Getting to know a 2024 gcLi Lab Scholar – Jennifer Siff
1. Who are your favorite writers?
I’m currently reading David Brooks’ The Second Mountain and am thoroughly enjoying it. I also like Admiral William H. McRaven’s Make Your Bed. McRaven’s work is easily digestible and transferrable for all ages at various aspects of life. Finally, Malcolm Gladwell! I love anything he writes (or offers on his podcast)!
2. Who are your heroes in real life?
My heroes are individuals who can share gratitude, compassion, and joy after enduring hardship. Those who experience true trauma and devastation in their life and come out on the other side in a way that makes a positive impact on others. It’s those who get knocked down and get back up with a purpose who are heroes in my eyes.
3. Who or what motivated you to become an educator?
While I dont have a specific person who initially motivated me to get into the field of education, I do have many colleagues and friends who, through my journey in education have motivated me to grow, dig in, learn, and stretch myself. People like Jonathan Siff, Jack Eidam, Jay Harvey, and Bobby Wynne have been mentors and incredible supporters in the good times and especially in the times of difficulty.
4. Your idea of happiness…
Being on the water with my family!
5. In a nutshell, what is your definition of leadership?
I believe that strong leadership is demonstrated by being the hardest working person in the room. Leaders don’t ask someone to do something they wouldn’t do themself. They are in the trenches, are humble, honest, and selfless. They put the success of the group ahead of their personal success. They don’t crave recognition and credit for their work. They set high standards and create an environment where the team is eager to meet and exceed the standards. They value people vs. what people can do for them.
6. What do you most value in your friends?
I love being around joyful people. Life can easily break us down, but those who make time for joy and laughter are the ones I want to spend my time with.
7. What do you do for self-renewal?
I love listening to podcasts associated with positivity, overcoming adversity, and accomplishment. They give me a mental boost and set me out on a more grounded and intentional way after listening.
8. Who is your hero/ heroine of fiction?
Batman for his humility, dedication, and resilience!
9. What is your current state of mind?
I’m feeling joyful, relaxed, and grateful – it’s summer!
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Jennifer is in her 12th year at Salisbury School, an all-boys 9-PG boarding school in Salisbury, CT. As the Director of Campus Life, Jennifer oversees community initiatives, all school schedules, leadership development, and culture and character programming. She has designed and implemented various student-centered initiatives including a redesigned student leadership program. Jennifer was the proud recipient of the 2019 6th Form Medal at Salisbury, an honor presented by the graduating class to the faculty member who through service and dedication has made the most positive impact on the class. Jennifer works collaboratively with department leaders to improve school efforts to help the Salisbury community make daily improvements that result in big changes over time.
Prior to Salisbury, Jennifer worked for 8 years as the Director of Student Life at Wyoming Seminary. She graduated from King’s College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Athletic Training and from Wilkes University with a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. Jennifer lives on the beautiful Salisbury campus with her husband, Jonathan, sons Rowan and Powell, dog Reggie and cat Wallace.