Meet Jeannette Wicks, Development Specialist for NJ & PA!

Hello there! My name is Jeannette Wicks and becoming a part of Susan G. Komen is a dream realized. As the Development Specialist for New Jersey & Pennsylvania, it is a blessing to be a part of such a dynamic team. Looking forward to connecting in all ways possible, you can even check me out on LinkedIn.

Where are you from originally? Where do you live now?

A born and raised Jersey Girl, I was born in Essex County, raised in Essex County, and continue to live in Essex County. What can I say, when I’m happy where I am, I stay!

Tell me more about where you came from.

The story is short and sweet, I’m a library fanatic — I love the library! I love to learn and immerse myself in information. Working in Development at the Library, I was a part of a team that provided invaluable services to the local community in Montclair, New Jersey. As time went by, I found I wanted to expand my passion for being of service to a broad population. I wanted to break out to do bigger endeavors and realized that my time at the library was coming to an end. That’s when the opportunity at Susan G. Komen came knocking on my door and I am so glad that I answered.

Why did you answer?

In early 2000, my cousin would call me on the phone and tell me about an amazing organization that focuses on advocating for women with breast cancer and asked me to participate in an event. When I arrived, I’d see thousands of women and families in pink, delighting in sharing their cancer survivor and thriver stories with such passion and enthusiasm– I’d stand in front of the podium watching and thinking, “How can I become a part of this movement?” The energy was palpable. These were my kind of people. Years later, here I am! Not only standing in essence AT the podium, but also enjoying every moment at Susan G. Komen.

And, why Susan G. Komen specifically?

I have had family and friends diagnosed with cancer throughout the years. One of the hardest things I’ve faced was when my friend was diagnosed with breast cancer and I didn’t know how to be there for her. I was uninformed. I wish I had the information I have now. When loved ones are going through tough times, I want to be there for them the best I can and have the tools and resources to give support. Now I have the chance to make an impact on the underserved and misrepresented.

And what do you like to do outside of Komen?

A sneak peek into my life outside of Komen resides a multifaceted individual.

· Tea drinker — coffee doesn’t taste very good to me, but I enjoy the smell of it.

· Avid power walker, nature lover

· I sing to almost every 90’s pop song, however, I can’t hold a note to save my life.

· Reading, writing, music, laughter. Life is too short not to enjoy it.

· I enjoy cooking and am known as a great home baker.

· A fan of HGTV and Hallmark Networks. When I first got on social media, I’d talk to anyone who was listening and would comment on shows that I was watching, even catching the attention of Oprah, Millionaire Matchmaker, Patti Stanger, and the original voice of Siri — Susan Bennett. On more than one occasion, I have had the pleasure of meeting hosts Property Brothers & Buying and Selling, Jonathan, and Drew Scott.

· I look forward to becoming a dog pet parent and having stamps on my passport.

There’s so much more, let me show you — here’s how…

How can we reach you?

Email me: jwicks@komen.org

Let’s Connect: 862–955–2920