Jennette Siebens
Director of School-Based Mental Health Program
Published: Apr 20, 2017
Why did you choose Family Service Association of Greater Elgin Area?
I chose to work at FSA Elgin for the challenge of program development and the opportunity to help guide and learn from others.
If you had to give a 2-minute elevator speech on what you do every day, what would you say?
Right now, we are expanding, creating, and building a program to impact how we help families in the community in the most effective way.
What is the best part of working in the mental health field?
Working in the field of mental health gives me the opportunity to impact AND be impacted by another person every day.
What is the favorite part of your job?
Being a part of a passionate organization that has a powerful presence in the community!
Who has had the most influence on your work career?
The wisdom of my Dad, who instilled the value of “being comfortable in your own skin”- “finding your niche” and “doing what you love.”
What is your favorite quote?
“Move out on the MAYBE or you’ll miss the MIRACLE”….. meaning that you need to take a risk on the unknown to discover what could change your life! Take a chance!
If you could meet someone, dead or alive, who would it be?
I would like to travel with Andrew Zimmern & eat the local street food across the globe. It’s the best way to submerge yourself into traditions of other cultures.
People would be surprised if they knew I ...
...used to make a living as a Stained-Glass Artist. I worked for a shop that did architectural stained glass for homes, churches, and businesses. Now it’s more of an independent hobby where I build and repair windows for friends and folks in the neighborhood.
If you could pick a superpower what would it be?
A superpower? That’s a LOT of responsibility. I’d just like to have a pair of ruby slippers where I can click my heels together, and be anywhere in an instant!
Favorite Food?
I love a steamed artichoke with melted butter…. Simple & delicious!
Weirdest thing you've ever eaten?
As a result of my international travels, I have tried more strange foods than I can name. I agree that anything is worth trying for the experience. It takes 2 bites- the first bite preps your palate so you can accurately taste your second bite.
What is the most interesting place that you've visited?
The southern tip of Chile- the rural lake regions- it’s beautiful! South of Puerto Montt is so remote that the boat I was on was greeted by a canoe in the middle of the lake. The crew brought a student on board who needed to get to shore, to get the bus, to get to school! That’s TEAMWORK!