My journey began on October 8, 2011 when I was given the job as Mrs. Virginia International 2012. What a journey it has been. The many opportunities which have allowed me to speak about my platform Take a Stand B.R.A.V.E. (Be yourself, Resist the bullying, Achieve your best, Value your future, Encourage others) along with being the national spokesperson for SAVE (Students Against Violence Everywhere). I have seen a difference among our youth and schools after I visit. I hear how they have started programs against bullying/cyber bullying, mentor programs, and or bullying task force. I truly see that my family and our efforts are making a difference in the lives of our youth and that is the destination for my journey.

“Never be bullied into silence. Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one’s definition of your life, but define yourself.”

~Harvey Firestone






Take a Stand - B.R.AV.E

Jennifer always knew in heart that she was put on this earth to make a difference in the world.  She didn’t know her mission would come from a very personal place.  Three years ago, her 6 year old daughter was bullied.  It’s unimaginable to think that a first grader would endure the effects of bullying in school.  As unreal as it felt, it was real and from it Jennifer founded “Take a Stand - B.R.AV.E.”  Be yourself, Resist the bullying, Achieve your best, Value your future, Encourage others.

Her mission is to be a voice for our children who may be too young to take a stand, and to be a cheerleader for the parents who don’t know where to turn.  As Mrs. Virginia International 2012, Jennifer will continue her work with her organization and the national non-profit SAVE (Students Against Violence Everywhere) to encourage others to stand up against all forms of bullying.  As a mom and advocate, she does not want any parent or child to have to endure bullying. She believes that school should be a safe environment for children and a place of learning not a place of violence.

Jennifer is a woman of faith, a loving mom, and devoted wife and considers herself a “Domestic Engineer”.  Jennifer enjoys scrapbooking, making crafts, working out, watching college football (Go FSU) and watching NASCAR with her husband. They also enjoy family movie nights and spending time at the beach. Jennifer and her husband Stuart are the proud parents of 3 beautiful children- 9 year old fraternal twins and a 5 year old daughter..

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