UFH: Jessica Jankowitsch

[nparikh]

I was first introduced to Jess through a mutual friend (Bharat) and I have to say my life has changed since then. As a friend, peer, and practically a sister, she has influenced me in ways beyond what she can imagine. An incredible asset to FIRST, I don't know what we'd do without her. Her incredible energy, focus, dedication, and ability to inspire others is unmatched amongst her peers and she is a role model for many generations to come. I think many of us will strive to be the caring, kind-hearted, and truly amazing person Jess is.

Cheers, Jess! You truly deserve this!

[Mr MOE]

Jess:

On behalf of MOE 365, CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Our team gives a MOE cheer to you.

Clap-Clap Clap-Clap-Clap Clap-Clap-Clap-Clap GO JESS!

Well deserved recognition!

[dmlewis]

Congratulations, Jess! You done good!

Denise M. Lewis
FIRST Senior Mentor - District of Columbia

[George A.]

Congrats Jess,

I can't remember when we first met, but I do know that having you at competitions always makes them more interesting.

[JudyVandy]

Way to go, girl!!!!

Congratulations! It's well deserved.

[KelliV]

CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!!!! You deserve it! You work harder than a lot of people in FIRST and you are the definition of UFH!

[Dorienne]

Mom!

Congratulations, sweetheart! I'm so proud of you. You've always been so passionate about FIRST, and I'm so happy that people can now see how much work you've put into this wonderful program.

I love you!

[jessjank.]

(Sorry for the delay in response – lack of internet access at home during breaks is always a pain!)

I really, truly appreciate all your thoughtful congratulations. This recognition means a lot to me and I hope that it serves to motivate other young FIRST alum not only to stay involved, but also to delve into more active roles in the program. I know how important my experience was as a team member and that it’s absolutely imperative to make sure other students are provided with similar the opportunities. Without all of you who I call my heroes - my FIRST mentors as a student member and those who have continued to take me under their wing today, friends (many who call me mom, even though I’m fairly certain I’m much too young for that, haha…), and all those I’ve had the chance to work within the Pittsburgh FIRST community and beyond - I certainly would not have had all those amazing opportunities in FIRST and the possibilities of making impacts that have come about over the years. Thank you to all of you who have supported and encouraged me during my time in FIRST. You have all helped to make my time in FIRST by far one of the most worthwhile and enriching experiences of my life. You don’t know how much I have valued your advice and been inspired by your commitment to this program. Someday I hope to be as awesome as so many of you!

Thanks again everyone! I hope you all have an exciting kickoff, not too exhausting build, and a very rewarding competition season! See you all in 2009!

[fixermark]

I've had the privilege of working with Jess as a volunteer for several years now, and am very much looking forward to the 2009 season!

As a volunteer, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of FIRST---the number of unique challenges that come with every single day. Jess does an excellent job of keeping us in the loop, supporting our needs and our teams' needs, and generally making the entire crazy project feel... possible.

Thank you for all your hard work, Jess. We really couldn't do it without you.

[Mr. D]

I am remiss in responding to this award and do apologize.

Jess, you are by far the best inspiration anyone could ever have of the SPIRIT of FIRST. Our team and Pittsburgh in general have benefited from your dedication and love for this noble endeavor.

Nothing I write could come close to the gratitude and admiration I have for you and your contribution to TEAM 1708 and Pittsburgh.

You are the daughter I never had and consider it an honor to call you friend and part of my family.

Mike, Tootie and Mike Jr.