…providing her the freedom to be herself.
As often is the case, UWGB students learn an incredible amount during their time on campus. However, Jessica Knox’s most important lesson learned was one not found in a book or lecture.
“The most important aspect of my UWGB education was that I was finally in a safe environment to grow and learn as a person. I came out at UWGB and am now an involved member of the LGBT community where I live,” Jessica says. “I also learned what I’m passionate about and how to use that passion to continue learning and growing.”
But Jessica’s transformation would not have been possible without one inspirational individual.
“Joanie Dovekas, hands down, was the most impactful person at UWGB for me. She inspired me to work in Higher Education and always made sure I knew that I was cared about as a person, especially in the hardest of times,” Jessica explains. “Everything she did for me and the support she provided could go on for pages. I can very honestly say I wouldn’t have made it through my college career without Joanie’s help.”
Now working in Higher Education–Financial Services, to be precise–Jessica has made an ideal life for herself, stemming from the nurturing support UWGB provided her.
“I’m engaged to be married to an incredible woman, and I have a career in financial aid that I love,” Jessica says. “I am constantly looking for new things to learn about my field and I have managed to network pretty well, both in my immediate region and nationally. I am comfortable, happy with who I am, and I have a wonderful career.”
Name: Jessica M. Knox
Grad Year: 2010
Major: Human Development
Minor: Mathematics
Photo submitted by: Jessica Knox
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We’ve asked alumni to either share stories of how their lives were transformed by the UWGB experience or how they are making the world a better place with transformational work in their careers, homes, or volunteer experiences. As UWGB celebrates its 50th Anniversary, meet an alum each week who has experienced a “UW-Green Bay Transformation.” Stories were self-submitted and then edited by Zachary Taylor, a 2010 English Education graduate currently serving as Interim Associate Director of the Phuture Phoenix program.