Jennie Taylor, a proud native of North Ogden, Utah, is a dedicated educational leader, advocate for military families, and a compelling public speaker. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University and a Master of Education from Utah State University, and she is currently pursuing a Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Utah.
Jennie's commitment to service was shaped during her time as a young full-time missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Chile, Santiago North mission, where she spent four transformative months on Easter Island. This foundational experience was complemented by her marriage to Major Brent Taylor, whom she met on a blind date shortly after her mission. Their shared dedication to faith, family, and country guided them through 15 years of military service, including Brent's four deployments to the Middle East.
Tragically, Major Brent Taylor was killed in action in Afghanistan in November 2018 while serving as a member of the Utah Army National Guard and on leave from his role as Mayor of North Ogden. In the aftermath of this profound loss, Jennie emerged as a passionate advocate for the Gold Star and military survivor community. She was invested as the Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army for the State of Utah in December 2019, where she continues to champion the needs of military families.
As a sought-after public speaker, Jennie addresses audiences across the nation, sharing insights on the price of freedom, the importance of community support, and the responsibilities we bear to honor those who serve. She co-hosts the Relentlessly Resilient Podcast, providing inspiration and resilience strategies for individuals facing adversity.
Jennie's community involvement extends to various leadership roles, including serving on the Board of Advisors for the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation and the Woody Williams Foundation. She is also an Ambassador for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and actively participates in her children’s schools, working with the Parent Teacher Association and Utah's School Community Council system.
A devoted mother to seven children, Jennie remains committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders. Her passion for education and youth development drives her efforts to create opportunities for children to prepare for a brighter future. Throughout her journey, Jennie Taylor embodies a legacy of service to God, family, and country, continually seeking ways to inspire others and carry forward her family's mission of impact.
Experienced Educational Leader. With her extensive background in education, Jennie brings a deep understanding of how to effectively communicate and connect with diverse groups, from youth to executives.
Advocate for Military Families. As a Gold Star family member and advocate, Jennie offers unique insights into the needs and sacrifices of military families, fostering respect and understanding across communities.
Inspiration for All Levels. Jennie connects with leaders at every stage, making resilience and adaptability relatable and achievable.
Passion for Youth and Future Generations. Her dedication to youth and education encourages leaders to invest in the next generation, inspiring positive impact beyond the immediate audience.
Commitment to Resilience. Through her podcast and public speaking, Jennie provides practical strategies for building resilience, relevant to both personal and professional lives.
Voice for Community and Service. Jennie speaks to the power of community support, reminding audiences of the strength found in unity and collective responsibility.
Engages Hearts and Minds. Jennie’s storytelling ability moves audiences, leaving them inspired and emotionally connected to her message of resilience and purpose.
Model of Authentic Leadership. Her real-life experiences as a mother, widow, and community leader offer a genuine perspective on leading with integrity and compassion.
Broad Appeal Across Industries. Jennie’s message of resilience and leadership resonates with diverse audiences, from educational leaders to corporate executives and community members.
Dedication to Building a Lasting Legacy. Jennie’s work in honor of her late husband and military families encourages leaders to consider their own legacy and impact, making her talks memorable and inspiring.
With her academic background in education and ongoing doctoral studies, Jennie combines educational insights with practical leadership strategies, creating a well-rounded, informed approach.
As both a military spouse and a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, Jennie brings a rare, dual perspective that bridges the civilian and military worlds, fostering greater understanding.
Jennie’s life experiences, including her role as a Gold Star widow and her advocacy for military families, make her perspective on resilience truly unique and deeply impactful.