Say hi to Jeanette Reynolds, the newest member of the SA2020 Team! Jeanette is our Partner Engagement Specialist, and we’re thrilled to have her on board. Jeanette will work closely with our Partner agencies, providing support, building capacity, and showing how their efforts impact our shared community results. Before she does all that, though, we thought we’d put her through the wringer and ask some hard-hitting questions about how she got here, what she does outside of the office, and who her adorable sidekick is.

What brought you to SA2020?

As soon as I moved to San Antonio during the summer of 2014, I began researching community development efforts and found SA2020. I had just arrived from St. Louis where I was very engaged in the collaborative work of the environmental nonprofit with which I worked, as well as regional efforts similar to the SA2020 visioning process. I have been following the work of SA2020 and its partners ever since, and I am thrilled to join the team as Partnership Engagement Specialist.

What are you most excited about in your new role?

I am very passionate about the collective impact framework that SA2020 is activating to tackle the complex challenges that San Antonio will need to overcome to realize its vision.

I am excited that this collaborative approach allows me to work across sectors and with a diversity of organizations and stakeholders. I love meeting new people, and look forward to connecting with those passionate about making positive contributions toward the region’s future.

What do you do when you’re not working?

Volunteering has always played a large role in my life. Currently I am a volunteer assistant coach with Girls on the Run of Bexar County and serve on the Board of Directors for the League of Women Voters of the San Antonio Area.

No, but really, like what do you do for fun?

Oh yeah, that. I love being active outside! I try to go trail running and camping as often as possible. Government Canyon and Hill Country State Natural Areas are two of my favorite places to do both. My husband and I have been kayaking a lot lately on the Medina River through Castroville, which is always proceeded by a visit to Sammy’s Restaurant. And, of course, I live for long walks along the San Antonio River and bike rides around town.

What might we find if we Google you?

I hope you find an important life lesson about always making sure to check the integrity of a sea vessel before paddling away from shore without telling anyone.

We heard you can speak Fijian.

Io. Sa dina, au sa kila na vosa vakaviti lailai.

What’s something interesting about you that may surprise others?

I grew up on a small livestock farm in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and showed hogs, sheep, and rabbits at the fair. Among my accolades, I am proudest of earning the title of 1994 Shenandoah County Fair Outstanding Hog Showman.

What is the SA2020 Cause Area that speaks most to you and why?

This is a trick question, but if I had to answer, I would select Environmental Sustainability. I think that the “triple bottom line” concept of sustainability (people, profit, planet) speaks to the interconnectedness of the SA2020 vision. I also feel strongly that clean air, clean water, and a healthy ecosystem are vitally important to thrive as a species.

What is your favorite thing about San Antonio?

I really dig San Antonio’s vibe. It’s such a laid-back place that is very welcoming and diverse with a unique, vibrant culture. People always seem to be out and about enjoying green spaces and recreation areas, as well as socializing – and, there are so many opportunities to celebrate at events and parades!

If you had a super power, what would it be?

This is easy – I would most definitely desire the power to fly.

What’s on your bucket list?

As peculiar as it may seem, I do have a goal of developing a better relationship with snakes.

If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be and why?

My friend was just elected the President of Costa Rica, so I hope to visit soon.

Tell us about Daisy.

Daisy is my charismatic English Bulldog who happens to have the most pronounced underbite ever. You can see more of her at www.daisythebulldog.blogspot.com.