"Jessica is an amazing mom and friend! She is a strong mama, dedicating herself to Run Club, cross training, and rock wall climbing. She is brave enough to take on new running challenges like relay races, trail running, and longer distances AND she leads others in growing themselves, too. She has brought several new moms into our community, which shows that she truly cares about others. Most importantly, she’s committed to being the best mom and spouse that she can be for her family. We love having Jessica and all the positivity that she brings into our lives!" --Megan Schmid, Run Club Coach

"Jessica is a ray of sunshine! She’s so welcoming and encouraging at Run Club. I’ve loved watching her running journey the last couple of years and can’t wait to cheer her on for her first marathon this year! Jessica you are inspiring!!" --Alicia Chiapusio, Fit4Mom Instructor

"When I first joined run club in 2020, I was nervous. I hadn't run in some time and I was worried about begin able to power through 8 weeks of running. Jessica was super welcoming right from the get go and has been such a great running buddy and confidante during our many runs. Whenever I need an extra push, I know Jessica will be there. She's funny, warm, inspiring, and such a rockstar on the trail. I'll be there cheering her on as she finishes her first marathon this year! Jessica, I'm so glad I met you; keep up the amazing work!" --Michelle Vanek, Run Club Participant

Who are the members of your family and where are you originally from?

Husband Roger

Clairissa (5)

Owen (3)

I am originally from Illinois, spent half my childhood in Arizona where I met my husband. We have lived in Alexandria, VA for the last 7 years.

When was your first Fit4Mom class and what do you remember about it?

I took a Fit4Baby class back in 2018 when I was pregnant with Owen. The ending meditation was so peaceful and rounded out the activity, leaving my mind calm and relaxed.

Where can we find you? What is your Fit4Mom routine these days?

Run Club! In 2019 I joined my first Run Club session and its been a part of my life since! I love the community it brings together! I leave every meetup feeling empowered and ready to take on the day. It's been said that if you know me I'll end up talking you into running and joining Run Club.

What is your current job? Or what did you do before staying at home (if you don’t currently work outside the home)?

I am a Global Talent Acquisition Recruiter for Microsoft. I have been a recruiter for the past 7 years, I truly enjoy helping hiring leaders hire great people to grow their business/team and helping candidates find new opportunities, develop their careers and change their lives!

What are 3 of your favorite things?

Run Club

My puppies (Lilly & Maximus)

Hanging out with friends and family

You are given 4 hours of FREE babysitting. What would you do?

Depends on the day...could range from taking a nap, reading a book, date in the park, or dining out. Over the last few years my favorite kid-free time on a beautiful day has been picking up food and then finding a park to picnic with my husband.

What has being a mom taught you?

The saying "The days are long but the years are short" never rang so true until I had kids. I am often reminding myself to slow down and just live in the moment. It's the little things I value most and the smile is always worth taking the time. Whether it be stopping the car as we drive home past a big hill we can roll down or going out for ice cream.

What is your funniest or most embarrassing moment so far?

My daughter started to tell jokes--she came home from school a few months back and got my husband good. He walked right into it without realizing it until it was over.

Clairissa: "What is your name"

Roger: "Daddy"

Clairissa: "What's this" (Pointing to her nose)

Roger: "Nose"

Clairissa: " What's in my hands"

Roger: "Nothing"

Clairissa: Laughing... "Daddy knows nothing"

Any words of wisdom for other moms?

Give yourself grace. Someone once told me that even when I feel like I am failing at being a mom it means that I am trying my best. Some days are better than others but in the end we all try our best and that's what counts.

What is your favorite thing about FIT4MOM? What would you tell someone thinking about joining?

Community! Not only does it promote your physical wellbeing, it positively impacts your mental health. It doesn't matter what fitness level you're at; this group will meet you where you are in life's journey today!