Jen Buell

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My commitment to education started out as a public middle and upper elementary school teacher in Massachusetts and in the Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. I went on to co-found a community-based cultural immersion study abroad program in Costa Rica with high schools, community colleges, and universities/colleges. I moved to Asheville in 2013 and became the founding director of a middle school, the French Broad River Academy for Girls. I have two sons that went to Asheville High.

Give us a glimpse into your role at United Way. How do you help us fulfill our mission? What are you most excited about accomplishing as a team?

As the community partnership and contracts manager, I support the community investment process and collaboration with community partners. I am excited to be part of a dedicated community-based team working for equity and social justice to achieve the Bold Community Goal 2035!.

What’s your favorite thing about our community?

The intergenerational connections, care, and wisdom of sharing our stories.

What would we find you doing when you aren’t at work?

Trekking trails, wandering waterways, ravenously reading and writing, or putting together a puzzle sipping a savory tea.

Do you have any podcast, book, music, or movie recommendations?

All writings from Isabel Allende.