What advice do you have for current Belk College students?
It is important to be technically competent and knowledgeable about your work. It is equally valuable to build a network of personal connections to be successful. A strong business network broadens your view of the world and provides opportunities to expand your perspective. This will translate into how you treat your clients, colleagues and community.
When did you graduate and what was your major?
I graduated in 2001 with a major in Finance with a concentration in Risk Management and Insurance. I received a minor in Mathematics and was in the University Honors Program.
What kinds of opportunities did you have at UNC Charlotte, such as membership in student groups, sports played, internships, study-abroad?
I was very active at UNC Charlotte in student activities.
- Emerging Leaders Program
- University Honors Program
- Resident Advisor in Sanford Hall
- SOAR counselor
- Student Body President’s Cabinet Member
- Alpha Delta Pi Sorority
- Panhellenic Council
- Summer Conference Leader
- Campus Tour Guide
- Alternative Spring Break Participant – community service trip to Philadelphia
- Homecoming Queen
Why did you choose UNC Charlotte?
Initially, I considered UNC Charlotte because I was offered an academic scholarship. After touring campus and learning about the student activity opportunities, it was clear that UNC Charlotte was the right choice for me.
What was the best part of your Belk College experience?
The Risk Management and Insurance program was newly created during my time at UNC Charlotte. It was exciting to be a part of the developing curriculum, join a small group of students within the Belk College to focus in this area and witness the commitment of the College and Professors to this discipline.
What was your first job after graduation?
In my last year at UNC Charlotte, I worked at TransAmerica Reinsurance in the international actuary department. My professor made my connection into that role.
During my last semester at UNC Charlotte, I attended a regional risk management conference where I had the opportunity to network and learn. During that conference, I met the office president of an insurance brokerage firm. I joined that company shortly after graduation.
What is your current role?
In my role as Senior Vice President at Lockton, I work with non-profit and for-profit organizations to identify, assess, and manage their financial, operational, and reputational risks. This is accomplished by understanding the goals of my clients and leading the Lockton teams in risk management strategy, insurance program design, alternative risk finance, claims advocacy, and risk control. My clients include real estate developers, construction firms, media companies, highly acquisitive entities, higher education, social service organizations, trade associations and membership organizations.
Lockton is the world’s largest privately held insurance brokerage firm.
What did you learn in the Belk College that has best prepared you for your career?
The Belk College provided me a broad education in all areas of business – i.e. law, accounting, finance, investments, operations, marketing, organizational change, and risk management. This background prepared me to speak with my clients across multiple areas of risks, not simply insurance.
What is the importance of giving back to you in terms of time, talent or treasures?
Business and community leaders provided helping hands during my career. I am incredibly fortunate for the opportunities afforded to me through those experiences. Now, I devote my time and talents to safeguard, foster and further the aspirations of others – my family, community, clients and the next generation of students that will shape the world.
Being actively involved in philanthropy is a great way to give back. I work with groups that support students living in poverty as well as the advancement of women. I currently sit on the Board of Directors for AAUW. The vision is equity for all through advancing gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy.
In 2020, Jenna will step into the role of Board President for CREW DC. This organization’s mission is to advance women in commercial real estate through education, networking, professional development and mentorship.
Previously I served as the Board Treasurer for 826DC, a nonprofit dedicated to working with students to develop their writing skills and to helping teachers inspire their students to write. I also chair the Annual Harvest for Hope for Volunteers of America Chesapeake raising funds to end homelessness in Northern Virginia. In addition, she joined the Finance Committee of Community of Hope, an organization that provides quality healthcare and stable housing to families in the DC Metro area.
