America’s involvement in recent wars is one of the most difficult and contentious topics that students in my course consider. When Jill brought her passion and pride to my classroom, telling the story of her son’s service and their shared sacrifice, she was able to reframe the war discussion. What had been divisive and political became human. Rather than causing an argument, Jill brought my students closer together. Her visit was the most powerful learning experience of the semester.
  - Jon Lurie, Professor, University of MN School of Social Work

Jill is an exceptionally talented public speaker. My fellow veterans and I were truly honored to have her as a guest speaker at our veteran’s summit recently. The gentle but powerful manner with which she shared the heroic story of her son Ben instantly captivated our attention. Jill’s very personal story of strength, courage and giving back is extremely motivating and inspirational. Comments I heard from audience members were “wow, she stole the show!” and “she was the best part of the entire summit”. Jill’s rare ability to connect with an audience at many levels is second to none. She was definitely the highlight of our day.
  - Jim Lungstrom, SGT U.S. Army, Assistant Director, Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry

Listening to Jill's speech tapped into something very deep and real with me. Her photos of Ben really hit home and made me both smile and cry. She was one of the best motivational speakers I have ever heard. She puts a lot in perspective and I hope to some day be an eighth as strong as her. I have told her story to about 20 people, it's just that good.
  - Brittany Gen Hagan, SGT U.S. Army MN National Guard, Combat Medic, Host, KQRS Morning Show

Sanofi (Bridgewater, NJ) hosted Jill for our Veteran’s Day event Veteran’s day 2018.  She gave a very moving and inspirational presentation about her son and her experience being a Gold Star Mother.  Her presentation was so genuine and real, we felt like we knew her and her son Ben by the time she was finished speaking.  Her messages were of hope, resilience and love and everyone in the audience was touched.  We received great feedback from many of those who attended.  Jill and her representative (Veronica)  were a joy to work with while we were planning the event.  They were very accommodating and flexible.  I highly recommend Jill as a presenter especially if you are looking for someone to motivate and inspire with words of hope, resilience and love. 
-Colleen Jones, Sanofi, Manager, Global Functions

Jill is a gifted, powerful speaker who recently delivered the heroic story of her son Ben's selflessness, courage and sacrifice to our Cub Scout Pack. Despite the tragic and mature nature of her story, Jill was able to engage and connect with each of the 30 1st - 4th graders at an age appropriate level. She shared stories of how her son was just like each of the Scouts when he was younger, then showed them dozens of pictures of his life, sports, hobbies and time in the service. She held them completely spellbound and attentive throughout her 20 minute talk. In my four years as a scout leader and parent, I have never seen anyone else have the same effect on such young kids. Thanks to Jill, all the scouts and their parents left that night's meeting with a deep appreciation and respect for Ben - and all our nation's service members.
  -JohnMark Reimann, Global Product Management & Business Development Leadership, Prime Therapeutics

I had the honor to have Jill as a guest speaker at the Government Printing Office's Veteran's Day Ceremony in 2013. Her story and her passion blew the audience away. She rose above insufferable tragedy to share her story in a mission to spread awareness about organ donation. My life is truly blessed to have met her and heard her story in person. Her presentation at the ceremony was an inspiration and a reminder to all those present to count each blessing and remember we are each able to make a difference in the lives of others. One audience member said the ceremony was the best they had seen at the agency- a true testament to Jill's captivating presence.
  -Christine McMahon, Program Planner, U.S. Government Printing Office

Jill is an inspiring and effective speaker. She weaves together emotion and facts into a compelling story. When presenting, Jill inspires audience while motivating them to action. She understands her audience and is able to adapt her speech to their unique needs and interests. Whether speaking to an audience of one or thousands, she is a strong communicator.
  -Susan Mau Larson, Director, Partner & Community Relations, LifeSource

Jill is an incredible public speaker. She spoke to our audience of 700 with a clear, powerful and inspirational message. She is organized and detailed in her preparation and it shows in her execution. Her ability to speak to a diverse audience and share a message of purpose is exceptional.
  -David Charpentier, Executive Coach, Conscious Dynamics, LLC

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