Getting to Know You ➡ Jennifer Harris

Jennifer Harris is the office administrator for the Center of Lincoln Studies.

What do you like about your job?

I enjoy the variety of projects I’m involved in. I love to plan and keep a running task list. There is a satisfying sense of accomplishment in seeing a project come together from start to finish and knowing I had a share in bringing it to fruition. There is so much opportunity to grow and learn, and my leaders truly support me in doing so.

Every year, Sangamon Experience presents a new exhibit to enhance public awareness of local topics. I joined at the tail end of last year's exhibit and was excited to help develop this year's exhibit, "Soil & Soul." I've always considered myself a city girl. Agriculture wasn’t on my radar until recently, when I became more aware of utilizing local food sources. While researching this exhibit and hearing farmers' stories about how they built their lives around their work, I developed an incredible admiration for them. It became personal to me, and I think that is the goal of our exhibits—to engage people and get them thinking on a deeper level.

What’s your go-to productivity hack? 

Take advantage of the time you have when you have it. Don't procrastinate—get it done early.

Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you burn yourself out trying to do everything, you won’t be as effective as you would be by sharing the load with others. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it allows others to assist when they have the bandwidth and promotes a healthier work environment.

Do you have any side projects or personal goals you are working on?

I've started teaching cooking classes at Harvest Market's Learning Nook. I am a self-taught cook, but I’ve had some great mentors, and my grandfather was a chef—so I like to say I have it in my genes. If interested in cooking classes, please email thyme.out.kitchen1@gmail.com and I will send you a schedule of upcoming classes held in Springfield at Harvest Market's Learning Nook.

My main purpose in teaching others to cook is to help them experience the profound joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. I believe even the humblest ingredients can create a memorable meal because of the connections we make at the table.

One day, I hope to write a cookbook filled with culinary hacks and tips.

What is your ultimate travel destination and why?

I would travel to Bourgogne, France, and take a weeklong cooking class at The Cook’s Atelier. Then, I’d explore the back roads of France, visiting local restaurants and indulging in insane amounts of butter with no regrets. My journey would end on the shores of southern France, staying in a summer chateau with a magnificent wine cellar at my disposal.

Who’s someone you admire?

Queen Esther from the Book of Esther in the Bible. She was a woman of deep faith and strong family values. She knew when to remain silent and when to act bravely. Though she was beautiful on the outside, it was her inner qualities that made her truly memorable.