Jessie was born in Wichita, Kansas, and moved to Marysville, Washington, shortly after she was born. Her dad was in the Air Force and then accepted a job at Boeing in Everett.
Jessie attended the University of California, San Diego, for her undergraduate studies and earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She has also attended the University of Washington, Evan's School of Public Policy and Administration and earned an Executive Master's Degree in Public Administration.
Jessie had wanted to play the saxophone since she was 7 years old...inspired by the cartoon character Lisa from “The Simpsons” but didn't start playing until middle school at the age of 11. She played sax in the US Marines for 8 years – stationed in Miramar, 29 Palms, Okinawa, Japan and San Diego. She had the privilege of performing for audiences all over the US, Canada, Japan, Australia and the Middle East.
Jessie currently plays with Seattle Wind Symphony (in addition to our group). She also plays in a Seattle-based saxophone group “Patterns”. She has previously played with Puyallup Valley Community Band , Rain City Jazz Orchestra, Amazon Wind Ensemble, Woodinville Community Band, and North Seattle Symphonic Band.
Outside of music, Jessie enjoys rock climbing, running, and hiking. She’s also passionate about supporting the veteran and military community through her involvement with organizations like Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB), FourBlock, and The Honor Foundation, which provide connection and transition support for service members and veterans.
