Jessica Hejny is a people-first leader with a passion for teaching the next generation of healthcare professionals. She believes that an environment fostering collaboration, teamwork, and a mindset of lifelong learning will better prepare students for success as they transition into their careers. Her "get-it-done" mentality was shaped by her upbringing in a blue-collar Midwest community that instilled the belief that no job is beneath anyone. As a young adult, she was drawn to the study of the human body, specifically, the inner workings of the cardiovascular system. Jessica attended the University of Wisconsin?Milwaukee, where she obtained a Bachelor?s in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Her inspiration for teaching was sparked by her clinical instructors at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison. After gaining years of valuable experience working as a sonographer and preceptor, she transitioned to a faculty role with Austin Community College. She now leads the Sonography department for ACC. Outside of work, Jessica values the time she gets to spend with her two children, husband, and animals. Jessica's hobbies include reading, gardening, traveling, and cheering on the Packers in the fall.