Jenny S. Heyden

Jenny S. Heyden, M.S. Philanthropy has a diverse and extensive work experience in the fields of development, communications, and fundraising. Jenny S. currently holds the position of Vice President of Development and Communications at Jewish Family Services since January 2024. Prior to that, they worked as a Development and Communications Officer at Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education from April 2022 to January 2024.

Jenny also has experience as the Founder and Development Director at JSH Communications, where they returned in November 2021 on a consulting basis. From 2009 to 2013, they successfully raised funds and organized events in this role. Jenny S. previously served as the Development Communications and Digital Strategy Manager at Ascension from November 2018 to August 2021.

Before joining Ascension, Jenny worked as a Communications Specialist at the Village of Whitefish Bay from April 2015 to October 2018. Jenny S. also held positions as a Marketing Communications Specialist and Fundraiser at the Village of Shorewood from February 2009 to February 2016.

Jenny started their career as a Teaching Artist at Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education in August 1996, where they collaborated with Chicago Public School curriculum and instruction to integrate arts into the classroom. Jenny S. held this position until June 2008 and was involved in successful grants and public shows.

Additionally, Jenny has experience as a Client Services Manager at Northwestern University from January 1996 to January 2004. Prior to that, they worked as a Marketing and Communications Manager and Database Manager/Marketing Associate at Northwestern Memorial Hospital from January 1991 to January 1996.

Throughout their career, Jenny has demonstrated their skills in fundraising, development, communications, event planning, and marketing. Their experience spans both the nonprofit and healthcare sectors, showcasing their versatility and dedication to philanthropy.

Jenny S. Heyden, M.S. Philanthropy, obtained their Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in German Language and Literature, with concentrations in Computer Science and Studio Art, from Oberlin College. Jenny S. then pursued a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, specifically from the Helen Bader Institute of Nonprofit Management and Leadership. In addition to their formal education, Jenny has completed an internship in Entomology at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Furthermore, they hold an ASL Level 1 Certification in American Sign Language from the Oklahoma School for the Deaf. Jenny has also obtained several certifications including Stand Up Comedy Training Level 1 from The Second City, Certification in Major Gift Initiatives and the Campaign from the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy, Professional Artist certification from Steinman Studios, and Audio Describer certification from ArtReach, allowing their to provide live voiceovers during performances for the visually impaired.