Jessica V.

Jessica V. has a diverse work experience in communications and public relations. Jessica is currently the Director of Communications at Legal Aid Ontario, starting in 2023. Previously, Jessica worked at Kensington Health from 2016 to 2022, where they held the role of Director of Communications, Engagement, and Experience, overseeing communications initiatives aligned with the organization's goals and guiding senior leadership. Jessica also managed crises communications involving COVID-19 as the Manager of Communications.

Prior to Kensington Health, Jessica worked at Health Quality Ontario (HQO) from 2014 to 2016 as a Senior Communications Advisor. In this role, they led successful communication campaigns, advised various programs within HQO, and organized events.

Before HQO, Jessica gained experience at University Health Network from 2012 to 2014. Jessica held multiple roles within the organization, including Editor of Corporate Communications, Public Affairs Associate, Corporate Communications Coordinator, and Public Affairs Intern. In these positions, Jessica managed communication platforms, developed content for various channels, coordinated with media, and contributed to media relations and strategic communications.

In 2011, Jessica also volunteered at Distress Centres of Greater Toronto.

Overall, Jessica V. has a strong background in strategic communications, crisis management, media relations, and event planning, with experience in both the healthcare and legal sectors.

Jessica V. has a diverse education history, beginning with their Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) degree in Speech Communication from the University of Waterloo, which they obtained from 2003 to 2008. Following this, in 2011 to 2012, they pursued a Certificate in Public Relations (Deans List) from Humber College.

Continuing to expand their skillset, Jessica completed courses at George Brown College in 2013, including Digital Video Editing and Cinematography and Lighting Design I. Furthermore, they gained an Advanced Risk Communication Certificate in Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management from George Brown College Continuing Education from 2019 to 2021.

In terms of their recent educational pursuits, Jessica is currently enrolled at Queen's University, pursuing a Professional Master of Public Administration degree from the School of Policy Studies. This program will span from 2022 to 2024.

In addition to their academic achievements, Jessica has obtained certifications in Antiracism and Foundations in Diversity and Inclusion from the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) in August 2021 and July 2021, respectively.