Jill began as a member of IWF’s Leadership Circle before joining the Board of Directors as a member and past president.

Born and raised in Iowa, Jill earned a BA from Rutgers University and an MA from Winthrop University before returning to obtain an Ed.S. and Ed.D. from Drake University. She was an educator in New Jersey, South Carolina, Wisconsin, and Iowa—eventually retiring as a graduate instructor at Graceland University.

Jill is a former Christa McAuliffe Fellow for Iowa, and was named Iowa Teacher of the Year in 1996. She originated the idea of Silver Cords for Service for graduating seniors, and was recognized as a Marion Iowa Citizen of the Year and honored in the Marion School Foundation Hall of Fame.

Jill’s community service work has been extensive, including as an active Rotary member, past co-chair of the RAG4Clubfoot, and much more.