Jessica Beckendorf
UW-Madison Extension
Play Matters! Build Team Trust and Collaboration with Improv
Jessica Beckendorf
I am a community development professional with over 20 years of experience. I'm also one of the co-creators and co-hosts of the Practicing Connection in a Complex World podcast. Most of my work is centered on my roles as facilitator, applied improv practitioner and community change champion. I live by the mantra that 'play matters' and I infuse that energy into everything I do.
Role
Jessica is a Community Development Educator in Waupaca County. Jessica's work is currently focused on social connectedness and leadership development, including overseeing the long-running Leadership Waupaca County program. She also holds an appointment with the Military Families Learning Network, studying networks and network weaving.
Background
Jessica is a Community Resource Development Educator for Extension. In her role, she seeks to bridge her community systems experience with communications and relationship development to build social capital and local leadership for more resilient communities. Her previous experience spans 20 years and includes work in community development, Geographic Information Systems, planning and zoning, and economic development. She became passionate about communities while growing up as a military kid, moving frequently and living in communities of various sizes across the country.
Education
Jessica has a Master's Degree in Communication and Leadership Studies with a certificate in International Media from Gonzaga University. She attended UW-Green Bay for her Bachelor's Degree in Urban and Regional Studies.
UW-Madison Extension
Extension's mission is to connect people with the University of Wisconsin. We are a division of UW-Madison, but located in every County of the state, on four year campuses, and within Tribal Nations. Our programs connect you to the research and expertise of the University. Extension provides educational programming for everyone in the community, from youth to elders, gardeners to farmers, citizens to elected officials. We provide educational programs on agriculture, community development, human development and relationships, health & well-being, natural resources, and positive youth development.
Find Presenter on…
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicabeckendorf/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/uwexjess