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Jenny Hicks Receives a "Women Who Mean Business" Award

Jenny Hicks exemplifies a passion for ongoing growth and sustained achievement.  After graduating Magna Cum Laude from Ithaca College with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Jenny embarked on what would turn out to be a highly successful career in accounting.  She rose through the ranks from Audit Supervisor at Coopers & Lybrand to Chief Financial Officer of Telmark LLC, an Agway Leasing company. During her 21-year accounting career, Jenny honed her skills in strategic planning; project coordination; accounting, reporting and budgeting management; acquisitions and divestitures; and training and management - talents she would eventually bring to the not-for-profit sector.  Recognizing a deep interest in assisting the underserved, vulnerable and often poverty-stricken members of our population, Jenny decided to leave her thriving accounting career to go back to school for a degree in social work.

In 2009, Jenny graduated Summa Cum Laude from Syracuse University with a Masters Degree in Social Work.  She joined Vera House, part-time, in the role of Elder Abuse Educator, responsible for implementation of the Elder Abuse Program, including curriculum development, community presentations, evaluations and reporting.  Jenny recently accepted the position of Vera House Development Director in addition to her responsibilities as Elder Abuse Educator.  Despite changing careers, Jenny remains a Certified Public Accountant, maintaining her license through continued professional education and serves as a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Known for her kind and giving spirit, Jenny's passionate devotion to her community does not end with Vera House.  Jenny is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, the Treasurer and Finance Chairperson on the Board of Manlius Pebble Hill School, a Board member of FOCUS (Forging Our Community's United Strength), a member of Caring Community Advocates, and a volunteer for Visions for Change.  Jenny participated in the planning of the 2003 - 2005 American Heart Association Heart Walks and, in 2003, put together the largest team in the Syracuse Heart Walk history to honor her late husband.

Congratulations, Jenny on all your accomplishments!