Jess Pedersen

In their role as exploratory adviser in the Center for Careers, Life, and Service, Jess supports first- and second-year students as they begin their professional, personal, and civic journeys. They strive to be a resource for students as they identify their values, interests, strengths, and passions. Their hope is to support students as they pursue meaningful opportunities and make connections in their communities along the way.

Jess is originally from Austin, Minnesota. In their previous role, they served as an area coordinator in residential life at Wartburg College, located in Waverly, Iowa. Jess received their bachelor's in religion from Wartburg College and their master's in postsecondary education: student affairs from the University of Northern Iowa.

Jess enjoys spending time with their family, friends, and dog Sky. They loves music and plays seven instruments. Their favorite instruments to play are the ukulele and piano. Jess also enjoys playing a leisurely game of tennis and yard games, throwing a softball around with friends, and listening to music from the Broadway musicals Rent and Wicked.