Jennifer’s first memories of libraries are from her elementary school in her hometown of Charles City, IA. What started with the Ramona series by Beverly Cleary led to the Sweet Valley High series by Francine Pascal and to more serious literature in high school (thanks Ms. Brant!). Campus visits from authors Toni Morrison and Cornel West formed valuable college memories. These days, you’ll find a variety of genres in Jennifer’s to-be-read pile, including WWII historical fiction, social justice nonfiction, and debut novels. 

As the Director of Development & Philanthropy, Jennifer works with library friends to connect their passions and philanthropic goals with the mission-driven needs of the library. She loves building relationships and creating strategies with our donors for gifts during their lifetimes and legacy gifts to last long into the future. Jennifer brings experience in fundraising and financial services from Thrivent and Gustavus Adolphus College (her alma mater). 

Active in the local arts community, Jennifer is in her 25th season as a soprano in the VocalEssence Chorus under the direction of Philip Brunelle and G. Phillip Shoultz III. She has shared the stage with artists such as Sounds of Blackness, Sweet Honey in the Rock, Dessa, Josh Groban, and Andrea Bocelli.