her as a thoughtful and determined young woman who placed great importance on family and academics.

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Education And Career Path

After graduating high school, Stephanie pursued her higher education at the University of Southern California and later at UCLA. She focused her studies on education and school administration, areas that matched her natural strengths and passion for guiding young people. Stephanie began her career as a teacher, where she quickly became known for her ability to connect with students. Later, she advanced into school administration, taking on greater responsibilities and helping to shape educational programs. Beyond her professional role, Stephanie also dedicated her time to community causes, supporting awareness programs for breast cancer and AIDS. Her career reflects her belief in service, leadership, and the power of education to change lives.

Meeting Steve Sarkisian

Stephanie’s life took a new turn when she met Steve Sarkisian during their years at West High School in Torrance. Their relationship began as a high school romance, rooted in shared experiences and mutual respect. As they continued into their college years, their bond grew stronger, and they eventually married in 1997. At the time, Steve was at the start of his career in football, first as a player and later as a coach. Stephanie became a constant source of support, balancing her own career and personal goals with the demands of life alongside an aspiring football coach.

Who Is Steve Sarkisian

To understand Stephanie Sarkisian’s story, it is important to know more about Steve Sarkisian. Born in 1974 in Torrance, California, Steve is of Armenian and Irish descent. He began his athletic career as a baseball player at USC before moving to football at El Camino College and then Brigham Young University, where he excelled as a quarterback. After college, he played in the Canadian Football League with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. His coaching journey soon followed, leading him through positions at the University of Washington, USC, the Atlanta Falcons, and the University of Alabama. Since 2021, he has served as the head coach of the Texas Longhorns, achieving major milestones including a Big 12 Championship in 2023 and a College Football Playoff appearance.

Marriage And Family Life

Stephanie and Steve married in 1997, embarking on a partnership that lasted nearly two decades. Like many families in the world of professional sports, theirs was filled with both opportunities and challenges. As Steve’s coaching career grew, so did the demands of travel, long hours, and public attention. Stephanie, however, provided a steady foundation for their family, ensuring that home life remained stable and supportive. She balanced the roles of being a coach’s wife, a professional educator, and a mother with remarkable strength. Despite the challenges of public life, Stephanie focused on creating a warm and nurturing environment for their children.

Children Of Stephanie Sarkisian

Stephanie Sarkisian is a proud mother of three children: Ashley, Taylor, and Brady. Each of them has grown up with the values of education, discipline, and family unity that Stephanie prioritized. Ashley, the eldest, graduated from New York University in 2024 with a degree in International Relations and minors in Spanish and Portuguese. She was a standout volleyball player in high school and has since spoken on platforms like TEDx, and she is now pursuing law at the University of Texas. Taylor, the middle child, keeps a lower profile but is celebrated within the family for her warmth and close relationship with her parents. In 2024, her father publicly shared a heartfelt message for her 16th birthday. Brady, the youngest, has followed in his father’s footsteps in football. He joined the Texas Longhorns as a linebacker in 2023 after excelling at Corona del Mar High School. Brady is currently majoring in Sociology and continues to balance his studies with athletics.

Divorce And Life After Separation

After nearly twenty years of marriage, Stephanie and Steve Sarkisian decided to separate, and their divorce was finalized in 2016. The decision was based on irreconcilable differences, though the couple kept the details private to protect their family. Divorce is never easy, especially under public scrutiny, but both Stephanie and Steve worked to maintain a respectful relationship. Their shared priority has always been co-parenting their children with love and support. For Stephanie, the years following the divorce became a time of rebuilding and redefining her life. She focused on creating stability for her children and strengthening her career, all while maintaining her quiet dignity.

Personal Traits And Values

Stephanie Sarkisian is known for her humility, resilience, and preference for privacy. Unlike many connected to public figures, she has chosen to stay away from social media and public appearances. This choice reflects her values: focusing on family, education, and personal growth rather than attention. Her calm personality, determination, and dedication to her children have helped her navigate life’s challenges. Those who know her describe her as grounded and strong, someone who inspires trust and admiration.

Financial Overview And Independence

While much of the public attention has been on Steve Sarkisian’s career earnings, Stephanie has built her own financial independence. With an estimated net worth of around one million dollars, she has achieved stability through her career in education and the divorce settlement. While this figure is modest compared to Steve’s estimated five million, Stephanie’s financial standing represents her independence and ability to provide security for herself and her children. This independence has allowed her to maintain control of her own life and ensure that her children’s futures are supported.

Life Beyond The Spotlight

Stephanie Sarkisian has intentionally chosen a life away from constant media coverage. She may not appear in headlines often, but her influence is felt strongly within her family and community. Her support of her children’s dreams and her involvement in education and awareness programs show her commitment to making a difference without seeking recognition. In many ways, her quiet strength highlights the important but often unseen roles that spouses and parents play in high-profile families. Her life demonstrates that personal impact does not always need public validation.

Recent Life And Updates

As of 2025, Stephanie continues to devote her energy to her family and her role in education. With Ashley advancing in law school, Brady building his path in college football, and Taylor continuing her studies, Stephanie’s guidance remains central in their lives. While she avoids public interviews and appearances, those close to her know she values stability and family above all. She has created a life centered on growth, privacy, and love, which serves as a reminder that fulfillment often comes from the people and values we hold dear.

Legacy And Inspirational Message

Stephanie Sarkisian’s story is a reminder that strength does not always come with public recognition. Her dedication to her children, her career, and her personal values makes her an example of resilience and balance. For women managing the demands of career and family, Stephanie’s journey is especially inspiring. She shows that success can be found in quiet strength, in dedication to loved ones, and in building a meaningful life beyond public attention. Her legacy is not defined by fame but by the love, stability, and inspiration she has given to her family and community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Stephanie Sarkisian is far more than Steve Sarkisian’s ex-wife. She is a woman who has shaped her own path with dignity and determination. From her early years in California to her career in education and her life as a mother of three, Stephanie has shown that resilience and values can guide us through life’s challenges. While her name may not be in the spotlight, her story resonates with anyone who values family, dedication, and quiet strength. Stephanie Sarkisian reminds us that sometimes the most impactful lives are those lived with humility, purpose, and love.

FAQs About Stephanie Sarkisian

Who Is Stephanie Sarkisian?
Stephanie Sarkisian is an American educator and school administrator best known as the ex-wife of football coach Steve Sarkisian. She is also the mother of three children: Ashley, Taylor, and Brady.

How Old Is Stephanie Sarkisian?
She was born in 1975, making her 50 years old in 2025.

What Does Stephanie Sarkisian Do For A Living?
She works in the field of education as both a teacher and a school administrator. She has also been involved in community awareness programs.

How Many Children Does She Have?
Stephanie has three children: Ashley, who is pursuing law; Taylor, who is still in high school; and Brady, who plays college football at Texas.

When Did Stephanie And Steve Sarkisian Divorce?
They divorced in 2016 after nearly 20 years of marriage.

Does Stephanie Sarkisian Use Social Media?
No, Stephanie chooses to remain private and is not active on public social media platforms.

What Is Stephanie Sarkisian’s Net Worth?
Her estimated net worth is around one million dollars, mainly from her career in education and her divorce settlement.