Amplify Kalamazoo - Jeanne Hess, Kalamazoo's Vice Mayor

Updated 19 minutes ago

In 'Journey of Leadership: From Volleyball Court to City Hall', follow the inspiring story of a former University of Michigan volleyball player who evolves from coach to Vice Mayor of Kalamazoo. Her journey explores the profound connections between sportsmanship and civic duty, as she navigates her role in shaping the city's development and engaging with its community. Discover how her past experiences as an athlete and coach influence her current leadership style and dedication to public service. This episode highlights the importance of teamwork, community involvement, and finding purpose in serving others.

Chapters

High School and University Journey (00:00:08)
The speaker reflects on their high school athletic background and their journey to the University of Michigan, where they played volleyball and were influenced by their coach.

The speaker discusses their transition from being an athlete in high school to attending the University of Michigan. At Michigan, they played on the women's varsity volleyball team, which was a significant part of their life. They mention the impact their coach had on them, even though at the time, they did not intend to pursue coaching due to a perceived lack of patience.
Transition to Coaching and Marriage (00:00:40)
The speaker describes how they were called into coaching, met their future husband, and eventually moved to Kalamazoo to coach at Western Michigan.

The speaker recounts being unexpectedly drawn into coaching while in Ann Arbor, where they met their future husband, who was also a coach. They married within a year and a half. Western Michigan then offered them a position to coach the women's basketball team, prompting their move to Kalamazoo. This move brought their life full circle, as Michigan and Western were the only two colleges they applied to.
Career at Kalamazoo College (00:01:31)
The speaker discusses their fulfilling career at Kalamazoo College, where they became a tenured professor and wrote books on spirituality and sports.

At Kalamazoo College, the speaker found a perfect fit, enjoying the academic challenges. They became a tenured professor of physical education and served as an assistant coach for basketball and softball. Their role as associate chaplain led them to author books connecting spirituality with sports, such as 'Finding Joy in the Games' and 'Max Ability.' These works defined their identity and brought personal satisfaction.
Impact of Coaching and Connection with Athletes (00:02:39)
The speaker reflects on the joy and fulfillment gained from recruiting and mentoring athletes, witnessing their growth and career choices.

The speaker expresses their love for their athletes and the recruitment process at the college, highlighting the special place and program that facilitated the athletes' transition from young adulthood to adulthood. They cherish seeing the athletes' career choices and the ongoing connections with alumni, emphasizing the joy and gratitude derived from these relationships.
Role as Vice Mayor and Teamwork (00:03:30)
The speaker draws parallels between their current role as Vice Mayor and their past experiences in teamwork as a volleyball player.

The speaker explains the strong connection between their experience as a volleyball player and their current role as Vice Mayor and city commissioner. They highlight the importance of teamwork, noting that their team player skills contributed to making the volleyball team at Michigan. The speaker feels comfortable working on a team of seven commissioners, similar to a volleyball team, for the greater good of the city.
Surprise Party and Political Encouragement (00:04:16)
The speaker recounts a surprise retirement party where former Mayor Bobby Hopewell encouraged them to run for city commission.

Upon retiring, the speaker's husband surprised them with a party at the college, where former Mayor Bobby Hopewell was invited. Hopewell encouraged the speaker to consider a role on the city commission, suggesting they could be the next mayor of Kalamazoo. Although initially surprised and hesitant, the speaker was urged to run for the city commission, beginning their political journey.
Learning Curve in City Government (00:06:19)
The speaker describes the steep learning curve they faced in city government, including tours of various city departments.

To better understand city government operations, the speaker engaged in a steep learning curve, involving tours of the water treatment plant and public safety departments. They learned about the city's budget priorities, clean water supply, and public safety functions. This experience provided valuable insights into city operations and the dedication of public servants.
Community Involvement and Meaningful Work (00:08:44)
The speaker emphasizes the importance of community involvement and finding meaning in their work on the city commission.

The speaker reflects on the significance of community involvement, highlighting the need for active participation in city planning and governance. They discuss how their work on the city commission aligns with their values of finding purpose and meaning, emphasizing their role in representing the community and working for its betterment.
Encouragement for Civic Participation (00:10:54)
The speaker encourages citizens to participate in local government, highlighting various ways to get involved and make a difference.

The speaker urges community members to engage with local government through voting, attending city commission meetings, and participating in neighborhood associations. They emphasize the importance of civic participation in shaping the community and stress that everyone has the opportunity to contribute to the planning processes that determine the city's future.