Jean Jernigan, CAE, IOM, CMP
MSAE role: Chair Elect
1st Year of Involvement in MSAE: 1996
Professional role: President
Employer: Auburn Hills Chamber of Commerce
Years in Current Position: 7
In-office, hybrid or remote: Hybrid
MSAE: Tell us a little bit about your experience working with or for associations.
JJ: You won't make millions of dollars but it is an incredibly rewarding and fun career choice.
JJ: I joined the Membership Committee to get to know association professionals.
JJ: It was always part of my bucket list to give back to this great profession.
JJ: My husband, Bradley, and I have been married for 29 years. We have an 18 year old son and an adorable pug, Betti. Clarkston is home but Auburn Hills is where I spend most of my time.
JJ: I walk the dog or spend time with family/friends. I also enjoy sitting on a beach drinking fun cocktails and exploring new places.
JJ: I serve on some local boards - the Downtown Development Authority and Auburn Hills Community Foundation. Statewide, I serve on the Michigan Society of Association Executives board. To give back, I serve on the Neighborhood House board - they serve those who need assistance to get back on their feet, food, clothing, financial support, housing assistance.
JJ: Do it! It is so rewarding and a great way to learn about new opportunities and ways to do things differently.
JJ: Making cold calls is my super power. I don't have enough time to do it as often as I should but, when I do, I can accomplish great things. :)