MICC
Jessica Lehrke is a skilled wellness educator currently employed at Minnesota Independence College and Community since July 2023. Prior to this role, Jessica served as a registered dietitian at Cura Hospitality from August 2018 to July 2023 and held various positions at Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota from February 2012 to June 2018, including development operations associate, events manager, and events coordinator. Additional experience includes working as an alternative menu planner and cook at Herzl Camp Association, a nutrition services aide at Sholom Senior Housing and Assisted Living, and a dietetic intern at Wellness Workdays. Jessica also completed a nonprofit internship at Open Arms of Minnesota. Jessica Lehrke holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Nutrition Sciences from the University of Minnesota and a Culinary Foundations Certificate from Saint Paul College, along with additional qualifications in Graphic Design and Gender, Women and Sexuality Studies from Minneapolis College and the University of Minnesota, respectively.
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MICC
At Minnesota Independence College & Community (MICC), we apply real-life competencies, a unique curriculum, and experiential teaching strategies to achieve the ultimate goal: that autistic and neurodivergent adults live vibrant, independent lives, by attaining and maintaining employment and creating lasting social connections. We believe in the importance of vocational training. In a society where the ability to get and keep a job is one of the single most important factors to living independently, only 32.5% of autistic young adults currently work for pay. Through MICC College Program, graduates become employed and achieve independence. We believe in the benefits of being engaged in the community. Roughly one in four autistic young adults is considered socially isolated – meaning no contact with anyone outside of their family for over a year. They are more likely never to see friends, never get called by friends, and never be invited to activities. Through MICC College and MICC Community Programs, participants develop lifelong friendships and discover the joy of living a vibrant life. Learn more at www.miccommunity.org