the torch Spring 2015, Issue 1 | Page 21

STA FF profile JESSICA KILLOUGH When Jessica K illough joined Baylor Health Care System Foundation in 2010, she brought diverse and varied experience to the team. After earning her bachelor’s degree in English literature from The University of Texas at Austin and her master’s degree in secondary education from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California, Jessica spent two years with Teach For America. “I taught middle school English in Los Angeles,” said Jessica. “Looking back, I believe I was the student; I learned so much more from my students than I think I taught them.” Jessica cites her time with Teach For America for helping to prepare her for her role and responsibilities with the Foundation. A senior officer and member of the administration team, Jessica is an instrumental member of the Foundation, providing both content and strategy support for priority projects and fundraising initiatives. “I really love our quarterly board meetings – they give me an in-depth opportunity to learn about innovative service lines and research happening at Baylor,” said Jessica. “Once a topic has been selected, I serve as the liaison between the presenter and the Foundation and help develop the content and visuals for the program. Creating an engaging, informative and interesting presentation on a complex topic reminds me a lot of my time as a teacher!” Respected for her reliability and strong work ethic, Jessica’s is also known by her colleagues for her love of family; friends; her rescue dog, Boone; and the eclectic stream of music that can be heard from outside her office. “I absolutely love live music. Last year I saw more than 100 performances,” said Jessica. “If I could do anything, I would love to be a music supervisor and put together soundtracks for movies and TV shows.” What soundtrack would she have selected for her favorite movie, “Mrs. Doubtfire?” “I feel like they did a pretty good job to begin with, mixing in some Aerosmith with Frank Sinatra, some rap and even a few show tunes. I don’t think I could have come up with a better list,” she commented. In addition to being an avid music lover, Jessica is also a dedicated volunteer and has generously donated her time to a variety of local organizations, including Junior League of Dallas, Boys and Girls Club of East Dallas and Genesis Women’s Shelter. She has also been long involved with the East Dallas community surrounding Baylor through activities and volunteer efforts with her church, Munger Place Church. “I really try to take time to appreciate the blessings in my life, and I recently read two books that have really made a difference for me,” said Jessica. “One is called Essentialism by Greg McKewon. The other is called 24/6: A Prescription for a Happier Healthier Life by Matthew Sleeth, M.D. Both books challenged me to reexamine how I spend my days and where to invest my time and energy.” JESSICA KILLOUGH 21