Originally from Narragansett, Rhode Island, Jessica developed a passion for nature early on, spending New England summers exploring the coastline, hiking, kayaking and whitewater rafting.
After being exposed to issues of climate change and environmental degradation throughout high school, Jessica studied English and Environmental Studies at Boston College. Upon graduation, Jessica relocated to work in grassroots fundraising, and running effective membership-building for Environment Florida. Although Jessica often visited South Florida growing up, it was not until she began this campaign work and spent time exploring those places where she was working to protect that she could fully appreciate the uniqueness of the Everglades and other South Florida ecosystems.
Shifting gears slightly, Jessica has spent over a decade working in healthcare philanthropy, focusing in the areas of cancer and diabetes cure research. She currently serves as an Assistant Vice President at the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation. Although she no longer works professionally on environmental issues, Jessica continues to develop her skills in fundraising, operations, and volunteer mobilization.
Jessica has a particular passion for issues of climate change, sustainability, and marine conservation, and hopes to engage and mobilize more youth who care about environmental issues.