As Chief Operating Officer, Jill oversees operational, grantmaking, and evaluation efforts to advance the organization’s mission of improving educational outcomes for Knox County students. While assisting with the development of strategic initiatives and innovative programs, she facilitates the foundation’s engagement with funders, Board of Directors, and external partners to ensure seamless alignment with the foundation’s strategic goals.

She originally was a teacher in Kentucky and Arizona and, upon moving to Knoxville in 2010, gained leadership experience working for nonprofits supporting youth mental health services and domestic violence prevention. Wanting to return to the education sector, Jill began her work with KEF, previously known as Great School Partnership, in 2015 as the founding Community School Site Coordinator at Beaumont Magnet Academy. She since has served as Executive Liaison to the CEO and Director of Special Projects at KEF.

Jill earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Murray State University. As an active community volunteer, she has served various roles including school support organizations and community non-profit organizations.

She resides in Knoxville with her husband, James, daughter, and son, both of whom are students in Knox County Schools. In her free time, she enjoys engaging in her kids’ activities, being outdoors, and reading.