Jen has been an active advocate for congenital heart defect research since 2016, when her indomitable daughter, Genevieve, was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Jen quickly learned of the power of The Children’s Heart Foundation community and the life-saving research and discoveries they make possible for Genevieve and all children battling congenital heart defects. As part of her deep commitment to CHF’s yearly goals, Jen has played a pivotal role in the annual Chicago Red Tie Ball, for which she served as co-chair from 2019-2023. She continues to serve in an advisory capacity to current and future gala chairs. Jen is excited to further support CHF as a Board Member.

Prior to stepping into her role as an advocate for children living with congenital heart defects and their families, Jen worked on defense policy issues specifically focused on Federal emergency disaster response. She holds a master’s degree in systems engineering from the University of Virginia and a bachelor’s in international economics from Georgetown University.  Jen is supported by her family—Brian, her husband, and her three children, Oliver, Genevieve, and Peter—who all share in her belief in the invaluable assistance The Children’s Heart Foundation provides to those striving to improve the outcomes of our heart warriors living with CHDs.