Our latest staff Q&A is with our newest member to our team, Jackie Gaynor. Jackie is so warm and genuinely passionate about impacting the health and well-being of the Black community throughout San Diego. She’s looking forward to advocating for Black women through the numerous efforts of BIH.
What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
I am looking forward to following my passion. I always knew my heart was in Public Health. I can’t think of any better way to pursue that passion than servicing the community and demographic that I come from. I am very much looking forward to my new role and working with my new team.
Where were you born/where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in San Diego, CA in the Southeast San Diego area; down the street from what is now the Southeast Live Well Center.
What are your favorite hobbies?
I love to cook and try out different recipes. I also enjoy taking walks, meditating, journaling, playing with my yorkie named Bandit, and spending time with friends and family. My new hobby that I would like to start pursuing more is traveling.
Share a fun fact about yourself.
I am a genuine person who values my relationships with those that are close to me. So please feel free to say “Hi” and introduce yourself. I would love to get to know you. I do believe in teamwork, and with a good team that includes like-minded people who are passionate about what they do, I believe anything is possible.
What drew you to BIH?
What drew me to BIH was its mission of empowerment and advocacy for African- American women. I was given the opportunity to shadow Mary Lankford, who has been the main BIH nurse for several years now. Mary gave a presentation during my Public Health Nurse Residency Program, and I was given the opportunity to sit in on a postpartum session and everything that was being said both in the session and during the presentation resonated with everything I stand for as an individual. So, I was more than grateful to be offered this opportunity. I am looking forward to growing in this role and being a support and advocate for other African-American women like myself.