We’re shining the spotlight on Jill Odens, Marketing Coordinator at the Women’s Fund of Omaha. Before joining the Women’s Fund, Jill was a digital media manager at the Greater Omaha Chamber, where she worked on the “We Don’t Coast” brand and shared stories about what makes Omaha a vibrant place to live, work and play. Prior to that, she was an admissions recruiter at Herzing University.
We sat with Jill and asked her a few questions about her experience so far at the Women’s Fund, and what she likes to do outside of work.
What’s your favorite part of working for the Women’s Fund?
I would say it’s being able to work with such an amazing group of talented, supportive individuals. Everyone is super passionate about the work they’re doing and it’s inspiring to be part of that. I also love that I’m part of an organization that is truly shaping the landscape of our community.
Describe the Women’s Fund in 3 words.
Passionate, Catalytic and Fearless
Best thing about living/working in Omaha?
I grew up in a small town in South Dakota so after college I knew I wanted to come to the “big city.” I love all the arts and entertainment in the community – KANEKO, Joslyn Museum, OutrSpaces, Slowdown, to name a few. I also feel like it’s a very welcoming place and there are a lot of opportunities to get plugged in through professional groups or volunteer work.
When you’re not working, what’s your favorite thing to do?
For the past three years, I’ve played in a sand volleyball league with friends at O’Leavers. I also enjoy running and accomplished a few 10k’s recently. I’m also a big fan of musical theater. This past fall I was fortunate enough to see Hamilton and looking forward to seeing Dear Evan Hanson in the spring.
What’s one goal you hope to accomplish in the next year?
In the next year, I want to dive deeper into the policy work at the Women’s Fund and be more aware of how policy affects our community.
What’s the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever done?
My parents were farmers, so growing up I had to help with many odd jobs around the farm. The worst of it was spraying weeds in the bean fields. Attached to the front of the tractor was a bar with four seats on it. My dad would drive the tractor up and down the rows as my siblings and I would spray weeds like cocklebur, velvetleaf, ragweed, etc. It was early mornings, hot, humid and really cut into our summer vibes.
What are you listening to these days?
‘Tis the season for Christmas music! I have a ton of vinyl albums of all the classics that I’ve been listening to since the first snowfall. I also really enjoyed Valerie Jarrett at the Lead the Change luncheon and have been listening to her audiobook.
If Hollywood made a movie about your life, who would you like to see cast as you?
Emma Stone. We don’t look anything alike, but she seems like a lovely human being and great actor.