Welcome to the team, Veronica!

Learn more about Veronica in this Q&A.

9/15/2020
The JPEF team is proud to welcome the newest member of our team, Veronica Session-Fennell. Veronica is working as our Manager of Operations & Development and Executive Assistant to JPEF President Rachael Tutwiler Fortune.
She's a Jacksonville native, a proud Jacksonville University graduate and an experienced development professional. We asked Veronica to tell us a little bit more about her in the Q&A below.
Why does public education matter to you personally?
Public education matters to me because it is where futures begin. Our students will be tomorrow's lawyers, doctors, presidents...you name it! Attending Duval County Public Schools has prepared me to exceed my personal and professional goals. I believe that ALL students should have a free and high quality learning experience; that begins with public education.
Tell us about a teacher who made an impact on your life.
Ms. Huff was my favorite teacher while attending Jean Ribualt Middle School. The lessons that she taught me surpassed the subject of language arts and reading. During a time in my life where I was dealing with bullies and peer pressure, she motivated me to be myself and strive to be an academic leader with confidence. Her class was always filled with positivity and empowerment. 
Why are you excited to join JPEF at this juncture in your career?
I love JPEF's mission to spark innovation, relationships and resources to power the potential within and around our public schools to achieve excellent outcomes for all students. Attending Title I schools growing up allowed me to see the opportunity gap firsthand. It's sadly becoming "the norm" in many communities. I'm glad to be a part of an organization that is helping to close the gap, so that all students can be inspired and prepared for success in college or a career and life.

 

Welcome to the team, Veronica! 

DID YOU KNOW?

 

93%

of public schools in Duval County earned an "A," "B," or "C" in 2021-2022.