Member since: March 14, 2024

Dear members of the Delaware Valley Ornithological Club,

Allow me to introduce myself – I'm Jenny Herrera, a 36-year-old with a
penchant for wearing many hats. My journey has led me through various
academic pursuits and life experiences, shaping me into the person I
am today.

My educational voyage began at the Community College of Philadelphia,
where I earned an Associate's degree in Applied Science, majoring in
American Sign Language/English Interpreting in 2015. This initial step
marked the beginning of my exploration into the realm of communication
and understanding.

Building upon this foundation, I pursued a Bachelor's degree in
Applied Science at Siena Heights University, majoring in American Sign
Language Interpreting with a minor in Psychology. However, life had
more twists in store for me. As a mother of two beautiful sons,
navigating personal and familial challenges became an integral part of
my journey. It was during this time that I discovered my resilience
and adaptability.
My path took another turn when my eldest son's life journey led me
into the realm of special education. From volunteering in his early
intervention program to working at the Timothy School, I found myself
immersed in the world of individuals with special needs. As a
freelance interpreter, I had the privilege of bridging communication
gaps and facilitating understanding in diverse settings.

The winds of change blew once again with the onset of the pandemic,
prompting me to shift gears towards a new career focus in
Organizational Development and Leadership. As I approach the
culmination of my studies at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic
Medicine, I reflect on the transformative power of adaptability and
perseverance.

While my academic pursuits have been diverse, my love for birds has
remained a constant throughout my life. Born & raised in Philly so I
bleed green, GO BIRDS! I was also raised by my grandmother, born 1932,
and her passion for birds ignited my own curiosity, fostering a
lifelong connection to nature's winged wonders.


Now, as I embark on this new chapter of my life, I find solace and
inspiration in the company of birds. Their melodies serve as a
reminder to embrace the present moment and find respite amidst life's
challenges. With my son growing older and the prospect of an empty
nest on the horizon, I am drawn to the Delaware Valley Ornithological
Club as a sanctuary for mindfulness and connection.

As I navigate the final stages of my master's program, I recognize the
importance of self-care and balance in leadership. Membership in the
DVOC offers me the opportunity to cultivate a mindful outlet,
fostering personal growth and resilience in the face of challenges.

I look forward to embarking on this avian adventure with you all,
sharing in the wonder and beauty of our feathered friends.