Every month the Administrative/Professional (A/P) Council highlights an A/P staff member through a series of questions as another way for the Illinois State community to connect. This month readers can get to know Jennifer Sedbrook, Mennonite College of Nursing (MCN) development director.
As the college’s development director, what are your responsibilities?
My role is to raise funds for the Mennonite College of Nursing and engage our alumni and supporters in the important work the college does educating nurses and improving healthcare in our community.
How long have you been an employee at Illinois State?
Three years.
What do you love most about working at Illinois State?
Connecting with our alumni and donors. They all have a story of why they support MCN, and I love hearing about their experiences and passion for helping nursing students. I also like being involved in innovative projects where nurses can play an important part in improving our community’s health, which is important to me.
When you’re not working, what are you most likely doing?
Riding my bike. I love cycling on our country roads and have signed up to do the Ride Across Iowa this summer. I’m also involved in several organizations focused on women’s health. I enjoy playing mini-golf with my husband, John, professor of genetics for ISU’s School of Biological Sciences, and our sons, Bryce ’19, and Blake a sophomore at the University of Illinois.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
The fireplace in the Alumni Center. It’s a cozy place to meet.
What is one thing people would not know about you?
My master’s degree is in urban and regional planning. I’ve always loved walking in different neighborhoods, admiring various streetscapes and seeing how neighborhoods connect with schools, green space, transportation, etc.
What quote most inspires you? Why?
“If I can’t dance I don’t want to be part of your revolution.” -Emma Goldman.
To me, this says that important change initiatives also need to make room for individual expression and joyful celebrations.
