YWCA Women of Excellence: Jennifer Cocking

What inspires you?

I am inspired by so many strong women in my life. Natalie Haag, who’s shown me that women can make a huge difference by volunteering in their communities. Becky Sanders, who’s shown me the value of building a strong network of female friends and colleagues. And my daughter Jory, who shows me daily how to love fiercely, forgive easily, and laugh uncontrollably.

What advice do you have for others?

Whether it’s at work or in your personal life, it’s essential to actively seek out people you trust who will support you, advise you, and lift you up.

What is the greatest lesson you have learned on your journey?

It’s equally important to take credit for your successes and responsibility for your failures.

What does your vision for our community look like?

I want this community to be a place where all women have the opportunity to succeed. For women to thrive, we have to prioritize access to education, healthcare, and affordable, quality childcare for all families. We must work diligently to eliminate our own explicit and implicit biases and elect and appoint leaders who are committed to these causes.

What does "Equal - Powerful - Unstoppable" mean to you?

Women have the right and the responsibility to be engaged as agents of change. Or, as I tell my 3-year-old daughter, “Girls can (and must!) do anything boys can do.”