Jess is an Atlanta native and the 16th person ordained at KUCC in 2022. She has a B.A. from the University of Georgia (go dawgs!) and an MDiv. from the Candler School of Theology. After graduation, Jess embarked on a nearly 15-year career in congregational ministry, working all over the state of Georgia before returning to the Candler School of Theology as the Academic Programs Associate in the Office of Methodist Studies. Jess joined the staff at KUCC in 2025 quarter-time as the Pastor to Children, Youth, and Parents. When not working, Jess loves hanging out with her wife, Lauren, and their son, Jules, and eating any and every gluten-free pastry the city provides.