Name: Jenn Fortnash
Position: Digital Marketing Coordinator
Start Year: 2014 – My path has led me back here several times over the years for good reasons!
How did your life path bring you to Event 360?
As an idealist, what really resonates with me about Event 360 is the team’s dedication to producing impactful experiences that create community around doing good in the world. Event 360 has continually provided great outlets for me to exercise my passion of using communications to share meaningful ideas and experiences. When I graduated with my BA in 2014, I was so grateful to be brought on board as the Interactive Visual Coordinator. Now, having recently graduated with my MFA, I’m thrilled to be back as the Digital Marketing Coordinator.
What delights you about your current position?
Spreadsheets! This position has ignited a deep appreciation for spreadsheets that I never knew existed within me. There’s something really satisfying about organizing information and using it to help others accomplish their goals.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
Sustainable construction. One of my personal goals is to build my own tiny house someday.
When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you fill the time?
Pop headphones on, put on good music, and go for a walk.
What is something you learned in the last week?
One key lesson I’ve been learning about social media over the past month is: winning content takes advantage of specific platform features to create unique, authentic experiences. In other words, the message should fit the medium.
What was the last experience that made you a stronger person?
Grad school. About a year ago, for the first time ever I asked myself the question: why am I not putting as much care into designing my life as I am into designing my work? That was a wakeup call that shifted my trajectory toward prioritizing a work/life balance.
If you could be any fictional character, who would you choose? Why?
Rey from Star Wars. She’s clever, strong, self-sufficient, and goes the distance for the people and ideas she believes in. Though she’s all these things, she also knows she’s imperfect and seeks the support of others when she needs it. I really like that her character embodies the idea that anybody can realize and fulfill their potential.
What is your most memorable event experience?
Oh man, I have several great ones. However, one in particular has continued to challenge and grow me. On the 3-Day, there was an incredible woman who told her story during dinner at camp one evening. She shared a lofty long-term goal of hers before adding that her condition was terminal and at most she only had six months to live. What she said next really got me, “I know it’s not a realistic goal, but it’s what I want to do in the time I have left.” Her powerful words taught me it doesn’t matter how much I do; it just matters that I do what I can in the time I have.
What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?
In a dream scenario: travel as a documentary photographer capturing human interest stories and emotional narratives.
On event, what three things are we guaranteed to find in your bag or on your person?
My trusty Nalgene water bottle, a camera, and a jacket.
One word to describe Event 360?
Encouraging!
