Hi everyone,
I am Jill Westberry, the new Civic Engagement Director! As a native of Minnesota who has lived in three different states, I bring a good mixture of experiences and perspectives to this role.
Outside of work, my interests include reading, the performing arts, watching documentaries and sports, traveling, volunteering, and spending time with friends and family. I love living, laughing, and enjoying life!
I have roots in disability work and advocacy. My mother worked in the field, starting at PACER Center and what was then called the Minneapolis Society for the Blind. Our family was very involved with PACER in volunteering and helping in various ways, such as with their fundraising events and youth programs. This was truly a highlight for us and, we have good memories from those experiences! Growing up with a younger family member who had multiple disabilities helped shape my commitment to this work.
After I obtained my undergraduate degree in business from Carlson School of Management, I started working in marketing and communications. I then moved into education, working with the Minneapolis Public School District (K-12), managing an after-school enrichment program where a large percentage of the students had disabilities. This was my introduction to the world of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans.
I earned a master’s degree and spent many years in higher education administration and leadership. Later, I went to work for Job Corps, a federal workforce development program under the U.S. Department of Labor. I directed teams that managed ADA compliance, disability services, and student career development.
After this, I came back to Minnesota and started working for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources as their ADA Coordinator (Human Resources Unit Head). In this role, I primarily focused on providing strategic leadership for Title I of the ADA, while also providing consultation for Title II.
Through these roles, I bring extensive experience in civic engagement and public relations. I am delighted to be here at the Minnesota Council on Disability, serving our community and constituents!