Jenn Porche

To Jenn Porche, curiosity means “never believing that you have it all figured out.” She said, “Curiosity is both fueled by and fuel for the motivation to grow, to serve, and to learn.”

Jenn’s curiosity led her to a career in education, first as a curriculum writer and instructor in K-12 schools, and now as a coordinator for ExperienceVT.

She said, “I have always felt as though my dream job would be to remain a student forever. Throughout my college experience, I realized my passion for learning had less to do with the knowledge I was gaining and more to do with the process.

The more I knew about a particular subject, the better questions I could ask, and the more I discovered that I had yet to learn.”

Her curiosity is driven by her desire to work hard and do good work.

As a K-12 instructor, she was inspired by her students’ wonder, imagination, and questions, and she found purpose in helping them learn and grow.

When she came to Virginia Tech, she found herself in community that shared her passion for service and her “desire to inspire the next generation of global citizens and leaders.”

Jenn said, “Nothing excites me more than solving problems, listening to stories, learning about others, and experiencing new things — all in the interest of being a better source of care and support for others.”

Jenn is responsible for shaping training programs for student leaders in Residential Well-Being. Her nominator said her curiosity and care have contributed to a culture of support within Residential Well-Being, noting, “Jenn holds her student leaders to high standards while simultaneously providing them with the guidance and encouragement they need to thrive.”

Her empathetic leadership helps students feel seen and connected to the community. Her innovative approach has led to programming that meets students where they are, such as a discreet referral system to help students find opportunities for belonging.

Jenn continuously seeks out professional development and leadership roles to hone her skills and better serve her community. Not long after starting her role, she volunteered to serve as co-chair of the Student Leader Training Committee, where she leveraged her expertise in instructional design to create engaging training experiences.

Recently, Jenn represented Residential Well-being in Student Affairs’ Entry Level Experience professional development series to expand her network and knowledge of community resources.

“Her participation in these experiences underscores her dedication to excellence and her drive to enhance her impact within the department,” said her nominator.

After recognizing the need for a safe space where professional staff could discuss difficult topics together, Jenn launched a Wednesday afternoon talk circle. The circle provides colleagues with a supportive environment to process and navigate challenges.

“This initiative reflects her deep sense of care for the well-being of those around her and her ability to support her peers,” said her nominator.

Jenn said, “Curiosity is always an act of humility that grounds a person in the notion that there is always more to learn. In difficult moments I remind myself that curiosity is kindness and bravery and that it has never failed me before.”

For living as a model of how great work comes from curious pursuits, Student Affairs is proud to present the Aspire! Award for Commit to Unwavering Curiosity to Jenn Porche.